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Saturday, March 26th

Remove Assam Rifles from Zeliangrong land morungexpress

Remove Assam Rifles from Zeliangrong land

morungexpress

Dimapur | March 25 : Zeliangrongs today questioned the Assam Rifles if they had “no work” because of ceasefires and were using “encounters” to vie for promotions. “Is it incumbent for an army officer to concoct a stage encounter and eliminate any member of a revolutionary group who has been in ceasefire with the government of India for his promotion?” questioned Zeliangrong Baudi, Manipur and All Zeliangrong Students’ Union of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland in a petition to the Prime Minister of India. They demanded that “the 11 Assam Rifles should immediately be transferred out of Tamenglong (renamed Inriangluang) district and Zeliangrong areas so that the tranquility of the district and areas is maintained.”
Question for army authorities—Are “encounters” a means for promotions?
Through the petition to Dr. Manmohan Singh the organizations disparaged 11th Assam Rifles under the command of Col. Chokar accusing him of being high handed and attempting to breach peaceful atmosphere on March 13, by arresting George Gonmei, ‘joint secretary’ of finance section of NSCN/GPRN on wrongful allegation and against the ground rules of the Indo-Naga peace process according to which Naga areas including Tamenglong district comes under the ambit of the ceasefire.
“The sole intention of the Colonel was to eliminate George on fake encounter, however timely intervention from the public had saved his life,” stated the petition signed jointly by Tahemang Panmei, vice chairman, Zeliangrong Baudi Manipur, Poupoklung Kamei, convener, Zeliangrong Baudi, Imphal zone and Pamei Tingenlung, president, All Zeliangrong Students’ Union, Assam, Manipur and Nagaland.
That George was arrested on false charges was amply demonstrated when the law court vindicated his right and granted a bail on March 18, it stated, adding that the high handed actions of the 11 AR was thus exposed before the public.
The Zeliangrong organizations alleged the Assam Rifles having a “spirit of vengeance” because the para-military force has filed an FIR with Tamenglong police station against civil society leaders like Mrs. Nambonliu, Mrs. Priscilla, Mrs. Teresa, Ejumy, Damchuilung, Keibonang and Dingsung.
Is “supporting the ongoing peace process between the GOI and the NSCN” a criminal act, questioned the Naga leaders. They questioned whether India considered both groups of the NSCNs as “terrorists”? They wondered if the peace talks are then “fake”.“Why is the 11 AR hell-bent in creating problem in peaceful areas like Tamenglong district and other Zeliangrong areas” when “the GOI has excluded both groups of NSCN from the list of terrorists,” the petition said.
Recalling earlier incidents involving the said unit of the Assam Rifles, the petition spoke of a raid on the official residence of SDO Tousem sub-division Dinguanglung Gangmei at Tamenglong headquarters in 2010. Col. Chonkar of the Assam Rifles had allegedly humiliated a group of Zeliangrong leaders after the military officer himself invited them to meet a Brigadier.
When the Naga leaders came into the office of the Brigadier they were told that the military man cannot give an audience “because he is the boss there.” “He (Col. Chonkar) even proclaimed that he (Brigadier) was all in all and he can even eliminate anybody anytime”.
The Zeliangrong organisations alleged that the Assam Rifles were using these provocations and incidences to influence their own “promotions” because “there is no work for the (Indian) security forces” because of ceasefires. The 11 AR would like to create Naga areas similar to Jammu and Kashmir. Its activities are anti to peaceful environment, it stated further.
“Therefore, we demand that the 11 AR should immediately be transferred out of Tamenglong district and Zeliangrong areas so that the tranquility of the district is maintained,” the petition said, adding that in the event of failure to look into the demand Zeliangrong public will be compelled to take up democratic means of agitation.
(With inputs from Newmai News Network)

Naga Political issue at top agenda of DAN govt The telegraph Our Correspondent
Kohima Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today stated that the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) government has always kept the Naga political issue at the top of its agenda.
“It has always been, and it will continue to be, our policy to facilitate a peaceful and permanent resolution of the Naga political issue in a manner that is honorable and acceptable to the people,” Rio said in his budget speech at the assembly session here today.
Rio said the Nagaland Legislative Assembly has also taken the collective responsibility of facilitating the Naga peace process by forming the Joint Legislators Forum on the Naga political issue.
Stating that a Joint Parliamentary Working Committee has also been formed to carry forward this collective responsibly, Rio appreciated all members of the House, especially the leader of opposition and other opposition friends who have risen above party considerations to facilitate formation of the JLF.
“As leader of the House, I thank you sir (Speaker- Kiyanilie Peseyie), for providing the crucial leadership in bringing together the entire House to a common platform for furthering the Naga political cause.
Rio also hoped that the commitment given by the Naga nationalist groups through the ‘Covenant of Reconciliation’ will be upheld at all cost.
Asserting that the enormous amount of hard work and sacrifice that has gone into the signing of the covenant should not be allowed to go waste, Rio appealed to the Naga nationalist groups to restrain their cadres from armed confrontations and to desist from provocative statements and accusation in the media, “that can jeopardize the on-going reconciliation process.”
“Let me remind everyone, both over-ground and underground, that this august House had passed unanimous resolutions on four occasions, expressing the desire of the Naga family to come together under one administrative umbrella through integration of all contiguous Naga inhabited areas,” Rio said adding that it is only through unity that our aspirations can be met.
Rio said a divided Naga family will never reach its goals. Unity can happen only if leaders can rise from being tribal, faction or party leaders to become true Naga leaders. We are at a crucial juncture of our political movement, and we cannot afford to let this opportunity slip away, Rio added.
Rio also thanked the civil societies, NGOs, church leaders and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation for their efforts and contributions towards the peace process.
The Chief Minister Rio expressed happiness that the Nagas living in Myanmar have finally been given political recognition. “We are happy for them and wish them well for their future,” Rio said.
The Naga Self Administered Zone (Autonomous Zone) was declared on 20th August 2010 by the Government of Myanmar. The Nagas of Myanmar participated in the Union of Myanmar general elections held on November 7, 2010. They now have representatives in the parliament and assembly representing the Naga people, Rio said.
Recently, a delegation for Nagaland led by parliamentary secretary Yitachu, MLA CL John, MLA Kipili Sangtam, commissioner and secretary M.K. Mero and some Naga businessman visited Yangon at the official initiation of Shwe Naung Yan Manufacturing Co. Ltd for building up closer social ties, cooperation and to explore business and trade opportunities.

Naga Political issue at top agenda of DAN govt Our Correspondent morungexpress
Kohima | : Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today stated that the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) government has always kept the Naga political issue at the top of its agenda.
“It has always been, and it will continue to be, our policy to facilitate a peaceful and permanent resolution of the Naga political issue in a manner that is honorable and acceptable to the people,” Rio said in his budget speech at the assembly session here today.
Rio said the Nagaland Legislative Assembly has also taken the collective responsibility of facilitating the Naga peace process by forming the Joint Legislators Forum on the Naga political issue.
Stating that a Joint Parliamentary Working Committee has also been formed to carry forward this collective responsibly, Rio appreciated all members of the House, especially the leader of opposition and other opposition friends who have risen above party considerations to facilitate formation of the JLF.
“As leader of the House, I thank you sir (Speaker- Kiyanilie Peseyie), for providing the crucial leadership in bringing together the entire House to a common platform for furthering the Naga political cause.
Rio also hoped that the commitment given by the Naga nationalist groups through the ‘Covenant of Reconciliation’ will be upheld at all cost.
Asserting that the enormous amount of hard work and sacrifice that has gone into the signing of the covenant should not be allowed to go waste, Rio appealed to the Naga nationalist groups to restrain their cadres from armed confrontations and to desist from provocative statements and accusation in the media, “that can jeopardize the on-going reconciliation process.”
“Let me remind everyone, both over-ground and underground, that this august House had passed unanimous resolutions on four occasions, expressing the desire of the Naga family to come together under one administrative umbrella through integration of all contiguous Naga inhabited areas,” Rio said adding that it is only through unity that our aspirations can be met.
Rio said a divided Naga family will never reach its goals. Unity can happen only if leaders can rise from being tribal, faction or party leaders to become true Naga leaders. We are at a crucial juncture of our political movement, and we cannot afford to let this opportunity slip away, Rio added.
Rio also thanked the civil societies, NGOs, church leaders and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation for their efforts and contributions towards the peace process.
The Chief Minister Rio expressed happiness that the Nagas living in Myanmar have finally been given political recognition. “We are happy for them and wish them well for their future,” Rio said.
The Naga Self Administered Zone (Autonomous Zone) was declared on 20th August 2010 by the Government of Myanmar. The Nagas of Myanmar participated in the Union of Myanmar general elections held on November 7, 2010. They now have representatives in the parliament and assembly representing the Naga people, Rio said.
Recently, a delegation for Nagaland led by parliamentary secretary Yitachu, MLA CL John, MLA Kipili Sangtam, commissioner and secretary M.K. Mero and some Naga businessman visited Yangon at the official initiation of Shwe Naung Yan Manufacturing Co. Ltd for building up closer social ties, cooperation and to explore business and trade opportunities.
NSCN(K)rebels to preserve oil Times of India
TNN, DIMAPUR: The NSCN(Khaplang) has said that all mineral reserves in the Naga homeland belong to the indigenous people and extraction of natural resources by any company on their soil would be allowed only if it benefits the people and the future generations.
Stating that no politicians or groups of the day have any right to grant permission to exploration companies for extraction of minerals from Naga soil, the outfit added it does not recognize any MoU between parties for exploration at Champang oil fields in Wokha district of Nagaland. "Exploration and transportation of crude oil from Nagaland to other states is unacceptable as this would mean zero employment opportunity for Naga youths. A wealth that can run for hundred years will not be allowed to run dry in 10 years," it said.
Unfolding of Nagaland Rev. Sr. Angel Mary Morungexpress
It was by chance that a rare opportunity came my way to visit Nagaland. Born and brought up in the South, in a cozy, familiar set up, the very idea of a journey lasting three days in the train was a jolt-quite hard to stomach. However, I had the joy of traveling with a friendly group. The journey helped me, step by step to traverse the breath of India for the first time crossing seven states, many rivers and fields. Led so far away from my hometown was a sort of weaning of ties, no doubt leading to new friendships and horizons.
The short stay here has made me to realize the vastness of the land, mountains and hills turned to plains dotted with buildings many storeyed, well designed, and imposing enhancing the panorama.
During the first part of my stay I had the joy of reaching, seeing and being with the people of Shamator. People there, so far away, secluded from advancements are very friendly, warm, courteous and industrious. My visit to families needs a special mention. Invariably, every home keeps the fire alive and I was given a seat close to the fire. While the exchanges go on, the mother prepares the tea and serves so respectfully. I couldn’t miss noticing orderliness in the kitchen. It is simply outstanding. Every object in its place, arranged neatly makes the place very clean and tidy. However simple the setting, cleanliness is outstanding. The family tie is strong and the children are cared for.
The idea of two meals a day was very new to me. In the south we have three meals and two mid breaks. Here, a good morning meal, with interviewing cups of tea and an early supper brings the day to a close. Power failure may be one reason too. On the first morning I was served rice, dhal, beans (Kholar) and a non-vegetable item. Spending time with children in the school, teaching and playing with them, the stomach had lost its timely pinch. I was surprised to see myself at ease with the pattern of life.
Their concept of time though, seems different. Punctuality is set aside, instead they patiently wait for the gathering and it is only when all are present, is it the time to start whatever the activity. Time moves very slowly here.
Though the catholic community in Shamator town under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Francis Yimso is an evolving one, their capacity of the group for organization, sharing and carrying out responsibility was very inspiring. Though apparently simple they were basically very efficient indeed. This was most evident when the two day seminar on Evangelization was conducted by Rev. Fr. Benny and his team, on 18th and 19th of this month. The attendance was astounding and the participation was very good and the activities were interesting. The hospitality of the villagers to receive, accommodate and serve meals in small units was excellent.
Our hosts Rev Fr. Carolus, the Vicar General and the fathers of the Bishop’s House were too generous and thoughtful, planning to give varied experiences to the maximum particularly in the town area. Visit to different private schools was enchanting. Smartly clad in bright colored uniforms with shoes, ties, ribbons, the children look like beautiful dolls. Their smile and gentle way of responding are magical. The training and discipline inculcated will surely take them to great heights in the future.
The numerous churches stand aloft with its tall roof soaring towards heaven, inviting and reminding the people of Divinity. The bustle around the church, grouping of houses, shops etc acclaim that God is the center and our human life revolves around Him. Faith and life seem to be intermingled.
St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama is the only college that I visited. The imposing structure neatly maintained announces loudly the strenuous toil of the founders, their fore-sight in visualizing and achieving step by step, the glory it is now to the Land. Higher Education will surely make the youth of Nagaland to soar high in the future.
“Windows to heritage” (Kisama) is one spot which no one can afford to miss seeing. To me it was a treat to the eye, mind and soul. Cultured people take pride in their heritage. Tastefully they display their artistic talent using bamboo. Though the material is the same, the varied patterns, designs and the use of it for different purposes clearly display their creativity. Their bravery is exhibited powerfully. If a visit, on an ordinary day could inspire so much, I can guess the grandeur when the festival is held in the 1st week of December. The architectural display of patterns of building, supporting systems and decorative roofing are very advanced and is enchanting to behold. To anyone with an artistic slant, this centre of heritage is a colossal and authentic display of information.
However the journey from place to place cannot be overlooked. It is so very time consuming and tedious. The roads no doubt can be improved. All the same I’m thankful for the present roads; they give a chance also to view the panorama of the land. The winding roads of the hills make connectivity possible. Thanks to the laborers and engineers of the past.

Nagaland of nobility
Always abloom with newness
Godly manifestation of infinite glory
Awesome in vastness and beauty,
Laudable in culture, rich ad varied
Adorning the past glory with
Newer horizons to achieve
Daring and doubtless, a new era to unfold!

Separate state issue dominates Nagaland assembly PTI | IBN
Kohima, Mar 25 (PTI) The demand for creation of a separate state by Eastern Nagaland People's Organisation (ENPO) today took the centre-stage in the assembly during the debate on the governor's address.Expressing concern over ENPO's memorandum to the prime minister demanding creation of Eastern Nagaland comprising four border districts, the opposition Congress members asked the state government to ponder over the issue and redress the grievances of the people of border areas of Nagaland.Participating in the discussion, former chief minister K L Chishi said the issue needed attention of the government and it should be nipped in the bud before it took a serious turn threatening the integrity of the state.Senior Congress member H Chuba Chang, who is from border district of Tuensang, said ENPO issue had been a long standing problem in the region and it needed attention.Chang pointed out that out of 30,000 gazetted officers in the state, the four districts combined have only 300 such officers and there was serious discrimination against fund allocation for this backward border region.In this connection he pointed out that the Article 371-A of the Constitution categorically mentioned that the fund allotted by Centre for Nagaland should be equally divided among the three districts of Tuensang, Mokokchung and Kohima.There were only three districts at the time of creation of Nagaland.Apok Jamir said although the government created a separate department for backward areas namely DUDA in 2003, in the past eight years it failed to live up to the expectations of the people of the border areas.
Don’t break up state: Pusa
OUR CORRESPONDENT
Kohima, March 25: Congress lawmaker K.V. Pusa while opposing the disintegration of Nagaland urged the state government to safeguard the territorial integrity of the state in the Assembly today.
Raising a supplementary question on demand for a separate state by the Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organisation (ENPO), Pusa said like the neighbouring states, the Nagaland government should also stand firm against the disintegration of the state.
But at the same time he urged the state government to address the grievances of the people of the four districts of Mon, Kiphire, Longleng and Tuensang.
“Like the neighbouring states, safeguard the integrity of our state,” he said.
He said there are 20 MLAs from four districts out of which 14 are with the ruling Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) and urged them to work in a united manner for eastern Nagaland.
He also called upon the MLAs from eastern Nagaland to contribute for the welfare of the state so that Nagas could progress equally adding that they should strengthen the state rather then fight for their rights the Congress leader said.
Chief minister Neiphiu Rio said ENPO had submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister for a separate state for the people of four districts and a copy of which was also submitted to Union home minister P. Chidambaram.
He said the organisation had handed over a copy to the Nagaland governor but both the ministry of home affairs and the governor wrote to the state government to offer its views and comments.
The state government is not privy to the reason for such a demand he told the House.
He said the demand for a separate state is a very serious issue and therefore the cabinet had met to appeal to the ENPO to reconsider its demand.
Rio in his budget speech also said government was aware of the feelings and genuine grievances of the people and would address them with all sincerity and seriousness.
While it is for the Centre to decide the issue of granting statehood, it is sad to think of the further division of the Nagas.
He urged the people to remember that history would judge them for all their decisions and actions at this critical juncture.
“Let us be careful to see that we don’t throw away all the gains achieved through years of our collective struggle, hard work and sacrifice,” Rio said.
He said he was aware that it was not possible for him to adequately and satisfactorily address all the issues and problems being faced by the people of eastern Nagaland in a short span of time.
He, however, said they were firm and unwavering in their commitment to bring about speedy and equitable development to the people of eastern Nagaland and to remove the feelings of neglect and discrimination being felt by them.
On law and order, Pusa said, “A peaceful atmosphere alone does not guarantee long-term security, which is a prerequisite for all-round development. The efforts of all governmental and non-governmental agencies and organisations working towards unity and reconciliation is appreciable, but a permanent settlement of the issues relating to factors creating divisions in our society will require long-term solutions,” the Congress leader said.
He said this would not happen if the government failed to identify its place and role in the matter and shift its responsibility to the NGOs and the indigenous hohos alone.
Pusa said the role played by Forum for Naga Reconciliation might have been effective for now but in the long run the sustenance of its efforts would depend on the government policies.
He insisted that the government should go much beyond extension of support and commitment to facilitate the peace process.
“It is the responsibility of the government to make policies that are conducive to peace and to run its administrative organs effectively for the maintenance of peace,” Pusa said.
On the development front, he opined that emerging regionalism has been on the rise in a small state like Nagaland on the premise of inequitable distribution and development.
This reflects the failure of the government machinery in recognising the grievances and needs of the backward areas in time.
“If we want to retain the unity of our small political family it is imperative the government immediately take up remedial measures to address the grievances of the eastern Nagas,” Pusa said.
He said the approach of the government should not be to appease backward areas with sops in terms of economic packages alone, but developmental projects that challenges the people of those areas, recognising their talents and local resources should be taken up.
He said the government should not encourage regionalism in backward areas and get rid of identification on regional or tribal basis. Instead economic and developmental yardstick should be used.
On the much talked about Article 371(A), Pusa said it would be wrong to think that this Article hampered fast economic growth in the state in regard to land and its resources.
But he said this empowers lawmakers to decide on the development of Nagaland and its resources.
“As members of a democratically elected Assembly, we cannot blame the people whom we represent for not being able to exercise our powers in the exploration and utilisation of our rich natural resources for the benefit of the people,” Pusa told the Assembly.
He said in doing so they should maintain proper balance between economic benefits and the environment consequences, otherwise, in the long run it may have negative impact on the future of Nagaland and its people.
Remove Assam Rifles from Zeliangrong land
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Dimapur | March 25 : Zeliangrongs today questioned the Assam Rifles if they had “no work” because of ceasefires and were using “encounters” to vie for promotions. “Is it incumbent for an army officer to concoct a stage encounter and eliminate any member of a revolutionary group who has been in ceasefire with the government of India for his promotion?” questioned Zeliangrong Baudi, Manipur and All Zeliangrong Students’ Union of Assam, Manipur and Nagaland in a petition to the Prime Minister of India. They demanded that “the 11 Assam Rifles should immediately be transferred out of Tamenglong (renamed Inriangluang) district and Zeliangrong areas so that the tranquility of the district and areas is maintained.”
Question for army authorities—Are “encounters” a means for promotions?
Through the petition to Dr. Manmohan Singh the organizations disparaged 11th Assam Rifles under the command of Col. Chokar accusing him of being high handed and attempting to breach peaceful atmosphere on March 13, by arresting George Gonmei, ‘joint secretary’ of finance section of NSCN/GPRN on wrongful allegation and against the ground rules of the Indo-Naga peace process according to which Naga areas including Tamenglong district comes under the ambit of the ceasefire.
“The sole intention of the Colonel was to eliminate George on fake encounter, however timely intervention from the public had saved his life,” stated the petition signed jointly by Tahemang Panmei, vice chairman, Zeliangrong Baudi Manipur, Poupoklung Kamei, convener, Zeliangrong Baudi, Imphal zone and Pamei Tingenlung, president, All Zeliangrong Students’ Union, Assam, Manipur and Nagaland.
That George was arrested on false charges was amply demonstrated when the law court vindicated his right and granted a bail on March 18, it stated, adding that the high handed actions of the 11 AR was thus exposed before the public.
The Zeliangrong organizations alleged the Assam Rifles having a “spirit of vengeance” because the para-military force has filed an FIR with Tamenglong police station against civil society leaders like Mrs. Nambonliu, Mrs. Priscilla, Mrs. Teresa, Ejumy, Damchuilung, Keibonang and Dingsung.
Is “supporting the ongoing peace process between the GOI and the NSCN” a criminal act, questioned the Naga leaders. They questioned whether India considered both groups of the NSCNs as “terrorists”? They wondered if the peace talks are then “fake”.“Why is the 11 AR hell-bent in creating problem in peaceful areas like Tamenglong district and other Zeliangrong areas” when “the GOI has excluded both groups of NSCN from the list of terrorists,” the petition said.
Recalling earlier incidents involving the said unit of the Assam Rifles, the petition spoke of a raid on the official residence of SDO Tousem sub-division Dinguanglung Gangmei at Tamenglong headquarters in 2010. Col. Chonkar of the Assam Rifles had allegedly humiliated a group of Zeliangrong leaders after the military officer himself invited them to meet a Brigadier.
When the Naga leaders came into the office of the Brigadier they were told that the military man cannot give an audience “because he is the boss there.” “He (Col. Chonkar) even proclaimed that he (Brigadier) was all in all and he can even eliminate anybody anytime”.
The Zeliangrong organisations alleged that the Assam Rifles were using these provocations and incidences to influence their own “promotions” because “there is no work for the (Indian) security forces” because of ceasefires. The 11 AR would like to create Naga areas similar to Jammu and Kashmir. Its activities are anti to peaceful environment, it stated further.
“Therefore, we demand that the 11 AR should immediately be transferred out of Tamenglong district and Zeliangrong areas so that the tranquility of the district is maintained,” the petition said, adding that in the event of failure to look into the demand Zeliangrong public will be compelled to take up democratic means of agitation.
(With inputs from Newmai News Network)
Mother of insurgencies or reinvention? M. S. Prabhakara The Hindu
PTI In this May 2010 file photo, supporters of Thuingaleng Muivah, general secretary NSCN(IM), blocking National Highway No. 39 in protest against Manipur government's decision to prevent its leader from visiting his home town Ukhrul, in Senapati.
Has the Naga insurgency come to terms with its unrealised and, indeed, unrealisable sovereignty aspirations?
In the early 1980s (when this correspondent returned to Guwahati as working journalist after an eight-year absence), insurgency in the northeast was limited to Nagaland, parts of Manipur and what was then the Union Territory of Mizo Hills. In Nagaland, the Naga National Council (NNC), political face of the oldest of the insurgencies in the region, was led by Angami Zapu Phizo, then in exile in Britain. Despite the challenge posed by a faction of the NNC that had recently split after much rancour on both sides and formed itself into the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN), the NNC remained the dominant voice of Naga nationalistic assertion. In Manipur, Naga insurgency was active those days in the Naga-inhabited hill districts mainly in Tamenglong, while in the Imphal Valley, several outfits, some of them fighting one another as much as the Indian state, were active: the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), the Peoples' Liberation Army (PLA), the People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) and the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP). In the Union Territory of Mizo Hills, the Mizo National Front (MNF) arrived at the Talk-Talk-Fight-Fight stage, and was on the way to give up its secessionist agenda, sign a peace accord and become a legitimate party of the government. Insurgency had not become a generalised fact of life in the region including Assam, though formally the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) had been founded in April 1979.
The objectives of all these organisations, including the nascent ULFA, were broadly the same: independence and sovereignty, the restoration of sovereignty that ‘lapsed' to the people these organisations claimed to represent when the British left India but which India refused to concede.
The undeniable historical fact underlying this idea of ‘restoration of sovereignty' as against the ‘demand for sovereignty' is that beginning with the British annexation of Assam following the defeat of Burma in 1826 in the First Anglo-Burmese War, the colonial government had embarked on consolidating the boundaries of these newly acquired vast territories, progressively annexing more of these borderlands and extending its own boundaries. The annexation process was neither painless nor fair; nor even conclusive, the last most evident in the description of some of the ‘new' territories in the old maps as “excluded,” “partially excluded” and “unadministered” areas. The bland bureaucratic prose of the introductory chapter of the Assam Land Revenue Manual says it all.
However, received wisdom had it even those days that the resolution of Naga insurgency was central to resolving other insurgencies, actual and incipient. Long before such disaffection manifested itself among other people of the region, tribal and non-tribal, Phizo himself had tried on the eve of Independence to enlist the support of the largest and most advanced of the people, the Assamese, as well as other tribal people who, in course of time, were to form the core of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya and Mizoram — the last two then politically and administratively part of Assam — for realising his plan for an Independent Nagaland. He also urged them to seek an independent status outside India.
Being the oldest insurgency in the region, which had also lent some material support to other disaffected elements, this perception was somewhat justified. This has been especially so since the NNC split and the formation of the NSCN in early 1980. Even though the NSCN in due course also split into two factions, and the NNC has refused to fade away, the NSCN (I-M) bearing the initials of chairman Isak Swu and general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah remains the dominant voice of the sovereignty aspirations of the Naga people.
However, all these insist that settlement of the “Naga political issue,” that is restoration of Naga sovereignty and independence — the resolution of what has come to be known in the Naga nationalist rhetoric as “the mother of all insurgencies” in the region — is central to resolving the other problems in the region.
This perspective has been expressed several times by Muivah since the NSCN (I-M) began talking directly to the Government of India nearly 15 years ago. During this period, the NSCN (I-M) leaders have met several Prime Ministers in foreign lands and in India, and have had prolonged dialogue with ‘interlocutors,' initially in cities in Europe and South East Asia, and later in Delhi. Peace of a kind has prevailed in Nagaland and in the Naga inhabited areas of Manipur, though the “Naga political issue” remains unresolved. The other side of this peace is the parallel administration of the NSCN (I-M), which is evident to the most casual visitor to Nagaland and the Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur. Perhaps one can see this as the Naga people's unique way of reconciling the irreconcilable, the “resolution of the Naga political issue” without actually getting the lost sovereignty restored. By simply putting these tricky issues on the back burner, the State government and the Government of the People's Republic of Nagalim coexist in Kohima and near Dimapur. Situations where legitimately constituted State governments face challenges far more dire prevail in many parts of eastern and central India.
How has this unique “resolution of the Naga political issue” impinged on the ferment in the rest of the region? Has the “mother of all insurgencies” in the region, whose leaders now travel on Indian passports with all implications of securing such a document, come to terms with its unrealised and indeed unrealisable sovereignty aspirations and injected a dose of realism into the sovereignty aspirations of other groups with far less legitimate claims than the Naga people who, under Phizo, formally declared Independence on August 14, 1947?
One significant development in the insurgency scenario is the “arrest” of senior leaders of ULFA and their resolve to hold talks with the Government of India without any precondition. Another is the “arrest” of UNLF chairman Rajkumar Sanayaima, who maintains that he was abducted by Indian agents in Dhaka and brought to India. Unlike ULFA leaders who are on bail, Sanayaima remains in prison, defiant about not talking to the Government of India except on four preconditions being accepted, the core of which is a plebiscite under U.N. supervision to ascertain if the people of Manipur want to remain part of the country. The differences in the government's approach to the NSCN (I-M), the ULFA and the UNLF are as striking as is the relatively realistic approach of the first two which too were insisting that the core issue in any talks with the government had to be sovereignty. Like the lady in the song, the NSCN (I-M) and ULFA leaders kept saying they would never consent, and yet consented. Will the UNLF follow suit?
There are other interesting developments on the insurgency front. Since the mother of all insurgencies began speaking to the government, other insurgent or terrorist groups have become active; these outfits have survived and even prospered by their capacity to reinvent themselves, though not their stated aims and objectives, and are carrying on. The most curious instance of such reinvention is the path taken by Dima Halong Daoga (DHD), based in the North Cachar hills of Assam, one of the two Autonomous Hills Districts of the State, the other being Karbi Anglong where too the United Peoples Democratic Solidarity (UPDS), like almost every similar outfit, split into pro-talks and anti-talks factions. The DHD's reinvention of itself by using a section of the Indian state, in this case, the administration of the North Cachar Autonomous District Council, a constitutional body, to channel development funds meant for the district to itself, an outlawed outfit, is indeed breathtaking. The charge sheet by the National Investigative Agency available on http://nia.gov.in/niacases.aspx provides the most salutary education on the reinvention of insurgencies.

Frans on 03.26.11 @ 11:37 AM CST [link]

Nobody can rob Naga rights: Swu Times of India

Nobody can rob Naga rights: Swu Times of India

DIMAPUR: NSCN (IM) chairperson Isak Chishi Swu has said the rights of the Nagas can neither be robbed of by invaders nor be stolen by any other power.

"We will never give up our rights which God has granted us. We will determine our own destiny," he said while addressing a gathering of people on the occasion of the outfit's 32nd "republic day" celebrations on Monday.

Expressing gratitude to the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) for ceaselessly working towards the reconciliation process, Swu said the NSCN(IM) has always been committed to the cause and has fought for the Nagas' "historical and political rights".

"Nagalim will always belong to the Nagas. The Nagas cannot be divided in order to please the enemies of solidarity," he said, stating that the Nagas should be reconciled and united "on the basis of the political and historical rights of Nagalim". Swu said the reconciliation was not for disintegration of Nagaland, but meant for unity and integrity of Nagalim. The NSCN (IM) chairman said they have been negotiating for peace with the Centre since 1997. "But until an honourable settlement is arrived at, the Nagas will continue to struggle. We will not give up our rights nor will we stop defending it."

Swu also expressed gratitude to international organizations for helping the NSCN(IM) to internationalize and to secure recognition of its cause. He asked people to not forget that Nagalim was divided and sub-divided and the present Nagaland state was just a part of it. "It is to think that Nagaland is one whole state. It is a misunderstanding and ignorance as Nagalim embraces all Naga ancestral domain," he added. About the rich cultural heritage of the Nagaland, the NSCN (IM) chief said this heritage had been a vital binding thread to keep the Nagas alive as a distinct nation.

Calling upon Nagas for "absolute solidarity", he said, "All Naga people should look forward to the formation of Nagalim with one mind and one voice." Swu also stressed upon establishing good relationships with neighbours and other nations and urged the Nagas not settle for a compromise at the expense of their national rights and principles when they seek interdependent relationship with any group or country.

He also called upon every citizen of Nagalim to participate in the struggle for the liberation of Nagalim and uphold the national cause.

The outfit's general secretary, Thuingaleng Muivah took time to explain the stand of the NSCN (IM) and the progress made in the talks with the Centre to resolve the Naga problem. He told the gathering that numerous talks with New Delhi had yielded positive results, including recognition of the unique history of the Nagas, which he said was a positive step towards finding a solution.

"If they don't follow the Naga history, we will not accept anything. There will be no solution," he said. Muivah informed the gathering that the NSCN leadership has rightly rejected anything short of sovereignty. The NSCN (IM) general secretary also said the Nagas had no right to blame the Centre always.

"There are issues for which the Nagas are to blame. Let's appreciate the Centre's to address our issues," he added.

Naga truce cell gets new chief OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, March 22: The Centre has appointed a new chairman of the ceasefire monitoring group after the tenure of Lt Gen. Mandhata got over in November last year. The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (I-M)), however, said it was not aware of any such development.
“We are not aware of it,” Samson Jojo, chief principal secretary of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN), told The Telegraph.
Nagaland director-general of police K. Kire said Lt Gen. Jacob had replaced Gen. Mandhata. “The new chairman of the ceasefire monitoring group will take charge by April 3,” Kire told this correspondent.
The NSCN (I-M) was completely unaware of the development in New Delhi, saying no such issue was raised in the cabinet meeting of the GPRN held today. The convener of the ceasefire monitoring cell of the NSCN (I-M), Phungthing Shimrang, also attended the meeting.
“He did not raise any such issue in today’s cabinet meeting,” Jojo said.
According to sources, the NSCN expressed strong resentment over the appointment of Gen. Jacob as the new chairman without informing them. Neither Gen. Mandhata nor Shimrang could be contacted for comments.
Kire expressed ignorance regarding the resentment of the NSCN (I-M). “I am not aware of the NSCN’s resentment regarding the appointment,” he said.
Kire said a meeting of the CMG would take place only after the new chairman took over.
The ceasefire monitoring group consists of representatives from the Centre, the state government, the army, the paramilitary forces, police and the NSCN (I-M). It enforces ceasefire ground rules and monitors violation of rules by the security forces and the outfit.
Is China Backing Indian Insurgents? IBN
A string of Chinese spies arrested in India suggests a willingness on the part of Chinese intelligence to covertly undermine peace negotiations between the NSCN-IM and the Indian government. Read the article in The Diplomat here:
The arrest in January of a Chinese spy who allegedly met insurgents in the northeast of the country suggests a broader effort to destabilize India.
On January 25, 2011, Wang Qing, a Chinese spy disguised as a TV reporter, was arrested and deported after she reportedly visited the headquarters of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) or NSCN-IM—one of India’s largest and most troublesome insurgent groups. Indian authorities said Qing admitted to being a spy for the People’s Security Bureau, a Chinese intelligence agency, and that she had conducted a secretive four-hour-long, closed-door meeting with Thuingaleng Muivah, a key rebel leader of the NSCN-IM who is currently holding reconciliation talks with the Indian government. The rebel group, however, insisted that it was holding talks with the Indian Government in good faith and that it hashad ‘no relations with China.’
While the news attracted little attention, it’s hard to see the incident as inconsequential for Sino-Indian relations, as it suggests potential links between China’s intelligence agencies with insurgent groups in India’s volatile Northeast region. More worrisome for New Delhi, though, is the fact that Qing’s case is only one of several recently that suggest an attempt by Beijing to step up efforts at undermining peace and increasing leverage over India as both countries grapple with sensitive
Nagaland Governor thanks tribal bodies for help in peace move PTI
Kohima, (PTI) Nagaland Governor Nikhil Kumar today said reports of factional hostilities among the Naga groups in places near eastern border of the state were causes of great concern amidst prevailing comparative peace in state.In his address on the opening day of budget session, Kumar thanked the tribal hoho (tribal apex body), NGOs and civil societies for their cooperation to the government to bring in peace during past three years but referred to reports of clashes among Naga factions in eastern border pockets.The governor appealed to all underground groups to desist from hostile acts and utterances, which "could fritter away the hard-earned relative peace." He reitereated the efforts of the government, its agencies, tribal hoho, churches, civil societies, especially Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), which contributed to the "most peaceful year in Nagaland in recent memories" as factional clashes and civilian casualties came down 'drastically.' Kumar said the state was committed to extend all support to the on-going peace process for an honorable settlement to the long drawn Naga political conflict.Referring to general law and order situation, the governor appreciated the roles of police and paramilitary forces in containing crimes.However, the presence of banned militant groups from outside the state and their activities continued to pose a challenge to the security agencies, especially in and around Dimapur, he observed.Kumar reminded the elected members of their responsibilities in providing effective leadership that could channelize people�s energy in 'productive pursuits.' "The state needs a leadership that inspires confidence among the public for productive activities," Kumar told the assembly.

Frans on 03.26.11 @ 10:42 AM CST [link]

Wednesday, March 23rd

Nobody can rob Naga rights: Swu Times of India

Tuesday, March 22nd

Muivah hopes for solution soon The Telegrap OUR CORRESPONDENT

Muivah hopes for solution soon The Telegrap
OUR CORRESPONDENT

Thuingaleng Muivah
Kohima, March 21: The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (I-M) today said solution to the decades-old Naga political problem was not far away, as the Centre had recognised the uniqueness of the Naga people’s history.
Addressing a mammoth gathering at the council’s headquarters — Camp Hebron — some 30km from Dimapur on the occasion of republic day of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim today, general secretary and chief negotiator of the NSCN (I-M), Thuingaleng Muivah, said New Delhi has already recognised the uniqueness of the Naga people’s history and therefore, solution to the over 60-year-old Naga problem was not far.
“The NSCN respects India and, therefore, the government of India should also respect Naga people,” Muivah said. He urged the people not to always think against the government of India but sometimes even appreciate them.
Muivah slammed the Khaplang group for backtracking from the agreement (Covenant of Reconciliation) signed in 2009. He accused the group of misleading the people even after NSCN (I-M) chairman Isak Chishi Swu and he had come to Nagaland to attend the high-level meeting initiated by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation and supported by dozens of Naga and foreign organisations.
Accusing the rival group of being a stumbling block in the reconciliation process, Swu said the Naga nation could not be destroyed by anyone and asserted that the NSCN (I-M) would never betray the people and would continue to uphold their rights and aspirations.
Without pointing fingers at anyone, Swu said the Naga nation could not be divided to please the enemies of Naga solidarity.
Both the NSCN (I-M) leaders have been accusing rival groups of working against the wishes of the Naga people.
He said the reconciliation process could not disintegrate Nagalim (Nagaland) further. “We should never forget that Nagalim was artificially divided and sub-divided into smaller pieces by our adversaries,” he said.
He also called for preservation of Naga culture and traditions, which have kept Nagas together for ages. He also called upon the people to look forward to a new Nagalim with one mind and one voice.
Several Naga leaders from different organisations, tribal hohos and churches, attended the programme.
Various Naga tribes and organisations presented a cultural show on the occasion, which also included a drill by the “Naga army”.
Naga Hoho appeals for reconciliation, unity Times of India TNN
DIMAPUR: The Naga Hoho the apex tribal body of Nagas has appealed to all Naga political groups to step into a era of "reconciliation" and "unity" as assured to the Nagas on various occasions. The appeal comes in the backdrop of the running feud between the two rival factions of the NSCN over the last few weeks.
The Naga Hoho also appealed to every group to re-examine if there was any other ethnic armed groups engaged in the "proxy" war in an effort to create misunderstanding and bloodshed among the Naga brethrens.
"Let us remember: To err is human' but to err consciously is not human'. A day may come when the entire Naga populace shall no longer be patience," it said.
The Naga Hoho, which had its executive council meeting in Kohima, held threadbare discussions over the continuing factional battle, imposition of illegal taxes by different groups upon the "first generation" Naga entrepreneurs, people who are sitting outside the state and siphoning off money from Nagaland without promoting Naga people's economic and social life and few other pertinent issues that beleaguers the Naga people.
Naga Hoho president Keviletuo Kiewhuo and general secretary P Chuba Ozukum said the meeting felt that Nagas were fed up with the skirmishes and disunity among the various factions.
Naga nationhood reaffirmed by NSCNs morungexpress

(LEft) Azheto Chophy, NPAC Convenor takes the salute on the 31st Republic Day celebration of the GPRN/NSCN at Camp Khehoi on Monday, March 21. (Morung Photo) (RIGHT)Chairman Isak Chishi Swu (centre), his lady wife Uster and General Secretary Th. Muivah of the NSCN/GPRN paying homage to departed colleagues at Camp Hebron on Monday March 21. (Sorei Mahong photo)
Disengagement linked to ‘forceful’ entry
DIMAPUR, MARCH 21 (MExN): The GPRN/NSCN today maintained that it appreciates the efforts for Naga unification. Stating the unification efforts as the lone principle of the organization, it though came with a catch.
While conveying greetings on the occasion of the 31st Republic Day celebration of the organization, a message from the president of the GPRN/NSCN, SS Khaplang thus read: “I appreciate Naga Unification and this is the lone principle of the GPRN but this nation will not cow down to traitors who come with loaded guns in the name of Unity and Reconciliation.” It also paid homage to all “the patriotic Naga Freedom Fighters who have laid down their lives for the Naga Freedom and today’s soldiers of Nagaland for Christ.”
The message from Khaplang was read out by Azheto Chophy, NPAC Convenor who was the chief guest at the celebrations held on Monday, March 21 at the outfit’s organizational headquarters - Camp Khehoi. On the recent ‘Highest Level Meeting’ proposed by the ‘Forum for Naga Reconciliation’ (FNR), the message stated that it was compelled to withdraw from the proposed meet for a number of reasons attributed to the rival NSCN\GPRN.
“… the back-stab on the NSCN by the IM gang leading to many attempts on the lives of the NSCN leaders, killing of cadres, robbing of NSCN’s weapons and forceful entry into Eastern Nagaland have compelled the GPRN to disengage itself from recent ‘Highest Level Meeting’ proposed by the FNR”. “… It makes no sense of having courtesy meeting with the reactionary forces and its leaders”, it added and demanded “thorough explanations to all recent terrorisms in the NSCN’s administered” regions. Terming as a ‘Herculean Task’ it nevertheless, appreciated the efforts of the FNR led by the Rev. Dr. Wati Aier, the Qaukers, North American Baptist Peace fellowship, Jimmy Carter Center and others, who have shouldered the uphill task of bringing peace and reconciliation among the Nagas.
Appreciating the ‘unilateral invitation’ for talks by the Indian Prime Minister and the Home Minister, it however stated that the GPRN/NSCN is yet to receive a bilateral invitation from the Government of India. “Further, the NSCN will not sit alongside with the Reactionary Forces, the IM gang to hold any political dialogue with India.”
It stated that the Nagas are being misled by the Indian-sponsored Lodhi spokesperson on Sovereignty and Political Dialogue. “Negotiations will lead to a fatal fall in politics and the survival of a nation can only be determined firstly, by the National Hoho, the Plebiscite by the people or an assurance of Sovereignty by the occupational countries. The GPRN is politically sincere in these commitments and is prepared to give the Nagas a befitting price, a settlement for Sovereignty. This government will not permit any Naga Freedom fighters to pay any tribute to the betrayers and traitors or of any graves of Shillong Accordist.”
Alleging its rival NSCN/GPRN of being sponsored by ‘occupational India from the Lodhi Estate in Delhi’, it stated the NSCN/GPRN “have been trained to play the second role of the Indian Army against the NSCN.” “… the IM gang has settled for an Internal solution (32 points) now clearly recorded as the autonomous Council of the Hill Areas in Manipur and this is a daring challenge to the Meitei revolutionary organisations in Kangleipak. Stating it understands the internal problem of neighbouring Manipur, it added that GPRN/NSCN will not allow any Indian-sponsored forces to destroy the Sovereignty of Manipur.
Remarking on the demands of the All Tribal Students’ Union of Manipur, All Naga Students’ Association of Manipur, United Naga Council Manipur, Tirap and Changlang Public Organisations, Eastern Naga People’s Organisation for what it termed as ‘Union Territory’ status and the Kukis for Sadar Hills in Manipur; “Naga Hoho for the Tenemiya, SARK for Zunheboto, Mokokchung, Wokha, Tseminyu and Dimapur”, it asserted: “I will not allow any civil society to challenge the integrity of the NSCN or accept the revivalism of the fate of Imkongliba’s 16th Point Agreement.”
Lauding the move for unification initiated by the by the Ato Kilonser, N. Kitovi Zhimomi with the FGN (Shingnya), NNC (Senka) and the PSG, it stated: “My government is prepared to review these issues at the party level and bring formal system to end all forms of crisis.”
It further conveyed ‘nationalistic greetings’ to all the ‘Revolutionary Organisations’ of Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, Arunagachina, Tripura and Meghalaya. “The relationship maintained with UNLF, ULFA, NDFB, KYKL, PLA, KCP, UPPKF, PREPAK, KCP, ATTF, HNLC, CNF and many organizations inside India and Myanmar will be strengthened.”
Kitovi says NSCN/GPRN responsible for tension
DIMAPUR, MARCH 21 (MExN): Ato Kilonser of GPRN/NSCN, N. Kitovi Zhimomi today accused NSCN/GPRN general secretary Th. Muivah for what he asserted as sabotaging the ongoing reconciliation process and held Muivah responsible for setting off tension in Eastern Nagaland.
Addressing the 31st Republic Day celebration of the organization at Camp Khehoi on Monday, March 21 stated that the ongoing conflict in Eastern Nagaland has rendered the proposed ‘Highest Level Meeting as a waste of time. “Even as we celebrate our republic day here today, let it be known that out there in the eastern part of our state some village is being burnt down or some of our brothers are being killed in a war.” The NSCN/GPRN will be answerable to the Nagas as well as the Lord God, he maintained.
Muivah’s ruling out of the ‘inclusiveness of all Naga inhibited areas’ pre-condition for the ongoing political talks with the Government of India, Kitovi averred, the former has excluded himself from the Naga political process. He added that the ruling out was done in the presence of the FNR.
He nevertheless insisted that the GPRN/NSCN does not in any way oppose the ongoing talks between the NSCN/GPRN and the GoI. “We have never opposed and never will we. But it should be noted that the talks are between the NSCN and the GoI and not between Nagaland and GoI.
Kilo Kilonser, Hothrong Yimchunger toeing a similar line of attack said: “Outwardly they say Nagas are a people bound by common vision yet inwardly there are individuals who preach reconciliation in Nagaland and deploy armed men at another place.”
Justifying the deferment of the ‘Highest Level Meeting’, he said that the president SS Khaplang “visibly upset by the sudden appearance of armed intruders in eastern Nagaland”, pleaded for its deferment.
“When a section of people sabotage on their commitments and continue to deny facts, I am of the opinion that the Naga people spearheaded by the FNR, Hohos and civil societies must choose and depute men with integrity as observer teams to any part of Naga homeland and inform the Naga people as to who is for reconciliation and who is violating the Covenant of Reconciliation,” he said.
Reconciliation not at nation’s cost
DIMAPUR, MARCH 21 (MExN): NSCN/GPRN ‘Yaruiwo’ (President/chairman) Isak Chishi Swu has reiterated the NSCN’s commitment to Naga Reconciliation based on the historical and political rights of the Nagas.
Addressing the 32nd Republic Day celebration of the NSCN/GPRN at Hebron Camp, some 40kms from Dimapur, Monday, the NSCN chairman said that Naga people should be reconciled and united around the political and historical rights of Nagalim. “Naga reconciliation is not for disintegration of Nagalim. It is meant for unity and integrity of Nagalim. What shall we achieve if we reconcile ourselves to the plots of the enemies?” Swu asked.
Conveying gratitude to the Forum for Naga Reconciliation for “ceaselessly working hard for Naga Reconciliation,” the NSCN leader reminded that Naga nation cannot be divided in order to please the enemies of Naga solidarity. He also expressed gratitude to the international organizations for helping Nagas to internationalize and secure recognition of the “righteousness of our cause.” Swu said that there are still Naga people who, like some of the Israelites, complained during their journey to the “Promised Land”: “We told you to leave us alone and let us go on being slaves of the Egyptians.
It would be better to be slaves there than to die here in the desert.” (Exodus 14:12)
“The choice of fighting against their own fellow citizens in collaboration with the enemies is not at all the will of God. All must come back to the national mainstream,” he said. The NSCN leader also said that the need of the hour is “absolute solidarity” among the Nagas and that all Nagas should look forward to the “new Nagalim” with one mind and one voice.
He also said that in the present world, no nation can live in isolation as all countries are interdependent and therefore the need for Nagas to establish good relationship with neighbours and other nations.
The Yaruiwo however maintained that Nagas will never go for any compromise at the expense of their national rights and principles while seeking “interdependent relationship” with any people or country.
Swu further said that until an “honourable settlement” to the Naga issue is arrived, the Naga people will continue to struggle.
Asserting that standing on their rights, Nagas will decide their destiny, he added, “We will not give up our rights nor will we stop defending it.”
NSCN/GPRN general secretary Th Muivah in his message also said that it was time for Nagas to understand and appreciate each other and that the NSCN is willing to talk of “Reconciliation” with any group that is ready and can stand. “If we go according to way of people, Reconciliation is impossible. Only through way and will of God is Reconciliation possible,” he said.
Reacting to reports of the rival GPRN/NSCN decision not to take part in the “highest level meeting” of the Naga political groups and allegations of NSCN/GPRN “offensive” and “betrayal” of Naga people, Muivah said that, “When the time for talks come, they try to escape or make excuses.”
“They harp about Naga history but (it) is we who have talked about Naga history for more than ten years. Since when did we betray Naga history or the Naga people?” he asked.
Highlights of the celebration included unfurling of the Naga “national flag” by the Yaruiwo, a 2-minute silence led by CNC vice president Rev. A Puni in remembrance of the fallen comrades, cultural dance by Sumi troupe and special numbers by Galilee Choir and others.
The celebration was also marked by the presence of two living legends of the Naga struggle from Rengma area- 86-year-old Mrs. Lathon Kemp who weaved the first Naga flag by using indigenous threads and 84-year-old Yhunshile Semp who painted the rainbow and star on the flag.
This flag was raised during the first Naga Republic Day celebration on 22nd February 1956 in Rengma Region.
India is changing: Muivah
DIMAPUR, MARCH 21 (MExN): After 14 years of truce and more than 60 rounds of peace talks between the Government of India and NSCN/GPRN, a breakthrough seems to be in the air as the NSCN today disclosed that there is a “significant change” in India’s approach to the Naga issue.
“Allow me to say that there is a significant change in their (India’s) approach. They no longer ignore the rights and history of the Naga people,” said NSCN general secretary Th Muivah.
The NSCN leader in a message to the Naga public on the occasion of the 32nd Republic Day celebration of the NSCN/GPRN, said that the question now is how much sovereignty can Nagas exercise and how much sovereignty can India exercise.
Muivah who is the chief negotiator of the NSCN/GPRN in the ongoing political talks, said that after more than 13 years of talks and meetings with three Prime Ministers, India can no longer say that it doesn’t know the Nagas and their problems.
He said that after years of tough talks where the NSCN had persistently insisted that there can be no solution as long as Naga history and identity is not respected and as long as Nagas and their land are divided, Indian leaders have finally admitted that Naga history cannot be ignored.
And that is why three successive Indian Prime Ministers including late Narasimha Rao, AB Vajpayee and Manmohan Singh, have also assured of a solution “honourable and acceptable” to both parties.
Muivah also said that during he and chairman Isak Chishi Swu’s recent meeting with Manmohan Singh, the latter proposed a solution through negotiations and not guns “outside the box” since Nagas have outrightly rejected any approach from the Indian Constitution.
“If we take the commitments of the three Prime Minister, solution may not be far off,” the NSCN leader said.
On earlier media reports that GoI will not talk about Naga “sovereignty and integration,” Muivah said, “We raised the issue some 2-3 years back and told them (GoI negotiators) that if that is the case, ‘you go your way, we will go our way,’”
Now, no question of sovereignty or integration is being raised, he added. Muivah however said it was his view that “Naga sovereignty Nagas alone and Indian sovereignty India alone is also difficult…now question is how much sovereignty Nagas can exercise and how much sovereignty India can exercise.”
He also said that Nagas cannot blame India all the time as Naga history has shown that Nagas have also committed a couple of great blunders in the past. Turning to the Naga people, Muivah said, “Unless Nagas take the right decision, we are a lost people. But as long as we stick to our rights, we are honourable and respectable people.”
The NSCN leader assured the Naga public that as per the commitment given to the Naga people during the 2004 consultative meeting, the NSCN will not go ahead on its own but always come back to the Naga public whenever any decision of national importance is to be taken.
Speech of Brig. (Retd.) S. Singnya, Kedahge, Federal Government of Nagaland FGN Morung Express
My Dear Country Men and Women,

I give thanks to our creator for this wonderful day and I also extend my heartfelt greetings to all beloved Nagas on this historic and joyous ocassion on the 56th Naga Republic Day.
Fifty Five years ago in 1956, on this day, based on the common ideals of Democracy, Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity, the Naga nation became a Republic, when the first Naga Tatar Hoho met and adopted the Naga Constitution. The first Tatar Hoho also brought together the divided Free Nagas led by Hongking Government and Naga National Council which led to the establishment the Federal Government of Nagaland, unanimously approved and adopted “Nagaland” as the name of our country and also adopted our National Flag in the same session.
On this momentous day, I salute and pay homage to our martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice for the cause of the Nation and the freedom fighters for the vision and their selfless services. May their undaunting spirit and selflessness continue to guide and strengthen us till we reach the destination of our common hope.
Our pillar and strength lie in the historic Declaration of Independence of 14th August, 1947 and the Plebiscite of 16th May, 1951 for a sovereign Nagaland, where 99.9% of our people voted in favour of complete independence. We continue to uphold this basing on our historical and political rights since the Nagas were not an integral part of India even at the time of her independence. The infamous Shillong Accord of 1975 has to be regarded as a ghost agreement and has nothing to do with the present Federal Government of Nagaland because it was total sell-out of the people’s rights. We are entrusted with the responsibility of upholding the spirit of nationalism.
Today, after years of bitter expereince of bloodshed and fratricidal killings, Nagas are now by the grace of God, marching together on the road towards Reconciliation, A Journey of Common Hope, initiated by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR). As we continue on this journey, it is the utmost duty of each and every national worker to adhere to the commitments made in the Covenant.
On the political development, the unconditional declaration of Monyakshu Conclave on 15th July, 2010 between the NNC/FGN and GPRN/NSCN, the Thanksgiving Programme held at Vihokhu Village on 5th August, 2010 and the Highest Level Meet of the NNC/FGN, GPRN/NSCN and NSCN/GPRN held on 18th September, 2010 at Dimapur under the aegis of FNR and the tripartite unconditional declaration of GPRN/NSCN, NNC/FGN and NNC held on 14th December, 2010 at Khehoyi Camp.
The Federal Governemnt of Nagaland is committed to uphold the people’s mandate. We also reaffirm our commitments to uphold the Covenant of Reconciliation based on the historical and political rights of the Nagas. The Federal Governement of Nagaland is aware that every Nation has a unique poitical history which is also true of the Nagas. Mere recognition of our unique history and situation by Governement of India after more than 6(six) decades of forceful occupation is like mockery. We should not forget the fact that we have sacrificed thousands of lives in defence of the Sovereignty of our Nation and not for mere recognition of uniqueness.
The Federal Governemnt of Nagaland is saddened by the natural calamity that occurred in Japan recenly on 11th March 2011 where many lives were lost and thousands rendered homeless due to the mega earthquake and the tsumani. At this diffucult time even though we cannot help them physically or materially our prayers are with them.
I congratulate the Civil Societies, Church Organisations, NGO’s and specially the Forum for Naga Reconciliation, whose tireless effort and selfless commitment to bring about peace in our Nags society through the grace of our Almighty God has led to cessation of senseless killings and fratricide. The horizon is brighter and I believe the day is not far off when the Nagas as one will fulfill our yearning desire and aspirations.

God bless Nagaland.
Kuknalim

Frans on 03.22.11 @ 01:59 PM CST [link]

Sunday, March 20th

Top NSCN (K) militant killed in Nagaland From ANI

Top NSCN (K) militant killed in Nagaland From ANI

Itanagar, Mar 19: J. Khonwang Thomas alias Chipu Menon, a "Brigadier" in the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Khaplang or NSCN (K), was killed in Nagaland's Mon District, according to Arunachal Pradesh Police.
The police recovered Thomas's dead body on Friday. The deceased was initially suspected to be murdered with a blunt object.

The post-mortem report, however, revealed that he was shot at point blank range, just below his right ear.

Reports claimed that militants belonging to the NSCN-K's rival faction killed him.

The National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isac-Muivah) or NSCN (IM), however, claimed it was not involved in the killing of Thomas.

The NSCN (K) allegedly runs camps along the Indo-Myanmar, where militants of other insurgent groups are also believed to be trained.

The NSCN came into being following the 1975 Shillong Accord, but it split into the NSCN (K) and NSCN (IM) factions in 1988, and there has been a bitter war between the two ever since.

Both factions have entered into an agreement with the Centre to suspended operations and house their cadre in designated camps in Nagaland.
An FIR has been lodged into the case and an investigation is in progress.
Situation In Eastern Nagaland Volatile, alleges NSCN(K) Times of India TNN
DIMAPUR: The NSCN(K) has claimed that several civilians including women and children have died in a mortar shell attack allegedly carried out by the NSCN(IM) at Hashik-Noknu village in eastern Nagaland (Mon and Tuensang districts in Nagaland and the Naga-inhabited areas of Myanmar).

A statement issued by P Tikhak, spokesperson of the NSCN-K's president's office, on Thursday added that about 80-90 of the 130 houses in the village were burnt to ashes following the attack.

It added that people in eastern Nagaland "are living in a state of shock and life has been paralyzed there". The NSCN(IM) also accused the rival action of using the reconciliation process to re-enter eastern Nagaland after a gap of 23 years. _

"It's unfortunate to see eastern Nagaland witnessing such a volatile situation. There's no doubt that NSCN(IM) is responsible for this," Tikhak said.

Taking a dig at the NSCN(IM) leadership, Tikhak said, "Isak and Muivah, whose hands are stained with the blood of innocent Nagas, will have to pay the price for the crime they have committed." He added: "Muivah is nothing but a self-proclaimed hero. How on earth can a man claim to be a saviour for others when he himself cannot visit his own hometown (Somdal)? He must repent for the crimes he has committed."

Tikhak's comment coincided with a report claiming that an NSCN(IM) cadre was killed in a factional clash in Phek district on Tuesday.

Incidentally, the Naga reconciliation process, initiated initiated by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), has run into a rough weather in the wake of the recent turf war between the rival NSCN groups in eastern Nagaland.

Following the recent between the two factions of the Naga rebel group, the NSCN (K) declared that the reconciliation process was a "closed chapter because of the NSCN(IM)".

"It is not worthwhile to stretch on the interaction on reconciliation if the people you approach are a confused lot and are not prepared to reconcile in true spirit. What is the use of holding reconciliation meeting if we cannot abide by the resolutions adopted?" Tikhak had earlier said.

The NSCN(K) spokesperson alleged that heavily armed NSCN (IM) rebels, led by "brigadier" Absolom Tangkhul alias Rockwang, came inside the NSCN(K)'s "base area" in eastern Nagaland, compelling Khaplang's men "to defend themselves against forceful intrusion".

"What is happening in eastern Nagaland is a unilateral abrogation of the Covenant of Reconciliation by NSCN (IM)," Tikhak said, adding, "Reconciliation among different party cannot happen by holding guns in hand or by considering himself or herself superior than the other."

The bitter rivalry between the NSCN(IM) and NSCN(K) has also reached Arunachal Pradesh. Human rights organizations in the state had appealed to the NSCN rival groups and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) to stop factional feuds between the two warring groups of the Naga outfit in Tirap and Changlang districts.

A seven-member delegation representing the Arunachal Citizens' Rights, NEFA Indigenous Human Rights Organization, Global Human Rights Organization and Women Power Connect-AP met top leaders of two NSCN groups and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation here and sought their intervention to stop the ongoing feud.

They had said clashes between NSCN (K) and NSCN (IM) in Tirap and Changlang districts was creating a fear psychosis among villagers.

The Centre has, in the meantime, given a nod to security forces, including the Army, to launch a major offensive against different factions of the Naga outfit in the Tirap-Changlang sector.

Nagas residing in southern California have urged leaders of the community for ensuring an honest and genuine camaraderie. "We can no longer afford to let our personal differences and split agendas impede the aspiration of the Nagas," said Joshua Lorin from California.

Appreciating the commitment of the NSCN (K), NNC and NSCN (IM) to the reconciliation process, they urged the former to collaboratively develop a new alliance for a permanent political solution to the vexed Naga issue.

"A further delay in this regard will push us deeper into the abyss. For the love of the Naga nation, we implore you to exhibit the true mark of leadership," appealed one of the members of the community.

Khaplang man ‘executed’ - Clashes continue in Mon, intelligence official missing OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, March 18: An Indian military intelligence officer has allegedly gone missing while a senior commander of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagaland/National Socialist Council of Nagaland (GPRN/NSCN) was executed this morning near Mon town. The district administration said they recovered the body of self-styled Lt Col Khonwang alias Chipu Menon alias Thomas, military commander of Tirap and Changlang districts in Arunachal Pradesh, around 7.15am today from Mon village gate near Mon town.
Superintendent of police N.I. Sangtam told The Telegraph that an Indian official from military intelligence department has also gone missing since today. “He was here till yesterday but I cannot find him today,” he said.
Both the NSCN (I-M) and GPRN/NSCN have, however, denied their involvement in the disappearance of the Indian official. When contacted, army officials here also denied any such disappearance.
The NSCN (I-M) denied killing Thomas. His father was from south India and his mother a Naga from Arunachal Pradesh. They alleged Thomas was the key man behind the association between Indian military officials and GPRN/NSCN. However, they denied their hand in Thomas’s execution saying he was not a policymaker of the Khaplang group.
The NSCN (I-M) has been accusing the rival group of collaborating with Indian security forces to subdue the Naga movement. It has also recently castigated the Khaplang group of carrying out joint operations with the Indian army against them in Tirap and Changlang districts. Denying its involvement in the killing, they have directly held the GPRN/NSCN responsible for the execution of its army commander.
The Mon district administration has deployed the India Reserve Battalion (IRB) personnel and police in all sensitive areas to thwart any untoward incident. “We have deployed the IRB and police personnel in the town and nearby areas after the incident,” Sangtam said. He said the security personnel were on patrol duty in and around Mon town since this morning as there were reports of the presence of cadres in the area.
The NSCN (I-M) today also rebutted the charge that it was carrying out operations against the Khaplang group in Myanmar. Instead, it said it was being attacked constantly by joint forces of Khaplang cadres, Ulfa and militant groups from Manipur.
“Our intention is never to attack them,” a senior official of the NSCN (I-M) told The Telegraph.
The argument of the outfit was that when non-Naga groups were allowed to operate freely in Myanmar, the NSCN (I-M) should be allowed too. They consider Ulfa, the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and other Manipur outfits as anti-Naga groups which Khaplang has been sheltering for many years. “Why should they give shelter to our enemies and then not want us to move around in Nagas’ land?” the NSCN official asked.
The NSCN (I-M) said it had given safe passage to GPRN/NSCN cadres in Chandel and Ukhrul when they were on their way to collect arms. “We never fired at them though we knew of their movement in Chandel and Ukhrul,” the official said.
However, he said this time they were ambushed in several places in Myanmar when they were on a special mission. The NSCN (I-M) sources also said they had established camps in Myanmar. “We have hundreds of our soldiers in Myanmar,” a senior member of the group said.
Stress on local cops to rein in rebels - Centre banks on policing solution to militancy OUR SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT, The Telegraph
New Delhi: The Centre hopes to fight Northeast militants by replicating the strategy it had used to counter Maoists — train local boys and girls to contain rebel depredation.
There are plans to undertake massive recruitment of local boys and girls in Tirap and Changlang districts of Arunachal Pradesh where infighting and extortion by rebels, especially Naga factions, have been spiralling.
The two districts are used as a corridor by militant groups from Nagaland and Assam to reach their camps in the jungles of Myanmar.
“We have asked for a five-fold increase in the local police force there and an increased number of police stations, with each station comprising 100 personnel,” said a senior home ministry official.
There are only 200 policemen and women for each of these districts now.
From the current 400 personnel covering 6,000 square km of hills, the number will be increased to 2,000, a source said. “And they will all be local boys and girls,” the source said.
The step may have been inspired by the success of the Koya Commandos of Chhattisgarh who are local tribals in uniform.
The recruits have helped police forces immensely in logistics and formulation of prudent tactics. The Centre hopes to achieve the same in the Northeast, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh.
In the past few weeks, several cadres of NSCN (Isak-Muivah) and Khaplang group have been killed in factional fighting in Arunachal Pradesh.
Even today, six NSCN (I-M) cadres were killed in clashes, an intelligence source said.
Central agencies have also reported that more than 100 NSCN (I-M) rebels had entered Myanmar through Arunachal Pradesh and got into a tussle with rival Khaplang group cadres.
In the clashes that followed, more than 30 cadres were killed on both sides in the past month, the source said.
Tirap and Changlang districts are part of “Nagalim or Greater Nagaland” that the NSCN (I-M) demands.
Dominated by tribes like the Noctes, Wanchus and Tangsas, the two districts are not only ethnically but also geo-politically vital, as they border northern Myanmar.
The Stilwell Road that connects India and China passes through Changlang district.
The problem of infighting in the districts was grave enough to be discussed at a meeting of the cabinet committee on security on Tuesday.
While the army and paramilitary forces will remain stationed in the area, the committee is said to have advised more dependence on local police.
NSCN ‘shells’ Khaplang bases - Heavy fighting reported from villages in Myanmar OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima: The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) continued to batter bases of the Khaplang group of the Government of People’s Republic of Nagaland/National Socialist Council of Nagaland (GPRN/NSCN) in Myanmar.
Reports reaching here said many people had been killed in the clashes between the NSCN (I-M) and the GPRN/NSCN, earlier known as NSCN (K), in Myanmar.
According to GPRN/NSCN sources, NSCN (I-M) fighters equipped with heavy guns battered their bases in Myanmar, claiming the lives of several innocent civilians.
On Tuesday, after exchange of heavy fire between the two groups, NSCN (I-M) fighters shelled Hashik-Noknu village with motors and rockets killing several villagers. Over 90 houses were reduced to ashes because of shelling. Villagers have fled for fear of further shelling, sources said.
Hundreds of NSCN (I-M) cadres in Myanmar were fighting the combined forces of GPRN/NSCN and militants from the Northeast who are holed up there.
The NSCN (I-M) claimed it was attacked by a combined force of Khaplang cadres and other outfits of the Northeast, with bases in Myanmar. It had to retaliate against the attack.
GPRN/NSCN leader Vitoshe Sumi said clashes took place after the rival group entered their territory. “They had entered our territory,” he told The Telegraph.
He, however, expressed optimism that clashes in Myanmar would not jeopardise the ongoing reconciliation process among the Naga factions. “Clashes in Myanmar should not sabotage the Naga reconciliation process,” he said.
Sumi said the fallout of the reconciliation process would cost the people of Nagaland dearly.
Asked whether Khaplang would come to Nagaland for the reconciliation meeting as demanded by the Naga people and the NSCN (I-M), Sumi said it would be difficult in the current situation. The rival group was on the offensive and security forces had been deployed along the Indo-Myanmar border because of the volatile situation.
“We also have to discuss Khaplang’s safe passage with the Indian government,” he said. The GPRN/NSCN also said the rival group was taking advantage of the reconciliation process to re-enter Myanmar.
On Tuesday, the NSCN (I-M) overran the camp of the GPRN/NSCN near the Indo-Myanmar border in Phek district. It said it had every right to move around in “Nagalim” (Naga-inhabited areas). If Khaplang could shelter “anti-Naga outfits” in Myanmar, there was nothing wrong if the NSCN (I-M) entered Myanmar, it added.
The NSCN (I-M) accused Khaplang of sheltering anti-Naga outfits for financial benefits. Nagas in Myanmar had been subjected to torture beyond human dignity by rebel groups of the Northeast. The outfit said Khaplang had been collecting crores of rupees from Northeast militant groups in exchange for setting up bases in Myanmar.
When contacted, NSCN (I-M) leaders refused to comment on their visit to Myanmar but sources said hundreds of cadres were on their way to the China border to collect a shipment of arms and ammunition.
Naga Reconciliation and Unity Dr. R.B. Thohe Pou Morung
Recently people have started talking only about the Naga reconciliation and unity – whether they support or against the reconciliation. Reconciliation, reconciliation, reconciliation …echoes the beautiful hills of Nagalim – even the illiterate people also started to utter the word ‘RECONCILIATION’. But now where is the Naga Reconciliation leading to? Excuse me! Some of the people may be unwilling to use the name Nagalim but I would use the name Nagalim as it is more appropriate and applicable than Nagaland to represent the “Entire Naga inhabited areas”. The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) initiated by Dr. Wati Aier is appreciated by the Nagas and non-Ngas and now recognized by the world Baptist Churches – the Rights Award is also to be awarded to him. However one should not forget that there are also many people who are covetous of the Naga Reconciliation and Unity.
Do you support and give solidarity for Naga Reconciliation? Indeed it is a good gesture that the highest level meeting of different Naga factions was held under FNR leadership and now many people are anxiously expecting peace and love to restore in Nagalim. About the fratricide and reconciliation in Nagalim – there are different school of thoughts or perspectives. We should not be amazed to learn but there are also people who don’t want Naga to have reconciliation and unity; they want fratricide to be continued in Nagalim. The deferment of recent reconciliation meeting is welcomed and appreciated by those people who are against the reconciliation and unity. There is another group who are intentionally ignores or unconcern about reconciliation and unity.
About the solidarity and perspective on fratricide and reconciliation in Nagalim – we may broadly divide into 3 School of thoughts or groups as –
1. Pro-reconciliation (those who support reconciliation)
2. Anti-reconciliation (those who against reconciliation)
3. Unconcern about Reconciliation (those who are unconcern about reconciliation)

1. Pro-reconciliation – Those who support Naga reconciliation and want fratricide to be ceased in Nagalim. It is no only the Naga but the non-Nagas who support the Naga reconciliation for different reasons. Solving the Naga political problem would stimulate to ease the insurgent problem in northeastern region. Once there is reconciliation and all the factions are united – there will be love, peace and development in the region. Nagas have witness bloodshed since time immemorial and now the Nagas want peace in the Nagalim. When the people are united – they become strong and confident but once it is divided – they are nothing. The different faction coming together for reconciliation and unity is very appreciable and will frighten the rivals and enemies of the Nagas.
At this juncture it is important to retrospect their ideology and purpose of their mission as a national worker. The deep differences between different factional leaders need to be solved whether the Naga political solution comes now or later. Will there be another blunder like Shillong Accord and 16 points agreement if the Naga factional leaders and civil leaders are not reconciled and united? The Naga national workers represents for the Naga people but if the different Naga factions are not reconciled and united, many people may question as, who 'truly' represents for the Nagas to solve the Naga political problem? Can the Naga national workers give up their differences for the sake of the Nagas’ dream and aspirations? We know that Naga national workers have the same dream and aspiration for the Nagas but many people may again question as, why there are lots of differences and bitterness between different factions? Is this due to their pride and struggle of leadership or just a misunderstanding among themselves? We may be just blaming the British’s ‘Divide and rule Policy’ or Indian ‘divide and rule policy’ but the Nagas are practicing ‘divide and rule policy’ in real life and we need to eradicate this divide and rule policy from Nagalim through reconciliation and reasoning together.
Let us also ponder on Naga political solution without reconciliation and unity among the different Naga factions. Who will be the main leader in Nagalim if the Naga political problem is resolved in current situation? I may be pessimistic but I can vision only bloodshed and assassination without reconciliation when the Naga political problem is solved. Naga political solution is important as Naga reconciliation and unity and no one should assume that solving Naga political problem is more important than reconciliation and vice versa. For me solving the Naga political problem and reconciliation among the different factions is equally important.
2. Anti-reconciliation group – are those who are against reconciliation and want fratricide to be continued in Nagalim. This school of thoughts can be from the Naga leaders, laymen, factional leaders and other non-Nagas. Some of the Naga and non-Nagas may be in euphoria on deferment of Naga highest level meeting as many people may be against the Naga reconciliation and unity. They may also may want the Naga underground to be annihilated each other and emerge a new society in the region without insurgent. Many people are happy and supporting the fratricide and division among Naga factions and civil leaders. In this Naga transitional phase – those who are against the reconciliation may want to break down the earlier Covenant of Reconciliation (COR).
There are people who support the eastern Nagas to have separate State and the Southern Nagalim to be separated from main Nagalim. They also want the different Naga factions to be divided and continue to kill each other. Many people want Nagas to be divided based on tribes and fight against each other. They may wish the different factions to kill each other and want the remnant leader reign in Nagalim. Solving Naga political problem can be in two ways – the honorable solution through peace talks and by annihilating all the underground. One of the main principles and desire of Anti-reconciliation people may be – the Nagas to kill each other and the remnant factional leaders may reign in Nagalim. They also want Naga people no to get an honorable solution from the present peace talks or in future peace talks. Some of the anti-reconciliation people also may be awaiting Muivah, Isak Swu, Khaplang and Kitovi Zhimomi to die due to their ageing or in factional clash so that there may be no Naga insurgent leader in the future whether the Naga political problem is solved or not.
3. Unconcern about reconciliation – those who are unconcern about the reconciliation. We have also the people who have no concern about Naga reconciliation and unity in addition to those people who support and against the reconciliation. Firstly, some of them avoid the issue intentionally as they become very individualistic and have more concern for their own family or career in life. They also don’t want to read any news related to Naga problems and issue. Secondly, some of them have no interest on Naga problem and issues. Yes, of course no everyone will become the leader, politician, social worker, writer or preacher. Thirdly, some of them are fed up with insurgent activities and long pending Naga political problem.
All those people who are no concern about the reconciliation and unity can support or against the reconciliation depending on leaders of the Nagas and the leaders should snub anyone leader or tribe when it comes to take any final verdict on Nagas political solution. The present Naga leaders also may need to reason, analyze the cause of problem together. Do you want the anti-reconciliation people to win or you want to defeat them through successful reconciliation and unity? The Covenant of Reconciliation (COR) will be possible only when they abide the COR, forget and forgive their differences in the name of God.
Muivah’s return was one step forward. But the factional fight will kill peace moves BY AVALOK LANGER Tehelka
AS 25-YEAR-OLD Azule knelt among the candles at Dimapur’s City Tower Junction, she noticed something amazing. Framed in the viewfinder of her camera were the faces of Nagaland — tribal, nontribal, Muslim, Bihari, Marwari — standing united, demanding one thing: that the peace and reconciliation process go forward.
Light of hope In a show of unity, Naga people participate in a candlelight vigil at Dimapur PHOTO: ESTHER KEMP
But her hopes may be belied if clashes between the two factions of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN) continue. Already, they have brought life in the Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh to a standstill. The death toll officially quoted by the underground is seven but is likely to be more than 30. With security forces led by the Assam Rifles moving in, an all-out war may have been averted for now but the aggressive posturing by both groups continues.
The return of Thuingaleng Muivah, the General Secretary of NSCN(IM) to India has triggered moves to reassert the group’s dominance in Nagalim. Despite its commitment to the ongoing peace process with the Centre, the NSCN(IM) continues to purchase arms, train cadres and push into border areas (see interview, TEHELKA, 10 February), Muivah has underplayed the role of other groups, causing friction: “We have always fought for the Naga cause. The Government of India chose to speak to us.”
The NSCN(IM)’s push into Eastern Nagaland and Arunachal, originally the stronghold of the NSCN(K), seems like an attempt to restrict the other group to Myanmar and undermine SS Khaplang’s authority. A recent press release by NSCN (IM) stated: “They started attacking and killing our boys in Changlang with a combined operation of three battalions of the Assam Rifles under the name of Rocket Operation.”
“People who stay in Lodhi Estate, an official residence for Indian MPs, fully manned by Indian paramilitary forces, should not invent such stories,” the NSCN(K) retorted. Pulling out of the upcoming Forum for Naga Reconciliation’s (FNR) “meeting at the highest level”, it has questioned Muivah’s aggressive intentions. “We cannot accept the double standards of IM. On one hand, they talk of peace, but on the other, they brag that they can send armed cadres anywhere, even into Eastern Nagaland,” says G Jimomi, who handles publicity for NSCN(K). On its part, the NSCN(K) has also stepped up operations. Recently, a letter from Khaplang called on legislators and ministers from Tirap and Changlang to withdraw support from the Dorjee Khandu - led Congress government or face consequences.
The sporadic clashes have greatly hampered the peace process. If the Naga factions are unable to reconcile, the talks between NSCN(IM) and Delhi may become irrelevant. Anything less than sovereignty will not be accepted by other groups and will give rise to multiple factional movements. On the other hand, if the NSCN(IM) continues to marginalise the other groups, clashes could escalate to an all-out war drawing in the Indian security forces and derailing the peace process completely. Many underground sources allege that reconciliation between the Naga underground factions does not benefit India: “By keeping the internal conflict festering, they can avoid dealing with the core issues of sovereignty and Nagalim.”
Stuck in the middle of this uncertainty are the people of Nagaland. As the groups champion “the peoples’ cause”, they suffer in silence. Plagued by corruption, underground ‘tax’, violence and underdevelopment, all that they can do is hope tomorrow will be better. The question is: Will it?
Traditional Costume show Caisii Mao Morung

Models from Indian eastern state of Nagaland display their cultural dress at the Traditional Costume show of the North East India during the North East Spring Festival organize by North East Zone Cultural Center (NEZCC) at Dimapur, India’s north east state of Nagaland on Thursday, March 18, 2011. The North East Spring festival, biggest performing Art festival in the country witness 18 states from India and Myanmar performing together the distinctive dance of the cultural identity of the various tribes of India. The North East Spring festival started on 16 March will continue till 20 March 2011. (Photo by Caisii Mao)
More than 50 years of Shan Struggle
Friday, 18 March 2011 13:15 Jai Wan Mai
(News Analysis) – Twenty armed groups are now operating in Shan State, 53 years after the Shan started an armed resistance movement against the Burmese regime.
A SSA soldier stands guard duty at Loi Tai Leng training camp. (Photo: Jai Wan Mai)
The reasons behind the Shan uprising were essentially the same as other ethnic groups: inequality in political and administrative matters.
It would not be wrong to blame a succession of Burmese leaders for their failure to solve ethnic political conflicts in Burma. Instead of taking political differences to the negotiating table, the military regime is notorious for using threats, force and military might to coerce ethnic opposition groups to bow to its wishes.
Few ethnic groups were spared in the era of General Ne Win, after he staged a military coup in 1962. Ne Win came into power under the pretext of saving the union of Burma from breaking up into autonomous ethnic regions.
The Shan were no different from other ethnic groups who took up arms to fight for political equality based on the promises of the Panglong Agreement, signed in 1947, which assigned ethnic groups full equality and the authority to manage their own affairs.
The Shan State leaders were patient with the new Burmese government even after they felt they had been betrayed by the agreement . When ethnic leaders finally gave up on the agreement, Shan leaders asked for a reformation of Burma based along the principles of the agreement. Regrettably, their call for a federal government failed, and it wasn’t long before the Burmese leaders branded all ethnic political groups as separatists.
In fact, the Shan, Chin and Kachin have every right to demand independence, self-determination and full autonomy, as promised in the agreement.
On May 21, 1958, a Shan leader, Sao Noi aka Saw Yan Tha, was the first Shan to take up arms against the Burmese regime. News of his armed resistance group immediately spread throughout the state. Thousands of Shan grabbed their weapons in an attempt to push the regime from their land. In their hearts, they also desired revenge against the heavy-handed oppression of the Burmese troops.
Since then, thousands of Shan have sacrificed their lives for the cause.
However, in wasn’t long before Shan opposition groups began to split apart due to different political visions. Some Shan leaders followed the Communist ideology while others believed in democratic principles. On several occasions, the Shan even took up arms against each other.
For many years, the drug lord Khun Sa and his Mong Tai Army was the largest Shan resistance force and the greatest threat to the Ne Win government.
In late 1995, however, Khun Sa and a faction of his army surrendered to the State Law and Order Restoration Council (SLORC). The surrender was due to the break-up of his Mong Tai Army, when Major Sao Gun Yawd separated from Khun Sa over the issue of how the Shan were treated by the Chinese officers who dominated the Mong Tai Army. At the same time, Chinese businessmen began to gain greater influence.
When Sao Gun Yawd broke away, more than 15,000 Shan fighters, following Khun Sa, surrendered to the regime in 1995. Sao Gun Yawd formed the Shan State Nationalities Army (SSNA) after he parted ways with Khun Sa. However, in 2004, Sao Gun Yawd died as negotiations for a cease-fire agreement were underway. In 2005, the group came under pressure to surrender. As a result, its leader, Sao Sai Yee, decided to rejoin the Shan army led by Sao Yawd Serk, which is based along the Shan-Thai border.
Since then, a string of militias groups have been formed, and many have fallen under the control of the Burmese regime. Surprisingly, the regime has not confiscated their weapons but allowed the soldiers to hold on their guns, giving them the power to dominate various areas and establish business fiefdoms. In fact, when needed the regime often tries to play the militia groups against one another.
Over the years, various militia and cease-fire groups have surrendered to the regime, entering the ‘legal fold’. Generally, the regime has allowed them to do whatever businesses they want––including dealing in drugs. Various groups have been given business concessions in a cosy relationship with local Burmese commanders. As a result, many of the armed groups have lost their original political goals.
Since 2009, various cease-fire groups have agreed to transform into militia groups and become members of the regime’s Border Guard Force (BGF), largely due to pressure from Burmese commanders. Some groups remain nominally as cease-fire groups, such as the United Wa State Army (UWSA), the National Democratic Alliance Army (NDAA) and the 1st Brigade of the Shan State Army -North (SSA-N).
While it’s difficult to get an exact count and description of each Shan armed group, there are about 11 militia groups and four cease-fire groups in some semblance of cooperation with the Burmese regime.
On the other hand, the Shan State Army – South (SSA-S) and three smaller armed opposition groups continue to fight against the Burmese regime.
Judging each group’s political point of view is a difficult task and their views often change based on events.
Observers agree that the regime will not be able to change the political goals of the ethnic armed opposition groups by using force, and national reconciliation can only come if and when the regime decides to engage in real political dialogue.
Current Militia groups:
Northern Shan State militia groups:
1. Bo Moon Militia group, active in Tangyan townships in northern Shan State.
2. Kokong Militia group, in Lao Kai Township in northern Shan State.
3. Hseng Keo Militia group, (former 3rd and 7th brigades of SSA-N), active in His Paw Township in northern Shan State.)
4. Jar Taw militia group in Tangyan in northern Shan State.
5. Pangsay militia group or the Chinese militia group (lead by Kyaw Myint in Nam Kham and Muse townships in northern Shan State.)
6. Kachin militia group, lead by Matunaw in Kokkai Township in northern Shan State.

Southern Shan State militia groups:
1. Shan State South (SSS) lead by Mahajar, active in Homong opposite of Mae Hong Son, Thailand.
2. Nayai militia group, lead by Li Chang and Chu Sang (Chinese businessmen) in Namsang Township.
3. Makeng militia group, lead by Sai Lu (Mong Sit Township).
4. Ai Tha militia group, active in Laika Township.
5. Lahu militia group, lead by Yeesay (in Mong Tone, eastern Shan State).
6. Pa-O militia group, lead by Aung Kham Ti in Kyauk Tha Lone in southern Shan State.

Cease-fire groups
1. United Wa State Army (UWSA) in northeast Shan State.
2. National Democratic Alliance Army (NDAA) in east Shan State.
3. Shan State Army North (SSA-N), active in Kesi, Mong Hsu andTangyan townships.
4. The 4th Brigade of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) in Gok Kai Township.

Non-ceasefire groups
1. Shan State Army - South; active in southern and eastern Shan State.
2. Wa National Army; active in Homong area opposite of Mae Hong Son, Thailand.
3. Pa-O National Liberation Organization ; active in Hopong and Mong Pone townships in southern Shan State.
4. Naw Kham group; active in Palieo and Keng Lap areas that border Laos in the Golden Triangle area.

Frans on 03.20.11 @ 03:29 PM CST [link]

Friday, March 18th

NSCN ‘shells’ Khaplang bases - Heavy fighting reported from villages in Myanmar OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph

NSCN ‘shells’ Khaplang bases - Heavy fighting reported from villages in Myanmar OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph

Kohima, March 17: The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) continued to batter bases of the Khaplang group of the Government of People’s Republic of Nagaland/National Socialist Council of Nagaland (GPRN/NSCN) in Myanmar.
Reports reaching here said many people had been killed in the clashes between the NSCN (I-M) and the GPRN/NSCN, earlier known as NSCN (K), in Myanmar.
According to GPRN/NSCN sources, NSCN (I-M) fighters equipped with heavy guns battered their bases in Myanmar, claiming the lives of several innocent civilians.
On Tuesday, after exchange of heavy fire between the two groups, NSCN (I-M) fighters shelled Hashik-Noknu village with motors and rockets killing several villagers. Over 90 houses were reduced to ashes because of shelling. Villagers have fled for fear of further shelling, sources said.
Hundreds of NSCN (I-M) cadres in Myanmar were fighting the combined forces of GPRN/NSCN and militants from the Northeast who are holed up there.
The NSCN (I-M) claimed it was attacked by a combined force of Khaplang cadres and other outfits of the Northeast, with bases in Myanmar. It had to retaliate against the attack.
GPRN/NSCN leader Vitoshe Sumi said clashes took place after the rival group entered their territory. “They had entered our territory,” he told The Telegraph.
He, however, expressed optimism that clashes in Myanmar would not jeopardise the ongoing reconciliation process among the Naga factions. “Clashes in Myanmar should not sabotage the Naga reconciliation process,” he said.
Sumi said the fallout of the reconciliation process would cost the people of Nagaland dearly.
Asked whether Khaplang would come to Nagaland for the reconciliation meeting as demanded by the Naga people and the NSCN (I-M), Sumi said it would be difficult in the current situation. The rival group was on the offensive and security forces had been deployed along the Indo-Myanmar border because of the volatile situation. “We also have to discuss Khaplang’s safe passage with the Indian government,” he said. The GPRN/NSCN also said the rival group was taking advantage of the reconciliation process to re-enter Myanmar.
On Tuesday, the NSCN (I-M) overran the camp of the GPRN/NSCN near the Indo-Myanmar border in Phek district. It said it had every right to move around in “Nagalim” (Naga-inhabited areas). If Khaplang could shelter “anti-Naga outfits” in Myanmar, there was nothing wrong if the NSCN (I-M) entered Myanmar, it added.
The NSCN (I-M) accused Khaplang of sheltering anti-Naga outfits for financial benefits. Nagas in Myanmar had been subjected to torture beyond human dignity by rebel groups of the Northeast. The outfit said Khaplang had been collecting crores of rupees from Northeast militant groups in exchange for setting up bases in Myanmar.
When contacted, NSCN (I-M) leaders refused to comment on their visit to Myanmar but sources said hundreds of cadres were on their way to the China border to collect a shipment of arms and ammunition.
NSCN-K accuses IM of bloodshed Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 17 2011: NSCN/GPRN has accused NSCN-IM of firing a mortar shell and killing many civilians including women and children.

In a statement, spokesperson, president's office of NSCN/GPRN P Tikhak said that after a brief gun battle at Hashik-Noknu village in eastern Nagaland yesterday, armed cadres of NSCN-IM led by Isak and Muivah mercilessly fired a mortar shell on the villagers killing many civilians including women and children.

Of the total 120-130 houses in the village, nearly 80-90 houses have been completely gutted and reduced to ashes.

Even the granaries were not spared, Tikhak said, adding that 'it is unfortunate that the eastern Nagaland which was peaceful still recently is now boiling every minute with mortar shells, grenade launchers and bullets' .

Tikhak further said that the people are so shocked that they just cannot think what to do and what not to and their normal life has been brought to a halt and paralysed completely.

People are undergoing acute trauma with all hell breaking loose on them.

It is sad that after a gap of 23 years, Eastern Nagaland is witnessing such a highly volatile situation and there should be no doubt that IM has made use of the Reconciliation process to re-enter Eastern Nagaland, Tikhak alleged, adding that Isak and Muivah, whose hands are strained with the blood of innocent Nagas will definitely have to pay the price for the crimes they have committed.
FGN asks Naga groups to push for reconciliation Times of India
DIMAPUR: The Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) on Wednesday appealed to all Naga national groups and patriots to take up the cause of reconciliation in the spirit of forgiveness, while encouraging the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) to be resolute in its approach and wise in its dealings.

The kedallo' (president) of FGN and co-convenor of the joint working group, Zhopra Vero, said the ongoing Naga reconciliation process should be built upon the historical and political rights of the Naga people and free them from a past riddled with internal strife and disunity.

"Reconciliation is the best possible way for the Naga nation to understand and work for our aspirations," he said. Stating that it is the responsibility of every sincere and earnest Naga national group to see that this process bears fruits, Vero said, "If the reconciliation fails, the future of the Nagas will be doomed, because there will be bloodshed and further division."

In this great historical undertaking, each Naga national group must realize it is dependent on the other, he added. Affirming its pledge to the Naga reconciliation process and upholding its commitment to the Covenant of Reconciliation, the FGN said there is no other way to ensure the historical and political rights but through national reconciliation. "To prove our sincerity, the Federal Government of Nagaland apologises to the Naga people for all our mistakes and humbly seeks forgiveness from the people," Vero said.

The FGN also expressed concern over the violence breakout in eastern Nagaland and in Pochury Region, which it said has negated the spirit of the Covenant of Reconciliation and caused mistrust and suspicion.

It also requested the FNR to convene without delay the top leaders of the GPRN/NSCN, NSCN/GPRN and NNC/FGN. "This meeting must decide once and for all to end all violence among Naga brothers and take the reconciliation process to its final stage," the FGN said and appealed to all Nagas not to tire of supporting and praying for the success of the reconciliation process.
Made in Nagaland Elota Khape Morung
•-The ‘Myki’ range of products under the initiative of the Department of Women Development is truly world class. I saw the products, viz. Popped Rice, Dried Pineapple, and dried wild apple (I guess there are more items in the product line) at a super market the other day, and I was thoroughly impressed. The items in the product line will appeal to all age groups and all sorts of taste buds even outside of Nagaland, and the pricing is just right but best of all, the packaging is ‘truly international’.
I also bought another product of Nagaland, which is a part of my daily diet now, after learning about its benefits in the package – Lemon Grass Tea which is developed and marketed by Nagaland Bio-resources Mission (NBRM). This one also really impressed me by way of taste, packaging and price. The packaging is both informative and attractive.
And going through the information on NBRM on the internet, I learnt that you have come up with a book on “Plant resources of Nagaland”. I would be really grateful if any reader/or if anyone from the department is reading this, knows where I purchase get a copy. (My email address is mentioned below)
Even though we are still in the ‘bad roads –traffic jams -ST/BT reservations – women ‘un’-empowerment – tribalism’ stage of development, I, as a concerned citizen (though I must admit that I don’t do much except to observe and criticize), am happy that there are some departments which are manned by dedicated and professional and innovative people. And I am sure we’ll have more of developments soon.

Elota Khape
elotakhape@gmail.com">elotakhape@gmail.com

Frans on 03.18.11 @ 01:52 PM CST [link]

Thursday, March 17th

Free political prisoners: Hoho - Naga apex body wants Shimray released OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph

Free political prisoners: Hoho - Naga apex body wants Shimray released OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, Naga Hoho, the principal organisation of the Naga people has demanded the release of all Naga “political prisoners” to facilitate the ongoing peace process.
The Hoho just stopped short of mentioning the name of Anthony Shimray, the head of foreign affairs of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) who is currently in the custody of the Centre after his arrest from Kathmandu airport last year.
It, however, said the major setback to the Naga peace process was the detention and arrest of Naga national workers by different government agencies under various acts and laws.
Hoho president Keviletuo Kiewhuo and general secretary Chuba Ozukum in a statement said the arrest of Naga militant leaders has become a deep concern for the Naga people. “This is a matter of great concern that deeply hurt the sentiments of the Naga people as it is against the spirit of ceasefire agreement,” the Hoho said.
The two Naga leaders said New Delhi did not want to acknowledge the rights of the Naga people and instead was dragging its feet and toeing the divide and rule policy.
Despite long-drawn negotiations, the Centre has not shown willingness to settle the conflict peacefully, it stated.
The Hoho said it represents the entire Naga community in Nagaland, Manipur, Assam and Myanmar and urged the Centre to reciprocate positively.
It said the Centre had entered into a ceasefire pact with the NSCN (I-M) and the NSCN (K) and recognised the uniqueness of Naga political history and situation since July 11, 2002.
It is believed that the Centre considered the Naga problem to be political in nature and needed a unique political decision instead of treating it as a law and order problem, the Hoho said.
The two Naga leaders questioned the Centre on its bid for a seat in the United Nations Security Council when its security forces waged internal wars backed by unrestricted and unaccounted power, to carry out their operations against the Naga people.
India, bidding to be a permanent member of the UNSC first needs to do away with such outdated draconian, imperialistic, aggressive, uncivilised acts like the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act.
They demanded immediate repeal of the army act from all Naga-inhabited areas.
The Hoho regretted that security forces have been given unrestricted and unaccounted power to carry out operations.
It urged the Centre to expedite the peace process with all sincerity, keeping in mind that peace is possible and that the gun is not the ultimate solution but a temporary one.
NSCN K alleges IM group behind volatile situation in eastern Nagaland Kanglaonline
IMPHAL, March 16: Isak and Muivah whose hands are stained with the blood of innocent Nagas will definitely have to pay the price for the crime they have committed. It is sad that many Naga people are still supporting a group of gangster who is hell bent in sucking the innocent Naga blood. Muivah is nothing but a self proclaimed hero. How on earth, can a man claims responsibility as a savior for others when he himself cannot visit his own hometown Somdal? How can a liar claim to have the mandate of the Naga people? Muivah must repent before God and humankind for the crimes he has committed. He must seek God`s love and instill a sense of fear to God. After all God is the creator of this universe and he is just among one of His creation. He should not consider himself above God.
The inhuman and barbaric act and the savage behavior of Muivah goons came to fore yesterday, when after a brief gun battle at Hashik- Noknu village in eastern-Nagaland the merciless killer fired a mortar shell on the villagers killing many civilians including women and children. Of the total 120-130 houses nearly 80-90 houses have been completely gutted and brought down to ashes. Even the granaries were not spared. It is unfortunate that, the Eastern Nagaland which was till recently so peaceful is now boiling every minute with mortar shells, grenade launcher and bullets. People are so shocked that, they just cannot think what to do and what not to? Life has been brought to a complete halt and paralyzed completely.
People are undergoing acute trauma with all hell breaking loose on them. Sadly, after a gap of 23 (twenty three) years, the eastern Nagaland is witnessing such a highly volatile situation today and there should be no doubt that, the IM has made use of the reconciliation process to re-enter into Eastern Nagaland.
NSCN clashes: No more Army, CCS plans to send police Indian Express
Worried over mounting casualty rate in clashes between rival factions of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) in the border districts of Tirap and Changlang in eastern Arunachal Pradesh, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) is learnt to have decided on Tuesday to improve the police-people ratio in the two districts. However, the CCS, which also mulled the option of pressing the Army into operation to tackle the problem, decided against asking the Army to get involved full-time, at least for the time being.
The CCS was told that four batallions of the Army are already stationed in the two districts. It was also clarified that if the Army is asked to carry out operations in the area, it doesn’t require the districts to be declared disturbed areas.
The main stress, the CCS said, should be on strengthening the police and civil administration, particularly raising the number of police personnel deployed in the districts, which stand at just about 100 at present. Even Arunachal Pradesh Governor Gen J J Singh (retd) had raised this issue in his report to the Centre.
Union Home Secretary G K Pillai had gone to Kolkata last week to resolve the differences between the Union Home Ministry and the Defence over the handling of clashes between rival factions of the NSCN in which over 30 persons have already lost their lives. However, the CCS views the matter more as a law and order issue rather than a major conflict operation.
The plan to raise a new mountain brigade at Khonsa in Tirap district by year-end is still on, sources said.
NSCN to mark areas for ‘election’ OUR CORRESPONDENT The telegraph
Kohima, March 15: The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) would carry out a “delimitation exercise of constituencies” in view of the forthcoming “assembly” and “parliamentary elections” of the group.
The “chief election commissioner” of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (Nagaland), A.Z. Jami, said the “delimitation exercise” would be carried out all over Nagalim in view of the forthcoming election of leacys (legislators) and tatars (members of parliament).
The “election commissioner” of the GPRN has directed central administrative officers and executive officers of Nagalim — that encompasses Nagaland, Manipur, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar — to conduct population count in villages from their regions and “union territories” and submit the figures to the “election commission” on or before April 15.
Jami said: “We have to first delimit the constituencies.” He said elections would be held within two to three months but before any final decision the “election commission” would have to consult the authorities of the GPRN. Jami said he wanted to lay a strong foundation of election system in the organisation. “I want to lay the foundation during my tenure.”
Jami who is also kilonser (minister) for information and publicity, said he had been given the additional task of an “election commission” as he knows the judicial system.
With the elections nearing, politicking has begun in the NSCN/GPRN, according to the insiders from the NSCN. The “election commissioner” also disclosed that he had not yet issued notifications of elections of leacys and tatars as there would be politicking by the members to be elected to the “assembly” and the “parliament”.
On elections to the post of vice-president that has been laying vacant since last year after the death of Khadao Yanthan, the election commissioner of the group said the decision would be taken by the collective leadership.
The NSCN/GPRN has also recently received opposition from some areas because of bifurcation of administrative units like creation of Samarati region under Kiphire district and Zeliangrong region into two administrative units.
Recently, the members of the Yimchungru community had organised a rally in Dimapur and Kiphire district in protest against creation of Saramati region.
On reconciliation process, Jami said he had doubts about the Khaplang group.
“There is something fishy going on in K group,” he said. He said reconciliation among the Naga groups is a must but strongly criticised the opponent camp for backtracking from the process.
Asked if he knew the inner politics of the Khaplang group, Jami, who was with the NSCN (K) for a brief period, said he knew how the group functions. “I know what is NSCN (K), NSCN (I-M) and NNC (Naga National Council).”
Hills-Valley 'Divides' or Afraid of Modernity ? - II
- Part 1 - Dr N Somorendro Singh * E Pao
It is a great idea to have exchange of views on the issues, challenges and political demands as well their resolutions/solutions for improving the living conditions of the people and progressive Manipur. I really appreciate R Rungsung for taking seriously to my article published in The Sangai Express on 19 and 20 December, 2010. Rungsung's justification for political demands of the "Nagas" and his questioning of my views, valley or Manipur Government through his rejoinder article in this paper on 12 February, 2011 do not surprise me.

The entire thrust of my observations and arguments in my last article (TSE dt. 19 and 20 December, 2010) has been on India's highly centralised administrative, political and economic systems and the consequences of these on the States like Manipur, Indian State's approach to North East (including AFSPA) and how modernity/modern process has been misunderstood and obstructed/practised in Manipur as well as some comparison between hills and valley.

However, I am happy to express my views to Rungsung's views and his questions; some of which lack objectivity and largely appear to be the views of a political activist/propagandist. The example is his assertion that the "shining in Imphal valley" is due to "the stolen and diverted funds meant for tribal welfare"; so justification for the alternative arrangement for Nagas?

The purpose of my articles is not to offend or make derogatory comments to any individual or community. It is a part of my attempts to understand the issues and challenges including political demands and conflicts in Manipur and sharing the same with others for improvement and a better future. I believe in the fundamental human values of equality, freedom, dignity and democratic principles. To me these values are universal which can not be denied or monopolised/appropriated by few for a long time in the name of a tribe, a community or a nation.

As a scholar and as a person I do not consider it intelligent way to grow and learn/understand by glorifying one's views, community and traditions while blaming/criticising others (by ethnocentric approach). Because change is the law of nature as no one is perfect and every system is not permanent. I believe knowledge, honesty and courage are the minimum requirements to know one's real weakness/shortcomings and for progressive change both in personal live and that of a community/country.

My knowledge especially of Political Science, History, Sociology, Psychology and political economy tell me that the most of the separatist political demands in the past or present have been primarily for political power especially for the leaders. The leaders may use community, nation, unique history or in combination with any other ideological/emotive issues. The domination, neglect, exploitation and disparity are there but not the only issues in political demands.

Md Ali Jinnah championed the cause of Muslims by propagating fears of Hindu domination and incompatibility between Muslims and Hindus before partition of India. There were bloodshed and loss of thousands of innocent Muslims and Hindus and their displacement from their original inhabitations just before and after partition of India. After witnessing all these and becoming the first Governor General of independent Pakistan, Jinnah declared that Pakistan would be a secular country. Distrust between Hindus and Muslims in India as well as hostility and blame games continue between Pakistan and India even after 60 years of their 'independent' existence; due to the decisions made by the 'founding fathers' of Pakistan and India.

I am of the opinion that partition of India has had deep impact on present North East and made the region landlocked, isolated and disadvantaged artificially. Due to partition and unfriendly relations, Indian State adopts strategies primarily based on the narrow security and national interest perspectives in the region. Hostility between India and Pakistan led to three wars and spending huge money on defense budgets and the prime reason for the failure of SAARC. So I am not convinced that only separation will resolve all the conflicts and usher a wonderful relationship between the peoples. Further MNF leaders in Mizoram after leading armed struggles for about two decades and those who led anti-foreigners movements in Assam; headed Governments in respective States. Of course other issues are also involved.

Coming to Manipur and political demands of Nagas (which keep changing), the boundary of the political entity of Manipur was beyond the present boundary from all accounts including British writers on Manipur. For centuries different groups have been living together and interacting within Manipur and beyond. Both scientific and oral stories tell the similar origins of different groups presently known as Meiteis and Nagas especially Tangkhuls and Meiteis.

For instance there will be difficulties in distinguishing say, who is a Meitei or a Tangkhul only on the basis of the physical appearance. Cultural and linguistic ties and influencing each other's customs and practices over the centuries are not artificial. These can be verified from folktales, oral and written records or from Tangkhul and Meitei elders. One can ignore or even refuse to believe such facts and perceptions. I have no problems because we live in modern or post-modern time and in a democratic country. I believe at least some scientific and universally accepted knowledge must be the basis of our views and understanding for own benefits.

Meiteis becoming Hindus some centuries ago and Nagas (there are non-Christians) and Kukis accepting Christianity since the last century and English education have not completely changed their past culture, tradition, history and identities. Religion is only one aspect of one's identity and life, not the only thing. Moreover, concept of Manipur has been lakes, rivers, paddy fields, hills and valley as well as hills surrounding valley and valley/lakes surrounding hills in addition to wonderful people in great diversities.

These interrelationships between them in Manipur are nature's creation and humans only try to go against nature. Manipur has proud history of composite culture and leadership perhaps unique in India or world. In recent history particularly since Statehood Manipur has been led by political leaders like Md Alimuddin (the first Chief Minister), Rishang Keishing (the longest Chief Minister), Yangmaso Shaiza and others from the Meitei community and number of political and bureaucratic leaders belonging to all the communities. Every community has contributed to what was in the past and in the present Manipur.

The above facts and perceptions have been in the collective memories of the people and political culture of Manipur. Therefore, the problem for the supporters of Greater Nagaland, Nagalim and now alternative arrangement for Nagas or some other new demands (these demands may not be related) is not simply Meiteis or Meitei 'domination' or 'communal' Manipur Government.

Their main challenges have been and will be the exclusion and narrow ethnocentric basis of their political demands which go against their own past cultural history, present realities like sharing of spaces by Nagas with Kukis in the hills as well as with Meiteis and others in the valley. They can not force people of Manipur to delete what have been in their collective memories like in computer or mobile phone, though they can do it for their own reasons. Even if their demands are fulfilled there is no guarantee that only they will go to heaven, if God accepts the truth relating to Manipur.

Do the demands for "Alternative Arrangement for Nagas" (though not clear) in Manipur represent all the aspirations of all the 'Nagas' and resolve all the conflicts in Manipur? What will be the fate of non-Nagas and where and how they will stand in the proposed alternative arrangement? What about the demands for "Eastern Nagaland" or separate district for Phungyar or views of the silent common Nagas? Who are heading such changing demands, common Nagas or the English educated elites?

Is separatism the only answer for all the Nagas in Manipur and are there no alternatives to separation? Are all Meiteis, Kukis and others in Manipur so inhuman towards Nagas or are Nagas becoming inferior now, so afraid or become superior that they do not want to live together with others in Manipur etc. Such are the fundamental questions which need to be asked honestly and answered objectively. It will be illogical to view all the Nagas in Manipur as the same in all respects including political opinions. I strongly believe that politics and Government are not the only things in our lives and relationships.

There has been 'severance of ties' (with no clear meaning as the other terms like 'alternative arrangements' or 'unique history, culture' etc) with Government of Manipur. To whom demand of the alternative arrangement of Nagas in Manipur is being made; to God or to God like omnipotent, omnipresent and all knowing Central Government or to the people of Manipur or only testing the support from the Nagas? There has been some success in bringing Tangkhuls, Anal, Mao, Maram, Kabui etc each having distinct languages, cultures and identities under a new common identity called Nagas. Some who were known by their tribe's names or identified as Kukis earlier are now Nagas. This reflects the role of politics in identity change/formation other than socio-cultural and religious factors in Manipur.

The self-generated and ego satisfying knowledge and personal fulfilment of few alone did not and will not bring peace and progress as the past experience and present situation in Manipur and elsewhere have shown. There is certainly a need for scientific knowledge, understanding of the experience of developed country or region in India and the rational for modern administration, democratic practices and political eco-nomy. The reasons or foundations of demands are more crucial than the demands/goals themselves.

Coming to the comparisons between hills and valley it is not for or against. It is an attempt to understand factors contributing to more transformation in the valley than the hills or vice versa and what can be done to reduce/remove the disparities, if any and also for progress in every region and individual in Manipur. There is no hidden or open agenda.

There have been justifications of the traditions, traditional institutions and present practices as well as strong resistance to change in Manipur especially in the hills. Examples are traditional land ownership pattern, jhum cultivation, chieftainships (numbers are increasing and some say no alternative to chieftainships) and continuation of traditional attitudes towards non-tribal/others and democratic change in the hills.

All these may have had positive historical roles; but are these serving needs of the common people of the hills in modern times? Will these be able to serve/provide the changing needs of the future generation? Are socio-cultural and political factors playing a role for the slower progress and development in the hills other than geography, Government indifference and Imphal centric development? We live in modern time with knowledge, technology and so many possibilities.

The gaps or divides among the people of Manipur and hills and valley have been widened due to various factors including political mobilisation based on community/tribe identity. Every community has their own organisations with politically motivated functions and even separate Churches for each community/tribe in Manipur. British divided people and played divide and rule game for their own interests in India. In North East India and Manipur, British adopted the policy of exclusion and separated tribal from non-tribal and hills from the plain and separate administration for hills and valley on communal basis.

What is surprising is that even after British left India and Manipur for more than 60 years, we are continuing with British systems which primarily intended to serve the British colonial interests. Perhaps due to this ideological influence of British colonial systems (rather unquestioning faith on them) and other reasons, there seems to be strong beliefs and propaganda that hills are only for tribal communities in Manipur. This is despite the fact that large area of the hills are no man's land as the tribal communities did not and do not inhabit, own and use them. Yet if any thought or attempt to change such British introduced systems and existing perceptions regarding hills in Manipur on modern and democratic lines, the chances of it declaring/projecting as anti-tribal are high.

In other parts of the world, all land including hills belongs to the users or inhabitants and or to the Government and are the common natural resources. There seems to be socio-cultural and political factors (for instance the traditional land ownership pattern) also for not getting the momentum of transformation in the economy and other aspects in the hills of Manipur. Government of Manipur's neglect and 'discrimination' in favour of valley besides geography seem to be major factors but not only the factors.

Development economists, political economists, historians, anthropologists and sociologists will explain better in this regard. However I emphasise as in my last article that "there is need to end capital/district headquarter centric governance and development in favour of every region and every individual in Manipur". Some innovation and fresh approach based on democratic principles with the active participation of people in the decision making process and implementation other than what have been tried so far are need of the hour in Manipur especially in the hill areas.

People in the hills still do not have political right and freedoms as in the valley. Reasons for this will vary according to the perception and ideology one has. Democratic process and exercise of the political rights of the people including right to contest elections and right to cast votes as they wish are still prevented or restricted in large areas in the hills due to armed groups and other traditional interests groups. Consequently only those who are supported by such anti-democratic forces are elected as people's representatives.

Local self-governments as practised in the valley or other parts of India are yet to take concrete shape or firm foundation on democratic and modern lines in the hills. In this sense many modern and traditional interests groups seem to have interfered or manipulated democratic process in the hills for their own interests and political ideology only; which are not really in the interests of common hill people.

Obstructing, threatening or punishing those who disagree with one's own political agenda and ideology are certainly neither democratic nor preservation of traditions.
agalim: Candlelight Vigil In Support Of Naga Reconciliation
The Times of India.

Hundreds of people from all walks of life took part in a candlelight vigil showing their support for the highest-level reconciliation meeting organized by the Dimapur Civil Society Organizations under the aegis of Naga Council Dimapur.
Hundreds of people from all walks of life took part in a candlelight vigil showing their support for the highest-level reconciliation meeting organized by the Dimapur Civil Society Organizations under the aegis of Naga Council Dimapur.

During the vigil on Sunday evening, the participants emphasized on the success of reconciliation process and also hoped that the highest-level reconciliation meeting of the three Naga political groups takes place at the earliest and resolves all differences.

Leaders of different organizations, who spoke on the occasion, made requested the parties involved in the reconciliation to expedite the process and come together for the highest-level reconciliation meeting and bring an end to the suffering of the Naga people.

Rev Pughoto, a representative of the forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) appealed to everyone to pray for the top leader of Naga political groups to come together for the talks.

Pughoto said the Nagas need reconciliation to solve all problems being faced by them. He added, "People's demand at the present is that the highest-level meeting of the three groups should take place at the earliest and find solutions to the issues plaguing them."

Savi Leigise, president of the Naga Council said the political groups, inspite of stray incidents that shook common man's faith, held on to their commitments to the covenant of reconciliation, which have shown dramatic results and improved people's faith in the process. Savi added that the reconciliation meeting is a priority at this juncture as much hope was pinned on this vital meet.
About the candlelight vigil he said, "We are here to here to express our desire for peace and reconciliation amongst all Naga political groups. We are here to light a candle to signify every individual's desire and contribution to bring light to the Naga world, which is wrapped in fear and uncertainty". Naga Women Hoho Dimapur president, Hukheli Wotsa described the woes of women and children who she said were suffering due to differences between the political groups.

Frans on 03.17.11 @ 11:14 AM CST [link]

Monday, March 14th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frans on 03.14.11 @ 02:13 PM CST [link]

Saturday, March 12th

World upholds Naga reconciliation efforts morungexpress

World upholds Naga reconciliation efforts morungexpress

In this file photo Rev Dr Wati Aier, Principal of the Oriental Theological Seminary (OTS) in Dimapur, Nagaland, is seen delivering a speech in a Naga Reconciliation gathering. Dr. Aier is the recipient of the 2011 Baptist World Alliance (BWA) Denton and Janice Lotz Human Rights Award. (Morung File Photo)

Dimapur | March 11: Rev Dr Wati Aier, Principal of the Oriental Theological Seminary (OTS) in Dimapur, Nagaland, is the recipient of the 2011 Baptist World Alliance (BWA) Denton and Janice Lotz Human Rights Award. This was announced by the BWA. Rev Dr Wati joins the likes of former US President and Nobel Peace Laurete Jimmy Carter who was the first recipient of the award in 1995.
Rev. Dr Wati Aier receives BWA Human Rights Award
The award is given annually to an individual who has engaged in significant and effective activities to secure, protect, restore or preserve human rights. Rev Dr Wati is being recognized for his work in helping to broker the signing of a peace accord between three nationalist groups in Nagaland in September 2010.
For decades, the three groups in Nagaland have been in conflict with each other and with the Indian government over issues of autonomy and sovereignty for Nagaland state and the Naga people. Between 1992 and 2009, more than 2,330 insurgency related fatalities have been recorded in Nagaland. As a result of the longstanding disputes, which date back more than 50 years, exceptionally tight security has been imposed on the state by the Indian government, with multiple checkpoints scattered throughout the state. International visitors are required to obtain special permits to enter and move around Nagaland.
Rev Dr Wati, founder of OTS in 1991, was convener of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), which comprised several organizations, including Baptist groups. He spent almost 20 years trying to bring the warring groups to the negotiating table. The FNR, formed in 2008, convened more than 60 meetings of the various Naga factions in the peace process.
“Over the years Wati has worked tirelessly, often against overwhelming odds, to keep a process alive that would allow deeply conflicted Naga parties to negotiate their bitter differences sufficient to extinguish the flames of violence,” said Ken Sehested, co-pastor of the Circle of Mercy Congregation in Asheville, North Carolina, in the United States, and who has known Rev Dr Wati since 1993.
Rev Dr Wati, a former vice president of the Asia Pacific Baptist Federation, one of six regional fellowships of the BWA, helped to found a liberal arts junior college program for Karen refugees from Myanmar in the Mae Le refugee camp in Thailand, near the border with Myanmar. He also helped to launch the Karen Bible School in the same camp where OTS graduates are the main teachers.
He previously served as a member of the BWA Commission on Freedom and Justice and the Academic and Theological Education Workgroup. He now serves on the BWA Commission on Peace and on the BWA Congress Committee.
The Denton and Janice Lotz Human Rights Award is given out each year during the BWA Annual Gathering, which will be held this year in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from July 4-9. Previous recipients include Gustavo Parajon from Nicaragua, Joao and Nora Matwawana from Angola, Dennis Datta from Bangladesh, and Leena Lavanya from India.
President reaches Manipur amid boycott call by rebels TNN
IMPHAL/KOHIMA: President Pratibha Patil reached the Manipur capital on Thursday even as a militant outfit called a strike in protest against her visit to the state.

Around 2 pm, a special Indian Air Force aircraft carrying the President landed at the airport even as the city outside wore a deserted look owing to the bandh called by the banned Manipur People's Liberation Front (MPLF), which is opposing Manipur's merger with the Indian union.

Patil was received by VVIPs, including governor Gurbachan Jagat, chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh, speaker I Hemochandra Singh, ministers, legislators and senior civil and military officers.

The President, who is the supreme commander of the Indian armed forces, was accorded a guard of honour by a women police contingent on the airport premises. From the airport, her convoy moved to the Raj Bhavan where she met the governor and the chief minister. Incidentally, while a colorful cultural show was organized in her honour at the governor house, life in the entire Manipur valley came to a grinding halt owing to the 40-hour MPLF general strike from Wednesday midnight. The MPLF is a conglomerate of three prominent underground outfits active in the state.

No vehicles plied and business establishments remained closed in the city. Only ceremonial and emergency services were kept outside the purview of the strike. Flight services, however, were not affected.

The MPLF said the President's visit to Manipur "is aimed at deceiving the international community and impose that Manipur is a part of India," and "also to create an impression among the Manipuris that New Delhi has been generously funding and taking up various development programmes in Manipur".

On Friday, Patil will meet members of some self help groups (SHGs), chairpersons of the state social welfare board and Manipur women's development corporation at Raj Bhavan, sources said.

She will also visit Mantripukhri to lay foundation of an Information Technology Park and launch the state-wide area network project. Before wrapping up her two-day visit, she will attend a video-conference with the deputy commissioner (Ukhrul), the sources said, adding that she would also address a mass gathering at Mantripukhri.

Earlier in the day, Patil lauded Nagaland for its achievements made over the years. She said inspite of "challenges" Nagaland has achieved a lot over the years, while addressing a reception in her honour at Naga Heritage Village in Kisama.

Since gaining statehood in 1963, Nagaland has made exemplary progress in various fields. However, she stressed on the need for peace and stability in this state, which is rich in natural resources.

She added that Nagaland should harness its resources and potentials in the right ways and strive towards growth and development. Patil said agriculture had a significant role to play in the state's development and domestic product generation. "The state government should aim to do away with the slash and burn method of jhum cultivation and move towards improved sustainable land-based means of livelihood," added Patil.

She stressed on the importance of development of sectors like horticulture, seri-culture, small scale industries service industries and IT, which would promise growth and development in the state. Development of bamboo industry, handicrafts and traditional goods she said would benefit Naga people.

Stressing on the education sector, she said education should continue to receive high priority in the state's agenda, as make available quality heath facilities for people.

Nagaland governor, Nikhil Kumar in his speech said Nagaland is rich in its own culture and heritage. He said what distinguish people of Nagaland is their hospitality and unflinching attachments to their roots. The governor added that the state had a troubled past and the time has come to use its assets so that peace is brought about for development and progress. Chief minister, Neiphiu Rio said despite restrains, the state had come a long way and hoped that the lack of opportunities in the northeast and sense of alienation would be overcome by the new "Look East Policy" of the Centre.
NSCN (IM) leaders positive about Naga solution From ANI
Imphal, Mar 12: National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isac-Muivah faction) leaders are positive about bringing the six decade old Naga issue to an end through a dialogue with the centre.SCN (IM) Chairman Isak Chisi Swu and General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah recently visited Nagaland after holding talks with the centre in New Delhi.
The two leaders while addressing the media expressed their satisfaction with the commitment of the centre to addressing the issue.

Over the years there has been a significant change in the stand of NSCN (IM) with regards to the peace talks.

The recent visit of Isak Chisi Swu, the president of NSCN (IM), to the country on an Indian visa was indicative of this fact. This was a major change after the outlawed group agreed for the first time to hold talks in Delhi.

"Muivah himself when he visited Dimapur recently said that talks are progressing well. Both Isak and Muivah recently met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and talks between both the parties were progressive," said Union Home Secretary GK Pillai.

The shift in the NSCN (IM)'s stand on peace talks is largely due to pressure from the civil society groups and residents of the state who want peace and normalcy in the region.

"We want that both the NSCN government and centre should work for the interests for the people. And there should be a just and an honorable solution to the problems," said Mary.

"We want development in Nagaland. We will support the side that brings development to the Nagaland," said Alem.

NSCN (IM) has had a ceasefire agreement with the centre for the past 13 years, and has held over 60 rounds of talks.
Peace needed for development: Patil Our Correspondent Morung
President Pratibha Patil being felicitated during a public reception at Kisama on March 10. (Sorei Mahong Photo)
Kisama | President Pratibha Devisingh Patil today underscored the need for peace to usher in development so that people can devote their energy to cultural, educational, social and economical development. Addressing the public reception at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, on her maiden visit to the state today, the President made a fervent appeal to the people of Nagaland to ensure an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.
She also opined that with its natural resources and conducive atmosphere, Nagaland can aspire to become one of the leading states of the Northeast. However, she asserted, people must work together as one unit, whatever tribe they are from, whatever region they may come from, and whatever community they may belong to in order to have a vibrant Nagaland and to add to the overall progress of the nation.
Noting that since attaining statehood in 1963 Nagaland has made significant progress; she acknowledged that though development started under very challenging circumstances, much has been achieved over the years in different fields. As compared to National averages, she noted, Nagaland excels in many social indicators and complimented for the achievements further urging the State to continue advancing on the path of development and peace.
Asserting that our nation is moving ahead to be counted as one of the major economies of the world, she said our objective remains to have a high economic growth rate and to have an inclusive growth process.
Towards this, she said, the accelerated development of the Northeastern region is fundamental for the country’s economic rise and Nagaland is very much a part of this process. Emphasizing on the development of physical infrastructure, particularly transport connectivity which is a prerequisite for economic development, she opined that Nagaland should harness its resources and its many potential areas of growth. Also noting that agriculture has a significant share in the state’s domestic product, she advised that the state government should aim to do away with the “slash and burn” method of jhum cultivation and move towards improve sustainable land base means of livelihood. She also underscored the need to build capacity for undertaking forest-based enterprises in a manner that while using forest resources, forest health is preserved and its wildlife and biodiversity are conserved.
Stressing that the quality of people determines the direction and vision for future growth, the President also maintained that there should be substantial investment in human capital and that education should also continue to receive high priority in the state’s agenda as also making quality heath facilities available for the people. She further stressed on the need for preservation and continuation of handicrafts and traditions of the state, acknowledging that Nagaland has the distinction of being a land of diverse tribes, cultures, colour and variety.
She further stated that the North East region stands strategically placed at the doorstep of the Nations of South East Asia and can play a crucial role in development and effective fructification of the “Look East Policy” which would also provide economic benefits to Nagaland.
Earlier, both Governor Nikhil Kumar and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, in their brief speeches, highlighted the urgent need to solve the Naga political issue so as to usher in more development and prosperity.
Rio plea GoI to resolve Naga political issue

Our Correspondent
Kisama | March 10
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today made an earnest plea that the Government of India makes concerted efforts to resolve the Naga political issue with full commitment. “The state and its people have been mired with conflict for too long, many precious lives has been lost, too much suffering has been faced by our people,” Rio told President Pratibha Devisingh Patil here today at the public reception programme.
Rio asserted that the people of the state are truly yearning for peace and speedy progress. “The time has now come to make peace and our people are anxiously waiting for a positive outcome of the Naga peace process, which is going on for a long time,” the Chief Minister said.
The Chief Minister recalled that Nagaland was carved out of Assam as the 16th state of the Indian Union 48 years ago as a result of the 16th Point agreement arrived at between the Government of India and the Naga People’s Convention. He continued that the state was given special status as well as special constitution safeguards by incorporating Article 371 (A) to the Constitution.
“We have come a long way since then. Despite constraints of resources, lack of infrastructure and institutional capacity, compounded by the continuing insurgency, we have been able to significantly expand the reach of the government and raise the socio economic status of our people,” Rio said.
Though long years of political strife, Rio said the unresolved six decade old Naga political issue, and the slow progress of the peace process have brought about a feeling of alienation and frustration amongst large sections of the Naga society.
Rio also expressed the hope that the lack of economic opportunities in the North East region, and the sense of alienation felt by the people would be overcome with the new “Look East Policy” of the Central government.
“However, we are somewhat disappointed with the slow implementation of the Look East Policy in this region,” Rio said adding that while the rest of the country has opened up to a globalized economy, attracting huge investments and economic resources, and is in the process of creating infrastructure of global standards,” Nagaland is yet to be connected by a decent four lane road, or a rail link, or an airport in state capital, Kohima.
“We also do not have a single central or regional institute of technical or professional education worth the name,” he said. As a result, while thousands of Naga boys and girls go out of the state in pursuit of higher studies, no students from other states come to Nagaland for education.
“This one-way traffic is not exactly conducive to building a sense of national integration. We feel it is a time the agencies of the Central government change their perspective of our state and make renewed efforts to address these imbalances,” Rio said.
Despite all these, Rio said, the state of Nagaland has been a bulwark in the face of enormous challenges to the unity and integrity of the country, adding “we have also, with the sustained supports of the government and civil societies, managed to bring about a semblance of peace in the state, and in the process, have helped to create hopes for a better tomorrow.”
Welcoming the President on her two day visit to Nagaland, Rio said her visit has come at the most opportune time and hoped that it will herald the fulfillments of “our hopes and aspirations, and mark the beginning of a new era in our shared destiny, one that is marked by trust and mutual respect.” “On our part, we are fully committed to an early and peaceful resolution to the Naga political problem, Rio added.
‘Who are the Black Sheep and who are the Culprits that wreck the Naga Peace & Reconciliation?’ GPRN
The NSCN rubbishes the rhetorics of the joint statement of the Khaplang and Shingnya parties which was issued on 8th March, 2011, stabbing at the back of the Naga reconciliation process for which Joint working groups (JWG) met on the same day and issued a statement of commitment. This is not the first time that the duos have been behaving treacherously. One and all are aware that, even last year on 15th of July (Manyekshu Conclave) they’d bluffed the Naga people by declaring that they had unconditionally merged together in the interest of Naga unity which also took place just after the 9th Chiangmai Meet. Naga people must know that, back-stabbing is not the work of the upright and the brave but that of the cowards. These disgruntled section of the people even if they form tens of groups who have no vision and mission for the Naga people will not carry the people along. It is crystal clear that no amount of agreements or memos of understanding will work because; they are yet to prepare themselves to be honest, truthful to God and man and above all, they are unable to overcome their parochialism and prejudice. They will always place themselves above the Naga nation.
The more statements of provocation carried in the media, the more it lowers the image of the Nagas and that is why NSCN has been refraining itself from issuing rejoinders or statements. It is not that NSCN is at fault or its MIP is unable to represent itself through the media. Khaplang himself is one of the signatories of the Covenant of reconciliation and since its signing on 13th June 2009, more than half a dozen of resolutions to hold the highest level meeting as early as possible were adopted to which Khaplang has not paid the slightest of respect and cooperation. After the 18th September 2010 high level meeting, Naga people have given 45 days ultimatum to all the stakeholders in the reconciliation process to hold the highest level meeting. The deadline expired on the 4th of January 2011. Who is responsible for not meeting the deadline? On 30th of December 2010, Conveners of the Joint working groups met at 2pm at the residence of Rev. Dr. Wati Aier, Convener of the FNR in which convener of the K group Mr. C Singsong himself had honestly admitted that, there was problem within themselves on account of non response from Mr. Khaplang. Convener of the FNR also fully agreed with the confession of Mr. C Singsong. Since representative of the K group had pleaded for more time, it was understood together to hold the highest level meeting in the last week of February 2011. Then how come that Khaplang and FGN groups are accusing the NSCN for the delay? As for sending its men to Eastern Nagalim; the troop passed nearby Pangsha in Khianmungan area where incidentally Tatar Hoho of the FGN was about to be held. If the NSCN soldiers were on offensive mission it would have attacked the FGN there and then. The same troop also passed through Gen. Kholi’s area but it did not attack anybody which must be clear and convincing enough that NSCN has no any ill intention against any Naga groups. But Nagas need to know this fact that the Manipuris and Assamese have been moving around the length and breadth of Eastern Nagalim extorting rations and head-load porters from the poor Naga people for more than 20 years now. Naga people often get thrashed at the hands of these merciless non-Nagas for being unable to provide good food or for failing to organize sufficient porters. At the sweat and tears of Naga public, Khaplang continues to enjoy crores of rupees paid to him by these reactionaries.
Yes NSCN will not always remain a silent spectators to these kind of atrocious treatments meted out to our poor people to satiate the ungrateful people who come in the garb of neighbors. In the land of the Nagas, there is no area under the exclusive domination of Mr. Khaplang as such. When Assames and Manipuris are allowed to rampage the Eastern Nagalim, why pointing of fingers at the NSCN cadres who are the sons of the soil? We have the responsibility to protect the land and the people, be it in the East or the West. When the NSCN troop was attacked in the East, two thirds of the attackers were Manipuris which is confirmed from the Naga public. NSCN has not attacked and it will not unless, it is fired upon. But reprisal is a natural weapon or strategy of warfare to deter the enemy from further offensive attack.
Now, NSCN would like to remind the Naga people that, K-group had entered into an agreement on 26th of June 2008 with us that, it would not provide shelter to any non-Naga armed groups nor use them against the Naga brothers. This agreement was signed in presence of the FNR, Quakers Society and American Baptist Church leaders. It is almost three years since the signing of the agreement and Khaplang continues to take Naga people for a ride. Let the Naga people judge. God knows who the culprit is.
There is not even a shred of mistake on the part of our Gen. Secy. Th. Muivah in his statement that, there is no wisdom in continually seeking pretexts in order to escape from facing reality either by Khaplang or Shingnya. Highest level meeting was convened by the FNR to be held in the 1st Week of March, to which our collective leadership had promptly responded by laying aside many other equally important matters and had rushed home. We remain committed for peace and reconciliation amongst Naga brothers but we will not go in search of those who are against reconciliation. Don’t take the Naga people for granted. We have been patiently bearing all kinds of affronts and provocations but there is limit to everything.

Issued by MIP
Government of the
People’s Republic Of Nagalim
President Patil told to remove Kannan, AFSPA
Dimapur, March 10 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation today called the President Pratibha Devisingh Patil at Raj Bhavan and submitted a three point memorandum to represent the voice and sentiments of the younger generation to her. NSF President Mutsikhoyo Yhobu along with general secretary O. Wati Jamir and former President Achumbemo Kikon apprised the President about the prevailing situation in Nagaland University; revocation of Armed Forces Special Powers Act and Indo-Naga Peace Process.
The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) asked the President of India to remove Nagaland University’s unpopular Vice Chancellor Prof. K Kannan and interestingly, alongside removal of the black law the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act of 1958. The apex Naga students’ organization issued a copy of a memorandum addressed to President Pratibha Devisingh Patil. The President is in Nagaland on a two-day visit. Among other grievances, the NSF wanted the president to intervene, the memorandum emphasized on the demand for the removal of Vice Chancellor Prof. Kannan and the AFSPA.
Meanwhile, Yhobu has informed that regarding the NU crisis, in her response to the concern raised by the Federation, the President has asked them to be patient as the Vice Chancellor’s tenure would be over by July this year. He also said that the President has assured the NSF that their demand for appointment of a competent and a man of integrity as Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University would be fulfilled. On the ongoing Indo-Naga peace process, Yhobu said that the President had shown keen interest to know more about the Indo-Naga peace process and also asked the Federation to put up suggestions towards finding a solution which will benefit the Nagas as well as the Government of India.
On the Vice Chancellor, the NSF demanded his immediate removal for corruption and mismanagement, which the NSF said are ‘substantiated’. The NSF explained the state of affairs in NU where allegations of corruption and mismanagement continue to plague the institution.
“Your Excellency would also appreciate that he has no moral right to continue as Vice Chancellor of NU as his in-competency and mismanagement of the university fund has been well substantiated. We are also aware of the bureaucratic red-tapism in the Government functioning as such, should the process for his removal stretches till July, his tenure should not be extended beyond July 2011 as his five years tenure comes to an end in July 2011. On removal of the present Vice Chancellor, we urge upon your Excellency to appoint a competent and a man of integrity as Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University so as to uphold the sanctity of the university.”
On the black law, the NSF said that continuous enforcement of the AFSPA in the Naga areas and other northeastern states including Jammu & Kashmir is only adding to the problems of the Government of India instead of bringing about any solution. “On the strength of this so-called draconian Act, the Indian Army has been harassing the innocent public and even women and children have not been spared. We therefore seek the prompt intervention of your Excellency for immediate revocation of the AFPSA,” NSF said.

Corruption, mismanagement and lack
The organization turned its sights again on embattled Nagaland University.
NSF calls on President Pratibha Patil with 3-point memorandum
5

Amongst the central universities in India, the NSF said, NU “could be the only one where there is no Pro-Vice Chancellor”.
The President is requested to appoint two Pro-Vice Chancellors for the Kohima campus, Meriema and SASRD campuses. “This will definitely help improve the functioning of the University and it will also relieve the burden of those students coming from far flung areas as the appointment of Pro-Vice Chancellor will create administrative conveniences.”
The shortage of faculty in NU was also explained in the memorandum. “The present Registrar of the university has already tendered resignation because he was implicated in cross financial irregularities and mismanagement. As a result, the university is running without a Registrar,” the NSF said.
There are vacancies still kept “in the cool storage without being advertised” because of which the university is short of faculty members.
Corrupt VC and NU officials
Likewise, the NSF decried the lack of basic amenities and poor infrastructure in NU. In spite of adequate funds sanctioned by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, the university’s authority has no interest to develop the university, NSF stated.
“On the other hand, the most of the university officials’ right from the Vice Chancellor are tainted with corruptions and scandals. As a result, even minimum basic amenities and infrastructure which a university ought to have, are not available in the NU. An urgent intervention of Your Excellency is also required in this regard.”
The failed “Online question paper delivery system” and the issue of reservation for Naga youths in the various categories of appointments in Nagaland University were also broached.
Indo-Naga Peace Process
“As young people having dreams to grow and progress like any others, we are eagerly looking forward for peaceful settlement of the Indo-Naga political conflict. Indeed, Your Excellency must have been already briefed about the ongoing peace process vis-à-vis political talks between the Naga nationalist and the Government of India which is being continuing for about 14 years now without any tangible progress.”
The NSF assured that resolving the Indo-Naga issue is in the interest of not only the Naga people but also equally in the larger interest of India. “Therefore we urge upon your Excellency to make a very serious intercession and expedite the peace process vis-à-vis political talks so as to bring it to a logical conclusion,” the NSF stated.
Sumi Nagas celebrate 100th anniversary of migration to Dimapur From ANI

Kohima, Mar 12: Sumi better known as 'Sema Naga' recently celebrated the 100th anniversary of their migration from Zunheboto to Nagaland.
Sema is one of the major tribes of Nagaland recognized for its martial art skills. Initially, they inhabited the district of Zunheboto, but have now spread all across the State.

Chief Minister Nephiu Rio, who inaugurated the daylong festival to celebrate the anniversary, underlined the need to spread the message of harmony and unity among Nagas and live like a family.

"Though there are many different tribes among the Nagas, we should be together and live like a family. There should be no differences amongst us and should promote the message of brotherhood and unity," he added.

The festival, which was celebrated under the theme of "United we stand", helped young Sumis to better understand their culture and tradition

"The message to the young people or future people is to live in cordial relations, unity and try to understand each other as we have lived together for hundred years so that we may live for hundred years again. We want to see all Nagas being united and living under one umbrella," said Tohovi.

"The cultural displays in various forms it show that the unity, oneness and love that has been expected by the people," said Gloria.

Nagaland has about 40 small and big tribes which have their own unique culture and traditions.

The majority of the Sumis live in Nagaland, although many Sümis have migrated outside Nagaland for work and education. The Sumi is one of the recognized scheduled tribes of India.

Frans on 03.12.11 @ 02:57 PM CST [link]

Friday, March 11th

Expedite peace process: Rio, civil society groups request Prez Shakeb Ayaz( PTI)

Expedite peace process: Rio, civil society groups request Prez Shakeb Ayaz( PTI)

Kohima, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and prominent civil society groups today urged President Pratibha Patil to expedite the peace process saying the unresolved decades-old Naga political issue has brought about alienation among the people.

Addressing a gathering at a public reception for Patil in Kisama bamboo heritage village here, Rio asked the government to make to "make concerted efforts to resolve the Naga political issue as the state and its people have been mired in conflict for too long and many precious lives have been lost".

He said the people of the state are anxiously waiting for a positive outcome of the Naga peace process.

During her two-day visit to the state, Patil interacted with representatives of apex tribal council Naga Hoho, NGOs and civil society groups and unveiled a monolith at the entrance of the main arena of the heritage village.

The Naga Hoho in a memorandum urged the President to see that the ongoing peace process was expedited and appealed to her for unconditional release of Naga political prisoners or detainee arrested during the ceasefire period.

Besides expediting the peace talks, some women NGOs requested her to initiate steps for implementation of 33 per cent reservation of seats for women in municipal and town councils in Nagaland.

In her speech at the public reception, Patil said, "This (northeastern) region stands strategically placed at the doorstep of the nations of South East Asia, and can play a crucial role in the development and effective fructification of our ''Look East Policy''.

"This will provide economic benefits to Nagaland also.
Increased connectivity with the nations to the east of India will open the scope for investment and tourism, including eco-tourism and culture tourism in the northeastern states, a sector which has not really so far performed to its potential," she said.

Rio expressed disappointment over lack of four-lane roads, adequate rail links, or an airport here. He also said that the state does not have a single Central or regional educational institution.

Patil, however, said that since attaining statehood in 1963, Nagaland has made significant progress.

"Even though development started under very challenging circumstances, much has been achieved over the years in different fields."
In the evening, Patil reached Manipur, where she was received at the Imphal airport by Governor Gurbachan Jagat and Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh among others.

She will meet representatives of various social organisations tomorrow morning and lay the foundation stone of some institutions before leaving for New Delhi.
‘Save the likely falling of peace and reconciliation’ morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): The members of Nagaland Peace Centre, Kohima expressed concern about the deferment of the proposed highest level summit called by the FNR. “There was a ray of hope and encouragement when the collective leadership of NSCN (IM) landed in homeland for the highest political meet for reconciliation but the other party viz NSCN (K), GPRN (NSCN), FGN and NNC were found to be absent and the most crucial meet called by FNR deferred,” stated a note issued by N. Theyo, chairman NPC Kohima.
The note informed that The Naga Relationship meet was held in Chiang Mai, Thailand from June 1 to June 8, 2009 which resulted in signing of a document ‘Covenant of Reconciliation’ by the NSCN (IM), NSCN (K), GPRN (NSCN), FGN and NNC and the latest by Unification group which promises reconciliation and peace.
Stating that reconciliation is possible, only, when all the parties want peace in their relationship and the most important relationship is the trust, NPC added that without trust, there can not be any reconciliation in the relationship. Another important relationship, NPC said is the unity among national workers and to treat as brothers and sisters, and added that there has to be some sacrifice which will enable them to build up a situation to prove that they are real patriotic Nagas and that they will have to uphold the Covenant of reconciliation. “We urge them to remember that FNR is really sacrificing everything to redeem the hopeless situation likely faced by the national workers,” stated NPC.
The Nagaland Peace Centre, Kohima sincerely and seriously appeal to the ‘real Naga Nationalist’ to save the likely falling of peace and reconciliation and to strengthen all positive political forces to reunite the fractured national workers of Nagaland through FNR.

Patil admires natural beauty, rich culture & heritage of Nagas Chizokho Vero Morungexpress

President of India Pratibha Patil interacting with the public at the reception, which was held in her honour at Kisama Heritage village today, March 10. (DIPR Photo)

Kohima | After paying a two-day visit to Nagaland, President of India Pratibha Devisingh Patil expressed her happiness to be in Kohima, ‘the beautiful capital of Nagaland’, adding that the warm, colorful and proud population of the state along with its immense natural beauty has made an everlasting impression on her. Patil visited Nagaland before, however, this is her first visit as President.
Clad in colouful Naga traditional dresses at the public reception programme at Kisama today, she conveyed greetings and good wishes to all the people of Nagaland. “We respect the people of Nagaland and their culture,” Patil said. The President said she was touched by the warm welcome and colorful reception the people of Nagaland have accorded to her.
“On account of its mountains, picturesque landscape, forests and greenery, Nagaland is often referred as the “Switzerland of the East.” The majestic peaks Saramati and Japfu, which has the tallest Rhododendron tree in the world, I am sure will inspire people to scale new heights of progress and achieve new levels of prosperity,” she said.
Patil maintained that already a land where there are festivals for every season, development and growth can further add greatly to the many joyous celebrations. She also asserted that the Hornbill Festival held every year at Kisama, not only showcases the rich traditions of Nagaland, but is also a celebration of the potential for the future.
In the meantime, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said the riot of colours, the festivities and the smiling faces mirror the gaiety and the joy that fills “our hearts on your visit to our land” and hoped that the President will go back fond memories of her visit to Nagaland. Governor Nikhil Kumar was optimistic that the performances of culture and lifestyle of Nagas by various tribes in her honour will provide her an enjoyable insight into our culture and heritage.
Kumar recalled that every time he had privileged to call upon the President, she unfailingly asked him about people of Nagaland and their welfare and expressed her keen desire to see them prosperous, happy and on course to achieving greater well being. “Her visit shows her inherent interest in our state,” Kumar added.

Governor lauds effort to resolve Nagas differences

Our Correspondent
Kisama | March 10
Nagaland State Governor Nikhil Kumar today commended on the efforts of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), State Legislatures, NGOs, Tribal Hohos, church leaders, member of civil society to resolve internal differences and forge a commonality of purpose and efforts to achieve peace.
In his address at a public reception for President Pratibha Devisingh Patil, the Governor said Nagaland has had a troubled past and the need of the hour is to use the asset in such a way as to convert the state into a haven of peace which will also help to facilitate all round development stating “for it is through such development that we can achieve progress”, adding that by pursing this aim and with God’s blessing “We” shall overcome all obstacles and deliver the people of Nagaland what is most deserved.
He also pointed out that India was on its way to achieving a growth rate which is universally expected to be the second fastest in the world that it is to be hoped that Nagaland state contributes to it and more importantly it benefits from the major success story where the aim is to usher in permanent peace in Nagaland state.
“The efforts of all of us should be aimed at ensuring of the success of the process to bring about peace and for this, all sections of society have to unitedly work towards it in a practical and realistic manner”, he said.
Overwhelmed by the presence of the President and her spouse, the Governor, said Nagaland is not only one of most beautiful states blessed with abundant natural beauty but is also a state rich in its unique culture and heritage, adding that the heritage is a mixture of the cultures of sixteen major tribes and other small tribes.
The Governor asserted that the selfless hospitality and unflinching attachment root that lies in the Naga village distinguishes the people of Nagaland putting in more that this loyalty of the roots is the basis of the dynamic community structure and democratic processes where everybody is happy and participative. He was even more impressive with the participation of the community in running public institutions witnessing democracy in its truest sense.

President urged to ‘save’ Intangki forest

Dimapur, March 10 (MExN): The intervention of President of India Pratibha Devisingh Patil is needed to save Intangki National Park from ‘private property’ mongers, about 2000 families of encroachers and the destruction being caused to the forest, Tenyimi Peoples’ Organization (TPO) stated today. The organization issued a copy of a letter addressed to the Head of State.
Representing Nagaland, Assam and Manipur states, the TPO said, “The sensitive, strategically located, ecosystem protected by Nature for millions of years, is under serious threat of rapid destruction.” Intangki National Park is 22, 202 Hectares in size (200 sq kms), situated in Peren district of Nagaland.
The TPO explained – “The sensitive, strategically located, ecosystem protected by nature for millions of years, is under serious threat of rapid destruction. Over 2000 family of encroachers have over the years illegally taken possession of extensive tracts of virgin forestland, sold off the timber trees and started to cultivate them. The arguments and excuses employed by them to justify their blanket violations of the provisions of the Nagaland Forest Act of 1968, and other laws related to protection of forests have no legal basis whatsoever.”
The TPO stated that human diversity and biodiversity are two extraordinary assets of northeast India “but they are often insufficiently recognized.” The impact from the accelerating changes taking place within and outside the region is turning the biodiversity assets into extremely difficult challenges, ‘which are increasingly beyond our control.’
The organization said the forest falls within the jurisdiction of “one of our constituent tribes.” The areas need the President’s urgent attention and consideration “for appropriate instruction to the concerned authorities in your Government.”
The TPO also broached the issue from the angle of “Climate Change.” ‘Nagas too have understood the grim implications of Climate Change; they have also grasped the imperative need globally to stop the destruction of the green cover of the planet, and to increase it at all costs. That is where we too have a small part to play.’
The organization says that the ‘privileged responsibilities’ is on the Nagas to rally to ensure that the integrity of the eco-system nurtured within the forest is preserved without encroachment of any kind being allowed to degrade it further.
“We earnestly request your understanding of our determined attempt being made and your intervention so that the National Park may be saved before it is too late. We are clear, a national property such as this park becoming the private properties of individuals is out of the question,” the TPO said.
Nagalim: Peace is a Common Desire

The call for peace, unity and brotherhood was recently made by Health Minister of Nagaland Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, urging people maintain positive outlook in the society.
Below is an article published by the Morung Express:
Minister for Health & Family Welfare, government of Nagaland Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu yesterday [date] asserted that population is an asset of the society. Peace and unity is the common desire of the Naga society and the responsibility of achieving the common desires lies with the common people of the society, Nienu said and urged the people to maintain brotherhood among the different sections of people.
The Health Minister was addressing the 2011 Kuzhami Welfare Organization (KWO) Phek general session held on March 8 at Phek Town Hall. Nienu encouraged the people gathered to maintain positive outlook in the society as in a united society there would be no misunderstandings.
As part of his individual contribution to the Kuzhami bothers, the Minister donated two lakh towards the KWO fund and fifty thousands for the day feast. Mikha Lomi, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Phek and Wetsope Krome, Superintendent of Police (SP) Phek were among others who exhort the day function.
Earlier, the function was chaired by KWO president Neilhite Akami, invocation by Kewezolo Mero, Pastor, Nepali Baptist Church, Phek Town, general secretary report was read by Teisovikuolie Therieh, indigenous tune was presented by Wehicho and friends, vote of thanks was proposed by Tsulhi Khape and closing prayer was pronounced by Kevichusa Koza, pastor, CRC, Phek followed by mass feast.
Zhimomi for more perks, not AFSPAs morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): According to Rajya Sabha Member Khekiho Zhimomi special Category State Nagaland has ‘all-round facilities’ assured by the category. Interestingly, he remarked to the Parliament on March 8, India has given Nagaland the “privilege” of the subcontinent’s ignominious black law, the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act of 1985 but no other facilities in other areas for the state.
Under the draconian law – the MP told the Parliament during the debate of the Railway Budget – even a lowly Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) in the rank of a sergeant can shoot a person and the court of law cannot challenge it. “But special privileges and facilities on all other fronts have been withdrawn one after another,” the MP quipped.
Making these statements the MP expressed gratefulness that the railway budget “acknowledged” states such as Nagaland. “This is the first time in the history of the great Indian railways family that Nagaland has found a place,” Zhimomi remarked.
Zhimomi even quipped to the Parliament: “our demand is very limited. We are a very grateful people; we are really grateful that this time in the railway budget a new line survey from Dimapur to Tizit has been included. Its only 250 kms.”
The MP reminded the Parliament of the assurance given by former railway Minister Laloo Prasad to provide a railhead to all the state capitals, including that of Nagaland. “We have been waiting for the fulfillment of this commitment very eagerly. This time, a more aggressive step may please be taken so that it materializes,” the former Nagaland Minister for Industries stated.
Another point of concern the MP raised in the Parliament was the reservation of seats for Dimapur in the Rajdhani Express. Dimapur station serves not only Nagaland but Manipur state as well, catering to a large population of travelers.
The MP makes this request to the Centre – “However, the present quota for Dimapur station is insufficient for meeting the growing demands of the people of the two states namely Nagaland and Manipur. I therefore request the honorable minister to increase the quota of seats for Dimapur railway station. Similarly, the Rajdhani Express halts only for five minutes at the Dimapur railway station; the halt may please be extended up to twenty minutes.”
Nagaland producing 200 tonnes of honey annually morungexpress
P. Longon calls for further boosting of apiculture in the state
DIMAPUR, (MExN): A two-day state level seminar on ‘awareness, motivational and technology transfer for development of beekeeping in Nagaland’ took off on Wednesday, March 9 at the NE Agri Expo site, 4th Mile, Dimapur. The seminar is organised by the Nagaland Bee Keeping & Honey Mission and sponsored by the National Bee Board (NBB). Dr. BL Saraswat, executive director of the NBB is one of the resource persons at the workshop which has in attendance beekeepers from around the state.
Minister for Soil & Water Conservation and Land Resources P. Longon addressed the inaugural session as the chief guest. “This is an excellent opportunity for farmers and beekeepers to gain valuable knowledge from the expert resource persons who will be sharing their technical knowhow and expertise,” said the chief guest while expressing optimism that following the seminar the participants will go back motivated and more equipped to further strengthen the beekeeping industry in the state.
The state is blessed with the ideal agro-climatic condition for beekeeping, while traditionally it has been an age-old activity among the Nagas, he said. Realising its immense potential the state government had launched the Nagaland Beekeeping & Honey Mission in October 2007. The objective was not only to harness its rich potential but also to create a road map for the development of beekeeping in the state, Longon recalled, nevertheless commenting that it is still at a nascent stage.
The Mission so far has been able to create awareness on the importance of beekeeping in the state while beekeeping as an economic activity is gradually gaining momentum, he said. As a result “production of honey in the state has gone upto 200 metric tones per annum”, he informed, besides beekeeping and its related activities is providing employment opportunities to many. The Mission further endeavours to promote: ‘Nagaland Honey’ as the preferred brand name for honey produced in the state.
On the other advantages of beekeeping or apiculture, he said that integrating the activity with agricultural, horticultural, forestry, rural development and community based projects will boost the farming community.
“Honey bees play an important role in crop pollination.” With 80 percent of the state population engaged in farming, apiculture when promoted will further enhance the agricultural productivity manifold, he asserted.
“I am very sure such a seminar will do the needful in motivating and providing the technology transfer to the farmers of the state, at the same time it will pave the way for more coordination amongst the various departments.” Longon urged the NBB for their patronage and guidance in this regard.
Encouraging the people who have taken up apiculture in the state, he urged them to be dedicated and sincere in their chosen activity while at the same time ardently collaborate with the implementing agency as “partners and as stakeholders…” He expressed hope that the state’s beekeepers will take apiculture to a larger commercial level and become successful entrepreneurs “for which the state can be proud of.”
He further called upon the NBHM to continue doing the good work they have initiated with unflinching dedication backed by vibrant team spirit.
‘Beekeeping a goldmine’: NBB executive director
DIMAPUR, MARCH 9 (MExN): Executive director of the National Bee Board (NBB), Dr. BL Saraswat termed beekeeping as a ‘goldmine’. This was stated during a presentation on the topic: ‘Status of Beekeeping and Honey Enterprise in India: The Challenges Ahead’ by Dr. Saraswat at the first technical session of the two-day state level seminar on ‘awareness, motivational and technology transfer for development of beekeeping in Nagaland’ being held at the NE Agri Expo Site, 4th Mile, Dimapur.
With an average annual production of 65, 000 tonnes of honey, apiculture today is providing employment to 1.5 lakh people in the country, said Dr. Saraswat. The export value of honey produced in India is now Rs. 250 crore. Honey production is projected to increase to 10 million tonnes per annum in the coming years while employing a further 215 lakh people and the export value is estimated at Rs. 800, 000 million. Taking the consideration its economic potential, Dr. Saraswat called for adopting scientific method in apiculture. As of now, beekeeping in India is centred only on traditional methods while he admitting that scientific beekeeping is still absent in India. “If one takes up scientific method the remuneration will be much higher.”
Another important reason why beekeeping is receiving so much thrust is that it is directly related to agriculture and crop production, he said, for the simple reason being bees help in pollination of crops. Hence, beekeeping is also treated as the ‘fifth input’ for overall development of agriculture in a sustainable manner. The four main inputs required in agriculture are land, labour, capital and management. Apiculture as the ‘fifth input’ regulates the efficacy of the other four inputs, he added.
Further substantiating this, he quoted Albert Einstein: “If the bee disappears from the surface of the earth, man would have no more than four years to live. No more bees, no more pollination … no more men!” Beekeeping today is constrained by deforestation, wildfires, water and air pollution, mono-cropping culture and importantly indiscriminate use of insecticides, pesticides, weedicides and other chemicals used in agriculture, Dr. Saraswat said.
This type of campaigns and awareness meet are required, he said on the objective of the seminar. The objectives of capacity building programmes are to create awareness among farmers as well as the officers and employees of the related government departments, to encourage and adopt scientific beekeeping method and management on use of pesticides in various crops to protect honeybees. And also creating awareness on the role bees play in increasing crop yield.
There is huge potential in beekeeping, he reminded while estimating that there is a requirement of 200 million bee colonies to provide pollination to India’s 12 major crops. Mission Director of the NBHM Mhathung Yanthan declared that the USP (Unique Selling Point) of the honey produced here is its organic nature, thereby giving it a higher trade value. He added that nine villages have already been identified in the state as organic honey producers.

Frans on 03.11.11 @ 06:35 AM CST [link]

Thursday, March 10th

'North-east rebels getting Chinese support' Manan Kumar Express News Service

'North-east rebels getting Chinese support' Manan Kumar Express News Service

NEW DELHI: In a development that has seeds of starting a diplomatic row, the government, for the first time, conceded on Wednesday that acquisition of arms and ammunition by rebels in the North-East is being facilitated by easy availability of weapons in the Sino-Myanmar border towns situated in the Yunnan province of China.
In a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, the government said, “There have been inputs suggesting visit of some leaders of various insurgent groups in the North-East region to China on several occasions, with the objective to establish rapport with Chinese authorities, to facilitate procurement of arms and ammunition from arms agent in that country.”
The Home Ministry also confessed that the armoury being acquired from China by the insurgent groups is being smuggled through Thailand and Sino-Myanmar border to the North-Eastern states.
“The acquisition of arms is facilitated by the easy availability of weapons in Sino-Myanmar border towns like Tengchong, Ruili and Yingjiang in Yunnan province,” Minister of State in the Home Ministry Mullappally Ramachandran said.
A couple of months ago, interrogation of top National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) leader, Anthony Shimray, had revealed $7 lakh (about `31 crore) payment was made to a Chinese arms factory for procuring lethal arms. He was also found to be in possession of 110-page secret documents giving out the exact positioning of Indian defence grid in the North-East.

Reconciliation rests on being true to God Rev. L. Suohie Mhasi Morung
Reconciliation among the factions does not rest on any faction but on being true to God. The formula for reaching true forgiveness and reconciliation is obedience to the law of relationship with God which is synonymously the law of good relationship among mankind “Know your God, believe in Him, fear Him and obey Him.” Anything which is to your liking or disliking, your advantage or disadvantage, if true, it should be admitted as true; if untrue, it should be admitted as untrue; right should be admitted as right and wrong should be admitted as wrong. Moral bankruptcy is prevailing in our society. Justifying selves and accusing others is going on endlessly. No one speaks to bridge. So the element of truth is found lacking to bring about true reconciliation.
The Naga publics, the Church, the civil societies, the factions and the FNR have to be realistic and to admit the truth. Roaring lie cannot defy the truth but the neglected truth will never die but will prevail. The cause of the Nagas is independence or sovereignty but the contemporaries today have found that any kind of practical, acceptable and honourable settlement is the only way of solution in place of independence or sovereignty and the people cannot blame the national workers for concluding the talk with a settlement short of independence. We have come to such a stage that the time for argument for the sake of argument and allegation for the sake of allegation is gone but it is now the time to dig out the truth in sober mind. Failures and commitment might have been done by any organization such as the NNC/FGN and the NSCN(K) but in spite of it, they have dedicated their lives for the cause of the Nagas. So their hardship and sacrifices have to be honoured by the Naga people. Candidly speaking, the NSCN(I-M) which have been leading the talk with the GOI in the last 13 years, though they also have done lot of blunders for which they are being blamed by the Naga public, they are most capable and efficient leaders among the National workers and we have confidence that they will not betray the Nagas but whatever settlement is made will be out of the best possible bargaining power in the present context.
If certain groups of people are opposed to it or try to sabotage the talk on any pretext, it is a known fact that it is for the sake of opposition. Such people will not manage better. If someone can do better or higher, who don’t want anything better or higher? But it is a known fact that there is no one who can do better or higher among the Nagas. The writer has repeatedly challenged any Nagas to come forward with any concrete idea or proposal for talk for public consumption but not a single one raised his or her voice but simply kept on harping on unity, unity. If there is no idea or suggestion to be produced before the public, it is better not oppose the ongoing talk because without talk no settlement can be brought about and if settlement is not made, Nagaland will continue to be the threshold of factional conflict instead of a land for Christ. If the people are sincere that reconciliation is a must, the logical truth should be admitted. In a family, the success of a brother is the happiness of all and the failure of one is the sadness for all. Reconciliation in Nagaland is hypocritical and insincere reconciliation. In the reconciliation movement, instead of grasping one another, you have been wrestling with one another. Reconciliation is for the sake of reconciliation and unity is for the sake of unity without the cause. Participants of peace meetings speak good things without speaking the truth. If the success is denied, the failure is accepted. Unity is a must and it should be on the basis of the success and not on the basis of the failures. Should the people have reconciliation or unity on the basis of the past failures? Unity should be on the basis of the success. We have to be positive and not to be negative, to go forward and not backward. We are now above the Shillong Accord under the umbrella of the talk in the highest level only. It is cent per cent true and logical but many people refused to admit it because the talk is being led by the NSCN(I-M). It is hatred and jealousy. But hatred and jealous should be removed in the movement of reconciliation. We have to stand for justice and not for or against any group. The people say that settlement is impossible without unity. Unity is a must but if the people fail to realize the truth, the sufferings of the public should not be prolonged because of the ignorance of some ones. A settlement is bound to be made to put the sufferings of the people to an end. In 1960, the 16 Points Agreement was made which was opposed by all of underground people but the State Government has been in existence.
The conclusion is support the talk and participates in it in the spirit of reconciliation or being of a family by obeying the law of relationship with God.

NSCN/GPRN on Naga Reconciliation GPRN MIP
When the people desperately desire and pray for wind of change in the entire Nagalim through mutual reconciliation among the different political groups of the Nagas, it is truly unfortunate to say that the Khaplang group took much pleasure on making rhetoric blame-game against the GPRN with its standardized medium of self-justification.
True Reconciliation has to be manifested not only with verbal pledge to the Naga fraternity but it has to be made vibrant reflection in spirit and in letter. Genuine reconciliation can never be substantiated unless these exotic or foreign elements are accorded to lay with us.
Khaplang, in our utter somnambulism has acquainted in using our common adversary forces to fight against us. For instance, they have started attacking and killing our boys in Changlang with combine operation of three battalions of 18th, 19th and 44th Assam Rifles under the name of “Rocket Operation.” Khaplang also harbor non-Naga armed groups to fight against us and harbouring them in their camps giving easy ways to various crimes elsewhere in Nagalim. It is not at all absurd to say that, one of the biggest political blunders on their part is to allow these elements to gain an impetus and advantages only to serve their diabolic agenda over the Naga people. We are against harbouring non-Naga groups because their political agenda is clearly against the Naga people aspiration.
Reasoning together has no meeting point if we fail to reason deep down to the truth and realities of national principle. Way back from April 9, 1995 at Yangkhao, Khaplang and FGN agreed upon to rampantly venture a joint operation against the NSCN and the same has been reaffirmed on July 15, 2010 at so-called Monyukshu-conclave and their press statement on February 9 & March 3 2011 respectively is simply a repetition of their same evil policy.
Khaplang group have gone too far with a cosmetic facial. They don’t go deep down to the root of the Naga people’s desires. To them words of instigation of the adversaries forces become a gospel truth. Some of their people have no root in the Naga people; they dance at the tune of the adversaries’ drum. In the heart of their hearts freedom of the Naga people is not there at all.
Besides, having numbers of reconciliation summits, 9(nine) rounds in Chiangmai and 36 rounds in Nagaland Khaplang refusing highest level leadership meeting is to be viewed decisively by one and all. Reconciliation may not be desired by the people if we have no problem in hand. Surely a call of the highest level meeting is to solve our differences. Therefore, denying the fervent call of Naga people for the top leadership meeting under any pretext is simply a flimsy excuses.
Speaking the truth is bitter. Kitovi says that Khaplang is against the reconciliation in a Joint Working Group meeting held at Hukato’s residence on 18th September 2010 attended by top leaders of the three Naga political groups. On questioning why it is so Kitovi confessed that they have internal problems within themselves. But, after having much of conversation he says that we cannot go back from reconciliation. So, in the K group there exist two camps or schools of thought, one for reconciliation and the other against to it. But the NSCN have given a vow to the Naga people. We will never retreat or surrender but firmly stand on our ground for the COR.
Signing of the most unpopular agreement the so called the Shillong Accord, 1975 has brought down the Naga issue to Zero point. Nevertheless, the NSCN have struggle with persistent support of the Naga people from heaven to earth in order to retain the issue at the highest level talks from the zero point. We entered a cease-fire agreement on 1st August 1997 with the Government of India to begin political negotiations at the highest level without conditions in a mutually agreed third country. Is bringing up the Naga political issue from zero point to the highest level talk belittling the Naga in the eyes of the world? Or is selling out the legitimate birthright of the Nagas by signing an agreement under the law of the land (under Indian Constitution) is upholding the Naga interest?
Through mandatory given by the people a proposal of the NSCN was made in the process of the Indo-Naga political talks. To this Khaplang group called it charter of demand. There is no charter of demand. We are not demanding anything from any one. The NSCN only made proposals to retain what belongs to the Nagas. Through this proposal and subsequent process of the talks, the Government of India has recognized the uniqueness of the Naga history.
The NSCN never forget who have laid down their precious lives. But being in a society of big communities however strong, rich, weak, poor or powerful they may be, have learn to coexist in peace. And the NSCN is conscious enough where we should and should not compromise.
Despite of above fact and figure for the love of peace and reconciliation, the NSCN signed covenant of reconciliation based on unique historical rights of the Nagas. And it will remain committed to the same in the interest of the people.

Ministry of Information & Publicity
Government Of The People’s
Republic Of Nagalim

‘Naga society desires peace and unity’
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morungexpress

Phek | March 9 : Minister for Health & Family Welfare, government of Nagaland Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu yesterday asserted that population is an asset of the society. Peace and unity is the common desire of the Naga society and the responsibility of achieving the common desires lies with the common people of the society, Nienu said and urged the people to maintain brotherhood among the different sections of people.
The Health Minister was addressing the 2011 Kuzhami Welfare Organization (KWO) Phek general session held on March 8 at Phek Town Hall. Nienu encouraged the people gathered to maintain positive outlook in the society as in a united society there would be no misunderstandings.
As part of his individual contribution to the Kuzhami bothers, the Minister donated two lakh towards the KWO fund and fifty thousands for the day feast. Mikha Lomi, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Phek and Wetsope Krome, Superintendent of Police (SP) Phek were among others who exhort the day function.
Earlier, the function was chaired by KWO president Neilhite Akami, invocation by Kewezolo Mero, Pastor, Nepali Baptist Church, Phek Town, general secretary report was read by Teisovikuolie Therieh, indigenous tune was presented by Wehicho and friends, vote of thanks was proposed by Tsulhi Khape and closing prayer was pronounced by Kevichusa Koza, pastor, CRC, Phek followed by mass feast.
Peace talks with North East rebel leaders 'good': Pillai Sify Home
Union Home Secretary GK Pillai has described the progress of the ongoing peace talks between the Government and the rebel outfits in the North East such as the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) as 'good'.
While interacting with the media at the Manipur Tribal Cultural Exchange Programme, in Imphal, Pillai said: " I don't think there is any setback to the talks. The talks have been going on with Muivah (General Secretary of NSCN (IM)) and also took place when he came to Dimapur yesterday."
NSCN (IM) General Secretary Muivah and President Isak Chishi Swu had come to Delhi on February 27 to hold talks with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, in a bid to solve the Nagaland issue and had termed the talks as 'fruitful'.
Pillai has expressed hopes of more insurgents groups coming forth for amicable talks.
He said: " Security operations are underway, we are hopeful that more people will come forward for talks because it is not good to kill or beat people in jail. it is not something which anybody likes."
" I am hopeful that with the arrest of Meghan and other UNLF (United National Liberation Front) leaders, many of them will now start to come forward for talks like the other groups in the north east region," he added.
According to Home Ministry reports, the government's efforts to maintain peace with the insurgent groups is paying great dividends as the northeast had witnessed minimum violence in 2010.
About 20 security personnel, 94 civilians and 247 militants lost their lives in the northeast in 2010, which indicates that the scenario has improved as compared to previous years.
Thousands have died in three decades of violence since ULFA was formed in 1979 in Assam, demanding independence from India, which it accused of plundering the region's mineral and agricultural resources.
However, public support for the group has declined in the recent years. (ANI)

Military Mindset & Reconciliation Cannot Go Hand In Hand: GPRN/NSCN & FGN/NNC GPRN/NSCN | FGN/NNC
Henceforth, we commit to working our differences as outlined in the Covenant of Reconciliation. Furthermore, we commit to cessation of all forms of hostilities including, any territorial expansion, for this the JWG will meet from time to time” Lest the Nagas forget, this second point of the Joint Statement on 18th Sept. 2010 was agreed to by leaders, including Th. Muivah, and signed in presence of Forum for Naga Reconciliation.
Upon his arrival at Dimapur on 3rd March after another round of so-called “positive talks”, Th. Muivah declared that he is at liberty to send his armed cadres anywhere, even to eastern Nagaland where IM have had no base for over twenty years. It is shocking to learn that a man whose Chairman signed the Covenant of Reconciliation in June 2009, and who appended his own signature to cease all forms of hostilities, should brag that it is not unnatural to send his armed men to Khiamnungan Region where FGN/NNC Kedahke Brig. (Retd) Shingnya is based and to interior eastern Nagaland towards the base of GPRN/NSCN Chairman S.S Khaplang. The two leaders are not men of pretexts and excuses. These are leaders of men who, decades ago, Th. Muivah tried to kill but failed. In the last twenty five years, Nagas have lost thousands of men and women owing to the sin of using God’s name to further one’s politics. When IM cadres arrives thick and fast towards interior Eastern Naga villages such as Lao and Chalam on the eve of highest level summit, let anybody call it an excuse or a pretext to avoid the summit, it deserves serious evaluation as Naga history is replete with sorry episodes.
Chairman S.S Khaplang and Brig.(Retd) Singnya therefore sought deferment of the highest level summit because IM’s sincerity is seriously lacking. Requesting for deferment of highest level summit by two of the three signatories should not be misconstrued as going against Naga Reconciliation. Th. Muivah can simply brush off the killings and injuries committed by his men at Mekokla, Tizit, Chumukedima, Pochury Region etc. A Naga anywhere is too precious. After signing the Covenant of Reconciliation, these merciless incidents have shaken its pillars.
GPRN/NSCN has a strong affinity with Naga brethren in Arunachal Pradesh and maintains a strong base for years. From time to time Nagas in Arunachal Pradesh come forward with request to arrest drug traffickers and extortionists but in all cases they turn out to be IM cadres. Linking GPRN/NSCN with Assam Rifles and Indian paramilitary forces is baseless. It is a theory too silly to believe. People who stay in Lodhi estate, an official residence for Indian MP’s, fully manned by Indian paramilitary forces, should not invent such stories. That Th. Muivah has come tumbling down from issue of Naga Sovereignty to integration to now ‘give and take’ within Indian constitution is apparent. It is he who has deliberately orchestrated a military mission to eastern Nagaland from Lodhi Estate in Delhi. It is too early for someone who cannot even go to his native village to talk about ‘give and take’ policy with the GOI. Who is bluffing whom?
The last highest level summit took place at Dimapur on 18th Sept. 2010. Every single word spoken by the leaders at the highest level summit was recorded and captured on video by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation. If the Naga people could view the DVD copy of the Summit, inclusiveness of all Nagas was vehemently objected to by Th. Muivah which raised many eyebrows since the primary objective of the summit was inclusive reconciliation. It also left a big question as to what the issue of integration is all about when inclusiveness, whether of people or land, is ruled out. The joint statement of the summit signed by N Kitovi Zhimomi, Brig. (Retd.) Singnya and Th. Muivah on 18th Sept. 2010 could be viewed once more, given the present situation in eastern Nagaland and Th. Muivah’s media interaction at Dimapur on 3rd. March 2011, it is a spiteful contradiction to the very joint statement he signed five months ago at Dimapur. It shows the inconsistency of a man who maybe in conflict with himself. A college can exclude one student but a student can never exclude an institution.

MIP, GPRN/NSCN & Rali Wali, FGN/NNC
Naga women’s clarion call for equal Rights morungexpress
Dimapur, March 8 (MExN): As 2011 marks the 100th anniversary of International Women’s Day, the quote “whatever women do they must do twice as good to be thought half as good” still rings true.
The quote was echoed by Lydia Yeptho of Lawyer’s Collective, Nagaland, at a workshop on ‘Women’s Right & Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 1985’ here at IMC Hall, in commemoration International Women’s Day on Tuesday.
Explaining the significance of IWD, Lydia also disclosed some haunting statistics of the status of women worldwide. Three quarters of the poorest are women; domestic violence is the number one killer in the developing countries and that one out of three women runs the risk of being beaten, forced to have sex and suffer some form of abuse in their lives.
The status of women in Nagaland is no different as pointed out by Nagaland State Women Commission chairperson Sano Vamuzo, Naga Mother’s Association president Abieu Meru and Naga Women Hoho Dimapur president Hukheli Wotsa, in their respective speeches.
Sano said Naga women have one common trait – endurance – and this has kept them from reporting whatever indignities they are undergoing in their homes. Giving her views on increasing violence against women in the society, the NSWC chairperson attributed it to complicity and competitive lifestyle of the modern world.
Urging Naga women to come out of their silence, Sano also said Naga women were puzzled why 33% reservation for was yet to be implemented in Nagaland. NMA president said that Naga women still have to fight for their rights in all spheres of life and that the Naga customary laws are usually tilted towards men folk.
Abieu also said that though rape cases were on the rise in the state, the authority has failed to deliver severe justice to discourage such crimes. She said the recent rape case in Phek district where the alleged rapist is still on the loose is a glaring example of the failure of the authority.
NMA demanded the state government to guarantee equal rights to women in social, political and economic fronts and also to implement 33% reservation for women at the earliest.
Hukheli Wotsa said today even educated men have become “wife beaters” and treat their women like “punching bags”.
Admitting that women may be unreasonable sometimes, she however said it does not justify violence against wives or women. The NWHD president also advocated workshops for men so that they are better educated and aware about the rights and dignity of the fairer sex.
In the second session, the discussion on ‘Women’s rights and protection of women from domestic violence Act, 2005,’ was led resource persons Pranav Raina and Liyi Marli Noshi of the Women’s Rights Initiative, New Delhi. Earlier, district sessions judge of Dimapur, Hukato Swu in his welcome address noted with dismay that until date, the court in Dimapur had not received any complaints relating to alimony or violence against women.
He encouraged women to avail the free legal services provided for them under the State Act 1987. The theme for IWD 2011 is “Equal access to education, training and science and technology: Pathway to decent work for women.”
President Pratibha Patil arrives Chizokho Vero Morung

Kohima | President Pratibha Devisingh patil received by Nagaland Governor Nikhil Kumar and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio on her arrival to Nagaland at the Kohima Assam Rifkes helipad on March 9. Also seen in the picture is Chief Secretary Lalthara and DGP K. Kire (DIPR)

The President of India Pratibha Devisingh Patil arrived at Kohima on 9th March 2011 for her two day visit to the state. The three Indian Air Force helicopters, carrying the President and her entourage landed at Assam Rifles Helipad. The Governor of Nagaland, Nikhil Kumar and Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio received the President with bouquets as she alighted from the special aircraft. The President received a ceremonial Guard of Honour from a large contingent of 15th IR Mahila Battalion and DGP band. The President was accompanied by her husband Dr. Devisingh Ramsingh Shekhawat. State Chief Secretary Lalthara and Director General of Police, K. Kire were also present to receive the President.
Later in the evening, the Chief Minister and Governor called on the President. She also met various NGOs and later witnessed a colorful cultural programme at Raj Bhavan. Several organizations met President and submitted memorandum to her. Naga Mothers Association in its memorandum while dealing on peace, was hopeful that President will help in bringing about amicable honorable solution to Naga political issue and usher in the much needed peace to find its roots in Nagaland at an early date. Also touching on 33% women reservation, NMA believed that President will continue to stand for the rights of women so that women can take part in all levels of decision making bodies and contribute to the society and the nation. The NMA also urged President to take cognizance of the NPF Inquiry Committee Report of the ruling state government and put an end to Nagaland University Imbroglio.
“We seek your Excellency’s support to ensure that the stipulated rules of representation for women is implemented at all levels of decision making in the state as the Nagaland Municipal Act 2006 giving 33% reservation to women is yet to be implemented by the state,” said Tenyimi Women Organization in a representation and reiterated its stand for reservation and “we believe that under your guidance Naga women’s plight will be addressed appropriately.”
TWO also appealed for an early solution to the Naga political issue through peaceful negotiation in the interest of the Nagas; particularly Naga women who have been the victims of the Indo-Naga conflict for more than half a century.
TWO also requested President to pay special attention on the problems faced by “our children in Nagaland University of which you are its Hon’ble visitor.”
The Angami Public Organization in their memorandum addressed to President has called for protection of Intangki forest and setting up of Post Graduate Institute of Medical Science in Kohima. The Muslim Council Dimapur also requested the President to establish Central Board of Secondary Education at Dimapur under Muslim Council Dimapur.
Later at the cultural programme this evening, the Chakhesang choir enthralled the visiting VVIP and the audience with the number Halleluyah while the Hope Centre for Excellence, a group of professionally trained musicians led by Nise Meruno, presented Amigos Para Siempre, tears in heaven and We Are The World, with a touch of folk fusion arranged by Nise Meruno.
The cultural programme also featured the Divine Connection, a gospel band and the most recent achievers of the reality show ‘Rock On’ hosted by MTV and winners of the 2011 edition. They presented a medley selection of music including Vande Mataram which stole the show of the evening.
Another highlight of the evening was the fashion show, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern attires of the 16 tribes of Nagaland. The programme held at the banquet hall Raj Bhavan was attended by the chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphui Rio and his lady wife, his cabinet colleagues, Parliamentary secretaries, Administrative heads of Department, officials of the President’s entourage and NGOs.
On March, 10, the President will interact with tribal Hohos/NGOs and representatives of civil societies at Raj Bhavan from 9:00 AM onwards. Thereafter, she will proceed to Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, where she will be accorded a civic reception. She will unveil monolith at the entrance of the main arena.
Rev. Dr. Anjo Keikung, general secretary, Nagaland Baptist Church Council will say invocation prayer while welcome speech will be delivered by Toshi Wungtung, general secretary, Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organization. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Governor Nikhil Kumar will also speak on the occasion.
Vote of thanks will be proposed by Er. Y. Chuba, advisor, Kohima Municipal Council. Meanwhile, all officials, public leaders, NGOs and the public have been invited to attend the public reception at Kisama. Public transportation will be available at NST Station Kohima at 7.30 AM on March 10.
(With inputs from DIPR news)

Frans on 03.10.11 @ 12:21 PM CST [link]

Wednesday, March 9th

.NSCN-K, NSCN-IM, FGN/NNC meet in Dimapur

NSCN-K, NSCN-IM, FGN/NNC
meet in Dimapur

Dimapur, March 08 2011: A ray of hope dawns again on the already rough-weather sailed Naga reconciliation process after the NSCN-K, NSCN-IM and FGN/NNC met today in Dimapur in the presence of the members of Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and said that they 'realised in the urgency' of the highest level 'summit' of the three groups.

Here, the highest level summit means meeting of the topmost leaders of the three Naga underground organisations as part of the Naga reconcliation process.

All has not been well regarding the three years old Naga reconciliation process in recent time.

Few days ago, the NSCN faction led by S.S Khaplang and FGN/NNC had announced that their leaders chairman SS Khaplang and Kedahke Brig (Retd) S Singnya would not be participating in the forthcoming highest level summit 'in the light of the 'present unfortunate military offensive' by NSCN-IM' in eastern Nagaland.

However, on Ttuesday in Dimapur, the three groups with V.S Atem representing the NSCN-IM, C.Singson representing the NSCN-K and Zhopra Vero representing the FGN/NNC under the aegis of thev 'joint working group' of the three Naga underground organisations jointly inked another paper saying the 'highest level meeting' of the three Naga underground groups is their priority and "we will not swerve from the commitment made before God to the Naga people" .

Meanwhile, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) under whose initiative the Naga reconciliation process started three years ago, admitted, "It is prudent on the part of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation to honestly inform the Naga public that the Naga reconciliation process has slowed down and a stalemate has been reached.

However, it is also important to declare that the GPRN/NSCN, NNC/FGN and the NSCN/GPRN remain fully committed to the Naga reconciliation process.

And so, at this very crucial juncture, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation turns to the Naga people for intervention to help break the stalemate and to encourage the Naga political groups take decisive and constructive steps forward to reconciliation" .

The Naga Reconciliation: A Journey of Common Hope has now entered into its fourth year.

The FNR said, in the last 36 months, significant and decisive steps have been taken to further the reconciliation process and to bring an end to violence among the Naga political groups.

While armed confrontation has significantly decreased, the periodic acts of violence across the Naga homeland and the circular arguments of self-justifications have constantly threatened the reconciliation process.

These have put to test the resolve and commitment of the Naga political groups to genuine reconciliation, the FNR added.

"In the course of the Naga reconciliation process, various groups at different times have violated the Covenant of Reconciliation (COR).

The Forum for Naga Reconciliation therefore urges the signatories of the COR to immediately cease the blame game and to stop attempting to prove to the public that they are sincere while the other group is insincere.

The signatories are implored to order their military to stand down and create conducive atmosphere which will enable the reconciliation process to progress with mutual trust and understanding.

The political groups need to recognize that failure to communicate to each other has often led to tensions; and hence are requested to communicate as agreed," the FNR said today.

The FNR said today until now the reconciliation process has gone as far as it can without the top leaders talking directly to each other.

But at this moment the reconciliation process demands that the highest level of leadership meet face to face to strengthen the levels of trust and to empower the reconciliation process.

While the FNR acknowledges there has been a present failure to meet at the highest level, it is nonetheless clearly evident that the top leaders of the signatories of the 'covenant of reconciliation' who are currently available must meet without any further delay to show their sincerity and to talk on how to together achieve Reconciliation on the basis of the historical and political rights of the Nagas.

Therefore to this end, the Forum for Reconciliation calls upon all Nagas wherever they are to openly come out and express their demand for the Highest level Reconciliation meeting of the top leaders who are presently available.

The FNR implores the signatories of the 'covenant of reconciliation' to respect past agreements to resolve all outstanding issues and differences through non-violence, respect and love; and The FNR said it encourages the 'highest level reconciliation' meeting to convene without delay so that the reconciliation process can advance towards it rational end.

Frans on 03.09.11 @ 03:05 PM CST [link]

Saturday, March 5th

China seeks to advance boundary negotiations with India Nagaland page

China seeks to advance boundary negotiations with India Nagaland page

Beijing, March 4: China on Friday proposed to "advance" the negotiation process with India on resolving the boundary issue in view of the prevailing "good atmosphere", even as it played down any impact of a sharp hike in its defence budget on bilateral ties saying it poses no threat to any country.
The Special Representative mechanism created by both the countries to resolve the boundary issue has brought about "some momentum" to bilateral efforts to resolve the problem, Li Zhaoxing, spokesman for the annual session of China's national legislature, told the media here.
"We seek to advance the negotiation process on the settlement framework so as to resolve this boundary question which has been created and left by history as soon as possible," Li, a former Foreign Minister, said replying to a question on concerns in India and other neighbours about China raising its defence budget.
He is currently the spokesman for the National People's Congress (NPC), which begins its annual session from tomorrow to consider the draft of the new defence budget as well as the 12th 5-year plan.
"At represent there are friendly and stable relations between China and India. This has created a good atmosphere for the 2 sides to resolve the boundary question through consultations," he said.
Announcing a sharp increase in China's defence budget from the previous USD 77 to USD 91.5 billion, which is due to be approved by NPC, Li defended the hike saying that India too increased its defence expenditure, which in the GDP terms was more than that of China's.
"It is true that China's defence budget is raised a bit, but the ratio of the defence spending in the country's GDP remains very low, much lower than those of many other countries," he told a press conference for the annual parliamentary session.
While China's military spending amounts to about 1.4% of its GDP, "that ratio in India is much higher than 25% as far as I know," he said in response to a question on whether China's defence budget increase would put pressure on India and other neighbours.
He said China's defence policy is defensive in character and "every bit of China's limited military strength will be used for safeguarding national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and this will not pose a threat to any country." (PTI)

NSCN (IM) reiterates commitment for Naga reconciliation (Pa ge News Service)
Dimapur, March 4: The NSCN (IM) Friday reiterated its commitment for Naga reconciliation saying that they signed the Covenant of Reconciliation based on the unique historical rights of the Nagas for the love of peace and reconciliation.
In a statement issued today, the NSCN (IM) took a dig at the rival Khaplang group for making "rhetoric blame-game" against the GPRN with its standardized medium of self-justification when the people desperately desire and pray for wind of change in the entire Nagalim through mutual reconciliation among the different political groups of Nagas.
"True reconciliation has to be manifested not only with verbal pledge to the Naga fraternity but it has to be made vibrant reflection in spirit and in letter," it said adding, "Genuine reconciliation can never be substantiated unless these exotic or foreign elements are accorded to lay with us."
Alleging that Khaplang has acquainted in using "our common adversary forces to fight against us", the NSCN (IM) stated that the rival group has started attacking and killing its boys in Changlang with combined operation of three battalions of 18th, 19th and 44th Assam Rifles under the name of "Rocket Operation".
It also alleged that Khaplang also harbour non-Naga armed groups to fight against the NSCN (IM) and are harbouring them in their camps giving easy ways to various crimes elsewhere in Nagalim.
"It is not all absurd to say that one of the biggest blunders on their part is to allow these elements to gain an impetus and advantages only to serve their diabolic agenda over the Naga people. We are harbouring non-Naga groups because their political agenda is clearly against the Naga people's aspiration," the MIP stated.
The NSCN (IM) disclosed that having numbers of reconciliation summits, 9 rounds in Chiangmai and 36 rounds in Nagaland, Khaplang refusing highest level leadership meeting is to be viewed decisively by one and all.
Stating that a call for the highest level meeting is to the difference, the NSCN (IM) said denying the fervent call of Naga people for the top leadership meeting under any pretext is simply a flimsy excuse.
It quoted general secretary of GPRN/NSCN, Kitovi saying Khaplang is against reconciliation in a Joint Working Group meeting held at Hukato's residence on September 18, 2010 attended by top leaders of the three Naga political groups and also Kitovi confessing that they have internal problems within themselves, but after much conversation, he says that "we cannot go back from reconciliation."
"In the K group there exist two camps or schools of thought, one for the reconciliation and the other against it. But the NSCN have given a vow to the Naga people. We will never retreat or surrender but firmly stand on our ground for the Covenant of Reconciliation," the NSCN (IM) reiterated.
About the charter of demands as alleged by the rival group, the NSCN (IM) said that there is no charter of demands, but only proposals to retain what belongs to the Nagas. "Through this proposal and subsequent progress of the talks, the Government of India has recognized the uniqueness of the Naga history," it claimed.

NSCN/GPRN for restraining the ‘common adversary’ morungexpress
DIMAPUR, (MExN): NSCN/GPRN while leveling allegations on GPRN/NSCN also sought to blame the Assam Rifles for holding combined operations against it. The NSCN/GPRN said their camps in Arunachal Pradesh have been attacked and resulted in deaths of their men during “combined operations” with 18th, 19th and 44th units of the Assam Rifles in a campaign codenamed “Rocket Operation”.
“It is not at all absurd to say that, one of the biggest political blunders on their part (GPRN/NSCN) is to allow these elements to gain impetus and advantages only to serve their diabolic agenda over the Naga peoples,” stated the MIP of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim.
Assam Rifles, non-Naga armed groups blamed
“We are against harbouring non-Naga groups because their political agenda is clearly against the Naga people aspiration,” it added. The NSCN/GPRN said “reasoning together has no meeting point if we fail to reason deep down to the truth and realities of the national principle”. It recalled the April 9, 1995 Yangkhao move where GPRN/NSCN and FGN allegedly carried out a joint operation against them and considered the Monyakshu conclave (2010) and recent statements of the GPRN/NSCN a repetition of a similar policy.
However, the NSCN/GPRN asserted that the call of the highest level meeting is to solve “our differences” and regretted the deferment of the meeting using “excuses”.
The NSCN/GPRN said there could be two schools of thought within the GPRN/NSCN, with one section working against reconciliation and one towards it.
“We will never retreat or surrender but firmly stand on our ground for the COR (Covenant of Reconciliation),” the MIP reiterated. It questioned whether bringing the Naga political issue from zero point (of Shillong Accord, 1975) to the “highest level talk” is belittling the Nagas in the eyes of the world.
Clarifying that there was never a “charted of demands” to the Government of India, the MIP said it only made “proposals to retain what belongs to the Nagas.” It claimed that this led to India recognizing the uniqueness of the Naga history.
Meanwhile, the NSCN/GPRN said it will “remain committed” to the reconciliation process based on “unique historical rights of the Nagas” and in the interest of the people.

Must blood flow again in Eastern Nagaland? GPRN/NSCN
The Covenant of Reconciliation was signed in the month of June 2009 by top leaders of three Naga Political groups. On September 18th 2010, the Naga political groups, in the name of God and witnessed by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation, declared to the Naga people and the entire world resolving to, among others, desist from pursuing territorial expansion so that a conducive atmosphere is sustained for strengthening the Naga Reconciliation Process.
GPRN/NSCN headed by Chairman S S Khaplang and General Secretary N Kitovi Zhimomi, FGN Headed by Brig. (Retd) Shingnya and Kedallo Zopra Vero have steadfastedly abided by the agreed resolutions. The FNR, on the strength of spontaneous response from Naga people, is also making all out effort to facilitate the meeting of top leadership in the near future. It is deeply regretted that the IM leadership has, in blatant violation of the Covenant of Reconciliation and the resolution of the 18th September 2010 resolution, has ordered military operation in eastern side of Nagaland and deep into interior Naga homeland. The forceful intrusion and bloodshed is not in the interest of the Nagas. Such deception is uncalled for and will naturally be confronted. It is understood that a group of armed IM men on operation are not there to preach the Gospel. Serious questions emerge on the policy and intent IM for the potential volatile situation in eastern Nagaland. While the Naga people eagerly await the summit of top leadership of different political groups, is it not a negative policy on the part of IM to send in their men to intercept and prevent Chairman S S Khaplang and Brig.(Retd) Singnya from attending the proposed summit?
The aggressive nature of IM in eastern Nagaland is extremely unfortunate as it is a serious breach of the Covenant. Where do Naga Reconciliation stands if such stumbling blocks are created deliberately? Any fallout would solely be blamed on those who propose further bloodshed to gain territorial foothold in eastern Nagaland.

MIP,
GPRN/NSCN.
Rali Wali, FGN.

IM ANSWERABLE TO NAGA PEOPLE: GPRN/NSCN & FGN

GPRN/NSCN and FGN, two of the three signatories of the Covenant of Reconciliation, are closely observing the activities of IM cadres in eastern Nagaland. Naga people are informed that while Mr. Isak Chishi Swu and Th Muivah demand sincerity from the Government of India, back home in Nagaland, despite being a signatory of the Covenant of Reconciliation, they have miserably failed to be sincere to their own people. The ink on the documents they signed are still wet yet they are threatening to throw Nagaland into further turmoil. Naga people have the right to know why Mr. Muivah has ordered military offensive in eastern Nagaland under the command of Absolom Tangkhul

Below are some important documents which IM signed in presence of FNR however today their action appears to be the very opposite to what they have pledged.

Soon after the Covenant of Reconciliation jointly signed by Isak Chishi Swu, Chairman NSCN (IM), S.S Khaplang, Chairman GPRN/NSCN and Brig (Retd) S. Singnya, Kedahge, FGN in the month of June 2009, the Chiangmai VI declaration was issued on 23rd September 2009 signed by Gen. V.S Atem of IM, Zhopra Vero of FGN and Wangtin Naga of GPRN/NSCN stated, “To facilitate he summit at the highest level, at the earliest, in affirmation of the Covenant of Reconciliation. We reaffirm our total commitment to work together in the spirit of love, non-voilence, peace,and respect to resolve outstanding issues amongst us. Therefore, we pledge to cease all forms of offensive activities in toto”.

On December 8 2009, the Joint Working Grpup (JWG) issued a public affirmation signed by Vikiye Awomi of IM, Zhopra Vero of FGN and C Singson of GPRN/NSCN in which the last sentence read,
“The Joint Working Group reinforces our pledge to abide and implement cessation of all forms of offensive activities in toto”

On march 10, 2010, the Joint Working Group (JWG) issued a joint appeal signed by C Singson of GPRN/NSCN, Zhopra Vero of FGN and Q Tuccu of IM and Dr. Wati Aier representing FNR, whose third point stated, “To cease all offensive activities in toto; and all Naga army commanders in the Naga areas are hereby requested to uphold and abide by this principle”

On September 18, 2010, Th. Muivah, General Secretary NSCN (IM), N Kitovi Zhimomi, General Secretary GPRN/NSCN and Brig (Retd) of FGN met at Dimapur and the last sentence in their joint declaration stated, “Furthermore, we commit to cessation of all forms of hostilities including any territorial expansion. for this JWG will meet from time to time”

On 9th October, 2010, Gen. V.S Atem of IM, Zhopra Vero of FGN, C Singson of GPRN/NSCN made a five point commitment of which stated,

1. That a complete “status Quo” by all groups be maintained.
2. That, the activities and movements of the respective governments including cadres etc. should remain confined to their own and respective jurisdiction and territories;
3. That, in all cases of necessary movements which requires passages from each other’s territories, prior information should be given to each other for mutual understanding and maintaining peaceful atmosphere.
4. That, it is further suggested that in some areas/territories which have become sensitive owing to individual or personal differences among commanders or cadres, their respective Governments are requested to make necessary corrections or placements on such cases to other units or battalions to avoid any reoccurrence of tensions.
5. Acknowledging that kidnappings and extortions have become an unbearable concern of all, irrespective of business communities or the general public, the JWG have agreed to vigilantly check through a collective mechanism forthwith.

. It is very unfortunate that the MIP of IM dated 23rd Feb 2011, in contradiction to all agreed resolutions signed at different times, should justify sending heavily armed cadres to Khiamnungan region and eastern Nagaland. Unless the agreed principles are adhered to in letter and spirit, Naga history will bear witness as to who invited further bloodshed.

Issued by:
MIP, GPRN/NSCN &
Rali Wali, FGN.

Junta sends more tanks to Kachin State Phanida Mizzima

Chiang Mai (Mizzima) – The Burmese junta has sent at least 200 troops to Kachin State this week as reinforcements, said the Kachin Independence Organisation (KIO) and local observers.

Observers said that about a dozen junta tanks arrived at Infantry Battalion on No. 58 based in Bhamo in Kachin State on Tuesday, according to the KIO.

The KIO, which is fighting for equality and self-determination, signed a cease-fire agreement with the junta in 1994.

Recently, KIO rejected the junta’s Border Guard Force plan, and starting in September 2010, the junta has restricted KIO travel in the area.

Frans on 03.05.11 @ 03:57 PM CST [link]

Wednesday, March 2nd

PM committed to solving Naga issue: Isak Swu Times of India

PM committed to solving Naga issue: Isak Swu Times of India

TNN, DIMAPUR: NSCN(IM) chairman Isak Chishi Swu on Tuesday said he's happy with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's commitment towards an early solution to the decades-old Naga issue.

Swu, who reached Nagaland from New Delhi, said: "I had a very fruitful meeting with the Prime Minister in the Capital on Saturday. I welcome his commitment and sincerity to resolve the Naga problem at the earliest."

The NSCN (IM) chairman said he welcomed the ongoing process to reconcile all warring Naga groups. Incidentally, the NSCN (K) has already declared that the reconciliation process, initiated by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), was a closed chapter with the NSCN(IM).

Swu, without naming the NSCN(K), said, "If they refuse (to be a part of the reconciliation process), it's up to them."

On Monday,, the FNR took a strong stand to save the reconciliation process, saying any individual or Naga group opting out of it would be answerable to the Naga people. A statement issued by FNR said: "The Covenant of Reconciliation (COR) signed by NSCN (IM) chairman Isak Chishi Swu, FGN president Brig (retd) S Singnya and NSCN(K) chairman S S Khaplang on June 13, 2009, remains unparalleled for the Nagas."

When asked if he would attend the highest level meeting for the reconciliation process, Swu said, "Yes, I will do that. If all (Naga) groups come together, they can hold the meeting anytime and anywhere in Nagaland."

Later addressing a group of people outside the Dimapur airport, Swu appealed to them to pray for the success of reconciliation process and "uphold Nagaland for Christ".

On the other hand, NSCN(IM) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah is scheduled to reach the state on Thursday. Once both Swu and Muivah are in Nagaland, it'll be interesting to see what stand does the NSCN(IM) take to take the reconciliation process forward and bring an end to decades of violence in the state.

Centre's initiative for peace working in Northeast Sify News
If we follow a chronological order of events, the past 18 months have been good for the Northeast with regard to improvement in the security situation, especially in Assam and Nagaland.
Both United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) and National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah or NSCN (IM), two of the biggest insurgent groups in the Northeast, have softened their stand thanks to the continuous efforts of the government.
NSCN (IM) General Secretary Th Muivah visited New Delhi on February 27 to hold talks with the Centre in a bid to solve the six-decade-old problem.
NSCN (IM) which had been insisting on meeting in a third country for talks, this time accepted the Centre's invitation for talks in the country. The relaxation in their stand was seen as a major development.
NSCN (IM) President Isak Chishi Swu arrived in New Delhi on January 27 this year, after accepting an Indian visa.
The Naga society has lauded the efforts of both NSCN (IM) and the Centre for their efforts to bring the violence levels down.
"This is very true that every Naga is very positive about the talks. And as it has been flashed in the media reports also that Isak Chisi Swu accepted the Indian visa, we are looking it as a very positive step. We are seriously hoping for a positive outcome," said Imti Longchar.
"We are happy that talks between government and NSCN (IM) are taking place. We want a positive solution from it," added Khrielie Angami.
"The talks between Centre and ULFA are very important from the people's point of view. It should conclude in a positive manner. And we are expecting a positive outcome from it," said Jyotirabhya Kashyap.
In a major development, the Centre convinced the proscribed United Liberation Front of Asom under the leadership of Arabinda Rajkhowa to come for talks. ULFA leaders came to New Delhi on January 10 to begin talks with the Centre.
"We want that ULFA-Centre should hold peace talks, and if the talks can materialize, it will be beneficial for the society," Deobojit Saikia.
The Centre's effort for brokering peace with the insurgent groups is paying great dividends. s per the report of Home Ministry, the Northeast witnessed the lowest levels of violence in 2010. No civilian and or security personnel were killed in Nagaland in 2010.
Overall twenty security personnel, 94 civilians and 247 militants lost their lives in the northeast in 2010, which is far better than previous years. (ANI)

Foreign tourists do not now need special permits for visiting Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram Sify News
The Central Government is leaving no stones unturned in its effort to develop the northeastern region. Recently it excluded Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram from the protected area permit to promote tourism in the region.
A team of 19 NRI's from Kenya and Britain were in Manipur after the protected area regime notified under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order 1958 was done away with on January 1 for a period of one year.
They visited Hueiyen Lalong Thang-Ta Cultural Association, Irilbung, to see the traditional Manipuri sword dance.
"There is no word, which can describe how you felt after coming to Manipur. It is just wonderful to come here and witness the culture, traditions and the scenic beauty, which is absolutely magnificent," said Anita Patel, a Kenyan tourist
"Definitely protected area permit that was lifted recently should have been removed earlier. The tourism and culture is so fantastic here that every one in the country and outside the country should visit Manipur," she added.
"Government should have done it earlier and this will improve the image of the region in a big way. And people both from within and outside the country will come to visit the state. And it is a really nice state," said Kd Shah, a tourist from England.
Rk Neimei, Secretary to Chief Minister, Manipur said: "Protected Area Permit has been removed on an experimental basis for one year, and I hope it comes out well so that it can be permanently lifted."
Since 1958, the act required foreigners to obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP) in addition to a visa to visit Manipur. With the new guidelines, foreigners will have to register 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.
The decision to do away with the protected area permit will give a boost to tourism to the state that will help generate employment for the youth in the region. (ANI)

NSCN-IM insurgency instigated by China From Jagdamba Mall Organizer
NSCN-IM has a lot to answer and with it, New Delhi too owes the nation some explanation. Why has the NSCN-IM thought it necessary to station a permanent representative in China even as peace talks with the Indian Government are supposed to be at an advanced stage?
NATIONAL Socialist Council of Nagaland - Isak & Muivah (NSCN-IM) was founded in China in 1980 under deep influence of Chinese communism and when Th. Muivah, SS Khaplang and Isak Chisi Swu returned to Bharat, they demolished nearly 300 churches and killed hundreds of church leaders, pastors, deacons and evangelists. Earlier, it helped the militants of Naga National Council (NCC) under Phizo. China has great design to slit Siliguri neck and have its control over whole northeast region. But, of late, China appears to be working overtime to back insurgents, even take time off from its monstrous economic pursuits since Delhi has gained ground in reaching possible peace agreements.

NSCN-IM’s chief arms procurer Anthony Shimray was arrested by National Investigation Agency (NIA) from Patna on October 2, 2010. This terrorist leader confessed that NSCN-IM’s general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah had written a letter to senior Chinese intelligence officials nominating a 60-years old Kholse Swu Sumi as NSCN-IM’s ‘Permanent Representative’ to China. The Chinese accepted Muivah’s request and hosted Sumi, thereby, signaling the formalisation of the relationship.

Further elusive United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA)’s military chief Paresh Baruah who is currently based in China’s Yunnan province close to the border with Myanmar is provided all logistic support by China. The chief of Manipur insurgent group, United National Liberation Front (UNLF), Sana Yaima alias Raj Kumar Meghen, who is in jail, has also confirmed meeting Paresh Baruah in Yannan in 2009. What is more surprising and disturbing are the reports of Chinese agents offering to sell surface to air missiles to the rebels of Northeast Bharat. As per reports, a deal with one million US dollar was struck in December 2009 at Chengdu, the capital of China’s Sichuan province and the package included not just supply of the missiles but training in their use.

A 39 year old Quing Wang-the Beizing resident masquerading as a journalist and a Timber company Executive, was picked up by the Dimapur Police from Dimapur Railway Station on January 16 last year. She was on her way to Camp Hebron, the NSCN-IM’s over ground headquarters, 30 km east of Dimapur town. The lady did not possess Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to visit Nagaland and was, therefore, detained and sent back to New Delhi. Quing Wang, the Chinese spy, wanted to meet

NSCN-IM’s top bosses in camp Hebron. It is a mysterious story that Delhi was in hurry to pack her off to China on board a Chinese Eastern Airlines flight on January 21. Her photographs with

NSCN-IM general secretary Th. Muivah, Nepal Maoist Supremo Prachanda and many others which are not so simple pictures found from her lap-top, are an interesting revelation. The spy lady had a four hour long interview with Muivah in Delhi on January 4.

NSCN-IM has a lot to answer and with it, New Delhi too owes the nation some explanation. Why has the NSCN-IM thought it necessary to station a permanent representative in China even as peace talks with the Indian Government are supposed to be at an advanced stage? Why did the NSCN-IM chairman Isak Chisi Swu himself visit China? Has the NSCN-IM kept the Indian peace interlocutors informed of its linkages with Beijing? What is the content of Muivah’s long conversation with the Chinese spy Quing Wang who is said to belong to the People’s Security Bureau, a Chinese intelligence outfit? If Muivah thinks he was giving an interview to Quing Wang as she identified herself as a journalists from Hong Kong, will he be willing to speak at length to an Indian journalist and clarify things? And a question to New Delhi-what was the hurry in deporting Quing Wang? Would China have treated an Indian nabbed in similar circumstances the same way? As per on-line survey conducted by Nagaland Post, a local daily, 94 per cent Naga wish all sections of Nagas to be included in the peace talk, NSCN-IM leaders are not accepted as the role representative of Nagas. Moreover, Muivah is an outsider. He is a Tangkhul Naga and hails from Ukhrul district of Manipur. The four districts of Nagaland- i) Mon (Konyak), ii) Kiphire (Yimchunger), iii) Tuensang (Chang, Kiamungan, Sangtam & Yimchuger), and iv) Longleng (Phom) have formed Eastern Naga People’s Organisation (ENPO) and students have formed Eastern Naga Student Federation (ENSF). This ENPO and ENSF are demanding secession from Nagaland to form a separate state. The Naga civil society wants to live with Bharat. NSCN-IM cadres are surrendering to Bharatiya Army. They want to march at par with other developing states of the country. This side, Muivah and his lieutenants are meddling with China and other enemy countries. The dubious role of NSCN-IM is harming the peace dialogue.

Frans on 03.02.11 @ 09:32 AM CST [link]