Nagalim.NL News

Wednesday, January 26th

Govt’s counter proposal to NSCN (I-M) Correspondent MENGUJUMA (KOHIMA), (NPN):



Govt’s counter proposal to NSCN (I-M) Correspondent MENGUJUMA (KOHIMA), (NPN):

Government of India through the union home ministry has reportedly offered a 29-point counter proposal to the NSCN (I-M) which had earlier submitted a 32-point charter of demands. The government of India’s counter proposal included financial sops, facilities and accommodating the “Kilonsers” of the NSCN (I-M) as members of parliament and the “Tatars” as ministers in the state. This was revealed by “Kilonser” for Religious affairs, NSCN (I-M), Dr. P. Mor on the sidelines of the 45th Mengujuma village day celebration which he hosted on Monday. Dr. Mor, however, said that the proposal was never taken up for discussion by the NSCN (I-M) apex decision making body - the Tatar Hoho (Parliament) as it would be tantamount to climbing down on the ceasefire agreement between the NSCN (I-M) and government since the proposal was issued through the home ministry and not from the Prime Minister of India. Further, he revealed that the NSCN (I-M) had received invitation for talks twice from the union home ministry of India but rejected the same as both the parties had signed the ceasefire agreement on the condition that talks would be held at the highest level - Prime Ministerial level and in a third neutral country. Dr. Mor said the NSCN (I-M) was ready to accept the invitation if it was routed through the Prime Minister’s Office or through his consent. Since the invitations were “purely” from the union home ministry, the government of India is to be blamed in case of any deadlock in the peace process, he added. When asked to elaborate on the NSCN (I-M)’s earlier proposal for federal relationship with India, he cited the example of Canada and Austria which have federal relationship with United Kingdon where Queen Elizabeth was the head. He said the NNC had demanded for separate parliament, currency, foreign policy and armed forces but the NSCN (I-M) proposed for a joint currency, foreign policy and armed forces. He claimed that India had verbally agreed to the demand but the final agreement was yet to be worled out. On integration of the entire Naga inhabited areas under one administrative umbrella as demanded by the NSCN (I-M), Dr. Mor said there could be some hurdle but if India was strong as per its claims, there was provision in the Indian Constitution for re-organization of states in the country. Further, he also revealed that despite the ongoing impasse in the ongoing dialogue, the next round of talks could possibly take place sometime in the last week of February somewhere in Europe. He said some Naga leaders were campaigning at Delhi presently to convince the central leaders of the government of India. He said things were not likely to work out positively as long as talks were held in India. Reacting to a query on the recent raid carried out by the Indian Paramilitary Forces (Assam Rifles) at the house of its CAO Chakhesang region, he said the NSCN (I-M) did not blame the entire Indian Army but alleged that the Assam Rifles was a “little frustrated.”

Guv asks Nagas to rethink separate state PTI Deccan Chronicle Nikhil Kumar
Kohima: Nagaland Governor Nikhil Kumar today appealed to the tribes of border districts to reconsider their demand for a separate state and join hands with the government's endeavour for inclusive growth and development in the state.
"Sadly, the demand for a separate statehood has come at a time when the Naga political issue is delicately poised. Therefore, it is my fervent appeal to these leaders to reconsider their stand and join hands with the state government in its endeavour to bring fruits of all round development to the less developed areas of the state," Kumar said in his Republic Day speech.
Six tribes, inhabiting the border districts of Mon, Tuensang, Kiphire and Longleng under the banner of Eastern Nagaland People's Organisation (ENPO) and other bodies had demanded creation of 'Frontier Nagaland' for socio-economic development of the region.
The governor also appealed to the people of the rest of the state to consider the grievances of the people of these districts in the right spirit and do all they can to improve the socio-economic conditions of those people even if it entails some sacrifices.
Stating that the Nagaland government had sincerely followed a policy of balanced regional development and affirmative action to bring the less developed areas at par with the rest of the state, he said the administration had worked to translate the policies into action.
However, he said, the government was aware that there were unmet aspirations among some people and there were gaps in development of some regions.
"The need of the hour is to stand united and not to allow fissiparous and divisive forces to come in the way of our journey towards peace and progress," Kumar said.
In the meanwhile, reports of peaceful celebration of Republic Day was received from various district headquarter towns with administrations stepping up vigils in the border areas with Assam, where ULFA and Karbi militants called for strikes during the day.
A Z Phizo and Our Free Nagas ZAPUVISIE LHOUSA Morungexpress
That the Nagas are a distinct nation is not new. The Naga Club had clearly stated the political stand of the Nagas to the Simon Commission 82 years ago. Basing in this stand, the Nagas have pursued their political struggle to this day. The Naga political struggle is not only three or four years decades old as asserted by some people, and no one should be misguided by such baseless claim.
The Naga National Council under the leadership of the then President A. Z. Phizo and Vice President Imkongmeren had integrated and united the Naga nation from the north, south, east and west. The Naga population is not large and its land also not plenty. For that reason, there is no possibility if making the Naga nation bigger or smaller. As such the issue of “Greater Nagaland” or even “Smaller Nagaland” does not arise, and no one should be hoodwinked by such absurd talk. All the land inhabited by the Nagas forms Nagaland and they are Nagaland.
Unlike the Indian society, the Naga society has no caste system and there is no untouchability among our people. No one is treated or mistreated on the basis of knowledge or wealth. All are equal before the Naga customary law. The Indian nation is as large as the sands on the sea shore. Its culture, traditions, religion, customary laws, and its food habits have nothing to do with the Naga way of life. Thus the Naga National Council had time and again asserted the distinct status and rights of the Nagas for fear that the Nagas might be overflowed by the Indian culture and politics to wilderness. All throughout the last century to this day, the Nagas stood as one people. They asserted to the colonial rulers, “Leave us alone.”
The footprints of the then President of NNC, A. Z. Phizo in the Free Nagaland region still remain fresh and clear. The accounts of the leaders who worked hand in hand with A. Z. Phizo are still fresh and vivid. The NNC had rendered great contributions for Naga unity under the leadership of Thongti Chang, Lakhum Yim, Thsamphu Yim, Hopongse Sangtam, Tsilise Sangtam, Andem Konyak and others too. Their contributions are recorded in the Naga history and they will remain for ever.
What must we do today? The responsibility of today’s generations is to hand over a good legacy to the future generation by taking care of yesterday’s generation’s contributions.

(ZAPUVISIE LHOUSA)
Member
Central Executive Council,
N. N. C Nagaland

Oil & Minerals of Nagaland Nagaland Page
During the time of NNO, the Government was so scared of the Nagas undergrounds to undertake investigations and explorations of Oils and mineral resources such as coal and limes etc. It was because the Nagas undergrounds were actively and openly propagating towards reservations and protections of these important minerals wealth in the state of Nagaland. The Government of Nagaland itself was having its reservations on the question of Oil and minerals resources of the state. But a new idea evolved with an eclipse of the initial surveys and investigations during 1975-76 under the initiative of former Chief Minister, late Vizol with the objective to make an estimate of the exact quantity of natural resources of the state.
Accordingly, a Committee was formed under the Chairmanship of Shri. Mhonshan Murry, Minister In-charge to discuss the pros and cons and to submit the recommendation of the Committee as to whether explorations should be carried out in the state of Nagaland or not. I was a Member of the same Committee and we had several rounds of meetings besides wide range of consultations and finally the Committee recommended to the State Government of Nagaland for issue of License so as to permit undertakings of Investigations and Explorations. This recommendations was given to the Government of India which further entrusted for Oil & Natural Gas Commission (ONGC), a purely Government of India undertaking, for undertaking necessary Surveys & Investigations in Nagaland.
Before the ONGC started exploratory works, the Government of Nagaland had signed an MoU with the ONGC following which Explorations License was given to the ONGC. In the same MoU, it has made a mention of three (3) system of Royalty payable by the ONGC, that is, the Government of Nagaland, as per norms of the Royalty, owed to the States in India. Another Clause which is a Special Provision under Article 371 (A) which clearly says the land its resources belongs to the people (Nagaland). On this basis another Clause was added such as (i) The Tribal Tax and (ii) The Land Owners' Tax. It is clearly given that more than Rs 33 crores have been drawn by the Government of Nagaland without giving the Tribal Tax and the Land Owners' Tax. The Government of Nagaland has to face the consequences one day or the other if this Royalty due to be paid to the Tribals and Land Owners is not cleared.
Due to certain lacuna and unfair practices meted out by the Government of Nagaland and the ONGC, the Naga undergrounds have issued an order stopping Oil exploration in the state of Nagaland. I do not know whether the underground Nagas have withdrawn the order relating to the stopping of Oil exploration in the State of Nagaland. It is nearly 10 years now the question was kept in abeyance and no discussion between the Government of Nagaland and underground organizations or the Government of Nagaland or the Government of India is reported for this matter. It was observed that there was continuous publications in the local news papers recently for the last 2 months making mention of the purported resuming of Oil exploration in Nagaland. The Cabinet Sub-Committee was formed to find out the modalities between the Landowners (excluding the tribals and the Government of Nagaland). This exercise is a good beginning to consult the sons of the soil and the people of the particular areas and localities.
But the Cabinet Sub-Committee is supposed to know the Constitutional provisions under Article 371 (A) which clearly says that the Land Owners are the owners of the minerals in their own respective lands and areas. If the Government of Nagaland wants to do anything they like they first have to fulfill the legal and constitutional provisions which has been enshrined in the Constitution of India. If any change has to be made by the Government, they must seek appropriate ways and make it free from all legal implications in the process and actions particularly under the provisions of Article 371 (A) of the Constitution of India. In order to do away with the motives and proposals of the Government, amendment of the Constitution have to be proceeded first and after the Assembly passes the Bill it has to go through the Governor of Nagaland followed by the approval of the President of India through the Parliament of Indian Union. It is the Constitution which the people of India believe as sacrosanct and any deviation in the Constitution of India will be inviting serious implications.
On the other hand MOU and Agreement was signed between the ONGC and Government of Nagaland so the Government of India or Government of Nagaland cannot allocate the work to any other Company or Agency without the revocation of the Agreement. This agreement is not legally binding but it has moral obligations to abide by this agreement unless and until it is revoked by the parties concerned. We cannot make everything confused and out of this confusion necessary developments should not be hampered for the growth and advancement of the people of Nagaland.
As per unofficial report, Nagaland has altogether 8 Blocks of Oil Belts which extends up to Rangoon in Burma. These 8 Blocks falls in the Tizit-Intangki Ranges and this Range comprising of the 8 Blocks were known as the Oil Belts even in the times of the British who had started investigations and explorations but due to the Second World War and followed by the Indian Independence the British Company had withdrawn. From the initial stage we should not commit a mistake so that the hope of the people do not go in vain.
T A Ngullie, Former Minister & Advisor to UNDSP


Frans on 01.26.11 @ 10:55 PM CST [link]


Tuesday, January 25th

Issue of “Greater or Smaller Nagaland” does not arise: NNC morungexpress



Issue of “Greater or Smaller Nagaland” does not arise: NNC morungexpress

Dimapur January 25 (MExN): The Naga National Council (NNC) in a note titled ‘A. Z Phizo and Our Free Nagas’ stated that the Nagas are a distinct nation is not new, and that it had time and again asserted the distinct status and rights of the Nagas for fear that the Nagas might be overflowed by the Indian culture and politics to wilderness. NNC stated that all throughout the last century to this day, the Nagas stood as one people. They asserted to the colonial rulers, “Leave us alone.”
The note mentioned that NNC, under the leadership of the then President A. Z. Phizo and Vice President Imkongmeren had integrated and united the Naga nation from the north, south, east and west. “The Naga population is not large and its land also not plenty. For that reason, there is no possibility if making the Naga nation bigger or smaller. As such the issue of “Greater Nagaland” or even “Smaller Nagaland” does not arise, and no one should be hoodwinked by such absurd talk. All the land inhabited by the Nagas forms Nagaland and they are Nagaland,” NNC said.
NNC further said that the footprints of A. Z. Phizo in the Free Nagaland region still remain fresh and clear and that NNC had rendered great contributions for Naga unity under the leadership of Thongti Chang, Lakhum Yim, Thsamphu Yim, Hopongse Sangtam, Tsilise Sangtam, Andem Konyak and others too, whose contributions are recorded in the Naga history and they will remain for ever.

Farce follows tragedy in Myanmar
By Bertil Lintner

BANGKOK - If Karl Marx was right that history repeats itself first as tragedy and then as farce, Myanmar may have just entered the farcical phase of its long-running military rule. The first general election held in over 20 years last November and announcement that a new elected National Assembly will be convened on January 31 have not excited many ordinary Myanmar citizens, but have led to wild speculation among foreign pundits about what it all means for the country's political future.

Many seem to have forgotten that a similar "transition" to "civilian rule" occurred in 1974, following a rigged referendum on a new constitution in 1973. The then ruling junta, the Revolutionary Council, gave way to the military-controlled Burma Socialist Program Party, which formed a government made up of retired army officers. The transition in retrospect was a tragedy as it solidified the one-party system that Myanmar, then known as Burma, already had in place and precipitated economic decline in what was previously one of Southeast Asia's most prosperous countries.

The 1974 constitution guaranteed the military's grip on power and made its original 1962 military putsch legal. That military-dominated political arrangement lasted until a nationwide uprising for democracy erupted in 1988, which the military crushed through lethal force and in the aftermath reintroduced direct military rule through the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC) junta. The SLORC later changed the country's name from Burma to Myanmar and rebranded itself as the State Peace and Development Council in 1997.

Now under a new constitution that was adopted after a similarly well-orchestrated referendum in 2008, more than one political party is officially allowed in Myanmar. But the dominance of the military's new Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) proxy, which swept over 80% of the seats in last November's rigged polls, is complete. The new charter also reserves 25% of the National Assembly's seats for the military.

The military is nonetheless taking no chances. On the campaign trail and after the election, candidates and MPs elect have had their freedom of speech severely restricted. Any speech deemed by authorities as a threat to "national security, the unity of the country and the constitution" threaten to land the speaker in prison for up to two years.

In late December, the state-run daily New Light of Myanmar newspaper spelled out the military's intentions more clearly: the opposition should stop calling for "national reconciliation" and instead support the government to achieve "national reconsolidation". "Indirect and direct approaches designed to control the ruling government will never come to fruition," the paper stated.

Despite these restrictions, some foreign analysts are holding out hope for democratic change. Derek Tonkin, a former British ambassador to Thailand, suggested farcically in his newsletter that "the elections, flawed as they are, could provide a catalyst." For exactly what, however, the former envoy did not make clear.

Priscilla Clapp, a senior American analyst and former Yangon-based US diplomat, seems convinced that an army reshuffle a few months before the election, in which more than 70 senior and many more junior officers retired to have the constitutional right to "contest" the polls will pave the way for a new, presumably more reform-minded, generation of army officers. And with new "civilians" in government, she suggests, change is in the air.

Whether military officers were in or out of uniform made no difference in 1974 - and is even less likely to do so today considering the military's ironclad grip on power. Nor will a few muted opposition voices in the National Assembly be of any democratic significance. In the old, pre-1988 National Assembly, the official media routinely reported that delegates always "discussed in support of proposals" submitted by the real military rulers of the country.

If any of the handful of non-USDP assemblymen dare to challenge military orders, the authorities have constitutional means to deal with such dissent, including through legal military takeovers. In case of a "national emergency", clause 413 of the new charter gives the president the right to hand executive as well as judicial power to the commander-in-chief of the defense services, who "may exercise the said powers and duties himself or empower on any suitable military authority" to do the job for him.

The new National Assembly will consist of an Upper House with 168 elected seats and 56 reserved for the military, and a Lower House with 330 elected and 110 military seats. With solid majorities of 129 seats in the Upper House and 259 in the Lower House that the USDP achieved through the rigged November elections, plus the 25% of seats reserved for the military, the new system will ensure in a new legal way the continuation of the old military-ruled order.

Negligent neighbors
Myanmar's partners in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have hailed the election as progress and called on Western nations, including the US, to drop their economic and financial sanctions. At an ASEAN meeting on the Indonesian island of Lombok on January 17, the host country's foreign minister Marty Natalegawa described the elections as "conducive and transparent" and said that the 10-member bloc would like to see "the immediate or early removal or easing of sanctions that have been applied against Myanmar by some countries."

Many ASEAN countries have vested economic interests in Myanmar and through economic engagement policies have over the years undermined the West's sanctions regime.

Meanwhile, there is little indication that Myanmar's military leadership is in much of a democratic mood. At a passing out parade at the Defense Services Technological Academy on December 17, military chief General Than Shwe told the graduates that "you can confront anything and win if you avoid the opponents' strong points, exploit their shortcomings and strike at their weaknesses."

The military rank and file has clearly taken that advice to heart. The opposition's strong point is pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who was detained and barred from participating in the election and released a week after the polls. The weakness of the opposition was its lack of unity: Suu Kyi's party, the National League for Democracy, split in half over whether or not it should take part in the election.

Those who favored participation probably now regret it; the new National Democratic Front, set up by former NLD members, won a paltry 16 seats in both houses. Predictably, NDF candidates competed on an unequal playing field. According to several eyewitness reports in several constituencies in Yangon and elsewhere, where a candidate other than the one from the USDP appeared to be winning, boxes of "advance votes" were brought in to prevent such a result. In other places where the USDP seemed to be faring poorly, the vote counting was conducted in secret.

Opinion is also divided in countries traditionally critical of Myanmar's rights-abusing regime. In the US, Virginia Senator Jim Webb, once one of Myanmar's staunchest critics, has flip-flopped to become a staunch advocate of lifting sanctions and engaging the regime. In the European Union, several countries are already doing business with Myanmar despite the sanctions. In its December 14 edition, The Myanmar Times quoted Myint Soe from the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry as saying: "Among the European nations, Germany is one of our largest trading partners, even considering the sanctions." And sanctions do not cover pre-existing investments in the lucrative oil and gas industry, where France's Total is a major investor.

Voices are now being heard in other EU countries, especially among their Bangkok-based envoys, advocating for engagement with the regime based on perceptions that decades of sanctions have failed to achieve democratic change. This argument, or course, fails to take into account that other countries' engagement policies have similarly failed to achieve positive political change.

ASEAN has long engaged Myanmar through trade and investment initiatives. However, in a confidential US diplomatic cable made public by WikiLeaks in December, Singapore's senior statesman Lee Kuan Yew described Myanmar's generals as "stupid" and "difficult to deal with". Dealing with the regime, Lee said, was like "talking to dead people" - a damning assessment of ASEAN's "constructive engagement" policy from one of the region's most business-minded leaders.

Viewed in this light, Myanmar's initial tragedy of 1974 has turned into the farce of 2010. In effect, the old repressive one-party system has been reintroduced in everything but name. As the new rules guarantee, a few opposition voices will make little difference under the new military dominated dispensation. Even authoritarian-run China and North Korea are formally multi-party states under the leadership of their de facto ruling communists - China has eight parties other than the dominant Communist Party while North Korea allows for three. Such comparisons are more apt than hopeful speculation that Myanmar's elections and new parliament represent genuine democratic change.

Bertil Lintner is a former correspondent with the Far Eastern Economic Review and the author of several books on Myanmar. He is currently a writer with Asia Pacific Media Services.

(Copyright 2011 Asia Times Online (Holdings) Ltd. All rights reserved. Please contact us about sales, syndication and republishing)

GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF NAGALIM
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION & PUBLICITY

ACKNOWLEGMENT

The Collective Leadership wishes to convey its deepest appreciation and gratitude to the Naga community living in Delhi for the unstinted support towards organizing the civic reception program accorded to Mr. Isak Chishi Swu, Chairman, NSCN on his arrival in Delhi. The overall arrangement was highly admirable and praiseworthy.
We are indebted to the Naga Students’ Union Delhi, Ao Kaketshir Telongjem Delhi, Eastern Naga Students’ Union Delhi, Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights (Delhi), Church/fellowship leaders, Naga Forum and distinguished senior members for the invaluable services.

MIP
NSCN/GPRN: 25 January 2011




Frans on 01.25.11 @ 11:38 PM CST [link]


ACKNOWLEGMENT


GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF NAGALIM
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION & PUBLICITY

ACKNOWLEGMENT

The Collective Leadership wishes to convey its deepest appreciation and gratitude to the Naga community living in Delhi for the unstinted support towards organizing the civic reception program accorded to Mr. Isak Chishi Swu, Chairman, NSCN on his arrival in Delhi. The overall arrangement was highly admirable and praiseworthy.
We are indebted to the Naga Students’ Union Delhi, Ao Kaketshir Telongjem Delhi, Eastern Naga Students’ Union Delhi, Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights (Delhi), Church/fellowship leaders, Naga Forum and distinguished senior members for the invaluable services.

MIP
NSCN/GPRN: 25 January 2011


Frans on 01.25.11 @ 10:45 PM CST [link]


Monday, January 24th

Red carpet welcome for Swu, Muivah at Delhi The Sangai Express



Red carpet welcome for Swu, Muivah at Delhi The Sangai Express

New Delhi, January 23, 2011: Hundreds of Nagas in Delhi gathered today evening to welcome the arrival of Chairman of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim Isak Chishi Swu, who was accompanied by his wife. He was also flanked by the NSCN (IM) General Secretary Th Muivah, also accompanied by his wife and other Naga leaders.

Speaking before the anxious Nagas who waited to hear him, the Chairman said that the NSCN leadership is coming to Delhi on the invitation of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, for the purpose of furthering the political negotiation towards concretizing it into a final solution.

He added that the NSCN acknowledges the positive attitude and effort of the Government of India and that NSCN is also committed from its side.

With the finest moment near at hand the Chairman cautioned that it will be prudent for both the side not to miss this opportunity to resolve the issue.

General Secretary Th Muivah in his speech informed that the GOI has understood and recognised the uniqueness of the Naga history, and is basis where the talk was initiated.

He assured that the nagas will not be betrayed.

"We are not a lost people or a lost nation" said the General Secretary of the NSCN (IM) who further elaborated that successive Prime Minister has assured for a solution including the present PM, which is honourable and acceptable to both the side.

"what is honourable is up to us ' said the General Secretary.


Isak Chishi Swu and Th Muivah at New Delhi


He further stated that to what extend the GOI will reflect ( their understanding and acceptance of the naga history) is a serious question and "that is the issue remaining to be solved" said Muivah.
Emphasisng the commitment from the side of the NSCN The general secretary said "we have not fire a single bullet" and that the leadership is here today without any arms for talks reasserting that "if GOI is committed, solution is not far way".

He also cautioned the gathering that the long 13 years of talks is not a weakness form the part of the NSCN , but the ‘patient enough' Nagas should not be forced what is not possible.

Both the leaders spoke on the concern of difference arising among the Nagas, and that NSCN is working hard toward the reconciliation process and is prepared to meet at the highest level.

Organized by Naga Community Delhi several naga students, scholars, employees attended the reception.

Sumi Kiphimi Kuqhakulu and the Poumai Tsiidoumai Me presented a traditional dance and folk song in welcome of the Naga leadership.

Prayers were also held by Naga pastors residing in Delhi.

Leaders’ tryst with destiny - Swu drops hint that Khaplang may join talks NISHIT DHOLABHAI The Telegraph
New Delhi, Jan. 23: From trekking the leech-riddled tracts to meet chairman Mao Zedong five decades ago to being immaculately dressed to an ovation at Lodhi Estate, Naga rebel leaders may now be facing their tryst with destiny.
Leaders of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) said this evening that they would work towards “concretising a final solution”. The Centre also indicated that a broad framework for a settlement of the Naga issue was likely to be chalked out by the end of the year.
NSCN chairman Isak Chishi Swu received a welcome reception at a government bungalow here on his arrival from Bangkok on Friday night. Swu and Muivah, comrades-in-arms since the Naga armed rebellion of the 1960s when sovereignty was non-negotiable and they were in touch with China, continued with rhetoric today but said a solution was in sight with reflections of Nagas’ “unique history and situation”.
While announcing that they are here at the invitation of the “honourable Indian Prime Minister” Manmohan Singh, Swu said they would further the “political negotiation” towards concretising a final solution.
“We acknowledge the positive attitude and the effort of the Indian government for creating such a conducive atmosphere,” he said.
The political speech construct of “Indian leaders” was used more vehemently and frequently by both leaders just as the rebel leader continues to popularise the semantic “Indo-Naga” peace process in Nagaland.
However, Swu conceded it would be prudent for both the government and the NSCN not to miss the opportunity to resolve the issue “while its finest moment is at hand”.
The Sema tribe octogenarian did not elaborate on the finest moment but tidings are that it is indeed there. Swu also said that reconciliation among the Nagas (read NSCN-IM) and the NSCN-Khaplang) can happen.
“Facilitated by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) we are prepared to meet at the highest level soon,” said Swu, suggesting S.S. Khaplang of the rival faction who lives in Myanmar, may come to Nagaland for talks.
Swu has already come in on an Indian passport and will live with Muivah in the same house here before heading for a reconciliation meeting.
The Centre has asked the rebels that they needed to unite in order to accept and implement a final and lasting solution.
Before that, however, general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah had several words of caution. He said the government should realise the Nagas had been honest in living up to their word by not attacking a single “innocent Indian on our land”.
Therefore, he said, the solution should not offer that “which is not ours” while reflecting history and situation of the Nagas that the BJP government admitted was “unique”. “We will be honest and straightforward,” said Muivah.
The general secretary, described by a student leader Kekhrie Yhome today as “notorious and mischievous….and unmatched since A.Z. Phizo” among revolutionaries, made another one-liner out of Manmohan Singh’s remarks.
Muivah is known to be a great political choirmaster. As if to prove his capabilities, hundreds of students chorused gospel song How great thou art impromptu as lights went off suspiciously at the home ministry safehouse.
Muivah said the BJP government, with Prime Minister A.B. Vajpayee at its helm, had admitted to the “uniqueness of Naga history and situation”, Narasimha Rao had said Naga problem was not a law and order problem but a political one and Singh has said an “out of the box solution” is needed.
One can expect “out of the box” on several posters just as “uniqueness” has continued to be a slogan since Vajpayee said it in 2003. If that does not happen in Muivah’s perception, he warned that a solution would not be accepted.
Naga leaders agree for 'mutually acceptable' settlement with Centre (ANI)
Leaders of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) Isak Swu and Thuingaleng Muivah have agreed to work out a 'mutually acceptable' settlement with the Central Government to resolve their differences.
Coming as a landmark breakthrough in the ongoing peace talks, the NSCN-IM leadership also accepted the Indian passports for the first time from the Central Government.
Addressing a massive gathering of Naga activists, students and leaders here, Isak Swu publicly appreciated the central government's efforts to formulate a just settlement of the simmering issue.
"We acknowledge the positive attitude and the effort of the Indian government for creating such a conducive atmosphere. On our part, true to our commitment given to the Indian leaders, we are prepared to work out what is an honourable and mutually acceptable to both sides for a just and lasting solution," said Swu.
Swu also urged the Naga people to unite and rise above the shackles of social divides to promote progress and peace in Nagaland.
"The forces to destroy and divide the Nagas will always be there. But if the people understand the issue and love their land, we can always prevail upon these destructive forces. It is my firm conviction that despite our differences and past mistakes, we should be truthful to God and sincere in our approach for a genuine reconciliation," said Swu.
Asserting that both Naga leaders and the Central Government were genuinely interested in restoring normalcy in ties, Muivah, general secretary of NSCN-IM, said that progress had indeed been made.
"Now, I believe that progress has been made. Because the government of India has understood us. So, something positive can be expected, there is no doubt about it. I think every sensible person will agree with me. We have made our position very clear to the government of India," said Muivah.
The NSCN-IM has been demanding the creation of a separate state called 'Greater Nagaland,' comprising Naga-dominated areas of northeastern states.
However, the Indian government had always rejected this demand, saying that other ethnic groups living in the adjacent provinces are not ready to part any with territory.
Call for unity through reconciliation morungexpress

In this image released to the media, Chairman of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim Isak Chishi Swu and General Secretary Th. Muivah are seen along with their wives at the civic reception organized by the Naga community New Delhi in honour of the Chairman.

Dimapur, (MExN): Following the arrival of Chairman Isak Chishi Swu to India and his subsequent trip planned for Nagaland, the Collective Leadership of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN/GPRN) today issued a one page declaration titled “Our Message, Our Voice”.
What was significant in today’s statement from the NSCN/GPRN was its reiteration of its earlier commitment to unity through reconciliation. “We earnestly appeal to you all to uphold the Covenant of Reconciliation based on historical and political rights of the Nagas in true spirit. Let us journey together towards our common destiny”, the Collective Leadership pronounced in an obvious appeal to the other Naga political groups in particular the other signatories of the Covenant of Reconciliation.
Nagas right to self determination will strengthen India’s democracy: Collective Leadership
Further, in an apparent message to the Government of India and also the people of India the statement from the top NSCN/GPRN Collective leadership had this to say: “If the recognition of the unique history and situation of the Nagas” is translated into reality, the solution is not far off, it stated. While acknowledging the democracy of India, the statement stated that “we can also assure that understanding the right of the Nagas to self-determination will only strengthen India’s democracy”.
The Collective Leadership also expressed how they had been “overwhelmed” by the warm reception given to them by the Naga people pointing out that this love and support has brought them this far. “We are only reminded of the collective strength of our movement, a people’s movement”, it stated.
Pointing out that the “journey together towards our common goal” was the “one clear vision we have”, the Collective Leadership reminded of the “different roles we must undertake” in this journey. “Youth and children, to whom we entrust our future, inherit the legacy of Truth, Freedom and Justice. Etch these values in your hearts and minds without which we have no reason for our existence as a people”, the statement stated.
The Collective Leadership has also thanked mothers and sisters “who keep the hearth warm and burning”. “Let every hearth they lit guide us towards the right path”, it stated. Besides, it has thanked the grandparents, “whose sacrifices have kept this movement alive” and “whose wisdom has guided us for keeping our stories and hopes alive!” “May the stories of our struggles and sacrifices never be forgotten. May it keep our future and vision alive!” it added.

Civic Reception held to welcome Isak Chishi Swu

Dimapur, January 23 (MExN): The Naga community residing in New Delhi held a civic reception to welcome National Socialist Council of Nagalim Chairman Isak Chishi Swu who has arrived at Delhi. “The joy of receiving him again has renewed our hope too. We trust that the objective of his journey will be fulfilled”, stated a brief press note issued by the Programme committee. Reminding that the NSCN and the Government of India (GoI) has covered 70 rounds of talk, the press note believed “that each meeting has brought them closer” and congratulated both the parties for surviving what it termed as the longest ceasefire ever.
According to the press note this has brought out three important things; that, the Indo-Naga conflict is political in nature political steps is required to solve the same; that, a ceasefire is necessary to create conducive atmosphere for a political dialogue and that, dialogue is the only way to end violence and bloodshed and pave way to peace.
The press note urged that through this long ceasefire an honourable solution is brought at the earliest. It also extended its support to both the parties for a healthy dialogue and hope that this peace talk not only forges “new relationship between the two Nations but also show the way to end conflicts around the world especially in South Asia”. “We look forward to celebrate the freedom and agreement of the two nations at the soonest”, it stated.

NSCN positive on talks with Centre HT Correspondent, Hindustan Times

Leaders of India’s longest running insurgency —National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) — on Sunday hinted at progress in the ongoing talks on the vexed Naga issue, saying they acknowledged the government’s “positive” attitude in finding a lasting solution. The NSCN (IM) has held on to a ceasefire agreement with the central government since August 1997. NSCN (IM) chairman Isak Chisi Swu said the rebel leadership was in the country at the invitation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for peace dialogue.
He said he hoped that the Centre would deliver on its promise that any agreement with the outfit would reflect the “unique history” and position of the Nagas.
“We are committed to an honourable, just and lasting solution,” Swu told a function organised to welcome his return to the country This time, he traveled on an Indian passport.
The Naga leader said he welcomed the government’s positive attitude towards the ongoing talks between the group and the interlocutor RS Pandey.
At the same time, Swu also stressed on the need for reconciliation among the Naga people to bridge their differences. “I …hope that they (the government) will not miss the opportunity,” he said. NSCN (IM) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah — who has been holding talks with the interlocutor, RS Pandey, hoped the government would recognise the Naga identity and in bringing a lasting solution to the six decade-old insurgency problem in Nagaland.
At the last meeting, the NSCN-IM had proposed a federal relationship with the Indian Union with additional financial and legislative powers.
The Central government, on the other hand, offered financial package for socio-cultural development of Naga people.
Eco Blockade against Nagaland lifted morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): The economic blockade imposed on Nagaland specifically towards Mon district by seven social organizations have been lifted with effect from today. This was informed in a press note issued by Er. Temsu Wathi Ao District Informatics Officer (NIC) Deputy Commissioner’s Office, Mokokchung & Coordinator, BPCC (A-N).
It has been reported that some Naga persons equipped with sharp weapons had attacked and inflicted injuries on a lady named Smt. Belly Rai of Namtola area (Assam-Nagaland border) under Charaideo sub-division in Sivasagar district on 17th January last who later succumbed to her injuries at hospital.
The Assam State administration failed to book the culprits for days together resulting in spearheading economic blockade against the neighbouring state by All Assam Gorkha Students Union (AAGSU) supported by All Assam Students Union (ASSU), All Assam Jatiyatabadi Juva Chatra Parishad (AJYCP), All Assam Tea Tribal Students Union (AATTSA), Bengali Yuva Chatra Federation and Purbuttor Hindustani Samitti from January 22.
To defuse the situation, a joint meeting was held at Namtola P.S. where Assam Officials were led by Dhiren Hazarika, SDO (Civil) Charaideo Sub-division, Mehruddin Ahmed, Circle Police Officer, Apurba Kumar Bora, OC Namtola Police Station and Khrishna Newar, Advisor of All Assam Gorkha Students Union (AAGSU) and Nagaland was represented by Ms. S. Asangla, EAC Mon HQ, T.C. Chuba, SDPO Tizit and N. Konyak, President of Konyak Union.
Nagaland delegation assured the house that it shall institute an impartial inquiry leading to the events so that the culprits are identified and booked as per the law and therefore sought time till 31st January 2011. Hence, the aggrieved organizations temporarily lifted the blockade.
[Input from Dainik Janambhumi (Assamese Daily) Jorhat Edition 24th Jan 2011]


Frans on 01.24.11 @ 11:00 PM CST [link]


Sunday, January 23rd

Top Naga leaders in Delhi IBN PTI



Top Naga leaders in Delhi IBN PTI

New Delhi, Jan 23 (PTI) Two top Naga rebel leaders today hinted at some progress in the ongoing talks on the vexed Naga issue, saying they acknowledged Government's "positive" attitude in finding a lasting solution. NSCN(IM) chairman Isak Chisi Swu said the rebel leadership was in the country at the invitation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for peace dialogue and hoped that the Centre would keep its promise that any agreement with the outfit would reflect the "unique history" of the Nagas. "We are committed to an honourable, just and lasting solution," Swu said addressing a function here organized to welcome his visit. Swu arrived in New Delhi yesterday after a gap of more than a year and also accepted Indian passport for the first time. So far, he was reportedly carrying the passport of a neighbouring nation. The Naga leader said he welcomed the Indian government�s positive attitude towards the ongoing talks between the group and the interlocutor R S Pandey. "I thank the Government of India for this initiative and hope that they would not miss the opportunity,� he said adding "we acknowledge the positive attitude and effort of the government for creating such a conducive atmosphere". Admitting that there were differences among Nagas, he said reconciliation among them was the need of the hour. Addressing the gathering, NSCN(IM) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah too said the discussions held so far were "positive" and hoped the Centre would do the needful by recognising the Naga identity and in bringing a lasting solution to the six decade-old insurgency problem in Nagaland. The Naga group has been holding parleys with interlocutor Pandey to iron out differences on several vexed issues including integration of Naga-inhabited areas. In the last meeting, the NSCN-IM has proposed a federal relationship with the Indian Union with additional financial and legislative powers while the Central government offered financial package for socio-cultural development of Naga people. A ceasefire was agreed on with NSCN-IM in August, 1997.In May, 1998, the union government had appointed Swaraj Kaushal as the first negotiator. He continued in his post till July 1999. After him, former Home Secretary K Padmanabhaiah took charge as the Centre's pointsman and continued till last year. Pandey, a former Petroleum secretary and a 1972 batch Nagaland cadre IAS officer was appointed as a new interlocutor on February 11, 2010.
Naga rebel leader accepts Indian passport NDTV Correspondent
New Delhi: The leader of separatist National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN), Isak Chishi Swu arrived in Delhi from Bangkok, and for the first time on an Indian passport.

He was felicitated by the Naga Peoples' Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR), where he thanked the Indian Government. He is expected to go to Nagaland for an important meeting later.

Earlier he had a Bangladeshi passport.

Sources said the Centre had inked certain restrictions in Swu's Indian passport, to which the outfit was objecting.

Interlocutor for the Naga talks, R.S. Pandey, will hold parleys with the militant leaders. Talks between Naga leaders and Indian are at an advanced stage.

Swu finally lands in Delhi Nagaland page
A Correspondent
New Delhi, Jan.22: Isak Chishi Swu, the chairman of the NSCN (Isak-Muivah) faction arrived in the national capital late Friday night.
Accompanying him were his daughter and several others which included his support staff and family members of NSCN foreign secretary Anthony Shimray who has been jailed by Indian authorities.
The group was welcomed by kilonsers (ministers) and several NSCN (IM) cadres who waited for Swu at the Indira Gandhi international airport. As soon as he arrived, he was whisked away in a car to an intelligence bureau safe house located on the posh Lodhi road here where general secretary Thuingalang Muivah also lives.
Muivah with his family and Swu now with his family live under the same roof at the sprawling bungalow.
On arrival at the residence, Naga students and Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) members waited for him till the wee hours of the morning. The young people have organized a reception for Swu on Sunday evening where both the rebel leaders would meet their supporters.

The background of ENPO separate state demand Nagaland page
Many have shared their opinion about the issue of ENPO through daily publication. In this connection of critical issue, while deeply studied about the background history of ENPO, I also would like to share my opinion with few facts that why the ENPO is willing to go back to their original stand as follows:-
1. That before the Britishers came to Naga country, there was no nomenclature in the like of NEFA or NHTA etc but the people who are living in the present area of ENPO were known as free Nagas.
2. That after British regime came down to Naga Country and also attained the Christianity religion within the Naga inhabited area through American, the Naga head hunting system was almost controlled and the majority Nagas have been accepted the Christianity religion. After that only the Nagas understand that we are family through Christ and then after only communication among the Nagas have slowly started and then Nagas have become oneness.
3. That after well communicated among the different section of Nagas, the Nagas also open their eyes and saw themselves that we are also not less than a Country as others in the world and then started their demand of Independent through 1951 plebiscite based on 9 points memorandum of 1929 submitted to the British-Indian Government by the Naga Club which nomenclature had been later changed as NNC.
4. That through the demand of Naga Independent, the people who are living in the present ENPO area joint the rest of Nagas and named the Naga inhabited area of Nagas as "Nagaland" in place of NHTA.
5. That due to the Nagas has become oneness the nomenclature of Nagaland has become very popular in the eye of the world.
6. That the people of the NEFA came with their full hope on the Nagas who ae living in Naga Hill areas and joint the Nagas and equally sacrifieces a lot for the Naga Nation in order to achieve the Naga common goal for the past more than 6 decades.
7. That however, the people of Nagaland called ourselves as Christian, but we have lost our oneness as before and divided ourselves in to many factions though it be over ground or underground thereby killing among the Nagas and the possibilities of getting Independent was completely jeopardize and at present there in no hope to find unity among the Nagas.
8. That taking regards to the present ENPO issue, the only Lok Sabha Member of Parliament from Nagaland CM Chang who hailed from ENPO area have miserably failed to address his peoples demands instead maintaining unreceptive to himself which have shown his immaturity leadership to the people of the Nagaland as well as within the country though the present NPF lead DAN Government have really taken care and extended all possible maximum development within ENPO as undeveloped area.
With the above mentioned background historical fact, the Naga people who are living in ENPO area at present have totally lost their faith on the rest of the other Naga. And for which they have started their demand for a separate state and to go back to their original stand for their peaceful living is not deniable by anyone.
T.L Angami
Hq. Razhüphe, Nagaland

Swu, Muivah in Delhi New Delhi, Jan 23 (PTI/NPN):



Isak Chishi Swu (2nd from L), Th. Muivah (2nd from R) along with their wives in New Delhi, Sunday.
Two top Naga rebel leaders Sunday hinted at some progress in the ongoing talks on the vexed Naga issue, saying they acknowledged Government’s “positive” attitude in finding a lasting solution. NSCN (I-M) chairman Isak Chishi Swu said the rebel leadership was in the country at the invitation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for peace dialogue and hoped that the Centre would keep its promise that any agreement with the outfit would reflect the “unique history” of the Nagas. “We are committed to an honourable, just and lasting solution,” Swu said addressing a function here organized to welcome his visit.
Swu arrived in New Delhi Saturday after a gap of more than a year and also accepted Indian passport for the first time. So far, he was reportedly carrying the passport of a neighbouring nation. The Naga leader said he welcomed the Indian government’s positive attitude towards the ongoing talks between the group and the interlocutor R S Pandey. “I thank the Government of India for this initiative and hope that they would not miss the opportunity,” he said adding “we acknowledge the positive attitude and effort of the government for creating such a conducive atmosphere”.
Admitting that there were differences among Nagas, he said reconciliation among them was the need of the hour. Addressing the gathering, NSCN (I-M) general secretary Th. Muivah too said the discussions held so far were “positive” and hoped the Centre would do the needful by recognising the Naga identity and in bringing a lasting solution to the six decade-old insurgency problem in Nagaland. The Naga group has been holding parleys with interlocutor Pandey to iron out differences on several vexed issues including integration of Naga-inhabited areas. In the last meeting, the NSCN (I-M) has proposed a federal relationship with the Indian Union with additional financial and legislative powers while the Central government offered financial package for socio-cultural development of Naga people.
NPN adds: Isak Chishi Swu, was given a grand reception on Sunday. A statement issued by the programme committee said that the joy of receiving him has renewed our hope again and urged for an honourable solution at the earliest.
The committee also pointed three important issues by congratulating both the parties for surviving the longest ceasefire ever: 1. That, the Indo-Naga conflict is political in nature political steps is required to solve the same 2. That, a ceasefire is necessary to create conducive atmosphere for a political dialogue 3. That, dialogue is the only way to end violence and bloodshed and pave way to peace.

Nagaland forests face destruction Y Merina Chishi
Cut timber inside a forest reserve in Meluri. (Morung Photo)
Meluri | January 23 : Towards the south-eastern part of Nagaland, a big problem looms. A problem least thought about by most people; nonetheless, is a grave one. Meluri, a subdivision under Phek district, is one of the remotest places in Nagaland. The land inhabited predominantly by the Pochury tribe extends uptill the border of Myanmar. This region’s forests are home to an abundance of flora and fauna, unmatched by any other part of Nagaland. The people here consider the forests a community heritage.
But nature’s bounty is slowly being reduced to patches of bare land. Deforestation has become the biggest threat to the people of this region.
Random deforestation in this region started in the eighties, when the Forest (Conservation) Act was already in force. According to local sources, Nepalese woodcutters came from different parts of the state, and beyond, in search for work. Most of them settled as professional woodcutters. Initially, these woodcutters worked for locals who used the forests’ wood for personal use. They eventually graduate to working for rich timber businessmen in Dimapur.
Over the years, many timber smugglers joined the business and the forests’ of Meluri became the ultimate target. Deforestation accelerated. Wood like Pine, Redwood and Bonsun were in great demand in the domestic and international markets, so they were cut down rapidly. Many other rare species of trees measuring more than 100feet tall and 5 meters circumference were randomly felled. The locals, unaware that deforestation could someday become a threat to them, gave easy access to these smugglers. Today, the forest has lost nearly 80% of its seasoned trees; some of them hundreds of years old. Pine forest, the region’s asset is almost completely wiped out.
Deforestation may have come with economic benefits for locals, but despite that, the negatives greatly outweigh the positives. Even today, with less than 20% of seasoned trees left in the forest, deforestation continues unabated. With little options for locals to earn money, they also indulge in the trade. As for the woodcutters, as long as there is work, they will continue. Generations of Nepalese woodcutters have worked in these forests.
The locals here hardly get any benefit from the wood they sell to rich timber barons, but the trade must go on for them. While the timber barons have become millionaires, the locals remain largely ignorant about the drain of their wealth. There is also still very little awareness on conservation here; owing to which the region is slowly losing its green covers.
The ultimate result of deforestation has been a major decrease in biodiversity. Deforestation has slowly destroyed natural habitats for animals in this region. Many animals found in the forest have disappeared. One Pochury hunter said earlier a variety of animals and birds like elephants, chimpanzees and peacocks could be spotted in the forest. They are no longer visible. Several water sources have also dried up, he said.
Deforestation is being discussed among many people but there is very little solution being offered. The region, which could have well become a hotspot for nature lovers, is slowly becoming a reflection of the rest of Nagaland, a state that has lost nearly 70% of its forest cover.
(The figures given are based on rough estimates made by locals of the region)


Frans on 01.23.11 @ 10:25 PM CST [link]


Saturday, January 22nd

Swu push to reconciliation OUR BUREAU The telegraph




Swu push to reconciliation OUR BUREAU The telegraph

Kohima/New Delhi, Jan. 21: The chairman of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN), Isak Chishi Swu, and his wife Avuli will land in New Delhi from Bangkok late tonight.
Swu is expected to reach Nagaland soon to meet leaders of other groups and push forward the ongoing reconciliation process, spearheaded by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and supported by several organisations and churches.
Swu, who was scheduled to reach New Delhi earlier, was delayed because of a technical problem with his travel documents.
The NSCN chief has now been issued an Indian passport.
According to a source, he had been travelling the world with a Bangladeshi passport.
The Centre wanted him to surrender the passport to the Bangladesh authorities.
Sources said the Centre had inked certain restrictions in Swu’s Indian passport, to which the outfit was objecting.
The sources said six of their senior kilonsers (ministers) are currently camping in Delhi to receive their chairman.
The Naga community in New Delhi will organise a civic reception for Swu on January 23 at 5.30pm at 61, Lodhi Estate.
Before leaving for Nagaland, Swu will meet Thuingaleng Muivah, the outfit’s general secretary, who is in the national capital.
Swu and Muivah will live in New Delhi for nearly a month before a trip to Nagaland, sources said, unless there are “more important” meetings.
Interlocutor for the Naga talks, R.S. Pandey, will hold parleys with the militant leaders.
Hours before Swu’s arrival, top government officials said the Naga political problem was nearing its conclusion.
“The parties may arrive at a broad agreement by the end of the year,” a senior home ministry official said.
S.S. Khaplang, the chairman of the NSCN (Khaplang), is also expected to reach Nagaland soon, according to sources.
The NSCN, which was formed on January 30, 1980, split in 1988 after a bloody clash between the supporters of Swu, Muivah and Khaplang in the jungles of Burma.
Over 200 supporters of Swu and Muivah have been killed in fratricidal clashes. Since then, fratricidal killings have claimed hundreds of lives.
According to the mandate of the Naga people and also the resolutions of the Joint Working Group of Naga groups, a meeting of the highest level is imminent.
The FNR and the Joint Working Group have requested the Naga people to pray for the reconciliation process.
They have also asked the churches and prayer centres to arrange special programmes, the convenor of the forum, Rev. Wati Aier, said.
‘State demand may break peace in Nagaland’
CORRESPONDENT Assam tribune
DIMAPUR, Jan 22 – Naga People’s Front (NPF) President and Minister for Urban Development & Higher Education Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu, while stating that he has ‘nothing to comment’ on the demand of the Eastern Naga People’s Organisation (ENPO) for a separate State, however, expressed apprehension that the development may dismantle the hard won peace which has paved the way for a final solution to the Naga political issue.
Touching on the ‘Frontier Nagaland’ demand issue for the first time during the inaugural function of the 63rd meet of the United Sangtam Students Conference at Kiphire, Shürhozelie said, “I have nothing to comment on the ENPO demand for a separate State.”
The veteran politician, however, voiced fear that the demand may dismantle the hard earned steps won by peace makers towards a final solution to the Naga political problem.
Expressing the hope that good sense will prevail at the right time in the larger interest of the Nagas as a whole, he said, “We do not want Nagaland to be disintegrated further.”
Army files FIR against erring IRBs morungexpress
Dimapur, January 21 (MExN): Responding to the assault meted out to an AR personnel by IRB cadres, the Army has filed an FIR against the defaulters under Indian Penal Code Section 325 (Voluntarily causing grievous hurt) and Section 395 (Dacoity) at the East Police Station, Dimapur.
The Army in a press note stated that on January 20, expressing concern over the incident , the Army authorities deputed a Brigadier and a Colonel from Rangapahar Military Station, who had met the SP and conveyed that such heinous acts call for prompt and strict action by police. Army authorities brought out that there are a large number of soldiers from Nagaland who are serving in various parts of the country and they return to Nagaland to meet their families and friends.
"Such atrocities on an Army jawan who is on leave not only affects the morale of the Naga jawan and his family but also it can act as a catalyst to disturb the peace and security in the locality unless Police authorities initiate action to prevent such incidents and book the defauters at the earliest," it lamented.
The note stated that Sepoy Robinson Komou, an Army jawan belonging 2 Assam Regiment, presently posted at Lucknow, was brutally assaulted by some personnel of Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) without any provocation on January 18 night while the former was returning from Railway station, Dimapur after booking the train ticket.
It also added that the Assam Regiment jawan’s cell phone and other personal documents were also stolen by the IRB persons. The jawan, who was found in an unconscious state after the incident, is now undergoing treatment in the Military Hospital. “The incident has been viewed very seriously by Army authorities at all levels.”

NSCN-IM issues directives - Group prohibits burning of forests, chemicals for fishing OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, Jan. 21: The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) has banned burning of jungles and fishing with poisonous chemicals.
The highest policy-making body of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN) has decided to immediately ban burning of jungles and fishing with poisonous chemicals in rivers and streams.
The outfit’s ministries of forest and environment, and kilo (home) affairs have issued the directive to all Naga areas in a bid to keep waters clean and prevent wanton burning of jungles.
The outfit said punitive measures would be taken against those who violate the directive.
The GPRN’s forests and environment secretary T.A. Rao appealed to the Nagas to preserve natural forests, medicinal plants, flora and fauna. He said random burning of forests had damaged the environment in the Naga-inhabited areas.
He said massive trees had been destroyed and wild animals and birds killed in recent years. Besides, use of chemicals had poisoned rivers and harmed fish.
The group said drying up of rivers and streams had caused climate and weather changes.
“Thick forests and jungles have become a Naga desert land,” Rao said.
He said air pollution, caused by burning of forests and use of chemicals, had made breathing unsafe.
The outfit’s ministry of kilo affairs also affirmed the January 18 decision, issued by D.G. Robert, kilo (home) secretary at its council headquarters of the steering committee to preserve the depleting flora, fauna and aquatic bio-diversity in “Nagalim”.
The outfit’s forest and environment ministry also appealed to all regional central administrative officers, council members, leacys (legislators), commanding officers of brigade, battalion, Naga army and village chairman/secretaries to endorse and enforce this.
“To err is to human but forgiveness is not compulsory,” it stated.
The outfit has banned the hunting of wild animals a couple of years ago in the Naga-inhabited areas.
Fresh modalities for oil production in Nagaland (PTI)
Kohima, Jan 22 A Nagaland government cabinet sub-committee on exploration and mining of petroleum and natural gas would soon submit its report to the state government recommending fresh modalities for production of oil in the stare, an official release said here today.
The release quoting member secretary of cabinet sub-committee and Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC) H K Khulu said the oil spill issue in Champang area under Wokha district would be addressed by the state government.
He asked the land owners and department of geology and mining not to take any initiative by their own to deal with it, it added.
The committee members recently visited proven oil fields of Wokha district and inspected some of the abandoned oil rigs where oil was spilled causing environmental concern.
ONGC, which had earlier undertaken exploration and production in Champang and other areas in the district, had to leave the oil fields in May 1994 following violent protest by undergrounds and student activists.
Since then the state government has been attempting to resume oil production in the area with a fresh set of modalities to be executed with the production companies.
The government set up a cabinet sub-committee headed by planning minister T R Zeliang to study and recommend various pros and cons of resumption of oil production in the state.
Khulu said that the sub-committee members while visiting the area explained to the villagers about the government''s intension where maximum possible benefits are accrued by the state as well by the local stake holders.
So, at this stage when the sub-committee is about to submit its report to the government, the land owners should not complicate the matter by inviting ONGC to clean up those spilled rigs, he said.
The panel had learnt that department of geology of mining invited ONGC for a joint verification of the oil spillage in Changpang without any consultation with the cabinet sub-committee, and asked the department not take any initiative on its own in this regard, the release said.
Since oil spill is extremely hazardous for the environment as well as a technical matter, the sub-committee has clearly spelt out that the issue would be addressed by the state government at the earliest, Khulu said.


Frans on 01.22.11 @ 11:52 PM CST [link]


Friday, January 21st

Rio calls upon ENPO to reconsider demand for a separate state PTI BN



Rio calls upon ENPO to reconsider demand for a separate state PTI |BN

Kohima, Jan 21 (PTI) Terming the grievances of the people of four border districts of the state as "genuine", Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has called upon Eastern Nagaland People�s Organization (ENPO) to reconsider its demand for creation of a separate "Frontier Nagaland" state. The chief minister made the first ever public statement on the demand for creation of a separate state comprising four border districts of Mon, Tuensang, Kiphire and Longleng while speaking at a students conference near Mokokchung yesterday. Rio said while "unity and integrity is the slogan of the Government of Nagaland," the recent cabinet meeting expressed regret over the ENPO�s demand at a time when the Nagas were negotiating with the Government of India to hammer out a lasting solution to the protracted Naga political conflict. Regretting over the development, the cabinet resolved to request the ENPO to reconsider its demand but acknowledged genuine grievances of the eastern Nagas about lack of development in many fronts. Speaking as the chief guest on the second day of the 65th general conference of Ao Students� Conference (AKM) at Ungma village, the chief minister maintained that the advanced tribes such as Aos, Angamis and others must ponder over why the people of the backward border districts had expressed their grievances. "Being advanced and privileged tribes they have equal responsibility towards the underprivileged," Rio asserted. Besides submitting memorandum to the prime minister and the Union Home minister in support of the demand, the ENPO and other organizations representing six tribes organized public rallies on January 7 in all the four district headquarters towns demanding creation of "Frontier Nagaland." PTI AP RG
Ugly Political Atmospheres Of Manipur & Consequences Thereof kanglaonline by M. Nilamani
Manipur, once a sovereign kingdom having unique history of its own since 33 AD till before the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 which resulted in the loss of Manipur’s sovereignty for a period commencing from the 27th of April, 1891 till before the midnight of August, 1947, had come across many unprecedented and unwanted atmospheres counting from the time of British Rule till the present Rule of our own people over our own state. These ugly atmospheres approaching from different angles led the people of hills and valley of Manipur to the path of hell instead of leading to heaven. People of Manipur have also lost full confidence on the Govt. of Manipur accompanied with fears in their minds on State Security and Para Military Forces stationed at various places of Manipur whose day to day activities shown under the shadow of Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958 in connection with the suppression of many insurgent groups operating in Manipur ultimately caused loss of innocent human lives on fake encounters since its imposition till date. Almighty God knows when this infamous and most controversial Act, provisions of which were, once, the weapons of British Rule in India against lakhs of Indians who sacrificed their lives for liberating India from the hands of British people, would be repealed ?
Recent steps taken up by Home Minister P. Chidambaram for amendment to the provisions of infamous Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 would be more dangerous as before unless the Act itself is totally repealed in the interest of General Public of North Eastern Regions & Jammu and Kashmir.
Particularly people of Manipur would be extremely happy, the moment AFSPA 1958 is repealed and it becomes inoperative in the state of Manipur. Such generous act of Govt. of India would save the life of IROM CHANU SHARMILA, most precious product of Manipur. She is Jewel of not only of Manipur (her birth place) but also an ideal girl of the whole Universe.
Will power, strong determination, and extraordinary courage inherent in the blood and mind of IROM CHANU SHARMILA who has recently crossed 10th year of her journey to “FAST UNTO DEATH” till Armed Forces Special Powers Act, 1958 is repealed – has been wide spread in the world. United Nations had full knowledge of her unprecedented venture sacrificing most precious youthful life span of ten years which is still being continued till the draconian Act is repealed.
God knows – as to how long her fate will have to face such intolerable sufferings. Before anything – reaction to her “FAST UNTO DEATH” becomes worse – Govt. of Manipur as weli as Govt. of India ought to take up immediate steps for repealing AFSPA 1958 from the soil of Manipur. This is the only solution which will open a new path for the rest of Sharmila’s life.
Imposition of this controversial AFSPA 1958 on the people of Manipur for such a long period of years did not bring in good fruits to both the Govt. of India and Manipur Govt. Neither the underground movements of hills and valley could be totally suppressed nor was the killings of insurgents and innocent public under fake encounters could render valuable solution to the vexed law and order problems of Manipur. What brought by operation of this infamous Act in this fertile soil of Manipur was Public anger against excesses committed by Security Forces. The volumes of anger in the minds of general Public increased in as much as the crimes, killings and fake encounters were found committed very often. Justice Jeevan Reddy Commission had minutely studied evils brought by the provisions of Armed Forces Special Powers Act 1958 and submitted its final report to the Govt. of india. Even the Prime Minister of India did not fully support the provisions of this controversial Act and in its place he wanted a law which is more humane and justifiable to the people.
Everyone is aware of the fact that on the 14th of August, 1947 exactly at midnight, British Authority under the supreme command and order of the Queen of England delivered the Kingdom of Manipur to Maharaj Bodhchandra, the then King of Manipur.
Late Maharaj Bodhchandra could not hold his kingship for longer period of time. With the enactment of Manipur State Constitution Act 1947, general election was held in the year 1948 and thereafter state Govt. of Manipur was formed and run by Elected Representatives of the people of Manipur.
Partition of India and Pakistan was effected in the month of August 1947. Pakistan became an independent country on the 14th of August, 1947 while India’s Independence Day was on the 15th of August, 1947. Manipur became an independent country after the midnight of 14th August, 1947 i.e. a few hours ahead of India’s Independence. Manipur State Constitution Act, 1947 is much older than the Indian Constitution.
Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru was the 1st Prime Minister of India, Sardar Ballabvai Patel was one of the most trusted political personalities and close Associates of Pandit Nehru by whose policy and careful handling of delicate and very complicated situation relating to the scope of expansion of the Indian Dominion over the North Eastern Regions – like Manipur, an independent country having unique history of its own for more than two thousands years and Tripura Kingdom were very easily taken and kept under Indian Dominion.
Governor of Assam also took vital role during the process of crucial talks and before the Merger Agreement was signed at Shillong.
Merger Agreement was signed at Shillong in the month of September, 1949 and thereafter on the 15th of October, 1949 Manipur was merged with the dominion of India and became part of India.
From the legal point of views, question arises as to how Manipur became part of India on the strength and basis of the Merger Agreement signed by Maharaj Bodhchandra who, at the time of signing the Merger Agreement, had no authority or power to sign or execute any deed on behalf of the Govt. of Manipur which was absolutely run by People’s Elected Representatives.
Here, mention may be made that any instrument or agreement whatever it might have been, signed or alleged to have been signed by the king Bodhchandra during British Rule in India as well as in Manipur can’t be enforced by any individual or a state or nations after the British Rule in Manipur ceased to operate and Manipur became, again an independent country and as such Maharaj Bodhchandra can’t be implicated in the matter of any instrument or agreement if any, alleged to have been signed by him during British Rule in Manipur since Manipur was under the absolute control and Authority of British People till before the handing over of Kingdom of Manipur to the king on the 14th of August, 1947. Manipur was annexed by British Crown after the defeat of Manipuris in Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. Legal jurisdiction and authority were in the hands of crown of England. Maharaj of Manipur had lost sovereign authority. He had lost all his powers to rule Manipur since after 27th April, 1891 till before the midnight of 14th of August, 1947. Any act committed or anything done implicating Maharaj of Manipur during British rule cannot, under any circumstances, be validated as legal authority as if acted on behalf of the people of Manipur. Prior to midnight of 14th August, 1947 signing of any agreement or any instrument of Accession shall be deemed to have been done illegally. Only the sovereign state has the authority to enter into such instrument.
Manipur, which was a sovereign kingdom ruled by the kings from the year 33 AD till before Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, had never in the annals of its political Administration, come across such prevailing political, social and religious conflicts arising out of 36 Ethnic groups of people whose motherland is Manipur to which they all owe allegiance. After the loss of sovereignty of Manipur at the hands of Britishers in the Anglo-Manipur War 1891, the entire areas of hills and valley of Manipur were almost under the control and jurisdiction of British Authority.
Geographical areas of Manipur were made into three divisions viz (i) Hills, (ii) Valley and (iii) British Reserved areas which distinctly and directly divide hills and valley having two different sets of new religions, (i) Christianity in the hills and (ii) Vaisnavism in the valley which was absolutely controlled by Bramha Sabha (composed of prominent figures of religion and Religious fundamentalist located at the Royal Palace).
Too much religious mindedness and orthodox way of life of valley people being influenced by new religion (Vaisnavism) under the strict guidelines of Bramha Sabha brought about a new shape of life styles and changed the attitudes of new converts whereby question of nature of un-touchability of inferior classes of people as adopted in many parts of India in ancient times by religious Hindu extremists seemed to have taken birth amongst the new converts of Vaisnavism which ultimately resulted in bringing unprecedented episode of class system though not fully supported by masses of valley people. Many unwanted religious reforms and changes were made in respect of original rites, rituals of valley people and introduction of observance of new form of ceremony after the death of valley people could also be seen throughout the valley areas with the exception of Sanamahi groups of people who opposed to the newly introduced “Vaisnavism”.
On the other side, many people of hills became converts of Christianity, a religion which was foreign to them. Before the Britishers landed in Manipur there was no Christian in the hills. In the hills there are still many groups of people belonging to different communities (ethnic groups) who opposed foreign religion and stick to their original traditions and religions which were professed by their forefathers, since time immemorial.
Two sets of religions professed by the people of hills and valley which were alien to them became a hidden curtain from amongst our own people who, once enjoyed peaceful co-existence and communal harmony for the last about two thousand years.
Dirty politics played by shrewd and opportunist politicians of both the hills and valley of Manipur had become a contributory factor for the present conflict situation between hills and valley.
During British Rule in Manipur, Christianity was introduced by Rev. Pettigrew while “Vaisnavism” was in the height of its popularity from amongst half of the Meitei majority community of valley areas.
These two streams viz Dirty Politics and religions of Manipur professed by new converts of hills and valley could be a cause for indicating a line of divide between hills and valley. Shrewd politicians took maximum advantage from these two streams at the time of election. However, whatever the attempts made by them, they could not severe age old ties between the people of hills and valley. Few section of people having vested interest would not be in a position to remove and throw away emotional brotherly and sisterly relationship between people of hills and valley.
When Manipur is seen from different angles, there is nothing worth remembering and appreciating. Peace, tranquifity, communal harmony and peaceful co-existence of indigenous people of Manipur before the Britishers landed and ruled over the entire areas of Manipur hills and valley had been out of sight and instead stake of various claims made by many ethnic groups which include demand for separate homeland of this and that areas as well as demand for slicing off four hill districts of Manipur viz Senapati, Tamenglong, Chandel and Ukhrul for Greater Nagalim, created conflict situations throughout the length and breadth of Manipur, consequences thereof had been causing unprecedented episodes of Economic Blockades, Bandhs, Strikes, Rallies over and above day-to-day extortion, collection of illegal taxes from the trucks plying on Highways No. 39 and 53 etc. etc.
Unwanted atmospheres in the valley areas were much more than the hill areas as per the records available through the publication of information in the local English and Manipuri Dailies as well as news aired by electronic media, ISTV.
Gun culture launched against the people or the insurgents of hills and valley of Manipur for suppressing any movement either lawful or unlawful by nature would not be able to stop underground movements. Political dialogue on the table between insurgent groups and the Govt. of India as well as State Govt. would be the only solution to the vexed law and order problems of Manipur.
Gun culture and fake encounters prevailing in the state of Manipur had contributed volumes of unexpressed anger in the minds of general public. Due to fear of consequences which may likely come-up as a revenge by security forces against the public, most of the people including well educated bonafide citizens suppressed their feelings of anger – with the exception of voices raised by JAC formed after the killings of A-B-C or any innocent person.
In Manipur – collective responsibilities and joint efforts in respect of anything concerning the state of Manipur has been out of question. Every individual prefers to remain far aloof from any issue of Manipur if the same is of vital importance politically, socially and legally. Since politics of Manipur has been found monopolized not by poor and educated citizens of Manipur but by moneyed men (apart from extra attitude of opportunist and shrewd nature inherent in them) who can afford to spend crores of rupees at the time of Election, showmanship with muscle powers in seen from these types of politicians.
Lust for wealth and power are the main objectives of politicians of Manipur. Economic, educational, cultural and social reforms are nil in Manipur when compared to developed states of India. Politics of Manipur has produced destructive elements of the whole societies of hills and valley. Birth of corruption and corrupt practices everywhere in every department of Manipur were the products of opportunist, shrewd and corrupt politicians.
Talk of the town about corruption in every Department Can’t be suppressed or wiped out unless appointments are made purely on the merits of the candidates. God knows – when this golden opportunity would step in on the fertile soil of Manipur which was once corruption free kingdom.
Taking account of what has been mentioned or said it is clear that all types of corruption and corrupt practices of Manipur cannot be reversed and put into normal position without a profound change on the political front.
But how profound change on the political front will be brought before the eyes of general public ?
First of all, before correcting opportunist and corrupt politicians who have the tendency to fight election through corrupt practices with investment of crores of rupees (meant for buying votes of literate and illiterate voters of hills and valley) for becoming wealthy and powerful men of Manipur, all the voters should be taught political lessons so as to enable them to acquire knowledge of the present system of “Election” which is based on “NUMBER GAME”. Money power is the only source of strength by which this “NUMBER GAME” could be won very easily. When there is no element of corruption in the Election – then only qualified and well reputed persons from amongst the lawyers, intellectuals and senior citizens of both the hills and valley of Manipur could be sent up as peoples’ candidates.
The curtain between the valley and hills can easily be removed provided hill politicians who joined politics for “Wealth and Powers” could give up this poisonous thought and instead lead the general public of hills to the right path for upliftment of hills in all the fields. There should not be any wrong instigation and fatal lesson for breaking age-old blood relationship with the valley people as part of political propaganda. These two groups of people should unite and live together in peace having communal harmony amongst them. They are inseparable under any given circumstances.
In the valley, election time is just like “Grand Festival” where money circulation of 500 and 1000 currency are abundantly found in the pockets of illiterate as well as literate voters. It is a shame on these people who sell their rights for money. First of all Metiei voters – males and females residing in the valley should be directly taught to group together and punish the bribe givers (candidates and their agents) treating them as criminals. It is easy to book them under the law. There should not be fear in the minds of general public.
As for the hills, the same procedure stated as aforesaid needs to be followed by the general public of hills, which will, in turn, produce good fruits to the people of hills at large.
Life styles of shrewd politicians who wrongly interpret and form the habit of giving wrong advice to the innocent villagers during election time is just like the venoms of dangerous snakes.
These types of politicians of both the hills and valley ought to know that the whole land of Manipur is the land of 36 ethnic groups of people which belonged to the Govt. of Manipur. Govt. of Manipur can acquire any part or portion of the land of Manipur under Land Acquisition Act, 1894 at anytime as and when required by the Govt. of Manipur. Map of Manipur drawn on a piece of paper can be torn into as many as 36 pieces and distribute the same to 36 groups of people but the land which is within physical boundaries of Manipur is inseparable. Hindu law of partition is inapplicable to the land of the Govt. of Manipur.
Those persons irrespective of cast, creed and religion who wish to go away from the soil of Manipur – may do so and settle any where even in foreign countries, but they cannot take away an inch of land with them.
Article 3 of the Indian Constitution is just like a trap which is kept open for suppressing any repressive or unacceptable demand made from any group of people. It cannot be invoked on demand of two or three groups of people. Govt. of india knew it well that Manipur had its own unique history. 36 groups of people are the bonafide citizens of Manipur who became Indian citizens just after the 15th of October, 1949. Diplomatically, Govt. of India, taking undue advantage of the political situation erupting in some vested interest groups of people may play political GAME OF DIVIDE AND RULE as temporary measures. But Govt. of India would not commit any act which is injurious to the whole people of Manipur and which affects the integrity of Manipur.
The spirit and courage of Manipuris sacrificing precious lives of 18 people on the issue of three words “WITHOUT TERRITORIAL LIMIT” contained in the Cease Fire Agreement between Govt. of India and NSCN (IM) during NDA Govt. in India is the concrete indication of how many human lives of indigenous people of Manipur would be ready to sacrifice against any attempt at the breaking of teritorial lntegrity of Manipur.
As long as disunity, mean mindedness, lack of sense of oneness and communal enmity from amongst ethnic groups of people prevail, Manipur qan never be well developed and prosperous state. It will go back to the primitive stage of living even though Manipur has produced prominent lawyers, many IAS, IPS, IFS personnel and well qualified intellectuals both from the hills and valley. Every individual or community of Manipur ought to know that all the indigenous people of Manipur, if united, Manipur (our motherland), could be lifted on top of peoples living around the world.
Can any nation of the world compete “MARY KOM” five times World Boxing Champion of the world ? She belongs to a small community of tiny state of Manipur. But she brought laurels from all over the world not only to her Kom community but also to all the indigenous people of Manipur.
Nilkomol, Thoiba, Dinku, Suranjoy, Sarita, Kunjamai and many other prominent figures in the field of sports had lifted Manipur and made it known to the world of sports and games. It is these athletes of Manipur who deserve special mention at all times.
How many politicians of hills and valley including MPs, MLAs and Chief Ministers of Manipur had contributed remarkable services to the people of Manipur ?
For brining in “Unity and Oneness” amongst all ethnic groups of people living in Manipur – Let us keep aside the issues of RELIGIONS, CASTE, COMMUNITY, HILLS AND VALLEY.
Let us learn lessons from Japan.
How Japan became one of the flourishing countries of the world after the attack of disastrous atomic bombs on the soil of Japan where lakhs of Japanese lost their lives ? The progresses and developments made in all the fields of Japan within a short span of time are remarkable. The small islanders’ spirit, courage, unity and oneness have left Admirable Footprints.
After Telangana comes Frontier Nagaland
Once again there is a separate statehood demand and this time it’s in Nagaland. The Frontier Nagaland demand has not come out of nowhere, but does it have the potential to create roadblock for NSCN (IM)’s Greater Nagaland agenda? Ratnadip Choudhury tries to find out Tehelka



The Telengana movement in the south has ignited a similar spirit in the hills of Nagaland. Inspired by the statehood stir in Andhra Pradesh, the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) has come forward with a demand of carving out a new state — Frontier Nagaland. This demand comes after six Naga tribes, including the Chang, Konyak, Sangtam, Khiamniungan, Yimchungru, Phom. Along with the ENPO, they want the new state to be carved out of Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire and Longleng districts of eastern Nagaland as well as Tirap and Changlang districts of adjoining Arunachal Pradesh, which have a dominant Naga population.
This demand, although only a resurgence of an old claim, comes at a time when the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) is involved in a 13-year-long peace process with the Centre and its idea of creation of a Greater Nagaland that seeks to bring, besides Nagaland, all Naga-inhabited areas of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur under one administrative set-up. This idea has been vehemently opposed by neighbouring states. In 2010, violence escalated when the Manipur government did not allow NSCN (IM) General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah to enter the state to visit his native village.
The ENPO has its own reasons to rack up the demand. It feels that successive governments in Nagaland have failed to ensure development and create jobs for the people of these areas and they feel oppressed and alienated in their own land. “This is a mass movement. Our demand of Frontier Nagaland is based on historical facts. For decades, Eastern Nagaland has been left underdeveloped. Our people don’t get jobs,” says ENPO General Secretary Toshi Wungpung. To this end, they have already sent a memorandum to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh explaining why eastern Nagas feel the need for a new state. The ENPO delegation has also met Home Minister P Chidambaram to make it very clear to New Delhi that they are not going to turn back.
A trip to Eastern Nagaland and a graze of the Nagaland government’s own records show the sorry picture of development in the areas. Successive governments have overlooked the issues concerning the upliftment of these Naga tribes that constitute nearly half of Nagaland’s total population. Not more then five percent of them have government jobs, and there are no other job avenues. Their economic condition has gone from bad to worse.
“The issue of underdevelopment and neglect of the eastern part of Nagaland has been an issue doing the rounds for sometime. The demand of job reservation for these underdeveloped areas has been gaining momentum, so this demand of creation of a separate state is something very expected in the present geo-political scenario,” explains John Sema, a teacher of political Science at Nagaland University. The ENPO is taking the movement to the masses by organising rallies in the area. “You have to look back in history. It is only after India got independence that the present land (eastern belt of Nagaland) came under the North East Frontier Agency (NEFA) whereby the state of Nagaland was created. It is our legitimate right to have a separate state. Even the Constitution of India has enshrined a special provision for this region. However, this provision is denied by the state government… because of which we are backward both politically and economically,” thundered ENPO Vice-President Yonglam Konyak at a recently held public rally in Kiphire.
“Media should not mix this demand with the process of reconciliation or the peace initiative. Those are involving underground outfits. This is not a new demand. This is rather an economic movement for fulfilment of economic aspirations of these people because no one can deny the fact that successive state governments in Nagaland have failed to ensure development in the eastern belt,” opines Geoffrey Yaden, editor of Nagaland Post.
A peep into Nagaland’s socio-economic fabric perhaps gives us a clearer picture. Nagas from communities like Sümi, Ao, Angami or Lotha have benefited the most from whatever economic development the state has seen in decades of deadlock and insurgency. Ministers and MLAs from the eastern part of Nagaland only remained busy securing the future of their kin. If the demand gains ground, it certainly runs the risk of undermining the idea of Greater Nagaland that NSCN (IM) wants to bargain out of New Delhi, although it is pretty clear that the Centre is in no mood to re-draw boundaries to meet such aspirations.
This situation perhaps helps New Delhi the best. “We have taken note of the ENPO’s demand that it has become impossible for them to continue as part of Nagaland because of the gross neglect,” says a highly placed MHA official on condition on anonymity. The game plan is clear. India first tried to settle with the main Naga tribes through the Shillong Accord but when it failed, it waited for the NSCN to split under its own contradictions. Going by the trend of the peace initiatives that have been floated by the home ministry, the Centre might try to play on the contradictions of the marginal and frontier Naga tribes. “Having failed to get Muivah to agree to a settlement without Greater Nagaland, now New Delhi might take advantage of this new development. This effort, if successful, will only rupture the generic Naga identity and weaken the movement to create a nationality out of somewhat disparate tribes,” explains Subir Bhaumik, expert on Naga-India conflict. The Shillong Accord is seen as the genesis of the political disintegration of the Nagas and if New Delhi plays its political cards on the Frontier Nagaland demand, it is going to lead to even more chaos.


Frans on 01.21.11 @ 11:48 PM CST [link]


Thursday, January 20th

‘For unified lim and glory of Nagas’ Mutsikhoyo Kelhouneizo O.WATI Morungexpress



‘For unified lim and glory of Nagas’ Mutsikhoyo | Kelhouneizo | O.WATI Morungexpress

Ever since its inception, the Naga Students` Federation, keeping in mind its core objective i.e. ‘For unified lim and glory of Nagas’, have been struggling hard to bring the Naga family together. Towards this end, the federation has been venturing out to every nook and corner of the Naga areas and reaching out to every section of the Naga society in order to send a message to the world that Nagas are one and we do not recognize the artificial geographical boundaries that divided the Naga homeland. It is for this generation to realize and recognize that Nagas are strong people in the eyes of the world because of the unshakable foundation laid by our forefather for the Naga nation. Despite of many challenges and with limited education, our forefathers were much far sighted and stronger warriors than us, because they have not only dreamt of having an independent Naga homeland but fought to the last to make it happen. The responsibility which has been bestowed on us by our ancestors cannot be wished away in order to accommodate our short term interest.
It is a fact that times are changing and we cannot longer live in isolation, we have to march ahead along with the rest of the world. In order to cope-up with the rest of the world, we need to consolidate our people and our homeland. Separation from each other is not the answer for progress and development of our society. What is demanded of us, what is needed at this point of time is to put concerted effort in bringing our people and our land under one administrative roof. The federation is also of the opinion that, humiliation and subjugations being faced everyday by our brothers and sisters living in the present state of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur and most of all Burma (Myanmar) should constantly strike the minds of the Nagas living in the present State of Nagaland, comparatively, the Nagas living in the present state of Nagaland are little better than the rest of the Nagas who are living outside the present boundary of Nagaland State and for which we need to also realize that we have moral onus to address the need and concerns of our brothers and sisters living outside the present state of Nagaland. Our ancestors had struggled so hard to promote and strengthen the spirit of brotherhood and oneness within the family inspite of many forces against them. The foundation and the history is clear for us, we only need to expand our horizon by focusing our thought and our activities on our common dream of surviving as a people and as a Nation rather than succumbing to various devices of our adversaries who are exploring every means to further divide our people and our land.
With the reconciliation and the peace process in progress, our adversaries are feeling threatened and they will go to any extent to split the Nagas because for them, Nagas coming together is the biggest threat on earth. As a matter of fact, we should always be on guard to withstand such gimmicks of our adversaries. It is befitting for the Nagas living outside the present State of Nagaland to muster courage to segregate themselves from the dominion communities so as to assert our identity and to protect our ancestral domain, nevertheless, it is inappropriate on the part of Nagas living within the present State of Nagaland to conceive even an idea of segregating from the rest of the Nagas. Instead, we should be more cohesive and coherent in our approach for the betterment of the entire Naga family as some of our brothers and sisters especially those living in Burma (Myanmar) are less fortunate than us.
The Federation while urging upon the Government of Nagaland to give special attention to the economically and educationally rearward areas suggest the ENPO to take up their grievances (if it is related to development and job opportunities) with the elected Members of the Nagaland State legislative Assembly of Mon, Tuesang, Lonleng and Kiphirie Districts as it is none other than the people of this four Districts who elected them to address their grievances. The Federation also impress upon the ENPO not to push any farther for demand of Statehood or any other separate arrangements as it will be detrimental for the growth of the Naga society in the long run. Moreover, it will only give undue advantage to our adversaries. Further, the Federation cautions those individual and agencies trying to implant seeds of discord and hatred amongst the Naga family to desist from such nefarious design.

Mutsikhoyo Yhobu, President
Kelhouneizo Yhome, Assembly Speaker
O.WATI JAMIR, General Secretary
IRB anger at ‘Assam’ falls on a Regiment sepoy morungexpress

S Robinson Komuo of Chowainamai village serving in the 2nd Assam Regiment recovering after a group of IRB thrashed him up Tuesday night at Dimapur, Nagaland
DIMAPUR, JANUARY 19 (MExN): Has the January 15 Assam Rifles-Indian Reserve battalion (IRB) episode fired up the Naga jawans? They appear to have a major grudge against the ‘Assam’ thing. But they need to discern even if a show of strength is required.
A Naga sepoy of the 2nd Assam Regiment posted in Lucknow was brutally manhandled by a group of at least five men, some of whom reportedly wore the fatigues of the Nagaland IRB. Sources say they were reportedly not carrying arms and hence not on duty.
25 year old S Robinson Komuo of a Chowainamai village, from the Naga district Tahamzam of Manipur was returning from the railway station around 9 p.m. last night when the group of men stopped him and another friend at a place near the autorickshaw parking, right below the new flyover.
According to sources, the duo were allegedly accosted by the group of men and were reportedly asked which community they belonged. The source quoting the victim said they were both violently manhandled in turns. Komuo reportedly received the major assault while his friend escaped with a lost tooth. He was made unconscious as a result of the beating.
Komuo was at Dimapur on his way back to his Lucknow posting and was returning after purchasing a train ticket. His service identity card and mobile phone were seized from his possession. The incident was reportedly witnessed by hotel personnel nearby. The source said the victims were asked to come to the same spot this morning but the assaulters did not turn up.
It is not clear as to what provoked the IRB personnel to resort to such a brutal way of handling any sort of perceived provocation, but it certainly denies them any image boost.
Our slogan is unity, reconciliation, integrity: Rio Longrangty Longchar Morungexpress

Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio speaking as the Chief Guest at the 65th Ao Students Conference at Ungma village on January 20. (DIPR Photo)

Ungma | January 20 : Commenting on the demand by the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization (ENPO), Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today said that ‘unity and integrity is the slogan of the Government of Nagaland’. Speaking as the chief guest on the second day of the 65th AKM General Conference, Neiphiu Rio reminded about the recent cabinet decision on the ENPO’s demand for a separate state, where the state government expressed regret and requested the ENPO to reconsider its demand.
However, he maintained that the Eastern Naga people have genuine demands and genuine grievances. Acknowledging the ‘genuine demands’ of the eastern Naga people, the chief minister said that Ao people and the Angami people and for that matter ‘the advance tribes’, who are the first to receive Christianity and education, should look listen to the grievances, the needs of the other tribes who are dissatisfied with the present conditions. Nonetheless, he affirmed that the Naga people should give up their individualism, tribalism and partyism, and come up with a new idea – Nagaism.
Then only there can be a solution, he said. Regretting the demand of the ENPO, Rio said that the Naga family had been fighting for unity and integrity all along, and therefore it is for the Nagas to show their unity, integrity and solidarity to the world.
He reminded that the Nagas were known as ‘Free Nagas’ by outsiders, because the Nagas had no ruler, no particular kingdom. But because the Nagas were not untied, they were divided and suppressed by others, and today the Naga political struggle is fragmented, asserted Rio. He said that the Naga people have been divided by the Britishers and also by the Indian government because of the disunity of the Naga people. In this regard, he said that the DAN Government has been giving full priority to the unity and integrity of the Naga people.
“Our Government is conscious, and therefore we have been giving priority to unity, reconciliation and integration of all contiguous Naga areas,” said Rio. In this connection Rio asserted that unity is a priority of the Nagas and that the state government stands by the slogan for unity. In this regard, he pointed out that the government has changed the state logo with the picture of ‘Mithun’ in the middle and the word ‘unity’ in the official state government logo.
In this connection, he appealed the Ao and the Angami people who are among the first to receive Christianity and education, to take the responsibility to share the problems of others so that the Naga people can march together with equitable progress in the state.

Rajkumar ‘killer’in net OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Imphal, Jan. 19: A team of CBI sleuths arrested a senior cadre of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) in connection with the assassination of a former Arunachal Pradesh MP Wancha Rajkumar four years ago.
The accused, Kaping Luikham, was flown to Calcutta today for interrogation.
The CBI (special crime branch), Calcutta team, headed by deputy superintendent of police Arijit De and inspector Pravin Kumar Dubey, arrested self-styled lieutenant captain Kaping Luikham of Kongkhang village of Ukhrul district at 5.30pm yesterday near the northern gate of Kangla Fort here.
Leikham was charged with direct involvement in the killing of Rajkumar, who was a former MP from Arunachal East constituency.
Two gunmen attacked the former MP while he was playing badminton inside Deomali multi-purpose community hall of Tirap district in Arunachal Pradesh on December 23, 2007. He died on the spot. The CBI is investigating the case.
The CBI produced Luikham before the court of the chief judicial magistrate, Imphal West, Salam Imocha today. The court granted a seven-day transit remand.
The CBI team arrived here on Monday to arrest Luikham following information that he was in Imphal.
State police helped the CBI in locating Luikham and arresting him.
Lerikham is the third cadre of the NSCN (I-M), who has been arrested by the CBI in connection with Rajkumar’s killing. Four other rebels of the outfit named as accused in the case are reportedly absconding.
Earlier, the CBI arrested two militants Ramchan Longlen and Toche Wangsu on March 3 and April 7, 2010 respectively.
Reports said the NSCN (I-M) made attempts twice to assassinate the former MP before he was killed in December 2007. Sources said the outfit charged the former MP with playing a role in enforcing the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act in the Northeast.
The outfit branded Rajkumar as a supporter of the army act.
Rio govt calls for dialogue morungexpress
Dimapur, January 18 (MExN): The Nagaland Cabinet headed by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio while deciding to constitute an official Committee under the Chairmanship of Chief Secretary to look into the demand of the ENPO for a separate State has also called for a meeting to discuss the latter’s grievances and demands. This was decided at a crucial Cabinet meeting held at Kohima today. The committee besides the Chief Secretary will have the Home Commissioner as Member-Secretary and Additional Chief Secretary & Development Commissioner, Commissioner & Secretary P&AR and Secretary DUDA as members. The high level committee will look into the various points and grievances made out in the memorandum.
Govt Committee constituted to look into ENPO demand
The committee will submit their findings and recommendations to the Cabinet within February, 2011. This was stated in a press note issued by Chief Secretary Lalthara who is also the Cabinet Secretary. It was also informed that the Neiphiu Rio Cabinet has invited the office bearers of ENPO for a meeting to discuss their grievances and demands.
According to the press note, the State Cabinet which met today deliberated at length on the issue of the demand of a separate State by the ENPO. As per the press note, the Cabinet “stands for the unity and integrity of the State and of the Naga people”. The Cabinet has appealed to the members of the ENPO to reconsider the matter and withdraw their stand. It was informed that the Cabinet discussed the memorandum dated 25/11/2010 submitted to the Prime Minister of India by the Eastern Naga Peoples’ Organization (ENPO) for creation of a separate State for Eastern Nagaland under special provision and status.
“The Cabinet is saddened by the demand as it comes at a time when the Naga political struggle for Naga identity and unity is at a crucial stage and when the DAN government is trying its best to develop the backward areas of the State and ameliorate the socio-economic conditions of the people of eastern Nagaland”, the press note from the Chief Secretary stated.
Reconsider demand, Cabinet’s appeal to ENPO ‘Separate State not appropriate at this juncture’

Al Ngullie Morung Express News
The Nagaland Cabinet has decided to appeal to the Eastern Naga People’s Organization (ENPO) to reconsider the latter’s demand for a separate “frontier Nagaland” state. As part of the process, the state Cabinet is expected to convene a meeting with leaders of frontal organizations representing the eastern region peoples of the state, particularly the ENPO.
The Cabinet is understood to be guarded in its approach to the demand for a separate state but is unanimous that the demand is ‘not appropriate at this juncture.’
Sitting for its first meeting this New Year, the Cabinet had marathon discussions that commenced in the morning and lasting till past 4 PM, in Kohima today, Tuesday January 18. That they were meeting after a considerable hiatus, the Cabinet had more than 20 agendas to break. Of the agendas, the demand for a separate state raised by the ENPO was the ‘more important’ issue the Cabinet discussed, a member of the Cabinet informed tonight, on condition of anonymity.
The leader disclosed that all the Cabinet members expressed unanimous agreement that the demand for carving out a separate state from Nagaland was “not appropriate at this juncture.” Nonetheless, the government leaders have decided to appeal to the ‘eastern Nagaland’ leaders to reconsider their demand. It is all the state government can do for now, the Cabinet source explained.
“It (creation of state) is not within the purview of the state government but with the Centre; it is little difficult. So we have decided to appeal to the ENPO to reconsider its demand,” the leader said from Kohima.
The Cabinet member also disclosed that the state government’s leaders are ‘most probably’ to convene a meeting with the ENPO leaders. The schedule and time of the envisaged meeting has not been discussed yet but the meeting is expected, the source informed. The meeting would be threadbare, he said. Honest threadbare discussions, the source said when prodded further.
On related matters, it was informed that the Cabinet did not discuss matter of exploration or production of oil and natural resources in Nagaland nor issues related to teachers’ recruitment – two issues currently attracting greater news space in the state. “No teachers, no oil,” the leader responded, when queried if the Cabinet broached the two issues.
Out of about 29 agendas, 27 topics were on ‘service-matters’, the source said. What these ‘service matters’ were, was not disclosed by the source. Discussions of arrangements for the upcoming Republic Day celebrations, January 26, was also discussed, it was informed.

FGN seeks clarification from ‘self-styled’ Brigadier morungexpress
DIMAPUR, JANUARY 20 (MExN): Federal Government of Nagaland’s Midan Peyu, Sumi Region has questioned one “Brigadier Tokugha Sumi, a self-styled habitual defector, migratory species having no permanent place to settle” further describing him as a man with nefarious mentality in nature. Hekhuvi Achumi, Dy. Kilonser, Lota-Cum-Midan Peyu, Federal Government of Nagaland in a statement today accused Tokhuga Sumi of “recruiting a handful of discharged cadres from different fold” and collecting “taxes to business establishment(s) in Dimapur in the name of FGN and NNC, creating panic and confusion to the public.”
He informed the general public that Tokhuga was expelled from their government last year for “misuse of power, financial embezzlement and anti-Government activities.” After he was expelled, he claimed to have joined NNC, but later it was found to be a total fallacy, it alleged and considered his act detrimental to the present Naga political peace process. He recalled the resolution of the tripartite meeting between GPRN/NSCN, FGN and NNC held on December 14 last at Khehoyi designated camp wherein it was resolved by three parties that “the expelled/discharged cadres (Civil/Army) will not be entertained to any of the party which is still intact.” “Therefore, with reference to resolution, and the decision taken during Tatars and Leacies meeting held on January 18, 2011, it is indispensable to seek clarification from him (Tokugha Sumi) that, which party fold are you working in? Under whose leadership are you working for? Or, are you creating a new Faction?” the release added

FGN seeks clarification from ‘self-styled’ Brigadier morungexpress
DIMAPUR, JANUARY 20 (MExN): Federal Government of Nagaland’s Midan Peyu, Sumi Region has questioned one “Brigadier Tokugha Sumi, a self-styled habitual defector, migratory species having no permanent place to settle” further describing him as a man with nefarious mentality in nature. Hekhuvi Achumi, Dy. Kilonser, Lota-Cum-Midan Peyu, Federal Government of Nagaland in a statement today accused Tokhuga Sumi of “recruiting a handful of discharged cadres from different fold” and collecting “taxes to business establishment(s) in Dimapur in the name of FGN and NNC, creating panic and confusion to the public.”
He informed the general public that Tokhuga was expelled from their government last year for “misuse of power, financial embezzlement and anti-Government activities.” After he was expelled, he claimed to have joined NNC, but later it was found to be a total fallacy, it alleged and considered his act detrimental to the present Naga political peace process. He recalled the resolution of the tripartite meeting between GPRN/NSCN, FGN and NNC held on December 14 last at Khehoyi designated camp wherein it was resolved by three parties that “the expelled/discharged cadres (Civil/Army) will not be entertained to any of the party which is still intact.” “Therefore, with reference to resolution, and the decision taken during Tatars and Leacies meeting held on January 18, 2011, it is indispensable to seek clarification from him (Tokugha Sumi) that, which party fold are you working in? Under whose leadership are you working for? Or, are you creating a new Faction?” the release added

FGN seeks clarification from Brigadier Tokugha HEKHUVI ACHUMI
It is compelled the office of the Midan Peyu, Sumi Region, Federal Government of Nagaland, to knock the door of the so-called “Brigadier” Tokugha Sumi, a self-styled habitual defector, migratory species having no permanent place to settle, and a man with nefarious mentality in nature. In strictest form, the Region once again brought this notice to the general public that the person in question was expelled from our Govt. since last year for misuse of power, financial embezzlement and anti-Government activities. After he was expelled, who claimed to have joined NNC, but later it was found to be a total fallacy, and now he is recruiting a handful of discharged cadres from different fold and start collecting taxes to business establishment in Dimapur in the name of FGN and NNC, creating panic and confusion to the public. His act is detrimental to the present Naga political peace process. As per the Tripartite Meeting between GPRN/NSCN, FGN and NNC held on 14th Dec; 2010 at Khehoyi Designated Camp, it was unanimously resolved by three parties that the expelled/discharged cadres (Civil/Army) will not be entertained to any of the party which is still intact. Therefore, with reference to resolution, and the decision taken during Tatars and Leacies meeting held on 18th Jan’ 2011, it is indispensable to seek clarification from him that, Which party fold are you working in? Under whose leadership are you working for? Or, are you creating a new Faction?

HEKHUVI ACHUMI
Dy. Kilonser, Lota-Cum-Midan Peyu
Federal Government of Nagaland


Frans on 01.20.11 @ 11:13 PM CST [link]


Tuesday, January 18th

NSCN on arms buying spree, building cadre Sanjib Kr Baruah, Hindustan Times



NSCN on arms buying spree, building cadre Sanjib Kr Baruah, Hindustan Times

The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), has been accumulating a huge stockpile of sophisticated weapons as well as building their cadre strength since 1997 when the peace process started, intelligence sources have told HT. "In the last 13 years, NSCN-(IM) have more than trebled their weapon and cadre strength. It is the only Northeast insurgent outfit with more weapons than cadres," the official said. The present strength is believed to be at least 5,000.
The assertion is significant in the backdrop of the arrest and questioning of Anthony Shimray, head of NSCN-(IM)'s Alee company or the foreign affairs cell. The government says Shimray was in Kathmandu shopping for arms.
Shimray, 49, now in the NIA's custody, is believed to have been arrested in Kathmandu airport on September 27 while purportedly on his way to New Delhi to participate in the ongoing talks. The government's version is that he was 'picked up' from the India-Nepal border.
With the ongoing Chinese army's modernisation, a lot of discarded weapons are being stored in Shenyang, capital of the Liaoning Province.
Intelligence sources say Chinese-origin weapons are being bought by Northeast-based insurgent groups in large numbers and are mainly sourced by the China Northern Industrial Corporation (also known as Norinco).
"Another Bangkok-based representative of a white goods company is also involved," the source added.
"These companies sell arms only to sovereign nations and ask for an end-user certificate, which is furnished under the name of the Government of the People's Republic of Nagaland, the outfit's government-in-exile," the official said.
Declining comment on the arms stockpiling, VS Atem, NSCN (IM) spokesperson told HT: "There is no doubt that the Naga movement being a peoples' movement has grown."
Delhi faces flak for delay in Swu’s visit
OUR CORRESPONDENT The telegraph


Isak Chishi Swu
Kohima, Jan. 17: The delay in arrival of Isak Chishi Swu, the chairman of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah faction), to New Delhi has raised an eyebrow on the Union government.
Swu, who was scheduled arrive in New Delhi from Bangkok, Thailand, by January 13 along with his wife Avuli and other members of the group, has been delayed because of various reasons, including a passport problem.
However, the delay has led NSCN (I-M) supporters in New Delhi and members of the outfit to questioned the Centre’s sincerity in resolving the Naga political issue.
Boveio Poukai Duo, the co-ordinator for organising the reception for Swu, told The Telegraph today, “The sincerity of the Government of India is questionable.”
He said if the Centre was sincere towards resolving the long-pending Naga political issue, it would make all arrangements for the arrival of the Naga leaders in New Delhi. He alleged that New Delhi was never sincere towards solving the Naga issue and had applied delay tactics.
Swu was scheduled to reach Nagaland today to give tempo to the process of reconciliation with other Naga factions who have been waging bitter fratricidal killings.
Before coming to Dimapur, Swu was scheduled to meet NSCN (I-M) general secretary Th. Muivah and address members of the Naga community at Talkatora stadium in Delhi. “We are prepared to give him a grand reception,” Duo said.
He said Delhi would only be a transit point for Swu, whose main purpose of visiting the country was to meet the leaders of other factions, including his old comrade S.S. Khaplang, who is now the chairman of the NSCN (K).
Muivah and Swu have told the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), which is spearheading the Naga reconciliation process, that Khaplang should be involved in the process. However, there are doubts within the NSCN (K) and among the Nagas on whether the Centre would allow Khaplang to enter Nagaland.
The NSCN (K) had said the Centre should not create any obstacle for the visit of Khaplang to Nagaland. The sources in the outfit said their chairman would land in Nagaland by the first week of February to meet the leaders of other groups.
On September 18 last year, Muivah had met NSCN (K) general secretary Kitovi Zhimomi and the president of the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN-S), S. Singnyu, at Dimapur in the presence of members from the FNR.
NSCN (I-M) leaders here said they preferred not to comment on the delay in Swu’s arrival. However, sources said Swu, who has been travelling across the world with a Bangladeshi passport, has been asked to surrender the passport to Bangladeshi authorities. NSCN (I-M) kilonser (minister) for information and publicity A.Z. Jami said he was not aware why Swu had been delayed.
“We are not much aware of what has happened to the chairman’s travel, but we know that some of our leaders are already in New Delhi to welcome him,” he told The Telegraph from Dimapur.
He refused to comment further on the matter.
Joy, secretary for information and publicity, also said he has not been informed of the latest development about Swu’s visit. “We are not informed of the latest development right now,” he said.
Solution To Frontier Nagaland Problems Lie In Nagaland And Not In Delhi Thepfulhouvi Solo Morung
FEELING has no Form or Color and therefore Feeling is not easily seen unless it comes out in visible Form. A man may feel angry but others would not know his anger unless it turns into action, a woman may feel very happy but unless she laughs, others would not know she is happy.
The erstwhile Tuensang-Mon people must have felt sidelined in Nagaland’s economic journey. Rarely do people feel bad out of nothing; the Tuensang-Mon people must really have valid reasons for being less than happy at the condition of their Area in comparison with others of Nagaland. They are less fortunate but successive Governments of Nagaland have not looked after them as successfully as it should have.
The Writer has a photo of Noklak Town taken nearly 20 years ago and one taken recently; Noklak did not seem to have changed much in the last 20 years. In Nagaland, one can guess the community from the accent of Nagamese he speaks; most of the persons driving posh vehicles around sounds to be from Sümi or Ao or Angami or Lotha Communities and not much from the others, the number of super Contractors from a Community indicate the Economic condition of that community. Surely the people of Tuensang-Mon Area have been less fortunate. There are Villages in interior Nagaland with no Electricity for the last 2 years though Nagaland, after Haryana, has connected entire Villages in the State long ago. There are Villages in Nagaland without motor Road connections after nearly more than half a century of road constructions.
It is good that people are now required to declare their assets at the time of the submission of their Nomination Paper for Elective Post in the Legislative bodies, it is found quite a few Candidates from the four fortunate Communities are Lakhpatis and Karorpatis. Even a respected religious Leader from a forward Naga Community settled in the West is a Millionaire.
OPPORTUNITIES determine the Economic condition of a People and Opportunities appear to come by easier to certain groups due to complex Social, Political and Economic SYSTEMs we have unwittingly developed.
To be nakedly illustrative, it seems it has become the norm in Nagaland that whenever a person becomes the Chief Minister, commonly his Community profited more over others in Economic Prosperity. By and large, the Family Members of a Minister in Power have an edge over others in developmental opportunities. This is the way complex Systems of opportunities works in Indian Politics and Nagaland also seems to have contracted the democratic Disease from Delhi. In other Democracies like UK today, election of a Mr. Blair does not give undue advantage to the Blair Community but to the Labor Community of the Nation and the election of a Mr. Cameron Prime Minister of UK gives no advantage to the Cameron’s family but to all Conservatives of the whole State.
To express a general fact of life frankly however, a Man makes himself rich more than others make him rich. Even in rustic traditional Naga Villages a Villager Cultivator becomes richer than others because of his qualities. He has the same two hands, the same ten fingers, two legs and two Eyes just like any other Villagers, he works the same day light hours like other Villagers, may be, he sleeps a little less night hours than others but no one has any secret Agenda to make him richer than others, yet he is richer because he is more industrious, more frugal, more earnest and careful, more positive, truer to life, more courageous and honed sharp his qualities of head & heart others are not very careful about.
Nobody made the Japanese rich from the dusty remains of the Atom Bomb of World War II; they have made themselves the second richest Nation in the world within 30 years after being annihilated. Nobody made the West’s more civilized than others; it is the Westerners themselves that have made them most developed in the world; in 500 years after 1500 AD, they made themselves more advanced than others. The Singaporeans have made themselves one of the richest City Nation within the life time of a single Prime Minister. Twentieth Century democratic Nations like Korea and Taipei are richer and more advanced than Nations of ancient Civilizations like India or Iran because of the democratic, political and Economic Systems they practice.
It is SOCIAL, POLITICAL, and ECONOMIC Systems that affect the Prosperity of a People. Nagas are still mostly in their simple Social, Political and Economic Life; we boast ourselves as having the Purest Democracy in the world but when Elections comes, in many places, one man collects all the voting Papers of the Village and performs the purest form of voting in the name of the solidarity of the Village. And if we think we are loosing, we have no regret even to smash the Sacred Ballot Box of Democracy so that others are also made to loose like us and every body keep silent. Such Social, political Norms and Attitudes in the Society make us lag behind others and equitable distribution of Economic Opportunities becomes very difficult to develop.
Today in Nagaland, the Government appear becoming more and more like a Company: the CEO and the Managers control a Company; for the past nearly 50 years, the Ministers and the MLAs from Tuensang–Mon Area have behaved like nice dutiful Company Employees rather than like Managers. Once they get the Post of a Minister plus their livelihood, they should be deciding the future destiny of their people but they simply behave like Company Employee. What the Tuensang-Mon Legislators have failed to realize for the last more than a generation, the ENPO has bought out into the open. It is good the ENPO has brought it out to the notice of the entire Naga Public.
A recently elected Leader from the Area when asked to express his opinion on the present Issue replied he has no Comment! It is such timidity, lack of courage, lack of leadership and lack of vision for the general good of his People that creates weaknesses in the Society. Mr. Ibobi Singh has vehemently and courageously opposed the dismemberment of Naga Area from Manipur but in Nagaland even important core Cabinet Leaders evade unconvincingly and say the lame excuse that the burning Issue is between the ENPO and Delhi only as if Nagaland has nothing to do with it.
Tuensang-Mon Area is an endearing part of Nagaland, some Nagas have even boasted sometime ago that there is no power in the world that would separate the Nagas from Nagas, but when the people of Tuensang–Mon Area, because of some genuine grievances, speak of Separation from Nagaland, even some Naga National Groups appear to be afraid of the Public Opinion of the Area and say they have no comment on the issue but insist they are still on UNITY OF NAGAS. What interesting but perplexing paradox!
To cut a long story short: the Management of the ‘FRONTIER NAGALAND STATE’ would be nowhere easier than Managing boisterous Nagaland. If Nagaland has unwittingly, unintentionally and imperceptibly gone awry, there is no guarantee Frontier Nagaland would not; as it is, there are serious Ethnic, Economic and Political imbalances and difficulties in the Area; who will solve them; from where will the better Managers come? In Delhi, Political Power comes from the number of Palms, not much from the Graciousness of the Bank –two cardinal facts Frontier Nagaland does not possess, and they are walking into the Ocean without Boats even.
It is true they have grievances in Government employments, in development and in economic disparity; we feel really sorry for them but the problem is best solved openly, honestly and truthfully in Nagaland in eye ball to eye ball straightforward palaver for suitable special -if required Guarantee Arrangement- to ameliorate the grievances rather than tread into the land of rapacious Giants where Angels are few and far between.
People may personally feel bad towards Individuals but Government is not an Individual, it is a corporate Body and it is not profitable for people to feel bad at Governments where no one particular person would take the blame. It is better to bind Government with unbreakable ropes in Agreement Terms advantageous to ourselves rather than feel Angry at it!

‘End divisions, build common Naga interest’ Our Correspondent Morung
Kohima | January 16 : In an indirect reference to the move for a separate State by the tribal bodies of Eastern Nagaland under the banner of the Eastern Naga Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO), a top commander of the GPRN/NSCN’s Naga Army has expressed apprehensions that internal conflicts and differences among the different groups and organisations may hamper the ongoing peace process which has reached such a critical juncture.
Interacting with this scribe, top Naga Army commander of the GPRN/NSCN, Maj. Gen. Niki Sumi opined in the interest of the Naga people in general, groups such as the ENPO, Tenyimia Peoples’ Organisation, United Naga Council (UNC), JCC, NSF, Hohos etc should give priority to the common Naga interest instead of creating further divisions within the Naga people. “They should think what is best for the Nagas’, Gen. Niki said while also stating that the various political parties, cutting across party interests, should support any move that is in the interest of the Naga people in general.
He expressed serious anguish that some of the groups in some Naga zones are initiating policies that differ and are against the common Naga goal. He went on to maintain that such policies that threaten the Naga people if they are practiced, then the efforts of decades of struggle for the Naga goal and the sacrifices of thousands will be in vain.
The Naga Army commander opined that any internal matter can be solved once a solution to the vexed Naga political issue is found and that any move that threatens to divide the Nagas would prove catastrophic for the common Naga cause.
Reminding that the Naga issue has reached such a critical juncture, he strongly advised groups or parties of the different zones against initiating different policies for personal interest at such a crucial stage. On the reconciliation process among the different Naga groups, he expressed satisfaction with the progress of the initiative, stating that the results so far are laudable and in the right direction. Asserting that there is now no hesitation among the groups, he stated that it is now up to the Naga people.
“Every Naga tribe, everybody, every organisation, every political party should strive to achieve this target of reconciliation among Naga brothers”, he said adding all should give priority and interest in the national goal and not in groupism that would only further create division among Nagas. “If all give the same cooperation we can achieve our target”, he added. Also, hinting that New Delhi is still sending out invitations to the group for dialogue, Gen. Niki said dialogue can commence only when there is a united Naga voice.

Human Rights Committee constituted DIPR Morung
Kohima, January 18 (DIPR): In the absence of State Human Rights Commission in Nagaland under Sub-Section (1) of Section 21 of Protection of Human Rights Acts, 1993, the Government of Nagaland has constituted State Level Human Rights Committee and District level Human Rights Committee.
The State Level Human Rights Committee will have Home Commissioner, Nagaland, Kohima-Chairman; Secretary, Law & Justice-Member; Special Secretary (Home)-Member Secretary and Joint Secretary (P&AR)-Member. The District Level Human Rights Committee will have Deputy Commissioner-Chairman; ADC (Plng)-Member Secretary; CDPO, Social Welfare and SP of the concerned District-Members.
The terms of references are as follows; the District Level Human Rights Committee may receive complaints of violation of human rights in its respective jurisdiction, and after due verification of the matter it shall submit reports to State Level Human Rights Committee Bi-Monthly; The State Level Human Rights Committee will then study the reports submitted to it and enquire into the violation of human rights in respect of matters relatable to any of the entries enumerated in List-II and List-III in the Seventh Schedule to the Constitution; provided that if any such matter is already being inquired into by a Commission or any other Commission duly constituted under any law for the time being in force, the Committee shall not inquire into the said matter.
This notification was issued by Chief Secretary to the Government of Nagaland, Lalthara


Frans on 01.18.11 @ 11:11 PM CST [link]


Sunday, January 16th

We want united Nagaland’ – Dr. Shurhozelie morungexpress



We want united Nagaland’ – Dr. Shurhozelie morungexpress

Kiphire, January 14 (MExN): The 63rd conference of the United Sangtam Student Conference under the theme ‘analyzing educational itinerary’ commenced today in Kiphire with Minister Urban Development & Higher Education Dr. Shurhozelie as chief guest.
Dr. Shürhozelie said he has ‘no comment’ on the demand of the Eastern Naga People’s Organization (ENPO) for a separate state ‘because it is a matter between ENPO and the central government.’ ENPO is not demanding state from the Nagaland government but from the central government, he said. Expressing shock on the demand of “frontier Nagaland” the minister, however said ‘we don’t want Nagaland to be disintegrated’. Likewise, in spite of developmental thrusts and grants, if there is no development, everyone, including the ENPO is to be blamed. Stating the sincerity of his government towards the eastern regions on the development front the minister said ‘Since DAN government came to power, from 2003 to 2008, Under special grant 355 crore 55 lakh and under DoNER 132 crore 32 Lakh and 706 rupee has also been sanctioned to four ENPO district, beside usual grant of 20 crore annually, so ENPO leaders blaming the DAN government for not doing anything is not proper’.
He reminded strongly: ‘In spite of many special grants if there is no development including ENPO leaders are answerable to the people’. The senior NPF minister said that ‘building a house takes time but the same can be destroyed in a few minutes time’: Apparently referring to the repercussions and difficulties the demand involves in, he said: “We should find the site, collect material and then find the builders to build a house.”
The minister said Nagas talk much about ‘identity’ but not how to act to preserve it. “It is high time for all tribes to work for the development and preservation of our respective languages and rich cultural heritage if we really want to survive in the community of nations,” he said. He stated that civil society organizations have been working very hard to bring about unity of the Naga people.
Dr. Shurhozelie reminded the people that unity is strength and with it the people can march forward. He urged the Sangtam community that is high time for advance tribes like the Sangtam to remove the backward tag. ‘You are advanced among the backward tribes so act as a big brother amongst the six tribes’, he told the community. He also called upon the students’ present to work harder to remove the tag of ‘backwardness’ as it affects the attitude and personality of an individual.
Dr. Shurhozelie also broached Naga history. “We are free people each village is self-governed so no one should distract or own it in isolation. Nagas desire to live as one the government adopted the motto ‘unity is strength’ so that we live as one”.
Touching on Naga political solution the minister said, ‘His government is sincere, active and playing the role of facilitator to see that the desire of the Nagas are fulfilled at the earliest’.
Security forces Vs Security Forces morungexpress
Dimapur | January 15 : It was mayhem mid-afternoon in Dimapur, along the MST Road on Saturday. A mob of emotionally charged people gheraoed the Assam Rifles Transit Camp stationed along the stretch also known as Anwar Hussain Road. The scene was not the result of highhanded behaviour of the security personnel over some helpless public; rather it was sparked by a scuffle between some IRB ‘jawans’ on security patrol and a pair of Assam Rifles’ personnel of the 32 AR, out in civvies.
AR personnel in civvies clash with IR ‘jawans’ on duty
The standoff reportedly started around 1:00 pm near the busy Deluxe Point when a section of the 13th (NAP) IR was on routine patrol. The turn of events, pieced together from the word-of-mouth accounts of the public and some of the IR ‘jawans’ goes something like this: Two AR personnel in civilian clothing, reportedly in an inebriated state, caught into a scuffle with some of the IR ‘jawans’. It was said to be near the Deluxe point intersection.
It reportedly erupted over the two AR personnel showing disregard to the IR ‘jawans’ on duty. In the ensuing physical contact, the AR duo unfortunately received some beatings, while one of them managed to escape, going straight to the adjacent AR Transit Camp and brought alongwith him reinforcement, in the form of his other company colleagues.
The reinforced AR personnel had the IR ‘jawans’ outnumbered and then reportedly manhandled the latter. Some public nearby who tried to intervene also received a few thrashings. Thereafter, the AR personnel said to have numbering around 40-50 ran to the safe confines of the Transit Camp nearby. During the melee, the magazine from the service rifle of one of the IR ‘jawans’ was also snatched by the AR personnel.
In no time, an enraged mob gathered at the entrance to the Transit Camp demanding retribution over the public show of outrage by the off duty AR personnel. Fortunately senior officers of the Dimapur police as well as from the Transit Camp took stock of the situation. The IR ‘jawans’, no doubt enraged over the episode, yet were compelled to control the angry mob in the aftermath.
The face-off at the entrance lasted well over two hours, with the mob demanding that the AR personnel, responsible for the incident, be handed over to them. With the senior uniformed officers not relenting to their demand, gradually, the mob trickled off, fuming nevertheless.
The two AR personnel were finally handed over to the police by the AR authorities by evening as well as the snatched magazine with 15 rounds. An FIR was also lodged against the duo at the East Police Station, which was withdrawn following tendering of unconditional apology by their superiors. The matter was said to be amicably settled following a tripartite meeting between the Superintendent of Police, Dimapur, a senior officer of the 32 AR and the adjutant of the 13th (NAP) IR.
The SP later briefing the media said that disciplinary action will be initiated against the two AR personnel by the concerned unit. The duo reportedly admitted to their unwanted behaviour and extended apology to the 13th IR unit. Meanwhile, he thanked the IR ‘jawans’ for exhibiting excellent discipline and restraint today, preventing the situation from going gout of control. The SP added that the senior AR authority admitted to their personnel’s actions and expressed apology on behalf of their unit. He also thanked the senior officers of the AR for professionally handling the situation.
NSCN/GPRN denies agreement with KNO morungexpress
DIMAPUR, JANUARY 14 (MExN): The NSCN/GPRN has denied there has been any memorandum of understanding between them and the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) over territories in the present state of Manipur.
“At no point of time there was a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between the NSCN and KNO demarcating areas,” stated an MIP release from the organisation. They were reacting to news reports that appeared in a section of newspapers and websites from the states of Nagaland and Manipur stating that a ‘Kuki state’ would be carved out while certain Naga areas would remain within ‘Greater Nagalim’.
“It is a blatant lie and concocted piece of information published by some mischievous persons to bluff and confuse the public,” the release stated. The NSCN/GPRN has condemned “such acts of hypocrisies” and disowned the news report.
Incidentally, the NSCN/GPRN had over the years pointed out that the term ‘Greater’ has been coined not by them but by the Indian media or the India’s Ministry of Home Affairs.
Govt told to clean up oil mess morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): The about 16-years of unabated waste of crude petroleum spilling on to farming lands in Nagaland’s Champang oil fields has reared its ugly head again to haunt the Nagaland government. Owners of oil-bearing lands of the Champang oil belt today demanded response from the government why the state’s Cabinet committee on oil is not allowing the Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) to “take up the oil spillage issue.”
The Champang Land Owners’ Union directed its doubts at the Nagaland Cabinet’s sub-committee for Oil exploration. In a statement from the union, the Convener was named as the one who cancelled a proposed joint inspection with the ONGCL, of the oil sites.
The union expressed deep concern at the oil spillage which has been continuing for more than two decades now. The union said that the government on September 22, 2010 directed the ONGC to take safety measures and the corporation also responded in affirmative. “Both the state government and the ONGCL formed separate teams for joint inspection of the oil sites for an assessment on how to tackle the issue,” the union’s leaders said. The date for the inspection was set for January 11 and the 12th, the union said.
However, the convener of the committee cancelled the proposed joint inspection on grounds that cleaning up the spilled oil “involves huge expenditure.” “He stated that since huge expenditure is involved only the company getting license for oil extraction will be allowed to clean up the mess,” an unhappy CLOU stated.
The union queried the government why the Cabinet sub-committee ‘is not disallowing it’ when the ONGC itself is willing to take up the matter. “If catastrophic incidents take place who will be responsible? Finalizing modalities is not the end of the process for resumption of oil activities, but the beginning of the process. Should the oil spillage be allowed to continue that long?” the union asked the government.
The union also demanded to know from the government why it directed the ONGC to address the issue but the same was not communicated to the Cabinet sub-committee.
‘Correcting the past mistakes done should precede resumption activities at Champang. Therefore, the oil spillage issue should be addressed at any cost without further delay,” the union stated in demand.
In November 2010, the government had stated that the Champang oil owners have decided to sink prolonged difference and had resolved to ‘abide by whatever decision the stat government takes’ related to resuming oil production activities. The about 16-17 years of oil spill in the aftermath of the ONGCL’s now-halted oil extraction activities has been a constant thorn in the side of the Champang people. The ONGC was forced to give up oil production activities following strong resistance from Naga organizations. In 2007, Canadian engineering firm Canoro resources Limited announced resumption of oil production in Champang, only to stop. The village’s is today one huge combustible ground that has not only ravage the environment but also endangering the lives of the people.
MLA rues homeland demands Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 15, 2011: Attempt to fragment the territory of Manipur to create political boundary like Nagalim or Kukiland is not a good sign and such attempts would only flare up communal tension, MLA RK Anand of MPP has stated.

Along with reviewing the developmental works taken up in Naoriya Pakhanglakpa Assembly Constituency, a discussion session on other developmental works to be taken up was facilitated at the Kwakeithel Akham Leikai residence of MLA Anand today.

Attended by representatives, advisors, social workers and sympathisers from all the 32 polling stations of the Constituency, progress report of the developmental works that have been implemented successfully as well as those to be taken up in future were also presented to the people at the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, MLA RK Anand observed that while there is apprehension over communal tension in the North Eastern region as a fallout of faulty policies of the Government of Government of India, attempt to fragment the territory of Manipur and create different community based political boundaries like Nagalim, Kukiland, etc is really unfortunate.

With some sections of the people trying to create political boundaries based on communities and the UGs in valley area of Manipur opposing to any attempt on disintegrating the existing territorial boundary, there is the need for all the communities to sit together without any precondition to talk and understand each other, MLA Anand pointed out.

He went on to say that even though he is representing MPP, various issues of the State including threat on the territorial boundary have been taken up for discussion and resolution on the floor of the Assembly.

The MLA said that when a candidate who is opposed to the territorial integrity of Manipur was proposed in the election of Rajya Sabha member, he alone had not given the vote while rest of the 59 MLAs in the 60-member House voted in favour of the said candidate.

''I had not given the vote in consideration of the aspiration of the people of Naoriya Pakhanglakpa Assembly Constituency'', he added.

For setting up a political forum of the North Eastern States, a joint meeting of all the communities leaders is essential.

All the sitting MLAs and those who aspire to become MLAs should understand this fact, the MLA further added.

In connection with developmental works to be taken up, MLA Anand informed that setting up of a water supply scheme under NLCPR in the Constituency has been approved.

Once this scheme is taken up, problem of water scarcity being faced by the people would be solved.

Along with dredging the Waishel Maril drainage system, efforts are also being made for construction of a mini-barrage for irrigational purpose, the MLA informed the gathering.
Nagas wield the axe at Assam's Geleki forest TNN, IST
JORHAT: In an apparent encroachment bid, more than 40 armed Nagas razed several trees to ground in vulnerable areas of the Geleki reserve forest earlier this week.

The group reportedly cut down a large number of trees in the forest's Singibeel, Mugapara, Borhola and Charaisagia areas near the Assam Police Battalion camp in the Nazira subdivision of Sivasagar district. They also destroyed some tea garden areas along the Assam-Nagaland boundary and occupied forest lands.

The attack on the forest comes at a time when the Centre is trying to solve the inter-state border disputes of Assam with neghbouring Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland.

"We have got information that a group of Naga encroachers have occupied a vast area in the Geleki Reserve Forest by cutting down trees this week. They have also been trying to occupy tea gardens located along the border areas," said a Sivasagar forest official.

Divisional forest officer (Sivasagar) Ranjan Kumar Das added, "Forest officials conduct regular patrolling along the border and many encroachment attempts of Nagas have been foiled regularly."

All Assam Small Tea Growers' Association president Cheniram Khanikar said, "The Naga encroachers have been trying to occupy the tea garden areas located along the border by threatening small tea growers there."

He added that more than 1,200 small tea growers are currently engaged in Charaipung, Geleki and Amguri all border areas in the district that they have been bearing the brunt of extortion, and abductions by Naga encroachers for the last few years.

"We have sent a memorandum to Assam chief secretary, urging him to take steps for protection of small tree growers residing along the border areas. But we are yet to see any action so far," he added.

A senior forest officer of the district said, "According to official records, the Geleki reserve forest covers 6,000 hectares. The Naga encroachers have already occupied more than 4,000 hectares by various means."

"Encroachment in Geleki started in 1972 and continued for the last four decades. Recently, the state revenue and forest departments started a survey in the reserve forest," he added.

A two-member mediation team constituted by the Supreme Court visited the disputed areas along the Assam-Nagaland boundary in Sivasagar, Jorhat and Golaghat districts and took stock of the situation in these places on November 17. On August 20, the apex court had directed to resolve the decades-old issue through mediation and a division bench of the court ordered constitution of a panel comprising the two mediators.

On September 9, Assam home commissioner Jishnu Boruah visited the trouble-torn border areas in Sivasagar district. Boruah visited Namtola, Avoyapur, Charaideu, Bihubar and Geleki reserve forest and submitted reports to the government.

Christian Ethics R. C. Chiten Jamir Morung
Although because we are human, doubts, misgivings and dismay, may assail on us, yet if we follow the Biblical way of life, we shall overcome the Christian way of life.
The whole Bible is the most reliable character or road-map of Christian life. Outside of this there is no Christian life and its way.
When a subject such as this is studied or considered, one must feel that all men are sinners before God. All men stumble along the road of life. We get up and go again on the right road.
To come to the specific issues relating to Christian ethics or conduct, we may be in a better position to appreciate the issues of Christian life, if we set aside a certain goal of life. Shall we call it, the Christian? What is a Christian goal like? Shall we say that the Christian goal is to serve the Lord Jesus and his people? Can we, while trying to maintain this goal, maintain a solid ethical way of life? To get ahead in that Goal of ethical life, do we have to compromise our ideas and beliefs?
We as Christians ought to carefully distinguish between right and wrong compromises. At no point of time we should compromise principles of our faith which is obviously wrong. There may be a compromise which is a necessary adjustment to the world in which we live and work which may not be wrong.
A pertinent question of appendage arises whether it is wrong to be ambitious for a Christian? The world over the desire to get to the top as one of the deepest drives of men. It is an essential part of human nature and equipment. It is true that one of the most desperate needs of the Nagas today is dependable, solid and morally strong leadership at the top of the state, the church and the society.
The Nagas need leaders who are ambitious to rise to the top with their dint of talents and character. A leader who is yielded to the control of God in his life.
“….to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey- his servants ye are who ye obey…whether of sin unto death or of obedience unto righteousness.” Rom 6:16
The ethical norm for Nagaland is the Christian norm-Nagaland being converted by the Nagas as a land for Christ. The Nagas are well aware that our character is the true replica of our conduct.
We can order our conduct to impress others to gain their confidence to achieve an ugly purpose. We can pretend to be what we are not and do great sins. It is rather a question of what we are, not what we do. What we are when we are alone, off guard when no one is looking at us- this character the Christ like life that follows the foot-step of Christ at all times.
A Christian leader is the true replica of Christ who does not seek great things for himself- power, money, wealth, unnatural desire to become big, who tries to become rich over night at the cost of the people- he is not corrupted who loves Christ and His people is truly the type of a leader, the Nagas desperately need. Do we have God fearing, dedicated, solid and reliable Naga leaders in the church, the state and the community? A Christian state, a Nagaland for Christ-ought to have distinguished and excellent leaders of Christian ethics and character.
Yes, we know that a train gets nowhere without power, neither do we without the right ambition. The lack of ambition is seen today among the youth who have not set an ambition to be in life. Strong ambition may make greater sinners or great saints, lack of it makes nothing. All self-centered ambition is sinful- Mark 10:35-45. Jesus Christ had clearly pointed out that any endeavour aiming at advancement of self is corruption. The selfishness of Eve at the first instance and Adam at the second that their selfishness to become like God- the tempter said, “You will be like God.” Gen 3:5. That led to the fall of man in sin.
Consecrated ambition is what Jesus had taught his disciples and subsequently to His church. This was reiterated by St. Paul: “For me live is Christ.” I Cor 15:10. Jesus does not suppress ambition, but directs it to the welfare of others and the service of God. What about the Naga leaders? One day, sooner or later, the Lord Jesus will ask you to give a account of your stewardship- Luk 16:2. He will X-Ray you and test your blood- you will be laid in the sun-all will be exposed. Can you face His judgment?
Everyone is looking for a good lubricative job. Less work and handsome salary. You get good job without doing anything for the people you serve- this is a bad job. Christian ethics do drive and initiate utility jobs which are directed to the service of God and to glorify Him.

Dishonesty:
In the scenario of Christian ethics, dishonesty is a real big problem. In Nagaland, as elsewhere, honesty has been marked with Red Ink as declining and degenerating. The gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God- the preaching to the Nagas was like pouring water on the rocks. The love, peace and orderliness that the Gospel of Christ brought to the Nagas short lived. Today, Nagaland is virtually a land of hypocrisy. Nagaland is ravished with hatred, jealousy, conflict, theft, robbery, extortion, killings, corruptions, dishonesty, cheating, discrimination, exploitation and sectarianism, regionalism and tribalism- a victim of isms. In the name of borrowings many people are cheated because the same is never paid back ever. Office stationeries are openly used as private property. Illegal extortions of money from the contractors, etc, are forcibly collected as commissions by the officers and the ministers-Govt. Vehicles are rampantly misused for private purposes. This dishonesty is caused by a greedy, insatiable desire to have more than one’s fair share of good things in life. The Bible equates this greediness and grasping desire with idolatry- Col 3:5. Materialism has become a substitute God for many Nagas. Distortion, exaggeration, misinterpretation have become customary and normal. These offset the Christian ethics. All these are sweet forms of lying, which is a sin God hates most.
The dishonest use of time: Is another non-ethical way of life many Christians are used to. We steal a lot of other’s time. Some of us are consistently late at work and just as consistently early in knocking off. Some waste time by having prolonged lunch, tea lunch, doing private works, gossiping. Many of us go the work place but do very little work. Some remain absent from the place of posting, otherwise remaining in their homes, only reporting for the pay.
The Bible rates integrity and uprightness very high. The man who fears God must be straight, genuine honest and upright. Prophet Amos saw the Lord standing beside a wall with a plumb line in His hand- Amos 7:7, Are we straight?

Politics:
This is like a play ground where the Christians are scrutinized and tested as to exhibit their worthiness. Politics is an activity which is a part of God’s plan for this present life. Christians have a responsibility to take part in politics because it refers to the ordering of the affairs of public life. The Christians are called to serve the community, discharging all the responsibilities of good citizenship for transparent, clean, accountable and good governance of the state. Christian ethics means doing the right thing morally. The Christians ethical witness is one which grows out of love, not out of hope for results. Love your neighbors as yourself is the Lord’s command. That command remains the highest goal of the Christian ethics. Let the Christians rise up in unison to show to the world that we are on earth to live like a colony of brotherhood. The Nagas deserve to live as a people whose God is the Lord Jehovah, a free people from sin, from all its ravishes, to live as a democratic people free from injustice, ignorance, inequality, discrimination, prejudices, exploitations, conflicts and violence- to enjoy tranquility, peace and harmony.
While on earth, the Christians are asked to walk through the narrow way which is the way that leads to life i.e. the Lord Jesus. The Christians must identify the false prophets, the dishonest and hypo critic leaders who are in sheep’s clothing but they are in reality Ravening Wolves. We are to shun them and not follow them. We rather choose the Narrow Way- the Christian Ethical Way- The Way of Christ.
The right thing is always the thing that is right from Christian ethical point of vies. That means the right thing morally is always the right thing religiously, politically, socially and economically. Anything which is morally wrong cannot be politically right. Moral law’s source is God’s bosom which is the harmony of the World. The Christians are the salt of the earth which has the power to preserve the food. They can save their fellowmen from being perished in sin by the ever saving power of the Lord Jesus. God’s will is harmony, men’s will is disharmony. The Christians Ethic is the will of God. Good will and peace on earth is possible only if the Christians live and love each other and love as well as the Lord Jesus does. Christ is the ethics of the Christians. Are we the true replica of Jesus Christ as to overcome the sin and its ramifications?




Frans on 01.16.11 @ 10:31 PM CST [link]


Friday, January 14th

Paradigm shift in Swu homecoming today NISHIT DHOLABHAI Yje Telegraph



Paradigm shift in Swu homecoming today NISHIT DHOLABHAI Yje Telegraph

New Delhi: For Naga rebel leader Isak Chishi Swu, 81, it would be a “homecoming” of a different order tomorrow — he is travelling from Bangkok on an Indian passport.
Swu, the chairman of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), will land in the wee hours on Friday at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. He and his 22-year-old daughter will have their passports, bearing the Ashok insignia, stamped at the Indian immigration counter.
For a rebel leader who has fought the Indian government tooth and nail since the sixties and carried Bangladeshi passport for decades, this will be a paradigm shift.
Swu has lived in the Netherlands, the Philippines and Bangkok from time to time.
A few years ago, he had sneaked into India from Bangladesh via Meghalaya and reached Dimapur with state help. It is also a paradigm shift for the NSCN (I-M) whose ageing leaders — general secretary Thuingalang Muivah is also a septuagenarian — are trying to find a final and lasting solution.
Swu will join long-time associate Muivah in the national capital and jointly appear at a massive reception by the Naga community. The reception, which was earlier slated for tomorrow, is likely to be deferred because of Swu’s delay in arrival.
“The leader will stay in Delhi for about a month,” said an NSCN source. During the period, talks with the Centre will be conducted in the presence of interlocutor R.S. Pandey.
Along with Swu and his daughter, six others of a family have also been given Indian passports. Antony Shimray, the NSCN leader picked up from Nepal and later arrested in Bihar last year had his family living in Thailand. Sources said the family members are returning home on Indian passports. They, too, earlier held Bangladeshi passports.
The Bangladeshi passports have been surrendered, sources said.
Militants from the Northeast, including Ulfa commander-in-chief Paresh Barua, have used Bangladeshi passports for years, to travel to the Southeast Asian countries and Pakistan.
With India’s security policy evolving, the responses from militants are changing but so have reactions of North Block. “Why should we not allow them to get Indian passports when they are Indians?” argued an official of the home ministry.
In case of Swu, the NSCN has been demanding that he be given his passport, sources said as his Bangladesh passport was due to expire soon. Security agencies are happy that Indian passports will facilitate the authorities to keep a tab on their movements.
The NSCN leader’s willingness to come on an Indian passport indicates his resolve to solve the problem for good. Flag-waving young boys and girls in traditional attire and choirs singing gospel songs will enliven the reception which is expected to be an emotional affair for the NSCN’s supporters.
NSCN-IM and KNO signed MoU in Oct 2010 to carve out Manipur Creation of Kukiland and Greater Nagalim, demarcation of boundaries agreed upon Source: Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, January 13, 2011: The Kuki National Organisation (KNO) demanding a separate state to be carved out of Manipur is understood to have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN)-IM regarding the boundary of “Nagalim” and “Kuki-state”.

The NSCN-IM has also been seeking to integrate Naga inhabited areas in Manipur to Nagaland to form Greater Nagaland.

A highly placed source said that the MoU was signed between the KNO and NSCN-IM in October last year and it was witnessed by leaders of civil and students organisations of both Kukis and Nagas.

Leaders of Kuki Inpi, Kuki Nampi Palai, Kuki Students' Organisation represented the Kuki people and the Naga people was represented by leaders of United Naga Council (UNC), All Naga Students' Association of Manipur (ANSAM), Naga Students' Federation (NSF) and Naga Peoples' Movement for Human Rights, the source disclosed.

The MoU was signed with the objective of ending the decade old conflict over the lands inhabited by the Kukis and the Nagas in the hills of Manipur.

“The Kuki and Naga people shall maintain the best of fraternal relations and work together to preserve peace in the land and usher in progress and human welfare in the Kuki and Naga states and the rest of the world,' the fourth and last point of the MoU stated.

The first point of the MoU stated that history is witness to the fact that the present hill districts of Manipur have been inhabited exclusively by the indigenous Kuki and Naga peoples prior to any recorded historiography of the region and the lands form their ancestral territory.

“We had our own established systems of governing these lands until the British placed our lands under the Manipur Durbar.

The Meitei Kingdom always consisted of the valley areas which today form the valley districts of Manipur,” it added.

The hill areas presently demarcated as Churachandpur and Chandel districts of Manipur, the autonomous Sadar Hills Region of Senapati district and all Kuki villages in Ukhrul, Senapati and Tamenglong districts contiguous to Chandel, Sadar hills and Churachandpur belong to the Kuki people and shall form the Kuki state.

Likewise, the hill areas presently demarcated as Ukhrul and Tamenglong districts of Manipur, the areas of Senapati district other than the Sadar Hills Autonomous region, and all Naga villages in the Sadar Hills region of Senapati, Chandel and Churachandpur districts belong to the Naga people and shall be integrated into greater Nagalim, the second point of the MoU declared.

The third point states, the Kuki villages in the interior of Ukhrul, Tamenglong and areas of Senapati district other than the "Autonomous District Region of Sadar Hills" will remain within greater Nagalim and the Naga government will endeavour to protect, promote and develop these villages and the people with equality, a spirit of fraternity and fairness.

The Naga villages in the interiors of Sadar Hills Autonomous Region in Senapati district, Chandel and Churachandpur districts shall remain within the Kuki state and the Kuki government shall endeavour to protect, promote and develop these villages and the people with equality, a spirit of fraternity and fairness.

The MoU was signed between KNO president PS Haokip and general secretary NSCN(IM) Th Muivah, disclosed the source.

The MoU was signed with full regard for the aspirations of the people for self-determination, peace, development, progress and peaceful co-existence, and so that people can join the rest of the country and the world in the march into the 21st century and beyond, and the signatories have mutually resolved to commit the peoples to the declaration, the source said.
Nagaland NCP legislators join NPF OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, Jan. 14: Two NCP legislators, Chumben Murry and Pangnyu Phom, have joined the Naga Peoples Front (NPF), the leading partner in the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) government.
Murry, minister for agriculture in the Neiphiu Rio cabinet and president of the Nagaland unit of the NCP, and Phom, parliamentary secretary for rural development, stated in a release that they had “merged” with the NPF.
The press secretary of the NPF, Abu Metha, said the NCP’s state unit and its legislators had decided to “merge” with the NPF as they were satisfied with the development in the state under Rio’s leadership.
He said with the resignation of Murry, NCP no longer existed in Nagaland. “We have welcomed them to our fold.” He claimed that NCP officials would resign en block very soon to strengthen Rio’s hands in running the government. “It is a shot in the arm for Rio,” he added.
The NCP rubbished the claim, saying the Murray and Phom had “defected” to the NPF and that the Nagaland unit of the party was still intact. It criticised the statement of its two former legislators and termed them “defectors” for “their own selfish interests”.
The NCP general secretary in-charge of the Northeast, Neiba Ndang, said it was a clear case of defection and not a merger.
The Congress said Murry and Phom were uncomfortable and had joined the NPF to secure their seats in the government.
Sources in the NPF said Murry had submitted his resignation to party president Sharad Pawar. They also said Speaker Kiyanilie Peseyie had accepted the merger.
Murry and Phom could not be contacted. The DAN is now an alliance of only the NPF and six Independents as two BJP legislators had also defected to the NPF in 2009. With the latest defection, the number of NPF legislators has now gone upto 41 in the House, which had 59 members at present. One seat has remained vacant since the death of Congress MLA Nunshizungba Ao last year.
God-Land-People- An Ethnic Naga Identity’ book launched morungexpress


(Left) Michael Harvey, Executive Director of Conference of Baptist Minister in Massachusetts, USA formally launches the book “God-Land-People- An Ethnic Naga Identity” written by (Right) Mar Imsong at Lotha Baptist Church Dimapur.

Dimapur, January 9 (MExN): “God-Land-People- An Ethnic Naga Identity,” written by Mar Imsong was released today at the Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur. Michael Harvey, Executive Director of Conference of Baptist Minister in Massachusetts, USA formally launched the book during a rejoicing worship service led by Lotha Baptist Church Dimapur. Harvey introduced the book as a model for the whole world, saying that even though it mainly addresses Naga issues; it can serve as an example to the whole world. He felt that people need to start taking care of the earth that God has given and that the triad, i.e God-Land- People should be respected. “God-Land-People- An Ethnic Naga Identity, should be published widely,” he said.
Michael Harvey was also the key speaker at the service. The author is also founder of Nagaland Mercy Mission, a society that works towards full inclusion of people living with disabilities led a candle lighting service in dedication to all people living with disabilities. Special numbers were presented by DABA, Venutolu Tetseo and Illitoli. The book is published by Heritage Publishing House and priced at Rs. 380. It will be available at Heritage Publishing House for the time-being and later made available at major bookstores and outlets.

Meet the Author:
While interacting with The Morung Express, the author shared that ‘God-Land-People’ was born when he started questioning himself ‘who am I.’ The author points that Nagas had to live with military atrocities and recollects how he had to carry an Id even though he was living in his own land. Also, he says the stories he had heard about people who suffered from the hands of the military people got him thinking. He says that the book eventually started in 2007 as a theoretical idea when he tried to connect the ethnic-Naga history with the British, ethnic-Naga relation with Indians and ethnic-Naga relation to Christianity.
He explains that Land is not just a piece of property for Nagas and includes everything including the spiritual and material world, which thus shaped the traditional Naga identity and ethos, the triad of God-Land-People. Mar says that his book is just the beginning and through it he has tried to capture the Naga identity. “The problem that we are facing today is really an issue of identity,” he says. He also says that the problems faced by Nagas today, some people have tried to term it as an economy problem, while other has said it’s a problem of Sexitisation. “But it is not true,” he says.
Mar also believes that many of the Naga problems can be solved if we try to relate it to a relational aspect. He also stated that many of our political struggles can be solved. “It is only when our true identity is discovered, and then there can be a solution,” he says. Defining identity in relational aspect can solve a problem. It is not in exclusivity that we define our Naganess but it is in the inclusivity of all tribes, he says.
His books, he says is ultimately targeted towards the academic community, Theology students, social workers, and other Indian scholars. He also assures that through the book, he has not defined the Naga identity but merely shown the starting point, and hopes that maybe some scholar can even take the idea forward. I have just laid down a conceptual framework he says, and adds “I don’t claim to have a final definition on Naga identity.”
The only critique, he has strongly received, he reveals that is that today we are all living in a global world. But Mar says that in order for ‘me’ to be introduced to the global world ‘I’ need to have an identity.
Mar Imsong is a native of Yaongyimsen village of Mokokchung district in Nagaland. He worked in the Student Christian Movement of India and taught in seminaries in India prior to going to US in 1997. A passionate preacher, social worker, and an activist for justice, peace and inclusive ministry, he is currently working for the Massachusetts Baptist Multicultural Ministries. He is also the founder of Nagaland Mercy Mission, an organization formed to provide help, guidance and hope for persons with developmental and physical disabilities in Dimapur.

District demand counters Nagalim NISHIT DHOLABHAI Morungexpress
New Delhi, Jan. 10: A fresh demand from the districts of Nagaland is benign for the security establishment, which will use the issue to checkmate Naga rebel leader Thuingalang Muivah’s demand for integration of Naga areas.
Last month, a group of leaders from the Eastern Naga People’s Organisation (ENPO) submitted a memorandum to the Union ministry of home affairs on the formation of a new state out of Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire and Longleng districts in Nagaland. The tribes here — Konyak, Khiamniungan, Sangtam, Phom, Chang and Yimchungru — have felt neglected, as “elite tribes” from the state have been politically powerful since its statehood in 1963.
A memorandum raising a similar demand but with inclusion of tribal areas in Arunachal Pradesh was also submitted to Vice-President Hamid Ansari, when he visited Nagaland last year.
The demand for a new state and its name, Nagaland Frontier, perhaps has a connection in political historical and social relations besides political engineering.
The Tuensang Frontier Division was a part of the reconstituted North East Frontier Area reconstituted under North-East Frontier Areas (Administration) Regulation of 1954. Comprising the present four districts, the division was later separated in 1957 and merged with Naga Hills.
A rift between the economically and educationally backward “eastern areas” — literacy hovers around 35 per cent in Mon district opposed to 80 per cent in Kohima — and so-called “forward” tribes was reason good enough to offer political opportunities. Delhi will use this opportunity to counter Muivah.
“The new demand of these four districts completely demolishes the demand for an integrated Nagalim by NSCN (I-M),” said a government source. “Every villager from 680 villages in this area and every village chief, has signed the memorandum,” a senior home ministry official said.
The demand has already gained momentum.
Nagaland Garos appeal to end clash Correspondent Assam tribune
DIMAPUR, Jan 10 – The Nagaland Garo Tribal Council (NGTC) and the Garo Students’ Union, Nagaland Zone at an emergency meeting has appealed for immediate stop to the ongoing clashes between the Garos and Rabhas along Assam-Meghalaya border for the sake of future generations of both the communities.
The meeting held at Naharbari village here on Saturday described the clash as “most unfortunate and mutually damaging” and said both the Garos and Rabhas are of same ethnic origin who can march forward unitedly and with cooperation in every field of development, be it educational, economic and political.
“At this juncture, we should not pay any heed to any instigation against each other from any quarter, as it will be harmful and self degrading to both the tribes,” NGTC said in a release.
The Garo community, Dimapur has also fervently urged all the elders, student leaders and intellectuals of both the tribes to take prompt steps to bring about normalcy and permanent peace between the two tribes.
The meeting further resolved to make an appeal through the media to the State Governments of Assam and Meghalaya to make all out efforts to contain this ‘shameful and self-degrading ethnic clashes’ between the two same ethnic origin tribes immediately.


Frans on 01.14.11 @ 02:22 PM CST [link]


Thursday, January 13th

Rally for separate state - ENPO seeks development of backward districts OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph



Rally for separate state - ENPO seeks development of backward districts OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph

Kohima, Thousands of people today participated in a rally to press for a separate state in the four backward districts of Nagaland — Tuensang, Kiphire, Mon and Longleng.
The rally was sponsored by the Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation.
Tongthan Khiamnungan, adviser to the organisation, said creation of a separate state for the backward tribes would be beneficial to Naga society.
He said the backward tribes received a step-motherly treatment by the state government in that they were discriminated against in development, education and job opportunities.
Now we are getting only one plate but if a separate state is created for us Nagas will get two plates Khiamnungan said.
He alleged step-motherly treatment to backward tribes by the state government.
The tribes from these backward districts say they are discriminated against in development, education and job opportunities.
In all the educational institutions, the state government had alloted reservation and relaxation for the students from backward districts.
While 25 per cent job is reserved for them in government jobs. The population in four districts is around nine lakh. There are 11 districts in Nagaland. Of the 60 MLAs 20 are from these four districts.
Khiamnungan said they would chalk out a further course of action and would continue to talk with the Union government.
He said the organisation was determined to pursue a separate state so that they could also progress ahead with the rest of the communities.
He also said Changland and Tirap districts of Arunachal Pradesh would be included in the new state. “The people from these two districts are willing to join us,” he said.
The organisation is in constant touch with the Naga leaders of Changlang and Tirap. Our brothers and sisters are also in Changlang and Tirap, he said.
People of these two districts have been demanding a separate state for 7 years now. Khiamnungan said Naga people are also scattered in Burma and the efforts were being made to bring them together.
Asked whether their demand for a separate state would sabotage the ongoing Naga peace talks between the Centre and the NSCN (Isak-Muivah) or whether the NSCN supports the demand, Khiamnungan said so far the Naga outfit had not commented on this issue. “I think they morally support our demand,” he said.
The NSCN (I-M)’s demands include greater Nagalim, which will affect Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
The Congress has requested the Nagaland People’s Organisation to think over their demand.
The BJP has blamed the state government for failing to deliver justice to the backward communities.
BJP general secretary, Yambos Murry however pulled up the 20 legislators from four backward districts for not able to meet the needs of the people due to corruption. The democratic alliance of Nagaland government never heeds and stood balance distributions of developmental funds among the tribe is another reason he said. He held the 20 legislators for the demand for the separate state. The 20 legislators have so far remained silent over this issue so also the state government.
Northeastern states hail PAP withdrawal
Imphal/Aizawl, Jan 8 (IANS) The northeastern states have welcomed the centre's decision to do away with the Protected Area Permit (PAP), a mandatory permit for foreigners to visit the region.
The union government had recently excluded Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland from the PAP regime for a period of one year.
However, the regulation is in place for Arunachal Pradesh, bordering China.
'The decision is very positive. It will help foreign nationals, specially tourists, to visit here,' Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla said in a statement in Aizawl Saturday.
Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh also welcomed the decision to withdraw the PAP from his state.
'A large number of tourists have been visiting Manipur every year with the PAP. The number will now increase,' Singh told reporters in Imphal Saturday.
'However, all foreigners visiting Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland will have to register themselves with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the district they want to visit within 24 hours of their arrival,' a Press Information Bureau (PIB) release said.
According to a Mizoram official, the citizens of some specified countries, including Pakistan and China, will continue to require prior approval of the union Ministry of Home Affairs before their visit to the northeastern states.
Various NGOs have also hailed the decision.
On an average, 50,000 foreign tourists visit the eight north-eastern states every year.

NPF Minister plea to eastern Nagas not to separate morungexpress

Minister for Health & Family Welfare Azo Neinu (centre with shades) along with parliamentary secretaries R Tohanba and Torechu and others pose for lens with former Naga underground pioneers in front of the monolith in honour of surrendered UG pioneers, at Chessore village, on Wednesday.
Chessore (Tuensang) | January 12 : With echoes of the January 7 rally for ‘Frontier Nagaland’ still in the air, Nagaland Minister for Health & Family Welfare Kuzholuzo Neinu today made an impassioned plea to the Eastern Naga brethrens to reconsider their painful decision to part ways. “Since time immemorial, we Nagas were one in times war or peace. Nothing should separate us,” the minister said in his address at the inaugural function of the 45th general session Yimchungrü Akherü Arikaho-cum-golden jubilee celebration of Chessore Village Students’ Union, at Chessore village ground in Tuensang district, the heart of the Eastern Naga country.
“We love and care for you. So it is my sincere request to the ENPO not to part ways with us, but to strengthen the brotherhood bond between us. If at any point of time we have hurt your feelings or discriminated you, do forgive us,” Azo told the gathering.
This is perhaps the first bold public statement on “Frontier Nagaland” issue from the DAN Government side though Azo later said that his appeal was not made as a minister but as an individual concerned to keep the Naga house united.
The minister said that in a democratic society, everybody has the right to demand for their rights and voices but added that it would be too painful to see Nagas divided.
The minister also said that as per geographical position, even his own Phek district and the Chakhesang people can also be termed as Eastern Nagas. “But we will never be a part of breaking the Naga unity,” Azo spoke on behalf of his community.
Azo further said that he suspected the Government of India was playing hard to divide the Nagas just when the decades-old Naga political issue has reached a crucial stage and expectations were high.
He felt that that since the Centre did not want to give “status” to the Nagas, the game plan was “how to go back to square one” by dividing the Naga. “Suppose the demand of ENPO has been acceded, then our political struggle for so many decades will become meaningless,” Azo said and appealed the Eastern Nagas to reconsider their stand. He also appealed the Yimchungrüs, “the pioneers of NNC and Naga unity” to continue to maintain the spirit of Naga unity and oneness.
Parliamentary secretary for CAWD, Torechu, who was the guest of honour in his speech also said that since the Naga family is a small one, it would be wise for the members to stick together and have no further division in the family. The minister also inaugurated two monoliths: one in honour and remembrance of surrendered Naga underground pioneers in formation of the 1st NAP led by ‘Brig’ KM Gaming Yimchunger and, the CVSU golden jubilee monolith.
To an appeal of YAA for establishing a medical sub-centre in Chessore, one of the biggest village in Tuensang, the H&FW Welfare minister assured to do his best. Parliamentary secretary for I&PR, Economics & Statistics, R Tohanba, who
represents Shamator-Chessore assembly seat also attended the inaugural programme.
Commentary on Demand for Statehood by ENPO Dr. Piketo Achumi Morungexpress
For many people it is a surprise to note the ENPO’s move for statehood. The immediate reaction to this social upsurge maybe summed up as below:-
1 From the formation of the state of Nagaland the public and the leaders of the aforesaid districts have been equal partners in the policy making of the state. The twenty member legislators representing the districts are equally responsible leaders for the development of the state of Nagaland. The leaders know what is what? Sometimes political tilts as a matter of parties will never guarantee us to have equal representations in all ministry formations of the state. Even for that matter we have many veteran Naga political leaders from those districts. So giving explanations may not be proper here.
2 In any positive move of our people, it must be initiated with clear understanding among the leaders of the state and convince the government of India to examine the proposal. However it maybe stated here that even when the state of Nagaland was formed during early 1960’s it was Jawahar Lal Nehru a stalwart personality of the House whose political sagacity prevailed over the objections of Mps like Atal Bihari Vajpayee for creating the state of Nagaland the population of which was then less than the one of a district in other parts of the country. That way it could be a tough move for the Nagas to have another state.
3 We understand that the district and the Village Development funds are being distributed as per Government norms. In addition to those normal funds we have some financial packages for backward areas development. If funds are being used properly there can be no question of dissatisfaction. But it is always up to the leadership of the areas concerned to implement them for specific development purposes.
4 As for general development of the state even with our limited understanding we can foresee that in decades to come Nagaland will have more developments in various fields .Because we have not harnessed our natural resources properly. We still look forward for application of modern technologies in our land resources. We may have to go forward to reap the benefits of development one after another. We may not have enough baskets to hold the benefits of our resources from industries, Human resource developments, Agri sectors, Power sectors, Water resources, Health care etc. Nagaland can be transformed into a beautiful land with a lot of new technological applications. We only need to prepare ourselves as responsible citizens and not confining to our world of limitations.
5 Above all Nagaland requires breakthrough in road connectivity not only linking them to our district headquarters but to all sectors of the state and eastern parts of Nagaland. From general point of view we need three pronged road development links with the other side of Naga areas in Myanmar: 1) via Kiphire 2) via Tuensang and Noklak sector 3) via Mon districts. For such big development projects, we may expect the state Government to initiate for involvement of both the Governments of India and Myanmar. The Naga areas should have the touch of modern civilization with road connectivity as early as possible. Hopefully the government of India look east policy will go beyond Dimapur and reach eastern parts of Nagaland with road developments.
6 Lastly if the Nagas could have more states that will certainly benefit our people. But Nagas must not do anything in random like the Britishers who in the past divided us into various administrative units. If we are to make the quiz works who knows if Naga integration is not possible Nagas may be compelled to have more states. So let us watch and see.

Dr. Piketo Achumi, Rtd. Director
Asian college, Sovima, Dimapur
No comment on ENPO demand: CM Chang morungexpress
DIMAPUR, JANUARY 12 (MExN): Lok Sabha MP from Nagaland, CM Chang trod a cautious line today, when he was asked to comment on the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation’s (ENPO) demand for a separate state. “I cannot give any opinion…” at the moment, was the MP’s not so surprisingly guarded response. Chang was replying to queries during a brief interaction with mediapersons at the ‘Puanglüm’ festival celebration of the Chang community at Dimapur on Wednesday, January 12.
It was though added that he had a passing meeting with the ENPO representatives during their visit to Delhi in December, to submit their memorandum. Beyond that there has been no interaction with them that can be called worthwhile, Chang said. He recalled telling the delegation that he can neither tell them to go ahead nor stop them. So far, they (ENPO) have not approached me, Chang maintained. He did not rule out interactions with the ENPO, stating that it is welcome to do so.
Asked whether the demand is justified, a tightlipped Chang maintained that he has yet to see the contents of the memorandum submitted by a delegation of ENPO representatives to the Prime Minister in December last year. “What they’ve submitted, I’ve not seen.”
He said that he may belong to eastern Nagaland but in his capacity as an elected MP from the state, he represents Nagaland as a whole.
He then went on to heap praises on the present DAN government. He opined that the state government is doing everything within its means, in terms of allocation of development funds, to bring the six tribes inhabiting eastern Nagaland at par with the rest of the state. Development of Under Developed Areas (DUDA) programme has been one of the biggest achievement of the Dan government to bring up the areas tagged as ‘backward’ in Nagaland, he held. Chang nevertheless, agreed to the fact that the number of people from the six tribes, which come under ENPO, in the government departments as employees, is very less.



Frans on 01.13.11 @ 07:26 PM CST [link]


Wednesday, January 12th

Rally for separate state - ENPO seeks development of backward districts OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph



Rally for separate state - ENPO seeks development of backward districts OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph

Kohima, Thousands of people today participated in a rally to press for a separate state in the four backward districts of Nagaland — Tuensang, Kiphire, Mon and Longleng.
The rally was sponsored by the Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation.
Tongthan Khiamnungan, adviser to the organisation, said creation of a separate state for the backward tribes would be beneficial to Naga society.
He said the backward tribes received a step-motherly treatment by the state government in that they were discriminated against in development, education and job opportunities.
Now we are getting only one plate but if a separate state is created for us Nagas will get two plates Khiamnungan said.
He alleged step-motherly treatment to backward tribes by the state government.
The tribes from these backward districts say they are discriminated against in development, education and job opportunities.
In all the educational institutions, the state government had alloted reservation and relaxation for the students from backward districts.
While 25 per cent job is reserved for them in government jobs. The population in four districts is around nine lakh. There are 11 districts in Nagaland. Of the 60 MLAs 20 are from these four districts.
Khiamnungan said they would chalk out a further course of action and would continue to talk with the Union government.
He said the organisation was determined to pursue a separate state so that they could also progress ahead with the rest of the communities.
He also said Changland and Tirap districts of Arunachal Pradesh would be included in the new state. “The people from these two districts are willing to join us,” he said.
The organisation is in constant touch with the Naga leaders of Changlang and Tirap. Our brothers and sisters are also in Changlang and Tirap, he said.
People of these two districts have been demanding a separate state for 7 years now. Khiamnungan said Naga people are also scattered in Burma and the efforts were being made to bring them together.
Asked whether their demand for a separate state would sabotage the ongoing Naga peace talks between the Centre and the NSCN (Isak-Muivah) or whether the NSCN supports the demand, Khiamnungan said so far the Naga outfit had not commented on this issue. “I think they morally support our demand,” he said.
The NSCN (I-M)’s demands include greater Nagalim, which will affect Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
The Congress has requested the Nagaland People’s Organisation to think over their demand.
The BJP has blamed the state government for failing to deliver justice to the backward communities.
BJP general secretary, Yambos Murry however pulled up the 20 legislators from four backward districts for not able to meet the needs of the people due to corruption. The democratic alliance of Nagaland government never heeds and stood balance distributions of developmental funds among the tribe is another reason he said. He held the 20 legislators for the demand for the separate state. The 20 legislators have so far remained silent over this issue so also the state government.
Northeastern states hail PAP withdrawal
Imphal/Aizawl, Jan 8 (IANS) The northeastern states have welcomed the centre's decision to do away with the Protected Area Permit (PAP), a mandatory permit for foreigners to visit the region.
The union government had recently excluded Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland from the PAP regime for a period of one year.
However, the regulation is in place for Arunachal Pradesh, bordering China.
'The decision is very positive. It will help foreign nationals, specially tourists, to visit here,' Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla said in a statement in Aizawl Saturday.
Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh also welcomed the decision to withdraw the PAP from his state.
'A large number of tourists have been visiting Manipur every year with the PAP. The number will now increase,' Singh told reporters in Imphal Saturday.
'However, all foreigners visiting Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland will have to register themselves with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the district they want to visit within 24 hours of their arrival,' a Press Information Bureau (PIB) release said.
According to a Mizoram official, the citizens of some specified countries, including Pakistan and China, will continue to require prior approval of the union Ministry of Home Affairs before their visit to the northeastern states.
Various NGOs have also hailed the decision.
On an average, 50,000 foreign tourists visit the eight north-eastern states every year.

NPF Minister plea to eastern Nagas not to separate morungexpress

Minister for Health & Family Welfare Azo Neinu (centre with shades) along with parliamentary secretaries R Tohanba and Torechu and others pose for lens with former Naga underground pioneers in front of the monolith in honour of surrendered UG pioneers, at Chessore village, on Wednesday.
Chessore (Tuensang) | January 12 : With echoes of the January 7 rally for ‘Frontier Nagaland’ still in the air, Nagaland Minister for Health & Family Welfare Kuzholuzo Neinu today made an impassioned plea to the Eastern Naga brethrens to reconsider their painful decision to part ways. “Since time immemorial, we Nagas were one in times war or peace. Nothing should separate us,” the minister said in his address at the inaugural function of the 45th general session Yimchungrü Akherü Arikaho-cum-golden jubilee celebration of Chessore Village Students’ Union, at Chessore village ground in Tuensang district, the heart of the Eastern Naga country.
“We love and care for you. So it is my sincere request to the ENPO not to part ways with us, but to strengthen the brotherhood bond between us. If at any point of time we have hurt your feelings or discriminated you, do forgive us,” Azo told the gathering.
This is perhaps the first bold public statement on “Frontier Nagaland” issue from the DAN Government side though Azo later said that his appeal was not made as a minister but as an individual concerned to keep the Naga house united.
The minister said that in a democratic society, everybody has the right to demand for their rights and voices but added that it would be too painful to see Nagas divided.
The minister also said that as per geographical position, even his own Phek district and the Chakhesang people can also be termed as Eastern Nagas. “But we will never be a part of breaking the Naga unity,” Azo spoke on behalf of his community.
Azo further said that he suspected the Government of India was playing hard to divide the Nagas just when the decades-old Naga political issue has reached a crucial stage and expectations were high.
He felt that that since the Centre did not want to give “status” to the Nagas, the game plan was “how to go back to square one” by dividing the Naga. “Suppose the demand of ENPO has been acceded, then our political struggle for so many decades will become meaningless,” Azo said and appealed the Eastern Nagas to reconsider their stand. He also appealed the Yimchungrüs, “the pioneers of NNC and Naga unity” to continue to maintain the spirit of Naga unity and oneness.
Parliamentary secretary for CAWD, Torechu, who was the guest of honour in his speech also said that since the Naga family is a small one, it would be wise for the members to stick together and have no further division in the family. The minister also inaugurated two monoliths: one in honour and remembrance of surrendered Naga underground pioneers in formation of the 1st NAP led by ‘Brig’ KM Gaming Yimchunger and, the CVSU golden jubilee monolith.
To an appeal of YAA for establishing a medical sub-centre in Chessore, one of the biggest village in Tuensang, the H&FW Welfare minister assured to do his best. Parliamentary secretary for I&PR, Economics & Statistics, R Tohanba, who
represents Shamator-Chessore assembly seat also attended the inaugural programme.
Commentary on Demand for Statehood by ENPO Dr. Piketo Achumi Morungexpress
For many people it is a surprise to note the ENPO’s move for statehood. The immediate reaction to this social upsurge maybe summed up as below:-
1 From the formation of the state of Nagaland the public and the leaders of the aforesaid districts have been equal partners in the policy making of the state. The twenty member legislators representing the districts are equally responsible leaders for the development of the state of Nagaland. The leaders know what is what? Sometimes political tilts as a matter of parties will never guarantee us to have equal representations in all ministry formations of the state. Even for that matter we have many veteran Naga political leaders from those districts. So giving explanations may not be proper here.
2 In any positive move of our people, it must be initiated with clear understanding among the leaders of the state and convince the government of India to examine the proposal. However it maybe stated here that even when the state of Nagaland was formed during early 1960’s it was Jawahar Lal Nehru a stalwart personality of the House whose political sagacity prevailed over the objections of Mps like Atal Bihari Vajpayee for creating the state of Nagaland the population of which was then less than the one of a district in other parts of the country. That way it could be a tough move for the Nagas to have another state.
3 We understand that the district and the Village Development funds are being distributed as per Government norms. In addition to those normal funds we have some financial packages for backward areas development. If funds are being used properly there can be no question of dissatisfaction. But it is always up to the leadership of the areas concerned to implement them for specific development purposes.
4 As for general development of the state even with our limited understanding we can foresee that in decades to come Nagaland will have more developments in various fields .Because we have not harnessed our natural resources properly. We still look forward for application of modern technologies in our land resources. We may have to go forward to reap the benefits of development one after another. We may not have enough baskets to hold the benefits of our resources from industries, Human resource developments, Agri sectors, Power sectors, Water resources, Health care etc. Nagaland can be transformed into a beautiful land with a lot of new technological applications. We only need to prepare ourselves as responsible citizens and not confining to our world of limitations.
5 Above all Nagaland requires breakthrough in road connectivity not only linking them to our district headquarters but to all sectors of the state and eastern parts of Nagaland. From general point of view we need three pronged road development links with the other side of Naga areas in Myanmar: 1) via Kiphire 2) via Tuensang and Noklak sector 3) via Mon districts. For such big development projects, we may expect the state Government to initiate for involvement of both the Governments of India and Myanmar. The Naga areas should have the touch of modern civilization with road connectivity as early as possible. Hopefully the government of India look east policy will go beyond Dimapur and reach eastern parts of Nagaland with road developments.
6 Lastly if the Nagas could have more states that will certainly benefit our people. But Nagas must not do anything in random like the Britishers who in the past divided us into various administrative units. If we are to make the quiz works who knows if Naga integration is not possible Nagas may be compelled to have more states. So let us watch and see.

Dr. Piketo Achumi, Rtd. Director
Asian college, Sovima, Dimapur
No comment on ENPO demand: CM Chang morungexpress
DIMAPUR, JANUARY 12 (MExN): Lok Sabha MP from Nagaland, CM Chang trod a cautious line today, when he was asked to comment on the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation’s (ENPO) demand for a separate state. “I cannot give any opinion…” at the moment, was the MP’s not so surprisingly guarded response. Chang was replying to queries during a brief interaction with mediapersons at the ‘Puanglüm’ festival celebration of the Chang community at Dimapur on Wednesday, January 12.
It was though added that he had a passing meeting with the ENPO representatives during their visit to Delhi in December, to submit their memorandum. Beyond that there has been no interaction with them that can be called worthwhile, Chang said. He recalled telling the delegation that he can neither tell them to go ahead nor stop them. So far, they (ENPO) have not approached me, Chang maintained. He did not rule out interactions with the ENPO, stating that it is welcome to do so.
Asked whether the demand is justified, a tightlipped Chang maintained that he has yet to see the contents of the memorandum submitted by a delegation of ENPO representatives to the Prime Minister in December last year. “What they’ve submitted, I’ve not seen.”
He said that he may belong to eastern Nagaland but in his capacity as an elected MP from the state, he represents Nagaland as a whole.
He then went on to heap praises on the present DAN government. He opined that the state government is doing everything within its means, in terms of allocation of development funds, to bring the six tribes inhabiting eastern Nagaland at par with the rest of the state. Development of Under Developed Areas (DUDA) programme has been one of the biggest achievement of the Dan government to bring up the areas tagged as ‘backward’ in Nagaland, he held. Chang nevertheless, agreed to the fact that the number of people from the six tribes, which come under ENPO, in the government departments as employees, is very less.



Frans on 01.12.11 @ 11:27 PM CST [link]


Saturday, January 8th

Northeastern states hail PAP withdrawal (IANS)



Northeastern states hail PAP withdrawal (IANS)

Imphal/Aizawl, Jan 8 The northeastern states have welcomed the centre's decision to do away with the Protected Area Permit (PAP), a mandatory permit for foreigners to visit the region.
The union government had recently excluded Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland from the PAP regime for a period of one year.
However, the regulation is in place for Arunachal Pradesh, bordering China.
'The decision is very positive. It will help foreign nationals, specially tourists, to visit here,' Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla said in a statement in Aizawl Saturday.
Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh also welcomed the decision to withdraw the PAP from his state.
'A large number of tourists have been visiting Manipur every year with the PAP. The number will now increase,' Singh told reporters in Imphal Saturday.
'However, all foreigners visiting Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland will have to register themselves with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the district they want to visit within 24 hours of their arrival,' a Press Information Bureau (PIB) release said.
According to a Mizoram official, the citizens of some specified countries, including Pakistan and China, will continue to require prior approval of the union Ministry of Home Affairs before their visit to the northeastern states.
Various NGOs have also hailed the decision.. On an average, 50,000 foreign tourists visit the eight north-eastern states every year
Nagaland's split to form new state Source: Hueiyen News Service / Newmai News Network
Dimapur, January 07 2011: Nagas in four Nagaland districts carried out massive public rallies demanding the creation of a new state christened as 'Frontier Nagaland' by bifurcating Nagaland.

The rallies were held simultaneously in the districts of Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire and Longleng today.

The rallies were organised by Eastern Nagaland People's Organisation (ENPO) .

The ENPO, which is the apex organization of six Naga tribes of Konyak, Khiamniungan, Chang, Yimchunger, Sangtam and Phom belonging to the four districts, has submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister urging him to realize the demand.

"Our demand for the creation of Frontier Nagaland is based on historical facts.

This is something like going back to the earlier arrangement when the entire area was under the erstwhile Tuensang Frontier Division of NEFA," ENPO general secretary Toshi Wungpung said.

Before Nagaland was created in 1963, this entire area was under the Tuensang Frontier Division of NEFA.

Mon, Kiphire and Longleng districts were carved out of Tuensang post-statehood.

Toshi Wungmung alleged that for decades, gross injustice has been done to the people of these four districts by the successive governments, both in the state and at the centre.

"Of the 11 districts in Nagaland, these four backward districts have almost half of the state's total population.

But despite that, they continue to remain extremely under-developed," the ENPO general secretary said.

He added that only three per cent of the total population of the four districts held government jobs.

Ours is "a democratic and people's movement based on fundamental issues.

The people in the four districts have given their wholehearted support to it," Wungmung added.

So far, the Nagaland Government has remained silent, but the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee has appealed to the people of the four districts, called Eastern Nagas, to reconsider their demand.

The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) said, "At a time when the Nagas have expressed their willingness and taken concrete practical steps to reconcile with one another and unite for a lasting Indo-Naga political solution, the Congress appeals to our Eastern Naga brothers [and sisters] to reconsider their stand in the interest of the Nagas in general" .
Nagaland, Laos sign MoU to promote ''Agar'' plantation MSN
Kohima, Jan 8 (PTI) Nagaland government has signed an MoU with Laos to promote plantation of a perfume ingredient on commercial scale in the state.

Two senior officials from the state are now in Vietnam capital to acquaint themselves with the process of injecting a special solution on ''agar'' (the perfume ingredient) tree to enhance its production as well as market value, state Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC) H K Khulu said yesterday.

The farmers of Changki village in Mokokchung district were informed about the state''s move that the government is actively working to give a technical boost to ''agar'' production.

Visiting the Changki eco-green project at Ts�rang valley, Khulu said the valley boasts of a wide scope to turn into an "economic centre" and encouraged the farmers to undertake agar tree plantation on a commercial scale.

He assured the "progressive" farmers of the area to extend all possible assistance from the government.

Khulu said he was impressed with the cultivation of diverse plants, including cash crops such as tea, rubber, Aloe Vera, agar and fruits like orange and lemon.

He also assured the villagers that the government would look into their demand for an all-weather road to the project site.

Started in 2001, Changki eco-green project, stretching over 1,800 hectares, is a multi-cropping zone which came up after the village leased out land to 16 farmers.
Nagas of Myanmar for unity
OUR CORRESPONDENT
Kohima, Jan. 4: The Nagas of Myanmar today said they would launch an agitation against discrimination and bifurcation of Nagas’ lands in Myanmar.
The assertion comes close on the heels of the decisions of the Nagas of eastern Nagaland and Manipur to intensify their agitations for a separate state and a separate administrative unit.
The president of the Naga National League for Democracy, Myanmar, Sosa, said in a release that any arbitrary decision imposed on the Nagas would never be accepted. “This is the era of democracy and self-determination is its essence. Therefore, the Naga people will decide their own future,” he said.
Sosa said the Nagas had lived on their ancestral land since time immemorial. This was interrupted when British imperial forces intruded into their country and tried to colonise the Nagas with their divide-and-rule policy.
The British bifurcated the Naga territory and placed them under India and Burma, but failed in their attempt. On the eve of departure of the British in 1947, General Aung San convened a meeting of all the heads of the tribal councils at Penlong in Burma to form a union of Burma but the Nagas were not a party to it.
Sosa said after Burmese Independence was declared on January 4, 1948, the Naga areas of Namyung, Tanai, Lahe, Hkamti, Thamanti, Leishi, Homalin, Phombian, Mawliek and Tamu townships were annexed to form Sagaing division.
However, under the military rule, their territory was sliced and the Nagas were deprived of basic rights and facilities, Sosa said.
He said the Naga people would never be silent spectators to the destruction of their homeland.


Frans on 01.08.11 @ 11:53 PM CST [link]


Friday, January 7th

PEACE AND CONFLICT: A TENUOUS LINK Wallstreet Journal



PEACE AND CONFLICT: A TENUOUS LINK Wallstreet Journal

There are compelling weather systems developing in India’s east. The release on bail of United Liberation Front of Asom (Ulfa) chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa in Guwahati this past week is one such. Rajkhowa has asked for the release of several jailed colleagues in both India and Bangladesh for the peace process to move ahead conclusively.
If it were to, it would bring to an end one of eastern India’s most violent and embedded insurgencies. And it could help transform Assam into a robust economic engine.
On the face of it, it might seem odd that Rajkhowa is putting on a show of bravado when, as a leader of a cornered, even discredited, group he ought to be on the defensive. But it shows the complicated nature of peace and conflict in these parts. A significant point is that the government of Assam did not oppose Rajkhowa’s bail. It is an acknowledgement that issues of underdevelopment and fear of the Assamese identity being swamped, which birthed Ulfa in the first place, are yet to be resolved. And the Assamese wish to sort it out to their own satisfaction.
This would be only the first significant step in Assam; the Bodo development and autonomy issue is yet to be resolved; Bodo rebels hold out.
In Nagaland, the two largest rebel groups, National Socialist Council of Nagalim led by Thuingaleng Muivah and Isak Chishi Swu, and a rival faction headed by K. Khaplang, have been in long-stuttering ceasefire talks with the government. Over the past two years, representatives of the two warring factions and lesser Naga rebel groups have met in civil society- and church-led peace and reconciliation talks. The political establishment in Nagaland is alive to this dynamic. The logic is straightforward: for the Nagas to meaningfully engage with Indian authorities and bring closure to the tragedies and ignominy since 1947—when Naga rebels opposed an arbitrary merger with India, leading to retaliation by Nehru—they must first reconcile contradictions among themselves.
It will be unwise at this point for India’s security establishment to crow about victory, that it has after decades managed to grind down several major rebellions in Assam, Nagaland, and the multi-ethnic cauldron of Manipur—which has recently seen the capture of Raj Kumar Meghen, chairman of a leading Meitei organization, United National Liberation Front; and some Kuki groups signing “suspension-of-operation” agreements with the state government. The reasons for grinding down range from scaled-up anti-rebel operations to rebels falling prey to the rigour of maintaining operations at high pitch, to losing initial idealism, to an India-friendly government such as the one led by Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh denying anti-India rebels sanctuary and even helping in the arrest of several.
In no case has it taken place exclusively on account of better development, lessening of kleptocracies, and the acknowledgement by the Indian government—and various political formations that run it—that regional and sub-regional identities in what is erroneously called North-east India have needs and minds of their own. (Mizoram is the exception, and that, too, bribed out of rebellion with an overly generous provision for government jobs.)
The reasons that led to the region’s myriad rebellions continue to exist—peace, intended peace, or not. Moreover, I have heard from several bureaucrats and police officers tasked with administering the Indian government’s will and testament at the grass roots in this region that, more often than not, those in-charge of the “North-east” in New Delhi—whether in the home or defence ministries, the key satrapies—are either disinterested or clueless about the complexities in this region beyond keep-China-out, and Delhi-knows-best. The relative spread of federal powers and responsibilities in what is known in these parts as “Mainland India” continues to be largely absent here. The driving imperative is that of an economy of conflict—a treasure trove of siphoned government funds and unfulfilled projects. The civic wrecks that are Guwahati, Kohima and Imphal offer only a passing—though significant—feel of the malaise.
There are several fine reports, such as the Vision 2020 document, that detail prospects of prosperity in India’s eastern extremity; of it being India’s bridge to South-east Asia. The region’s mineral and human resources are spoken of in seminars as the next big thing for India. From 1 January, the government of India has relaxed permit regulations for foreigners visiting Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram, to draw tourists. Such laudable exercises are unlikely to get far until the basic causes of alienation and resentment are addressed.
Sudeep Chakravarti writes on issues related to conflict in South Asia. He is the author of Red Sun: Travels in Naxalite Country. He writes a column alternate Thursdays on conflicts that directly affect business.
Telengana Effect? Divide Nagaland demand intensifies Rahul Karmakar/HT Correspondent, Hindustan Times
The Telengana movement appears to have eaten into the Greater Nagaland dream of the Isak-Muivah faction of the rebel National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM). Inspired by the statehood stir in Andhra Pradesh, the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization (ENPO) on Friday launched its movement for the creation of Frontier Nagaland inhabited by six Naga tribes including Konyak, Chang and Sangtam.
Frontier Nagaland is envisaged to be carved out of Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire and Longleng districts of eastern Nagaland as well as Tirap and Changlang districts of adjoining Arunachal Pradesh.
This statehood demand undermines the idea of Greater Nagaland, something the NSCN-IM is trying to bargain for since declaring truce in July 1997. Greater Nagaland seeks to bring all Naga-inhabited areas of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur besides Nagaland under one administrative set-up.
“We organized simultaneous rallies in four districts today, and this is just the beginning,” said ENPO general secretary Toshi Wungpung from Tuensang, 250 km northeast of Nagaland capital Kohima. “Our demand for the creation of Frontier Nagaland is based on historical facts.”
Wungpung added, this organization has also sent a memorandum to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh outlining the reasons why the ‘eastern Nagas’ need to chart a geo-political course different from other Nagas.
“For decades, gross injustice has been done to eastern Nagaland by successive governments. This part has almost half of Nagaland’s total population but the area continues to remain extremely under-developed. Only 3% of the population in this area has government jobs,” the ENPO general secretary said.
The Neiphiu Rio government in Nagaland has chosen not to react to the ENPO movement. But the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee has appealed to eastern Nagas to reconsider their demand.
“At a time when Nagas have expressed their willingness and taken concrete steps to reconcile with one another and unite for a lasting Indo-Naga political solution, we appeal to you to reconsider your stand,” the NPCC said.
Reconciliation refers to the move to unite the warring factions of the NSCN as well as the Naga National Council, from which the former had evolved.
“FRONTIER NAGALAND STATE” Thepfulhouvi Solo Morungexpress

The Former Nagaland Finance Minister Mr. K. Therie has described the demand of the ENPO for a ‘FRONTIER NAGALAND STATE’ as “heart breaking”. How true it is; the separations of Husband and Wife, of Brothers and Sisters, of Parents and Children or even of Friends are always a Heart rending experience. The Writer however does not know whether the demand is a “no trust vote against the DAN Government”. That view may be political and this Writer has no intention of entering into political contentions on the Issue; he only feels the Issue is indeed of very serious implications for all of us Nagas.
The demand of a separate Frontier Nagaland State of Tuensang-Mon Area would mentally and unconsciously affect all Nagas. It was the Pioners of the NNC at great cost unified Nagas into one Naga Mind and later, the Naga People’s Convention integrated Tuensang-Mon Area with Naga Hills into NHTA -Naga Hills-Tuensag Area and then into one NAGALAND State.
Today, some Nagas are still separated in Arunachal, in Assam and in Manipur States; Nagas have vehemently opposed this and have even gone to the extent of fighting and of course blaming everything under the Sky, from the greatest Colonial Power the world has ever seen -the so-called British Imperialists- to the designs of Agents of the Indian RAW et cetera. Nagas naturally want to stay together –who in the world would not- under one and the same political Unit, but now one of the most endearing Groups of Nagas themselves, the ENPO, is moving exactly contrary to the mainstream Naga Ethos. May God in his own good time gather all Nagas into one Nagaland.
Let us transparently express ourselves in reality and in all honesty:
i. Is the ENPO really serious of their Demand? Are they behaving like the Naga Hoho or the other Naga Civil Organizations the ENPO has distanced themselves from?
ii. If not why should the ENPO request the Chief Minister of Nagaland to recommend the dismantling of the Chief Minister’s own State?

No self respecting Chief Minister would ever agree to the dismembering of his own State. It is said the Chief Minister has replied he will neither “Oppose nor Recommend” the Case. The Chief Minister has replied for all of us. What an apt nice and delicate sense of Naga Democracy reply!
The Majority of the 60 Members of the Assembly of Nagaland do not want to separate from the other 20 Member Tuensang-Mon Naga brothers and in a Democracy, the voice of the Majority should hold. But Naga Democracy being it is as it is, the Chief Minister has replied for all of us.
If the Tuensang-Mon brothers want to go away from Nagaland, let them be. May God bless them; hand them over a generously packed lunch bundle for the journey.
Naga Brothers do not know whether the ENPO represents the Tuensang-Mon People in reality or is just like other NGOs of Nagaland, rhetorical mouth of some extinguished politicians, or some disgruntled position-seekers. The 20 MLAs from the Area -whether one likes it or not- have the mandate of their people, they legally and constitutionally represent their People.

But:
i. Why have they chosen to remain silent on an issue of such vital importance to their People?
ii. Why are the Naga Hoho mute on this?
iii. Why has the NSF quiet on this?
iv. Where are all the wise Naga Elders?
v. Why have the Naga National Leaders silent spectators on this?

The Writer’s fallible feeling is that the demand for a separate State is more to do with Economic dissatisfaction than astute Political Vision, though every great and troublesome Political Vision stem from a minute core of political sense of favorable self-advancement.
Let us be very honest; true, in terms of Government Employments -not just through the NPSC but through the pliable Appointing Authority of the Head of the Department, in terms of Government Contract Allotments, and in terms of current manufactured Economic Systems in the State, all Governments of Nagaland –not just the UDF or the Congress or the DAN alone, but all Governments of Nagaland, had an edge in favor of the more advanced Tribes; everybody feels the highly Agriculturally Expert and Economically Advanced Chakhesang Community, some of them in Leadership Position of World and Asian Organizations even, is claiming the Backwardness Right! For God’s sake, let the more fortunate Christian Communities search their own hearts.
Tuensang-Mon Area was under SPECIAL STATUS for 10 years at the time of creation of the State of Nagaland in 1963; and to uplift the less f
UNITED NAGA COUNCIL
Tahamzam: Senapati
Email: uncnagalim@gmail.com">uncnagalim@gmail.com, Phone: +9138571222523


STATEMENT ON ALTERNATIVE ARRANGEMENT FOR NAGAS IN MANIPUR
6th January, 2011

In view of the war that was waged upon the innocent and unarmed Naga citizens at Mao on the 6th May, 2010 by the Manipur State Government the Naga Hoho on the 8th of May, 2010 issued a statement that “…henceforth, we derecognize any artificial boundary lines drawn across our ancestral lands in the so called Manipur State”.

The Nagas in the present state of Manipur declared the severance of all political ties with the GoM in the Naga Peoples’ Convention which was convened at Tahamzam on the 1st of July, 2010. This declaration was based upon the unmistakable fact that it was impossible to protect our right to life, land, time-honored institutions, customary practice and values under the administration of the dominant and communal Government of Manipur (GoM), and that our history with it, has clearly confirmed the harsh reality that the GoM has never recognized and respected the identity and dignity of the Naga people. The vacuum in governance and administration created thereby, it was further declared, must be filled with an alternative arrangement by the Government of India in consultation with the Naga people at the earliest possible time.

This declaration was endorsed by the Naga Hoho in the 18th June, 2010 declaration at Kohima and subsequently confirmed in the 3rd Federal Assembly of the Naga Hoho, dated Mokokchung, 16th July, 2010.
&nb sp;
Although the Naga inhabited areas was arbitrarily sliced off and annexed by the British in 1891 to Manipur, which was then only the Imphal valley, the Britishers, recognizing the distinctiveness and separateness of the Nagas, administered the Nagas and their lands through the Crown’s political department. Before India’s independence, the Nagas were never subjected to the rule of the Maharaja of Manipur. After India’s independence, Naga areas were arbitrarily transferred to the Maharaja of Manipur without the consent of the Nagas, through acts of subterfuge and deception. The story of the Nagas in Manipur since then has been one of complete marginalization, victimization, discrimination and Meitei domination. The entire system of governance is conceived, designed and engineered towards systematic degradation and obliteration of Naga history, culture and identity. The Nagas in Manipur have suffered loss of rights and privileges, loss of due share in economic development, and most materially loss of their honor, dignity and identity.

It is only in the indivisible common destiny that the history, identity and honor of the Nagas would be safe. It is with this clear conviction that the Nagas in Manipur have embarked upon the historic mission to secure an alternative political and administrative arrangement independent of Meitei domination and subjugation. In accepting this responsibility, we have neither sought direction from anyone high or low nor has anybody named or unnamed given us instructions. We the Nagas in Manipur who are compelled to seek for the alterative arrangement have no ulterior motive other than the firm conviction that all avenues for rapprochement for meaningful and peaceful co-existence have been exhausted and therefore the best way forward for the Nagas and the Meiteis is to part as good neighbors. It is a wake-up call to every self-respecting Naga whether or not we pass on to posterity a legacy that is fragmented and disfigured, shamed and pained to no end.

The demand for alternative arrangement is for an emergency intervention to change the unbearable and intolerable conditions under which the Nagas in Manipur have been compelled to subsist on, so that we may live as a people with our dignity, identity and fundamental rights intact. The intervention must be urgent and interim in nature so as to accommodate our immediate administrative needs without any prejudice to the legitimate political aspiration of the entire Naga family. It shall not and cannot undercut and upstage the larger Naga national issue. What the Nagas in Manipur are seeking, with the blessing and goodwill of all Nagas at large is to save and protect our future and identity and to ensure our survival with honor and dignity.



(SWORD VASHUM) (L. ADANI)
Chairman Member Secretary
Committee for Alternative Arrangement Committee for Alternative Arrangement

Frans on 01.07.11 @ 11:46 PM CST [link]


Tuesday, January 4th

Peaceful NE situation highlight of 2010: PC Eastern Mirror



Peaceful NE situation highlight of 2010: PC Eastern Mirror

NEW DELHI, JAN 4 (AGENCIES): Union Home Minister P Chidambaram presented the Report Card of the Ministry of Home Affairs for December 2010 here today and said the highlight of the year has been the dramatic change in the situation in the North East.
Stating that the decline in violence witnessed in 2009 continued in 2010, the Home Minister said twenty security personnel, 94 civilians and 247 militants lost their lives during the year. “While this is a matter of regret and concern, I may point out that this is the lowest level of violence witnessed in many years,” he said.
Barring Assam and Manipur, the other States have shown remarkable improvement and no civilian was killed in Nagaland and Mizoram nor were any security personnel killed in Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Mizoram, Chidambaram said in his report. Further stating that most insurgent groups are in talks with the Government or are poised to commence talks, the Home Minister said, in 2011, he looked forward to agreements being reached with many of the groups and bringing them into the mainstream of politics and society.
His observations came two days after Arabinda Rajkhowa, chairman of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA), was released on bail from Guwahati Central jail amid bright prospects of ULFA veering around to the process of peace dialogue with the government.
The Home Minister also said, on December 30, 2010, orders were issued to exclude the entire area of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland from the Protected Area regime under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958. “These instructions will be initially valid for a period of one year, subject to certain conditions, and have come into force with effect from January 1, 2011,” he stated.
On the SoO Agreements, he said it has been decided to extend it for a period of six months up to June 30, 2011, with the National Democratic Front of Boroland/Pro-talk (NDFB/PT) and the Dima Halam Daogah/Nunisa (DHD/N).
Left extremism a ‘grave’ concern
The Home Minister said the situation in the Left Wing extremism affected States continued to be a matter of ‘grave concern’ and during 2010 as many as 713 civilians were killed by the naxalites as against 591 in 2009. The security forces lost 285 personnel in 2010 as against 317 in 2009. “It will be apparent that the naxalites have not only spurned the offer of talks but have also escalated the conflict,” he said.
On the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, Chidambaram said the three-month period of agitation beginning June last year was “an unfortunate and deeply regrettable chapter.’’ However, he said that after the visit of the all-party parliamentary delegation and the appointment of three interlocutors, there has been a significant improvement in the law and order situation.
“In particular, the Interlocutors have been able to change the discourse and have been able to persuade a number of stakeholders to offer suggestions for a political solution,’’ he said.
On terrorism, he said the government continued to build capacity and successfully neutralised a number of terror modules. However, he said there were two blots on the record during the year – one in Pune on February 13, 2010 and the other in Varanasi on December 7, 2010.
“We live in a troubled world and a troubled neighbourhood that has witnessed numerous acts of terror last year,” Chidambaram said while pointing out that in 2010 there were at least 35 major acts of terror in a number of countries. “India is no more – but no less – vulnerable than any other country. Our security lies in maintaining constant vigil, augmenting intelligence gathering and taking pre-emptive action,” he stated.
Nagas urged to move towards common future morungexpress
Political awakening rescued Israel: NSCN/GPRN

DIMAPUR, JANUARY 2 (MExN): NSCN/GPRN has urged all Nagas to rise and move forward together toward a common future and seek liberation from all forms of bondages. “The Naga nation is in need of political people, political generations, political organisations and political state in order to land up to the higher plane,” proclaimed a new year message from the NSCN/GPRN.
“People and nations rise when they are political and they descend to downfall when their political spirit falls,” said Rh Raising, Kilo Kilonser (Home Minister), Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim. “The Israel people were in slavery more than 400 years until they became political,” Raising said in a new year’s message. “Their political exodus began when they were awakened and inspired by the spirit of ‘my people’,” Rh Raising, Kilo Kilonser (Home Minister), Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim said.
He noted that “Moses of old was nobody in history until he met the Lord at Mt. Sinai.” He became an extraordinary figure only when he equipped himself with ‘the Spirit of my Lord and my people’, said Raising. The same principle applies to the Nagas, he added.
“Politically speaking, we Nagas have been working for the politics to salvage our future. We have also been looking for the kind of solution of our national issue that ensures our future,” he queried.
Raising said if 2010 had not been a year of salvation, then Nagas have wasted labour, energy, time and money. He wondered if Nagas saw salvation and a future in the year 2011. “A day or a year without the hope of future is a lost day or year,” he said. He said a society moves forward when the mindset of the people are regenerated and revived through revolutionary spirit.
Striking a conciliatory cord in the backdrop of the reconciliation process, the senior Naga nationalist ended with hope of all Nagas moving toward a year of salvation by rising and moving forward “together for our common future and never look back”.
Muivah made news in Nagaland in 2010 Assam tribune

KOHIMA, Jan 2 – Consistent efforts towards consolidating peace and reconciliation process among Nagas by the State and civil societies marked the year as Nagaland witnessed a stalemate with Manipur over NSCN-IM leader T Muivah’s visit to his native village in the neighbouring State.
The year also witnessed some concrete measures taken by the Government to push forward development activities, generate employment and curb corruption.
Continuing its efforts towards peace and reconciliation, Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) along with other civil society groups and churches tried to bring various Naga underground factions closer to have an unified voice, and got the support of the State Government and political parties.
The Forum successfully arranged the first ever face-to-face meeting of top leaders of two NSCN groups at Dimapur on September 18 giving a new hope to the ongoing process of Naga reconciliation.
However, by end of the year, what reflected in local media, were differences among the groups still prevailing and war of words blaming each other for lack of seriousness to peace and unity continued.
In the meantime, three groups – NSCN(K) and two groups of NNC/FGN came closer through a declaration in November, but NSCN(I-M) was critical of what it termed “a backdoor unity move”.
The people saw hope and optimism at the beginning of the year when the Centre appointed a new Interlocutor and resumed peace dialogues with NSCN(I-M) after almost a year.
Building on this renewed trust, the Centre okayed Muivah’s visit to his native village in Manipur in April but the Manipur Government denied permission arguing that the rebel leader’s proposed visit might lead to “communal tension” in the State.
An uneasy stalemate continued for over a month with both Manipur Government and NSCN-IM sticking to their positions. However, Muivah visited various parts of Nagaland in May-June to reach out to the people ahead of leaving for New Delhi to resume the peace dialogue. But there were no reports of any progress in the peace talks in the past three months.
On economic and development fronts, the Neiphiu Rio Government took certain important decisions during 2010 but Opposition Congress flayed the ruling alliance for its inaction on corruption in many departments and failure in checking crime in the State, particularly in Dimapur town.
Despite the resource crunch, the State Government fulfilled its promise to implement the 6th Pay Commission recommendations for its employees reconciling the State Plan size for fiscal 2010.
At the State Government’s request, the Centre allotted Rs 700 crore special grant to meet the additional salary burden but the State had to keep the annual plan size at last year’s level of Rs 1,500 crore.
The Government in April declared the year 2010-11 as “Year of Entrepreneurs” and made special budget provisions to implement this ambitious programme through training, capacity-building and financial incentives to potential entrepreneurs.
This was followed by unveiling of a vision statement for agriculture and allied sectors by which the Government envisaged to turn Nagaland into a surplus State in food production. Started in 2009 as an attempt to build an interface between the government departments and the rural people, the government held road shows throughout the year across the State.
The government appointed a special investigation team (SIT) and unearthed major irregularities in appointments of schoolteachers, and accordingly quashed many unauthorised appointments. The SIT unearthed that such irregular appointments drained out Rs 2 crore a month from the exchequer.
On the political front, divisions in Opposition Congress surfaced when the party failed to select a consensus candidate for party leadership in the State. In a bitterly-fought party election, SI Jamir was elected the new State Congress president defeating incumbent I Imkong.
The year ended with a happy note when the government successfully organised the annual Hornbill festival at Kisama with a large number of foreign tourists visiting Nagaland. But the core concern of peaceful settlement of the vexed Naga political conflict still eludes the Nagas. – PTI
Nagaland 2010—Reconciliation, Muivah visit and bogus teachers dominate PTI

School children hold Naga flags as they cheer the arrival of National Socialist Council of Nagalim General-Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah, not seen, at Viswema village, about 25 kilometers (16 miles) south of Kohima, the capital of the northeastern Indian state of Nagaland ont May 5, 2010. (AP File Photo)

KOHIMA, January 3 (PTI): Consistent efforts towards consolidating peace and reconciliation process among Nagas by the State and civil societies marked the year as Nagaland witnessed a stalemate with Manipur over NSCN-IM leader T Muivah’s visit to his native village in the neighbouring State.
The year also witnessed some concrete measures taken by the Government to push forward development activities, generate employment and curb corruption. Continuing its efforts towards peace and reconciliation, Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) along with other civil society groups and churches tried to bring various Naga underground factions closer to have an unified voice, and got the support of the State Government and political parties.
The Forum successfully arranged the first ever face-to-face meeting of top leaders of two NSCN groups at Dimapur on September 18 giving a new hope to the ongoing process of Naga reconciliation. However, by end of the year, what reflected in local media, were differences among the groups still prevailing and war of words blaming each other for lack of seriousness to peace and unity continued.
In the meantime, three groups – NSCN (K) and two groups of NNC/FGN came closer through a declaration in November, but NSCN (I-M) was critical of what it termed “a backdoor unity move”. The people saw hope and optimism at the beginning of the year when the Centre appointed a new Interlocutor and resumed peace dialogues with NSCN (I-M) after almost a year.
Building on this renewed trust, the Centre okayed Muivah’s visit to his native village in Manipur in April but the Manipur Government denied permission arguing that the rebel leader’s proposed visit might lead to “communal tension” in the State. An uneasy stalemate continued for over a month with both Manipur Government and NSCN-IM sticking to their positions. However, Muivah visited various parts of Nagaland in May-June to reach out to the people ahead of leaving for New Delhi to resume the peace dialogue. But there were no reports of any progress in the peace talks in the past three months.
On economic and development fronts, the Neiphiu Rio Government took certain important decisions during 2010 but Opposition Congress flayed the ruling alliance for its inaction on corruption in many departments and failure in checking crime in the State, particularly in Dimapur town. Despite the resource crunch, the State Government fulfilled its promise to implement the 6th Pay Commission recommendations for its employees reconciling the State Plan size for fiscal 2010.
At the State Government’s request, the Centre allotted Rs 700 crore special grant to meet the additional salary burden but the State had to keep the annual plan size at last year’s level of Rs 1,500 crore. The Government in April declared the year 2010-11 as “Year of Entrepreneurs” and made special budget provisions to implement this ambitious programme through training, capacity-building and financial incentives to potential entrepreneurs.
This was followed by unveiling of a vision statement for agriculture and allied sectors by which the Government envisaged to turn Nagaland into a surplus State in food production. Started in 2009 as an attempt to build an interface between the government departments and the rural people, the government held road shows throughout the year across the State.
The government appointed a special investigation team (SIT) and unearthed major irregularities in appointments of schoolteachers, and accordingly quashed many unauthorised appointments. The SIT unearthed that such irregular appointments drained out Rs 2 crore a month from the exchequer.
On the political front, divisions in Opposition Congress surfaced when the party failed to select a consensus candidate for party leadership in the State. In a bitterly-fought party election, SI Jamir was elected the new State Congress president defeating incumbent I Imkong. The year ended with a happy note when the government successfully organised the annual Hornbill festival at Kisama with a large number of foreign tourists visiting Nagaland. But the core concern of peaceful settlement of the vexed Naga political conflict still eludes the Nagas.

Nagaland prepares for oil exploration Al Ngullie Morung Express News

The Cabinet Sub-Committee for Oil Exploration set up by the Government of Nagaland will undertake an official visit to Champang village, commencing from January 8. The visit of the high-powered committee is significant coming as it does against the backdrop of reports that the committee will soon complete its ongoing feasibility report on resuming oil explorations in Nagaland.
Parliamentary Secretary for Geology & Mining Yanthungo Patton disclosed tonight that the committee would be leaving for the Champang oil fields in Wokha district, adjacent to the border with Assam. “We are leaving for Champang,” Patton said but refused to disclose further details. He informed that all the Cabinet sub-committee’s members would be visiting Nagaland’s lone petroleum hub from January 8.
High level govt delegation to visit Champang oil fields
The committee is headed by Minister for Planning TR Zeliang as chairman and members include Congress Party Legislature leader Tokheho Yepthomi. The scheduled visit of the high-powered committee is already fueling speculations in the government circles that a “formula” to resuming oil production activities in the state has been arrived at already.
In fact, a senior official of the Geology & Mining department disclosed Tuesday that the Cabinet committee is also expected to schedule a meeting ‘very soon.’ Confirmation could not be had at the time of filing this news report. Nonetheless, the scheduled visit to the Champang oil fields indicates that the government may be once again in a flurry since Canadian engineering firm Canoro Resources Limited announced resuming oil production activities in Nagaland in June 2007.
According to a senior official of the department, speaking on condition of anonymity, he said the state government was very keen to resume oil production activities in the state and ‘modalities’ are being worked out. The department is providing all technical assistance but the “modalities” are the responsibility of the committee, the source said.
After the “modalities” are set, the report would be submitted to the Nagaland Cabinet for a decision that would decide whether the previously estimated $100 million oil production venture for Nagaland would resume.
According to the official, the government’s current point of ‘interest’ and activities related to oil and oil exploration is centered only on Champang. Surveys carried out in Dimapur earlier have estimated substantial oil reserves in the commercial city’s foothill swathes. However no approval has been given as yet and an ‘oil policy’ specific to Dimapur has yet to be made, the official said. For the stated reason all thrust are concentrated only on Champang, the source added.
In November 2010, the government had said that it was formulating a set of fresh ‘modalities’ to resume oil and natural gas production in the state and was envisaging floating global tenders. “Public” of the oil and gas-bearing lands of Champang village, have sunk their differences, Parliamentary Secretary Yanthungo Patton had stated on Thursday, November 18, 2010 reported in this daily. He had said that the “public” have decided to abide by whatever decision the state government takes on matters related to oil production.


Eastern Nagas gear up for agitation Nagaland Page
Kohima, January 4: The Nagas of eastern Nagaland and Manipur have decided to intensify their agitation for a separate state and a separate administrative unit respectively.
The Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation (Enpo) said it would organise a series of rallies from Friday in the four backward districts of Kiphire, Longleng, Mon and Tuensang to press for a separate state. It had submitted a memorandum to the Union government in this regard in December.
The United Naga Council (UNC) of Manipur said it would resort to a series of harsher measures to press its demand for separate administrative unit for the Nagas of the state. “We will have to take up harsher measures to press the demand for a separate administrative unit for the Nagas,” the president of the UNC, Samson Remei, said.
Tongthan Khiam, the adviser to Enpo, said they had met Union home minister. P. Chidambaram. Khiam said the key reason for the demand for a separate state was discrimination against the backward indigenous Naga people.
He said they had been discriminated against for long in all aspects like development, job reservation and education, prompting them to ask for a separate state.
The organisation comprises Sangtam, Chang, Yimchungur, Konyak, Phom and Khiamniungan indigenous people having a population of 9 lakh. Over 60 per cent of Khiamniugans and about 30 per cent of Konyaks live in Myanmar and parts of Arunachal Pradesh.
ENPO sources said the demand for a separate state would include Changlang and Tirap districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
Of the 60 Assembly seats, there are 20 legislators from the four backward districts.
The UNC said it would resort to harsher measures like blockade of Manipur valley. Asked whether the council would resort to blockade again, Remei said they would have to resort to harsher alternative like blockades.
UNC sources said it had formed a separate committee to chalk out strategies to begin agitation soon.
Remei said, “We will never remain with the communal Manipur government,” that discriminates against the Nagas in all spheres.
He, however, said on the issue of a separate administrative unit for the Nagas of Manipur, the Union government had told the UNC that talks would continue. “The Centre said talks will continue,” he added.
The UNC is doubtful of the Centre’s sincerity in resolving the impasse in the near future as Chidambaram has ruled out altering the boundaries of Manipur.
“2011 will be a very hectic year for us as we are going to launch a series of agitations,” Remei said.
He also sought the support and cooperation of the Nagas of Nagaland. (TTNE)
Adinno Phizo’s New Year message Adinno Phizo Morungexpress
I send my warmest greetings and best wishes to our people in Nagaland for a happy New Year in 2011.
Thankfully, the people of Nagaland agree on one thing that nothing must jeopardise the sovereignty of Naga nation. By the grace of God, despite the prevailing external driven adverse situation, against all the odds in war and even in absence of fighting, to date our indomitable people defied enemy evil designs for territorial expansionism.
It is always useful to pause and reflect on an annual perspective before the coming year begin. Within the Naga society there are the usual differences on many issues in common with other societies. In not too far distant past, our forebears’ unspoken tradition of trust and respect in public affairs demand harmony and responsibility to honour one’s word given. However, any critical scrutiny of internal situation in recent past couldn’t have missed that instead of harmony, certain self-appointed sectarian groups under cover of fatuous pretensions barking mad at the pillars of Naga nation. They may be an irritant in national affairs but in the end what can non-state outfit(s) achieve?
My message to our people, especially, the new generation is nothing makes sense until you understand the past. Modern Nagaland seamlessly took over from our ancestor’s unbowed legacy. By virtue of our vibrant democratic tradition, representatives of heretofore far from a cohesive federation of independent Naga communities under the leadership of A Z Phizo reached an unprecedented decision to formally declare to the world that Nagaland will stay independent on14 August 1947. Equally significant, Naga consensus derived from informed choice. Every Naga know that following the historic voluntary plebiscite held on 16 May 1951, Naga people mandate had been immutably entrusted with the Naga National Council (NNC). Subsequently, NNC reached out and invited the then Free Nagas for an organic merger and the two side agreement was duly enshrined in the Yehzabo (Constitution) of Nagaland, thereupon, the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) was established on 22 March 1956. Needless to say, attempt by some writers to airbrush NNC and FGN is a futile exercise.
No international conflict in living memory come any close to the unremitting Indian occupation army militarised tyranny in Nagaland since the shocking invasion in 1954. Our people will never forget every brave Naga patriots who sacrificed their lives in defending our freedom and almost every family lost someone very much loved. In stark contrast to other international conflict, India alone pursue neo-colonialism. But in a fast changing world, as India aspires to be among world top nations status, no foreigners can fail to notice the vast concentration of Indian occupation army stationed in Nagaland. How could the GoI justify trampling over the freedom of another nation?
The protracted conflict between Nagaland and India is a straightforward bilateral issue concerning the right or wrong of Indian naked aggression. Unlike the countless “political problem” within India, from ancient time, Nagaland was never an integral part of India. Sometimes our people wonder where are the Indian leaders who usually spring up in support of other people as well as nation just cause. While the Indian aggressors remain in Nagaland, the GoI is fully responsible under the Geneva Convention, for any act or omission, such as, the prevailing rampant Indian state sponsored terrorism and economic woes perpetrated against the people of Nagaland.
Notwithstanding Nagaland has no illusion about the challenges ahead to realise genuine peace and justice, nothing can deter NNC and FGN from upholding the Yehzabo and integrity of Nagaland. As much as we yearn for normalcy, it will happen only when India withdrew its army from Nagaland.
Together let us look forward for a happy New Year in 2011.
May God bless Nagaland. Urra Uvie

Adinno Phizo
President


Frans on 01.04.11 @ 10:11 PM CST [link]


Saturday, January 1st

Now, only Pak & China nationals need special permits to visit NE TNN, Jan 1, 2011, 04.01am IST



Now, only Pak & China nationals need special permits to visit NE TNN, Jan 1, 2011, 04.01am IST

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NEW DELHI: Foreigners, excluding Pakistani and Chinese, visiting India on valid visa will not have to take special permit to travel to Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland from January 1 as government has scrapped the provision to boost tourism in these northeastern states, beginning New Year. The relief, however, won't be applicable to foreigners who would like to go to Arunachal Pradesh. Even in the three exempted states, the relief will initially be for one year.

"The government has decided to exclude Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland from the Protected Area regime notified under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958, initially for a period of one year," a MHA statement said. However, all foreigners visiting these states will have to register themselves with Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the district they visit within 24 hours of their arrival.

The restriction was in force since pre-independence days. Now, Arunachal Pradesh is the only state left in the north-east where foreigners are required to take prior permission before any visit. Citizens of some specified countries, including Pakistan and China, would, however, continue to require prior approval of the MHA before their visit to these three states.










Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland Excluded from Protected Area for Foreigners

Government of India Press release IST
Government has now decided to exclude the entire area of the States of Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland from the Protected Area regime notifiedunder the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958, initially for a period of one year. However, all foreigners visiting these States will have to register themselves with the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of the District they visit within 24 hours of their arrival. Citizens of some specified countries would, however, continue to require prior approval of the Ministry of Home Affairs before their visit to these three States.

Indian Missions/Posts have also been authorized to issue ‘Missionary Visa’ to foreign Missionaries visiting these three States as per the extant guidelines of the Government. These changes will ease the difficulties being faced by foreigners to visit these three States.
These instructions would come into force with effect from 1st of January, 2011.
Foreigners no longer need permit to visit 3 N-E states
A day after opening up visa-on-arrival scheme for four more countries, the government on Friday decided to allow foreigners to visit Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland without the need of obtaining a Protected Area Permit as required now.
A Home Ministry statement said the government had decided to exclude the entire area of these three states from the Protected Area regime, notified under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958 for a period of one year from January 1, 2011.
As of now, foreigners require a protected area permit to visit some parts of these states — as also some other areas in Jammu and Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh and Andaman and Nicobar Islands — that are considered to be sensitive in nature from the country’s security point of view. Even Indian citizens are required to take Inner Line Permits to visit some of these areas.
N-E all set to turn a new leaf of peace in 2011 Manan Kumar Express News Service
NEW DELHI: The troubled North-East seems all set to turn a new leaf - of peace - in the New Year. To begin with, the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (anti-talks faction) has given a unilateral offer to cease all hostilities for the next six months.
Headed by jailed leader Ranjan Daimary, the group has lately been responsible for the spate of killings of non-Assamese people living in Assam.
Sources said that the unilateral offer is the result of the huge pressure mounted by the security forces on the dwindling NDFB cadre. Topping it is the conducive atmosphere for peace talks with the Ulfa which are slated to begin any time in January.
Sources said that about 30 middle-rung leaders of the Ulfa are expected to surrender in early January to pave the way for lasting peace in Assam and with Anup Chetia expected to join the peace talks, commander in-chief Paresh Baruah, currently hiding in north Myanmar, would be relegated to oblivion.
There are growing signs of coming around from the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) also. The rebel group is on the backfoot after the expose of one of its top leaders Antony Shimrey hobnobbing with China by giving top secret information of strategic deployments in the North-East and ordering armaments worth `31 crore from a Chinese arms manufacturer.
With pressure being mounted on the NSCN(IM), its co-founder and chairman Isak Chisi Swu is also slated to come back to India soon with his family. As there is growing feeling that Thuingaleng Muivah does not belong to Nagaland and the NSCN (IM) getting exposed, the rebel group is likely to come around for settling the issue with the Government of India in near future.
Buoyed up by the developments, India has decided to open up Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland for foreigners to visit without any permit that was a prerequisite so far. The move, government expects, will open up the tourism potential of these states thus helping locals to rejuvenate their economy.


Frans on 01.01.11 @ 11:01 PM CST [link]




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