Nagalim.NL News

Thursday, April 30th

Cops sniff NSCN-IM role in NC Hills OUR BUREAU The Telegraph


Cops sniff NSCN-IM role in NC Hills OUR BUREAU The Telegraph


Silchar/Nagaon, April 29: Police today confirmed the entry of a “third player”, most likely the Isak-Muivah faction of the NSCN, in North Cachar Hills’ theatre of insurgency.
Yesterday’s attack on a village in the district which left three women dead, was “most probably” carried out by the Naga outfit at Yia Basti, about 20 to 25km from the sub-divisional town of Maibong in the hill district, the police said. However, it stopped short of blaming only the Naga outfit for the attack before completion of the investigation.
The superintendent of police, Mridulananda Sharma, told this correspondent that it was either the NSCN (I-M) or a “third party” — and not the Jewel Gorlosa faction of the DHD — that was responsible for yesterday’s violence in the remote Dimasa-inhabited village.
While conducting the investigation at the site last night, Sharma stumbled upon this piece of information that has added a new dimension to the growing insurgency in the district where in the recent past only the DHD (J) was calling the shots. He, however, did not elaborate. The SP said formations of the army, BSF and state armed police had been launching a drive in the forest areas since last evening to capture the culprits.
NC Hills district is home to 18 communities, including the dominant Dimasas, Jeme Nagas, Hmars, Kukis and the Karbis.
A spectre of ethnic clashes looms over the district following the series of attacks, including the killings of two non-Dimasa villagers in Tungjaibasti under Mahur police station on March 20, by the DHD (J). NC Hills police, however, declined to comment if revenge was the motive behind last night’s killings.
More than 130 people belonging to the Dimasa and the Hmar communities were killed in an ethnic bloodbath in the hill district in 2004.
The NSCN (I-M) had turned North Cachar Hills into a happy hunting ground in the early nineties but withdrawn from it after a decade. The outfit limited itself to providing only training and sale of arms to the DHD, the principal guerrilla gang in the district, and then to the DHD (J), its breakaway group, Another source in NC Hills police said that the “priority” of the administration and security forces at present was to ensure that the carnage did not spiral into ethnic clashes.
The source pointed out that infiltration of militants from neighbouring Manipur and Nagaland was always a possibility after 10 border outposts were dismantled from the 35-km-long inter-state border in 1993.
The first Dimasa outfit, the Dima Halam Daogah (DHD) was formed in 1993, soon after the dismantling of the outposts started. It was the NSCN (I-M) which helped in formation of the DHD as the Naga cadres moved into the district without much hindrance and helped the Dimasa youths in setting up a strong foundation of the DHD. What is worrying is the fact that in case of an eruption of fresh ethnic clashes, rebels as well as goons from Manipur and Nagaland could easily sneak into NC Hills to foment trouble.
The DHD rebels also could sneak into Bangladesh via the Barak Valley and Meghalaya, police sources said.
The DHD entered into a ceasefire with the government in 2003. But the truce led to a bitter internal conflict between a group led by Gorlosa and another by Dilip Nunisa. The conflict eventually resulted in a split in 2004 and Dilip, with the help of Pranab Nunisa, upstaged Gorlosa from the outfit.
Pranab Nunisa was made commander-in-chief of the parent group. Gorlosa soon renewed his old ties with the NSCN (I-M) and formed his own group, DHD (J). The group is also referred to as Black Widow.
Recruitment of IRB women constables begins Morungexpress ( Morung Photo)
Recruitment of constables into the first women battalion of the Nagaland Armed Police (IRB) began today in all the district headquarters of Nagaland.
Recruitment of constables into the first women battalion of the Nagaland Armed Police (IRB) began today in all the district headquarters of Nagaland. In Dimapur, a total of 622 girls gathered at the NAPTC in Chumukedima to battle it out for the physical test.

Food crisis in Ulfa camps A STAFF REPORTER The Telegraph
Guwahati, April 29: A severe food crisis in Ulfa camps inside Myanmar, just across Mon district in Nagaland, has forced several rebels to desert and get in touch with police in some Upper Assam areas.
Sources said the rebels were yet to decide whether to surrender or join the pro-talks group, which is mainly based in Upper Assam.
“They told us that there was a food crisis in the two camps as procurement of essential edibles had suffered because of an acute financial crunch,” a senior police official said.
One of these militants was in the “supply cell” that is responsible for procurement of rations for the group, he added.
The official said the cash shortage, which began after the A and C companies of Ulfa’s 28 battalion came overground with funds collection severely hit in cash-rich upper Assam, is now telling on the outfit.
Quoting the militants, the official said that there were now about 40 cadres in the two camps. “We are expecting more Ulfa cadres holed up in these two camps to come overground since they are facing immense hardship because of the food crisis.”
“Their meals are usually frugal, but even that appears to have become hard to come by now,” he said adding that even the NSCN (K), which provides shelter to Ulfa rebels in those areas, would not feed the Assam militants for free.
Ulfa’s 28 battalion, considered the most lethal of the four battalions, has almost become defunct as far as its activities are concerned in recent times, especially after the declaration of ceasefire by the A and C companies in June last year.
Though the battalion’s remaining cadres — mainly of the B company — did make a desperate attempt to collect funds in Sivasagar district especially in the tea-rich Sonari belt early this year. But unlike in the past, hardly a few businessmen, mostly tea garden owners, filled the Ulfa coffers, emboldened by the outfit’s diminished strength in the area.
The outfit also tried to carry out blasts to terrorise the business community in a bid to collect funds but the strategy did not pay.
“Businessmen these days come out to inform us when they are served with an extortion notice by Ulfa. The people appear to have got over the fear of Ulfa, at least in Upper Assam,” a senior police official based in Sivasagar district said.
The official said there was information of militant movement in Sonari in recent times but these cadres were always on the run and cross over to Nagaland if they get a whiff of the presence of security forces.
“Sonari is the closest in Assam from the two camps based in Myanmar with Mon district of Nagaland in the middle. As such, Sonari sub-division in Sivasagar district always becomes the first destination for the remaining cadres of the 28 battalion now,” he said
“GPRN/NSCN” charge rival of abduction morungexpress
Dimapur, April 29 (MExN): The “GPRN/NSCN” today charged the NSCN (IM) of abducting one “maj” Kivixu and a “capt.” Visheto on April 26 and one “lieut.” Hokugha on April 29. A note from the “GPRN/NSCN” publicity cell termed as ‘unfortunate’ that its “good gesture of safely releasing IM officials like Nimhalie Metha, kilonser, NSWON chairperson Salem and her assistants, Hutovi Chishi tatar, Imcha Longkumer, MIP secretary and a host of other civil and military members in the past one year from the custody have been overlooked and so easily forgotten”.
Querying “how many times will they propagate peace and do the exact opposite” the ‘publicity cell’s note said “IM should know well that a provocative action never yields positive results”. All the abducted “GPRN/NSCN” cadres must be safely released if the NSCN (IM) “truly believe in reconciliation of the Nagas to forge one nation and one destiny” it said. “Naga army shall be forced to take necessary measures if IM continue its abduction spree. To defy the call of the Naga people is to be taken as confirmation of harboring and abetting anti-Naga agendas” the outfit added.
“Tribalism greatest threat to unity” Ashikho Pfuzhe
Nagaland Home minister Imkong Imchen addressing the NSF conference.(Morung Photo)
Mopungchuket | April 29: Terming “tribalism” as the greatest threat to achieving Naga unity, Home Minister Imkong L Imchen who was also a former general secretary of the NSF, today threw a poser to the student leaders asking them whether one’s tribe was more important than the Nagas in entirety.
The minister who was the special guest at the valedictory function of the 23rd Naga Students’ Federation at Mopungchuket village, said although every section of Nagas talk of oneness and unity among Nagas, ‘but they are more divided in their interests as well as in approach’. So, he said, the talk of unity becomes meaningless.
“Where are we heading to? Whether your tribe is more important or Nagas as a whole is more important? Our actions do not reflect what we talk about,” Imchen said. There are sharp divisions among Nagas including the Naga “national workers” and civil society he said.
Stating that he (Imchen) too had undergone bitter experiences in the past due to tribalism, the minister said tribalism in the Naga society can be eradicated only through sustained, determined and collective effort of all Nagas. “I even told church leaders that it would not be wrong if they talk about the evils of tribalism,” he added.
The minister further said it was high time that all Nagas come together and decide to unite. Dwelling on the motto of the NSF “For a unified lim and glory of Nagas,” Imchen said Nagas everywhere have the same aspiration and a common goal as manifested during the recent Naga consultative meeting under the banner “One dream, one voice, one goal.”
Congratulating the new NSF team and all federating units, he urged the students’ community to join hands and work for the betterment of Nagas at large and the student community in particular. The minister also appealed to the NSF and students’ community to focus and give attention on how to make Naga society more healthy, peaceful and dynamic.
Highlights of the closing function included declaration of newly-elected office bearers of the NSF, speeches by the outgoing president and president-elect of the NSF, music by choirs of Aolichen Police Baptist Church and Artang Baptist Church as well as felicitations and prize distributions.
Mutsikhoyo to lead new NSF team
Morung Express News
Mopungchuket Former Chakhesang Students’ Union president Mutsikhoyo Yhobu was today elected “unopposed” as president of the Naga Students’ Federation for the tenure 2009-11, on the concluding day of the 23rd general conference of the NSF held at Mopungchuket Village, some 16km away from Mokokchung town. Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) candidate O Wati Jamir was also elected unopposed to the post of general secretary. Apart from the post of finance secretary, which saw a straight contest between outgoing NSF vice-president Charles Lotha and outgoing games and sports secretary Meijiang Gangmei, other posts including general secretary, vice-president, assistant general secretary, speaker, social and cultural secretary and education secretary, were also filled up unopposed.
Meijiang Gangmei was finally elected to the post of finance secretary through ballot, which was cast by two representatives each from the 17 Federating units.
Except for a last-minute back out by the candidate representing Sumi Students’ Union (SKK) for the post of general secretary, the election process went off smoothly.
It may be mentioned the NSF comprises of 17 Federating Units and 5 subordinate units.
Later, the outgoing NSF President Imchatoba Imchen in his address at the valedictory function said that despite the hurdles and difficulties faced by the NSF in the last tenure, the Federation could manage to sail through due to the support and cooperation extended by all sections of Nagas.
Congratulating the new team, Imchatoba said one important task of the new team was to take further the ‘Journey of Common Hope’, which the previous team had embarked upon. “We didn’t see any hope for future and so started the initiative – Journey of Common Hope to reach out to all,” he said and urged the new team to carry on the task to bring peace, unity and reconciliation in the society.
The outgoing president also said the other burning issues confronting his successor included the affiliation of schools of Hill districts of Manipur to NBSE, the NPSC scam and the superannuation issue. On the impeachment of NSF Speaker, he said the action was necessitated to “restore the image of NSF and uphold its constitution.”
In his “Response” speech, the president-elect Mutsikhoyo Yhobu said he and his team would focus on all ongoing issues relating to the student community and also assured to work towards promoting peace and justice in Naga society. While congratulating the outgoing team for successfully completing their tenure, Mutsikhoyo appealed to all right thinking citizens to bestow their best cooperation and unflinching support to the NSF, for ‘Unified lim and glory of Nagas.” The NSF Election for the tenure 2009-2011 was conducted by Ketsodi as Election Commissioner and G Vashum and Zulu Ozukum as members of the Commission.
List of new office bearers
Executive Council:

1. President : Mr. Mutsikhoyo Yhobu
2. Vice President : Mr. Sinhilo Thong
3. General Secretary : Mr. O.Wati Jamir
4. Asst. Gen. Secretary : Mr. Ejanthung Ngullie
5. Finance Secretary : Mr. Meijiang Gangmei
6. Secretary Social & Culture : Mr. I.Mangyang Jamir
7. Secy. Education : Mr. Ahito Achumi
Assembly Executive:1. Speaker : Mr. Kelhouneizo Yhome :

Posts vacant:
1. Secy. Publicity & Information
2. Secy. Games & Sports
3. Editor
4. Auditor General
5. Secy. Women Affairs (2 post)

Assembly Affairs:
1. Deputy Speaker
2. Assembly Secretary.

NC Hills tragedy must be addressed: Orgs (EMN
DIMAPUR, APR 30): Several frontal organisations of Nagaland and Assam today voiced deep concern over the ongoing violence in North Cachar Hills while also expressing dismay at the manner in which the district and state administrations have continued to forfeit responsibility on the common man’s security which was becoming increasingly vulnerable
The alarming events witnessed in NC Hills in the last few months, aimed at creating communitarian strife among indigenous peoples, stems from the overall neglect of the district and the administration’s lackadaisical approach to solving the political problems of the different communities who live there, a joint communiqué released to the press stated. And instead of fostering an environment where dialogue between the different communities can take place, vested interest groups have been allowed to create confusion and mayhem among the people, it added.
However, it said pointing to events as possible triggers of the ongoing violence is futile while voicing concern about the forced displacement of Zeme Naga villagers in the early part of April 2009 and the equally distressing killings of Dimasa villagers by unknown assailants on April 28.
It felt that it would be meaningless to attribute a causal logic to these events stating that the tragedy had already been unleashed and it is up to concerned citizens of the region to ask all political organisations to exercise restraint, and for the common people of NC Hills to be assured that their plight has not been forgotten.
In this regard, the organisations have demanded that the NC Hills administration should ensure the safety and security of the citizens of the district and also that the Assam government should take active steps in creating an environment of trust and dialogue whereby all communities are assured of a fair hearing of their grievances.
It, moreover, urged armed opposition groups to strive for dialogue with different factions and to refrain from targeting non-combatants and civilians.
It pressed the Assam govt to institute a commission with human rights activists, public intellectuals and media persons as its members to conduct a highest level inquiry into the persistence of violence in the district.
Further, it said adequate compensation must be paid to the next of kin of the deceased and steps taken for relief and rehabilitation of those displaced by the armed conflict.
The communiqué was appended by Dr N Venuh of the Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights, Khesheli Chishi of Naga Mothers Association, Imchatoba Imchen of Naga Students Federation, Lachit Bordoloi of Peoples Committee for Peace Initiatives in Assam, Prafulla Hafila of the All Dimasa Students Union, Bubumoni Goswami of Manab Adhikar Sangram Samiti and Dilip Patgiri of the Assam Jatiyatabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad.
Lalhuma praises valuable traits of the Nagas DIPR
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio felicitating outgoing Chief Secretary Lalhuma, IAS, during his farewell programme at the CM’s residence on April 29. (DIPR Photo)
Kohima, April 30 (DIPR): A farewell dinner was hosted for outgoing Chief Secretary Lalhuma, IAS, on April 29 by the Chief Minister and his lady wife, along with legislators and their families at the residence of the Chief Minister.
While mentioning that farewells are sad occasions, the Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said that it is also a time for celebration of victory over the fact that the outgoing Chief Secretary could serve the government for 35 years in a difficult area like Nagaland. He said that Lalhuma has overcome all challenges and contributed immensely to the State. Rio said that the outgoing Chief Secretary joined service in 1974 and in his long innings of 35 years he has contributed in many fields particularly in rural development by supporting the VDB and communitisation programmes. He said that a number of IAS/IPS and other Central Service officers come to Nagaland and go out but Lalhuma has stood by the people of Nagaland in all problems and nurtured the State and on behalf of all his colleagues, officials and the people of Nagaland, Rio thanked the outgoing Chief Secretary for the services rendered.
Though retiring from active service as a government servant, Rio said that he would look forward to work together in different platforms/forums since the outgoing Chief Secretary has a lot of potential to serve the nation, particularly the people of Nagaland. Rio further hoped that the outgoing Chief Secretary would continue to have a special place in his heart for the Nagas in future as well.
Lalhuma, in his speech, expressed his gratefulness for the guidance and support extended by the Chief Minister and the legislators, all the administrative heads of various departments, HoDs and other officials during his tenure in various capacities in the government. He mentioned the valued qualities of the Chief Minister like his concern for the youth, the farmers, the student community and the people of Nagaland in general which reflects his visionary qualities and generosity. He said that he is yet to come across a Chief Minister so mobile and who has travelled to all pockets of the State which reflects his genuine concern for the people.
In his 35 years of service, Lalhuma said, he has observed many valuable traits of the Nagas which he finds endearing and which the Nagas should be proud of. On his observations, Lalhuma said that the first quality that he appreciates is the hospitality and generosity of the people followed by the deep association of links to their roots and unflinching attachment and loyalty to their village. He said that Nagas take pride in their culture, they are resilient, have strong familial bonds, exude extreme confidence wherever they go and are very receptive. He said that his stay in Nagaland will be etched in his heart with fond memories, and he specially thanked the Chief Minister, his lady wife and the legislators for the honour and the token of appreciations presented to him and his lady wife.
The occasion was marked by presentation of musical items by various young musicians including a few special numbers by the hosts and the guests.

Centre for fresh operation against ultras Kalyan Barooah Assam Tribune
NEW DELHI, April 30 – Upset with the unabated incidents of violence in North Cachar Hills district, Centre has directed Assam Government to re-start train operations in the vulnerable section, besides working out a strategy to launch fresh counter insurgency operation under the aegis of the Unified Command. At a high-level meeting chaired by Union Home Secretary, Madhukar Gupta, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) expressed concern at the deteriorating situation in the Hill districts. The Home Secretary convened a meeting in New Delhi today to discuss in detail the security situation in Assam, especially in North Cachar Hills district, which has been witnessing some incidents of violence recently, said an official spokesman of the MHA.

State Chief Secretary, P. C Sarma, State Home Commissioner, Subash Das, State DGP, GM Srivastava and DG RPF and senior officers of the Army and the Railway Board attended the meeting.

Official MHA sources said various measures to deal with the violence by extremists groups including strengthening coordination among various security forces were discussed. Steps to resume the train services in the area at the earliest were also discussed.

Sources said that the State Government was directed to resume train services in the North Cachar Hill district that links Barak Valley and adjoining States of Tripura, Manipur and Mizoram. Sources said the timing of resumption of operation and other logistical details have been left to the State Chief Secretary to work. “No time-frame has been set to recommence the train services,” sources said.

“It would be worked out by the Chief Secretary in coordination with the Railways and security forces,” they added. Though no major decision was taken at the meeting that lasted for over two hours, the State Government has been again prodded to launch operations against the marauding militants particular those belonging to DHD (J). All major projects including the East-West Project and the Broad Gauge Conversion project have been stalled following sudden spurt in violence in the trouble torn district.

Sources said the State Government has been advised to finalise strategy to launch fresh operation against the militants under the Unified Command. The State Government has at its disposal Central para-military forces including BSF, CRPF and Assam Rifles besides the Army. The issue of a plea of the DHD (J) to sign ceasefire pact with the Government, however, did not figure at the meeting reflecting the tough stand adopted by the Centre to tackle the situation.

Meanwhile, official sources said that the Centre reviews security situation in Assam from time to time in detail. On April 8, Cabinet Secretary, the Union Home Secretary and the Defence Secretary visited Assam to review the situation, particularly in the areas, which have witnessed comparatively more violence recently. This is the first review meeting called after the elections in Assam, sources added.

Centre has been rattled by recurring incidents of violence in the area. The last attack on the train took place on April 17, leading to suspension of the train services yet again, putting to an end attempts by the State Government to restart operations. It was the fourth attack on a train. Interestingly, services were under suspension from April 11.

The MHA here maintains that the State Government has enough security forces at its disposal to tackle the situation. The State Government officials had some explaining to do at the meeting and generally blamed the terrain for the failure to take on the militant outfits.

Official reported that couple of companies of para-military forces had been deployed in the terror infested areas. They also divulged plans to deploy army on patrolling duties along the tracks to thwart such attacks in the future.

As reported today, the State Government mentioned that seven bulletproof vehicles have been procured by the Government for transporting security personnel to the remote and vulnerable areas of the district. Besides, the State Government has notified creation of 10 new police stations in the two districts including six new police stations in Karbi Anglong and four in NC Hills, though they are yet to become functional.

Hagrama: NDFB targets to capture BTC administration From our Correspondent Sentinel
:KOKRAJHAR, April 30: BTC Chief Hagrama Mohilary today expressed his feel that the targets of the NDFB is to capture the BTC administration and looting the developmental funds to meet the fund crunch of the outfit.
Speaking to The Sentinel, Mohilary said the NDFB took over the then BAC administration in 1996 sending more legislators using muscle power to throw Peoples’ Democratic Front (PDF) and siphoned off all developmental funds. He said the then Chief of BAC late Kanakeswar Narzary acted at the diktat of the NDFB for nearly six years and no significant development was seen during that period due to funding to militant outfit.
The NDFB is adopting the same strategy to control over the present BTC through BPPF for power and money, Mohilary said adding that if things go as desired, UG Brahma and Rabiram Narzary would be Chief and Deputy Chief of BTC but the key of controlling council administration would be in the hands of the NDFB where power and developmental money would be misused by the outfit.
On the questions of NDFB’s support to BJP, Mohilary said the NDFB supported BJP on the ground that the NDA could bring separate state for the Bodos as demanded by the outfit whose original demand was ‘‘Sovereign Bodoland.’’ He said, ‘‘yes, we also supported the BJP in the last election because the NDA government had a plan for smaller statehood to the indigenous people across the country but we came to realize that the proposal for smaller states have been dropped for which the BTC was created under the 6th schedule of the Indian constitution.’’ How NDFB can expect separate state from BJP led NDA Government in near future, he questioned.
Mohilary strongly reacted over the statement of NDFB’s Asstt. Publicity Secretary R Daoka and warned that he will move to the court if he fails to show proof. R Daoka alleged in certain vernacular dailies that BTC Chief Hagrama Mohilary spend 16 hours a day in drinking wine. Mohilary said, ‘‘yes, I have a habit of drinking alcohol but I never force others to drink but it is only NDFB who force to eat beef one or two in a week in training camps without justifying the religious prohibition.
The BTC Chief also asked R Daoka to prove within seven days regarding his possession of lands in New Delhi and having married with a Naga girl and two sons or he will move for legal procedure against Daoka. He also demanded that Daoka to furnish the names of the Naga girl and two sons and where they have been studying besides locations of plots of land purchased in New Delhi.

Frans on 04.30.09 @ 10:18 PM CST [link]


Wednesday, April 29th

‘Transcend differences, build bridges’ CLARION CALL TO YOUNG LEADERS KICK OFF 23RD NSF GENERAL CONFERENCE Nagarealm.com



‘Transcend differences, build bridges’ CLARION CALL TO YOUNG LEADERS KICK OFF 23RD NSF GENERAL CONFERENCE Nagarealm.com

MOPUNGCHUKET (MOKOKCHUNG), APR27 [EMN] : The harmony of nature and man’s aesthetic blend of tradition and modernity, pleasant climate and heart warming hospitality all manifested in the atmosphere of Mopungchuket as the tourist village known for the love saga of ‘Jina and Etiben’ became host to the 23rd General Conference of Naga Students’ Federation (NSF). The four-day General Conference of the apex students’ organisation got off to a invigorating start in the Introductory-cum-Interactive Session this evening, a prelude to the inaugural program scheduled for Tuesday with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as the chief guest. The well-planned and scenic tourist village welcomed with open arms hundreds of student delegates who have gathered to ‘Forge Mutual Destiny’, as resource person for the evening, Pfelie Kesiezie Principal, Baptist High Kohima, gave a clarion call to the young leaders to build bridges that unite.

Underscoring the need to transcend the petty internal differences and forge a mutual destiny in consonance with the ground realities of the present day, Kesiezie said Nagas’ problem lies in “our unwillingness to settle our differences” and the “fear and arrogance which have taken the better of us today.” Independence was once a non-negotiable issue, the educationist noted while regretting that “now our differences have taken centre-stage and we have kept the matter of independence and interdependence behind us when the atmosphere for negotiations are most favourable.”

Kesiezie noted that the greatest revolutions and reformations in history were based on ideals that were rooted in spirituality and said, “I believe that we are not that stupid to fight against the might of India with guns, but that doesn’t mitigate our right to live as a nation.” Taking a swipe at the fratricidal killings among the Naga underground groups, the resource person rued, “We are not just killing a soul – we are killing the soul of our nation.”

“We need to keep our guns but not train them on our brothers.”
The introductory session saw representatives of all federating units of the NSF take the stage and rounds of introductions of students’ leaders. Located 16 km away from Mokokchung town, Mopungchuket village is testimony to the unique blend of tradition and modernity that characterises the present day Naga society. And the picture perfect image of the village speaks volumes of the community participation that the inhabitants of this delightful hamlet of Aos are known for.
NBCC mourns Nagas’ decay morungexpress
Dimapur, April 28 (MExN): Lamenting the deteriorated Naga society, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council today expressed grief that the unrestrained lust for money and power, the crimes of all magnitude and shallowness, is the ‘ugly society that has come out of the lives of all of us’.
The NBCC lamented the corruption in Naga politics that the candidates who fought in the last election ‘reportedly had to spend more than Rs. 600 crores to pay for votes’. This shocking shallowness of Naga Christians and their meaning of life were revealed; the politicians, the bureaucrats and contractors are not the only ones to blame, the church said is a statement today.
Likewise, the NBCC listed out: the disgraceful scams in the Nagaland Public Service Commission keep surfacing; the massive fraud of the bogus teachers being put on the state’s pay roll resulting in countless genuine teachers not receiving their salaries; senior officials of the state investigating into criminal activities being told not to carry out their tasks on pain of dire consequences; “these are the moral and spiritual diet the Nagas feed on daily as they try to struggle for their survival and progress.
Our people deserve better feeding” the NBCC said.
The scams and scandals and the unrestrained greed for easy money have rendered the Naga society unmanageable and unstable, it said adding that the Nagas have become a people with no sense of responsibility for the consequences of their acts. “The manifestation of rampant threat abduction, extortion, killing, sexual abuse, rape and various detestable evils are only the natural outcome. Let us all question ourselves; where are we the Christian dominated State heading?” the church lamented.
“Yet this ugly society has come out of the lives of all of us. That is the honest-to-God truth. And we have no choice but to accept it with all its faults and transform it together for our children to inherit a better, safer society” the NBCC said in acknowledgement. That the church’s leadership is fully aware of “our limitations to meet the challenge of the crisis” but, the NBCC explained, “The church’s commitment to fight for the ways of God to win is unshakable as the battle is God’s battle and He will win if enough Christians will pay the price of obedience to Him”. ‘This is our faith and confidence because of him who has called us to stand with him’ it added.
The NBCC has called upon all the men of power, wealth and influence, whether mainstream or underground, not to treat God’s values for his kingdom lightly. It is time to get on God’s side, for the sake of the future the church said. “If we will simply co-operate with God, instead of with Satan, the restoration of our society will surprise us. Our co-operation with the Deceiver must end” the NBCC added.
NSF speaker ‘impeached’ morungexpress
Dimapur, April 28 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation today impeached NSF Speaker Cusayi Lohe during its 7th Federal Assembly held at the Community hall in Mopungchuket Village Hall during the 23rd NSF General conference. NSF resolved to ‘withdraw’ Cusayi Lohe speaker NSF of CSU from the Federation.
The house unanimously condemned “the act committed by Cusayi Lohe 2007-09” and “also found him (of) misconduct and abusing the office by collecting funds through forgery”, disclosed a copy of the meeting minutes of the NSF Federal Assembly received here today. The assembly was attended by 17 Federating Units and four subordinate units.
“Losing the confidence of the units present, the house has collectively impeached him (Cusayi Lohe) from the post of Speaker, NSF,” the meeting minutes informed. The NSF at the federal assembly also approved the change of nomenclature of LSU to Kyong Students Union (KSU).
Reviewing the minutes of the 5th Federal Assembly, the house re-affirmed the previous decision with regard to the “affiliation of School to NBSE”. The house again endorsed ANSAM along with the concerning Federating units to come up with concrete strategy and plan of action to expedite the matter at the earliest, the meeting minutes stated.
The house further re-affirmed and resolved to stick to 33 years for the length of the service for government employees. The house entrusted the new incumbent to strength the decision and pursue accordingly, the 7th NSF Federal Assembly resolved.
Our Correspondent adds
The Chakesang Students’ Union in a letter dated April 26 addressed to the deputy Speaker NSF Chumbemo Ngullie had informed the latter about its decision of “withdrawal” of Cusayi Lohe from the NSF. The CSU in a separate order passed have terminated the membership of Cusayi Lohe w.e.f from April 26, 2009 till January 2010 for his alleged involvement in the 2009 State by-elections and parliamentary election, and illegal fund collection against the 23rd NSF general conference.

71 NDFB cadres loyal to Daimary entered Kokrajhar: From our Correspondent SP Sentinel
Two militants involved in Oct 30 serial blasts killed
KOKRAJHAR, April 29: Two NDFB cadres belonging to the outfit’s third battalion under Ranjan Daimary alias DR Nabla were killed in an encounter with a joint team of police and Army at Bhalukjhora under Kokrajhar police station in the wee hours today. This is the first killing of NDFB (Daimary faction) cadres in encounter after the split of the outfit. The killed NDFB cadres have been identified as Simang Basumatary alias Simangshu (23) of Manikpur and Chandan Basumatary alias Saiklan Basumatary (25) of Bengtol. The Army, however, claimed that the slain NDFB militants were involved in the October 30 serial blasts last year in the State and the April 24 ambush on BTC leaders at Panbari. In another incident, Gossaigaon district BPPF president Birbhushan Narzary (48) was shot at and injured by suspected BPF activists at Chowltara under Bhaoraguri police outpost at 9.45 am today.
Talking to newsmen at Kokrajhar police station, Red Horns Division’s 11 Maratha Light Infantry Commanding Officer Hitesh Balla said: “The slain militants belonged to the NDFB, and they were involved in the Panbari attack on BTC leaders and the October 30 serial blasts in the State last year. Some NDFB cadres were taking shelter in a house. When we carried out the operation acting on a tip-off, the militants fled and fired at us while fleeing. Our troops retaliated the firing and killed the two in the encounter.”
The Army recovered a 9-mm pistol, an Italian pistol, some ammunition, two grenades and two magazines from the slain militants.
In the other incident, Gossaigaon district BPPF president Birbhushan Narzary, a teacher, was shot at by two unidentified miscreants at Chowtara under Bhaoraguri police outpost when he was on his way to Tulsibil HS School. Narzary received four bullets in the abdomen and the chest. He was admitted to RN Brahma Hospital from where he was shifted to Lower Assam Hospital at Bogaigaon in a critical condition.
Meanwhile, Kokrajhar SP PK Dutta said as many as 71 NDFB cadres belonging to the third battalion of the outfit under Ranjan Daimary entered Kokrajhar a couple of days before the beginning of the Lok Sabha polls. He said at least eight cadres of the third battalion of the NDFB were involved in the ambush on BTC leaders, including Kokrajhar Lok Sabha candidate SK Bwiswmuthiary, at Panbari recently. He said the outfit has set up three camps, one each at Tipkai, Kazigaon and Bashbari in Porbhotjhora subdivision of Kokrajhar district. The SP said as many as 532 cadres of the outfit have been at the designated camp at Serfanguri and 41 others are with their families.
NLD sets pre-conditions for role in elections by Mungpi Mizzima
New Delhi (Mizzima) - Burma’s main opposition party – the National League for Democracy – on Wednesday said it was willing to contest the forthcoming 2010 elections if the military regime releases political prisoners, and makes proper amendments to its Constitution.

Nyan Win, the NLD spokesperson, said the party would decide on contesting the 2010 elections only if the government unconditionally released political prisoners, including Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, Tin Oo Khun Tun Oo, Sai Nyunt Lwin, Min Ko Naing and Ko Ko Gyi, and reviewed and amended the 2008 Constitution.

“We reiterate our call to the junta to amend the Constitution and for the release of political prisoners, and then we will decide on contesting the 2010 elections,” Nyan Win told Mizzima. The NLD voiced its stand in the “Shwegonedine Declaration” released on Wednesday, at the conclusion of a two-day plenary meeting between party leaders in Rangoon on April 28 and 29.

The NLD, which won a landslide victory in the last general elections in 1990, said so far they had not prepared for the ensuing elections, but would do so once the government responded to their request of reviewing the Constitution and amending the contents that were undemocratic.

“These points are the pre-conditions for us to be able to contest the elections,” Nyan Win added. The party also called on Junta supremo Snr. Gen Than Shwe to embark on a dialogue with detained opposition leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi.

Burma’s ruling military junta, as part of its seven-step roadmap, approved a new Constitution in a referendum in May 2008 and declared it would hold a general election in 2010. However, the opposition, including the NLD have said, the junta’s Constitution was drafted unilaterally and does not reflect the peoples’ aspirations. The NLD has called for a review of the Constitution and the amendment of its contents.

But a few critics have said, the NLD should realize that it needs to take a clear-cut stand on the junta’s proposed 2010 elections, as the current stand could confuse the people.

Aung Naing Oo, a Thailand-based Burmese political analyst, said, the NLD should take a clear stand on whether they would contest the 2010 elections, because having no clear stand reduces their credibility.
Aung Naing Oo said, “If the NLD considers itself a revolutionary group, then they should clearly reject the junta’s elections on grounds that it would be manipulated, but if they consider themselves a political party, it would be wise for them to contest the elections.”
But, with the junta not wanting the NLD to take part in the election, the party’s pre-conditions for joining the elections could be serving the junta’s interest, as the junta was unlikely to fulfill them, Aung Naing Oo added.

“The junta would obviously prefer not having the opposition contesting the elections. So the NLD’s current stand of demanding pre-conditions could be serving the junta’s interests,” he said. But Nyo Ohn Myint, in-charge of the exiled NLD-Liberated Area’s Foreign Affairs Committee, said going ahead without the NLD would put a big question mark on the junta’s legitimacy, as the NLD was the legitimate winner of the 1990 elections.

“The junta would lack legitimacy, if the NLD does not contest the elections,” he said.
He said, the NLD was clear in its stand in setting pre-conditions before it could decide on joining the elections, as there was no guarantee that the junta would honour the election results.

“Without all these pre-conditions, nobody can assure that the junta will honour the election results just like they did not in the 1990 elections,” he said. He said, with the NLD declaring their pre-conditions, it was only fair to give some space and time to the junta to think it over before the NLD could make another move by declaring their stand on the elections – to reject or to contest.

Aung Shwe, NLD’s Chairman, in his opening speech on Tuesday urged NLD members to brainstorm on the junta’s elections and to decide what the party should do. Nyan Win said, the two-day meeting at the party headquarters in Rangoon’s Shwegonedine had been crucial as they were able to come up with a unified stand. He said, it was the fifth such meeting that the NLD had been able to hold in the past 20 years.

Junta meets leaders of ethnic ceasefire groups by Myo Gyi Mizzima

Ruili (Mizzima) – In a renewed effort to persuade ceasefire armed groups to join them, Burma’s military junta on Tuesday met with six Sino-Burmese border based ethnic armed ceasefire groups. The junta’s Military Affairs Security (MAS) Chief Maj. Gen. Ye Myint and regional command commanders met ethnic leaders of six ceasefire groups on Tuesday, separately at the same time in their respective regions.

Northern Command Commander Maj. Gen. Soe Win met 'Kachin Independence Organization' (KIO) and the 'New Democratic Army' (Kachin) – (NDA-K) from Kachin State at its command HQ in Myitkyina, separately in the morning and evening respectively, political and military analyst Aung Kyaw Zaw, based on the Sino-Burma border told Mizzima.

The ceasefire groups from Shan State (North) namely 'United Wa State Solidarity Party' (UWSP), 'Shan State Army (North) (SSA-N), 'Myanmar National Democratic Allied Army' (MNDAA) and 'National Democratic Allied Army' (NDAA) met MAS Chief Maj. Gen. Ye Myint and the Northeast Command Commander separately. The UWSP held its meeting in Tangyan, Shan State (North) and the 171st Military Region met in Kengtung, eastern Shan State separately. Aung Kyaw Zaw said that it was unusual and significant to see the UWSP meeting in Tangyan, rather than the usual venue of Lashio.

"The Northern Command Commander was due to meet KIA on April 28 in the morning at about 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. The Zakhung Teng Ying group will meet at about 1:30 p.m. As for the Northeast Command, the Command Commander will meet SSA-N at Ruili Guesthouse in Lashio and Laokaing Region Commander Brig. Gen. Win Maung will meet the Kokang group in Laokaing in the evening," he said.

Maj. Gen. Ye Myint met the most powerful ceasefire group UWSA, in Tangyang in the morning and met the 171st military region in southern Wa State and arranged to meet NDAA in Kengtung, it was learnt. The junta informed these ceasefire groups in advance to bring the military commanders of their groups along with their leaders.

Aung Kyaw Zaw said that it had been suggested that the discussions between them would focus on military affairs before the ensuing 2010 elections and there would be no concrete results from these meetings. These ceasefire groups would continue in keeping with their own plans in the meantime. The speeches delivered at the functions by their respective leaders revealed that the ceasefire groups were unlikely to accept being disarming and reorganization of their forces. The unilaterally drafted and approved 2008 Constitution was also totally unacceptable to them.

They would discuss only the general issue of reorganizing the ethnic armed forces as border security and administrative forces under the respective military commands. This is one step lower than the junta's previous demand of laying down arms. The conclusion drawn from the non-existence of open confrontation by the ceasefire groups against the junta, that they would do whatever the junta said, is totally wrong, Aung Kyaw Zaw said.

"It is likely that some leaders will be alienated from their respective organizations and they will enter politics by forming a political party. Some would be with their forces and it is unlikely that they will surrender their forces to the junta within 1 or 2 years. Some organizations such as KDA and Zakhung Teng Ying would do such a thing. But I do not think other organizations would do any such thing," he said.

Some leaders from ethnic Kachin armed groups in Kachin State are planning to form a Kachin State Progressive Party and those who join this party must resign from their mother organizations. The current meetings suggest the dilemma among them. For the ceasefire groups, reigniting armed resistance at this moment is both impractical and impossible. The ceasefire groups were unavailable for comment.

Frans on 04.29.09 @ 11:05 PM CST [link]


Tuesday, April 28th

Talks only option for Naga issue: Rio Correspondent (NPN): MOPUNGCHUKET, (MOKOKCHUNG) (With inputs from DIPR)



Talks only option for Naga issue: Rio Correspondent (NPN): MOPUNGCHUKET, (MOKOKCHUNG) (With inputs from DIPR)


Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio addressing the 23rd NSF general conference as chief guest at Mopungchuket Tuesday.A wooden sculpture of the chief minister presented to him on his right.(NP)
Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio reiterated that negotiation with the government of India was the only option to address the several decades-old unsolved Naga political problem.
Speaking after inaugurating the 23rd General Conference of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) as the chief guest at Mopungchuket village, Mokokchung district . Rio said the aspirations of the Nagas cannot be achieved through waging war and approaching a third country was not applicable in finding a an amicable solution to the Naga problem.
He asserted that negotiation across the table, that involved all sections of society was the best way to settle the long pending Naga political issue.
Rio said that India was always looking forward with all earnestness to bring about an amicable solution to the problem. The chief minister admitted that the efforts put into the current peace process did not show much progress and called for consolidated efforts to carry forward the initiative.
He said there was a need for reasoning together as to why the peace process had not made adequate progress and how the Nagas could find ways to take forward the peace process in the right direction. “It was this very objective that PAC of DAN government had taken initiative in convening the Naga Consultative Meet at Kohima,” he said.
Expressing serious concern over the prevailing situation in Naga society, Rio pointed out that the biggest challenge before the Nagas today was to stop violence, hatred and misunderstanding and that it was paramount to prevent such senseless acts of violence.
Rio also said it was of crucial importance that the Nagas work towards oneness and understanding among themselves before they could realistically hope for achieving their goals. “How can we think of tackling on the issue of Naga unity, if we continue to fight amongst ourselves?” he asked.
He pointed out that even bodies like Naga Hoho and NSF were no longer fully representing all Nagas living within even the present Nagaland state. He said it was high time that the Nagas recreate their “nationalistic” fervour to subsume all minor differences which would enable them to come together under the apex Naga Hoho and the NSF so as to pursue the common goal.
He lauded the NSF for their involvement in socio-economic and political development and said that the Federation was not only a powerful organization but also an effective pressure group.
The chief minister revealed that Nagaland Government had formulated a number of programmes to help the youth and called upon the students, whom he termed as “assets” to avail the opportunities provided by the state government.
The chief guest also hoisted the NSF flag and also presented with a sculpture titled “The Bridge” by the Mopungchuket Council in a traditional manner. He also complimented the Ao Students’ Conference and Mopungchuket village for hosting the conference. NSF President Imchatoba delivered the presidential address.
Earlier, the NSF monolith was unveiled by MLA from Manipur, Morung Makunga. Nagaland education minister Neiwang Konyak, roads and bridges minister Kaito, parliamentary secretary Saku, MLA Nungsangyapang, DC Mokokchung, CM Tsanglao, other senior officers and students also attended the programme. Other highlights of the programme included cultural presentations by Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (Tangkhul Students Union), Chakhesang Students Union, special number by the Enchanter etc. The program was chaired by former speaker NSF Elu Ndang.

Nagas at a cross road in history Ashikho Pfuzhe Morungexpress
Mopungchuket | April 28 : Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today underscored the need for Nagas to reason together why the Naga peace process has not made adequate progress and to find ways to take the process forward in the right direction and towards the desired goal. “Today, the Nagas are at an important crossroads in our history. There is a deep concern expressed in various quarters of the Naga society that there is a need to take forward the Naga political issue, which has remained unresolved for the last six decades,” the chief minister said. He was addressing the inaugural function of the 23rd general conference of the Naga Students’ Federation at Mopungchuket village, some 16 km away from Mokokchung town.
He expressed apprehension if the “stalemate” with regard to the Naga issue was allowed to continue for too long, it could lead to frustrations amongst the parties to the dialogue, as also the general Naga populace. Rio cautioned it could result in the breakdown of the peace process, marking the return of “social upheavals, violence and turmoil in every part of our land.”
Sharing his suggestions made at the Naga consultative meeting held March 5-7, Rio said that the only “realistic and logical approach” would be to engage with India through political dialogue and negotiations to bring about an honorable solution. Such an approach would also be in line with the theme of the NSF conference –“Forging mutual destiny,” he said.
The chief minister also reiterated his “three-point formula” offered during the consultative meeting for taking forward the Naga political issue, including striving for territorial and emotional integration of all Nagas.
“Our common goal is to take Nagaland and the people forward to a better position where Nagas will be recognized by the international community for our excellence, for our unique culture, and where we carve our own place in the comity of the global village. This, I think, is the most practical approach and strategy for ‘Forging mutual destiny’,” he said.
Rio further said that Nagas can no longer afford to live in the past, nor stagnate in the present position. “We should realize what is possible, and work for it. Instead of living in isolation, we should strive to be part of the global village,” he added.
On the other hand, Rio said that while Nagas discuss the bigger picture of the Naga issue, they cannot deny that the biggest challenge lay within Nagas themselves and, even as the public very often ask the undergrounds to unite, the mainstream leaders and public are not doing any better. Taking a case in point, Rio said apex Naga bodies like the Naga Hoho and NSF no longer fully represent all Nagas living even within the present Nagaland state.
“It is high time that we recreate that Naga nationalistic fervor, that would subsume all our minor differences, and that would enable all Nagas, be it southern Nagas, “eastern” Nagas, “western” Nagas or “central” Nagas to come together under the apex Naga Hoho and NSF, so that we can unitedly pursue our common goal,” he said.
Dialogue, the only option: Rio
Mokokchung, April 28 (DIPR): Negotiation is the only option to addressing the Naga political issue, said Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. He said that in trying to achieve the aspirations of the Nagas by means of either waging a war or approaching a third country, is not applicable to finding an amicable solution to the Naga political issue.
Inaugurating the 23rd general conference of the Naga Students’ Federation at Mopungchukit village in Mokokchung today, Neiphiu Rio said negotiations across the table involving all sections of the society is the best way to settle the pending Naga political issue. Referring to the current peace process, the chief minister admitted that the efforts do not show much progress and so, called for consolidated efforts to carry forward the initiative.
Referring to the prevailing situation in the Naga society, the chief minister said the biggest challenge before the Nagas today is to stop violence, hatred and misunderstanding and ‘it is paramount to prevent such senseless acts of violence’. Touching on the talk of unification among the various Naga underground groups, the chief minister commented that even mainstream group such as Naga Hoho or the NSF are required to forge a greater unity as the present set-up do not represent the entire tribal hohos or the students’ community.
Commending the NSF for their involvement in the socio-economic and political development, Rio said the NSF is not only a powerful organization but also an effective pressure group. Stating students to be assets, the chief minister said the Nagaland Government has formulated a number of programmes to help the youths.
Rio, Makunga laud NSF for positive contributions morungexpress

(Left) Morung Makunga, MLA from Manipur (centre), is seen with Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and others after unveiling the monolith for the 23rd NSF general conference being held at Mopungchuket village, in Mokokchung district, on Tuesday, April 28. (Right) In a grand display, able-bodied men of Mopungchuket village pull a wood sculpture to be presented to Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio during the NSF general conference at Mopungchuket village on Tuesday. (Morung Photo/Kuzhovesa Soho)

Mopungchuket | April 28: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Naga MLA from Manipur, Morung Makunga, have lauded the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) for playing a vital role in safeguarding the rights of the Naga people and promoting peace and communal harmony.
The Chief Minister, who was the chief guest at the inaugural function of the 23rd NSF conference, said, “in addition to promoting and espousing the cause of students’ welfare, the NSF has also been in the forefront of Nagaland’s socio-political movements.” Rio said the Federation had also been successfully functioning as a watchdog and pressure group on the functioning of the government, especially in the area of formulation of important public policies. “In this way, the NSF has made positive impacts and contributions in the socio-political development of the State,” he said.
Rio further appreciated the contributions of the NSF in maintenance of peace and communal harmony, in protecting the rights of indigenous Nagas against the dangers of assimilation by outside forces, as also their stand against all forms of human rights violations.
Makunga, the special guest at the inaugural function who also unveiled the NSF monolith, said he had always been immensely impressed by the Federation’s motto ‘For a unified lim and glory of Nagas’. “I have always believed and still do so that that organisation like the NSF should be the vanguard to acquaint and bring Nagas closer together,” he said.
Dwelling on the Naga struggle, the Naga legislator said that in the process of this struggle, Nagas have been fragmented into many areas of administration and assimilated into larger societies as minorities. “Our people have been divided into many areas neither by consent nor by conquest,” he said and lamented that though Nagas’ proclaimed desire to live together as one people was much within the provision, but it was unfortunate that “we are mistakenly interpreted and misconstrued as expansionist by some of our neighbours.” Makunga, however, said Nagas should not lose hope but try to explore all avenues and means to negotiate through.
Other highlights of the inaugural function included hoisting of the NSF flag by the chief guest, welcome note by the convenor of organizing committee, K Inaka Assumi, presidential address by NSF president Imchatoba Imchen, folkdances by the Tangkhul and Chakhesang students’ unions, ‘Harmony’ by the conference choir, and ‘Lively tune’ by the Enchanters.
Among other dignitaries who attended the inaugural were Roads & Bridges minister G Kaito Aye, Education minister Nyeiwang Konyak, Parliamentary Secretary T Saku Aier, MLA Nungsangyapang and the Deputy Commissioner of Mokokchung.

Government - NSCN(K) extend Ceasefire Dilip Sharma Merinews
The government of India and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Khaplang) (NSCN-K) mutually agreed to extend ceasefire for a period of one year during a meeting held between the two parties in New Delhi.
SOURCES FROM New Delhi have confirmed that the Indian government, as well as the Socialist Council of Nagaland (Khaplang), (NSCN(K)) met on April 24 and discussed core issues, especially the implementation of Ceasefire Ground Rules, (CGR) and more importantly, the proposal of the NSCN(K) to extend the ceasefire for another year.

Special Secretary, (Internal Affairs) Ministry of Home Affairs, Raman Srivastava, who presided over the meeting, told the delegates that the government does not want any breach of the CGR and that they have to be followed strictly and implemented in totality.

The meeting also examined the issues of the nexus between the NSCN(K) with other underground groups, which was denied by the representatives of the former, sources informed. The government also brought up issues of rampant extortion in Nagaland but the NSCN(K) delegates denied them and clarified that some individuals or groups of people might be doing such things in the name of their organisation but they were not involved in such activities.

The situation in Tirap and Changlang districts of Arunachal Pradesh was also brought up during the course of discussion and the government categorically asked the NSCN(K) to refrain from any activities in these districts, as they do not fall under the purview of the ceasefire agreement. However, the NSCN(K) pointed out that the rival group, NSCN(IM), is also active in these regions. To this, the government officials asked the NSCN(K) to follow the directives of the government as they are directly involved with it in the ceasefire. With regards the involvement of NSCN(IM), the government officials assured representatives of the NSCN(K) that they would take up the issue with them.

The meeting also stressed on the designated camps of the NSCN(K), and the government delegates asked it to send its cadres to the new designated camp set up at Mon district.
Sources further informed that the government was critical over the procurement of arms by the outfit and their being openly displayed to the public. It directed the NSCN(K) to refrain from such activities, as it is not supposed to procure arms and ammunition from any sources.

Sources even said that the issue of forced recruitment into the faction was also brought up by the Special Secretary based on intelligence outputs, and he directed the NSCN(K) not to indulge in such activities.
The government was represented by Raman Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Northeast, Naveen Verma, and Joint Secretary, Northeast, Gopi Nath; while the NSCN(K) was represented by Supervisor of CFSB, C Singson, and Joint Secretary, Nitovi Aye.
The Call of the Church in Our Crisis morungexpress
•-When the candidates who fought in the last election for the 60 seats of the Nagaland Assembly reportedly had to spend more than Rs. 600 crores to pay for votes, the shocking shallowness of Naga Christians and their meaning of life were revealed. The politicians, the bureaucrats and contractors are not the only ones to blame.
The disgraceful NPSC scams that keep surfacing, the massive fraud of the bogus teachers being put on the State’s pay roll resulting in countless bonafide teachers not getting their salaries, and the senior officials of the State investigating into the criminal goings-on being told not to carry out their tasks on pain of dire consequences - these are the moral and spiritual diet the Nagas feed on daily as they try to struggle for their survival and progress. Our people deserve better feeding.
The scams and scandals and the unrestrained greed for easy money that have rendered our society unmanageable and unstable show Nagas have become a people who have no sense of responsibility for the consequences of their acts. The manifestation of rampant threat abduction, extortion, killing, sexual abuse, rape and various detestable evils are only the natural outcome. Let us all question ourselves; where are we the Christian dominated State heading?
Yet this ugly society has come out of the lives of all of us. That is the honest-to-God truth. And we have no choice but to accept it with all its faults and transform it together for our children to inherit a better, safer society.
We who are the leadership of the Church are fully aware of our limitations to meet the challenge of the crisis. But the Church’s commitment to fight for the ways of God to win is unshakable as the battle is God’s battle and He will win if enough Christians will pay the price of obedience to Him. This is our faith and confidence because of Him who has called us to stand with Him.
We call upon all the men of power, wealth and influence, whether over “ground” and “underground,” not to treat God’s values for His kingdom lightly, but to get on His side, for the sake of our future. If we will simply co-operate with God, instead of with Satan, the restoration of our society will surprise us. Our co-operation with the Deceiver must end.
Rev. L. Kari Longchar
Director, Peace Affairs, NBCC Kohima, Nagaland
‘Community contribution vital for maintaining traditional knowledge’DIPR
Dimapur, April 27 (DIPR): A one-day interactive session on documentation and patenting of Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) was organised in Medziphema on April 25 last by the National Innovation Foundation (NIF) in collaboration with National Research Centre on Mithun, Jharnapani, Nagaland. The programme was attended by programme coordinators/SMSs of different Krishi Vigyan Kendras of Nagaland, Director for Agriculture, Nagaland, and the Dean and faculty members of SASARD, Nagaland University.
Dr. Chandan Rajkhowa, Director at the National Research Centre on Mithun, shared his experience about the wisdom and rich knowledge of the tribal population living in the north east. He also mentioned various ITKs that have been generated by different tribes and their ancestors.
Speaking on the occasion, Professor Anil K Gupta, executive vice-chairman of NIF, discussed the various indigenous technologies documented by NIF and patents that have been obtained in favour of the communities/individuals who have contributed to the sustaining and developing of knowledge for social benefits. He emphasised on the contribution of community/individual being vital for maintaining traditional knowledge and skills generation after generation and said these must be recognised in a formal way.
Prof. Gupta also expressed the need to map the traditional knowledge and skills of different tribes of Nagaland and to document them so that they may be preserved and popularised. For this, he said, a collaborative programme with KVKs, government departments and research at university and ICAR institutes for extensive survey and documentation of ITKs, was necessary. He assured the help of NIF in validation and patenting of these ITKs. The expenses if required will be borne by the NIF and the patents will be taken in favour of the individual/community sharing the information, he assured. For a detailed discussion, the executive vice-chairman of NIF has fixed a meeting between the government of Nagaland and the Village Development Board (VDB) members of various districts on May 6, 2009.
Woman gunned down as militants raid Assam village Sushanta Talukdar The Hindu
Guwahati: A woman was killed and 12 others were injured as militants opened fire on villagers at Yeah in Assam’s North Cachar Hills district on Tuesday afternoon.
Subhash Das, Principal Secretary, Home, said a group of extremists raided the village and resorted to indiscriminate firing.
They also set ablaze about 15 houses in the village located close to the Assam-Nagaland border. Security forces rushed to Yeah but they were yet to ascertain the identity of the attackers.
In Baska district, two militants of the United Liberation Front of Asom were killed in an encounter with the security forces. One revolver, one 9 mm pistol, two live cartridges, two empty cartridges, one 7.68 pistol, 12 detonators, two magazines, 12-metre fuse wire, assorted ammunition and some documents were recovered.
Visions of Overseas Naga Association Nagaland Page
Overseas Naga Association believes in Nagas helping one another at home and around the world. As an international Naga community away from the homeland, we seek to provide opportunities for collaboration and understanding across national borders and to strengthen ties with our people back home. Our aim is to complement and strengthen the existing Naga associations in various countries by offering members a common global link and forum. We are a non-profit organization and we invite all persons of Naga descent and their families living outside the Indian subcontinent to join us.
Goals:
1. To promote community links and understanding among the Naga global diaspora, and to work for the common good and unity of all Nagas back home irrespective of political and ideological differences.
2. To provide the younger generations of Naga descent living abroad with opportunities to interact with each other and with their counterparts in the homeland through well-organized programs, such as "Journey to my Heritage" during festivals, visits to Naga villages, workshops on cultures, cultural immersion experience, running Naga stores and stalls overseas.
3. To set up and run twin Think-Tanks (one composed of overseas Nagas and one in the homeland) whose function will be to brainstorm ideas and help implement programs aimed at improving the Naga society in all areas of knowledge, as well as material progress, so that Nagas can become a competitive people in the fast changing world of the 21st century.
4. To collaborate with educational institutions in the homeland and around the world on projects and programs for improving student learning and experience in professional work that will make students competitive with their peers in the rest of the world.
5. To make available a team of experts with experience in various fields that any Chief Minister of Nagaland and his/her administration can seek advice from.
6. To organize conferences/summits both in the homeland and in different countries, so we can celebrate our common Naga heritage and share ideas on specific timely issues as well as broad themes that need addressing.
Visier Sanyü, President, ONA
Paul Pimomo, Secretary General, ONA


Show no leniency to rapists : GPRN/NSCN Nagaland Page
The traumatic events taking place in Naga society recently has drawn the attention to all Nagas young and old alike: Should we allow our female populace to remain at the mercy of rapists and killers? Are we to simply condemn and go quiet? GPRN/NSCN vehemently condemns all wicked and despicable actions such as:
1.The rape and murder of Anukamba Dhan, a class IX student of Carmel Higher Secondary School, Dimapur on April 17, 2008.
2. The brutal gang rape of a pregnant woman near Old Showuba Village, Dimapur on 28th August 2008.
3. The gang rape of a daughter on the night of 25th March 2009 at Derogapathar, Dimapur.
4. The rape of a teenager at Zunheboto on 11th April.
5. The rape and murder of little Gaipuilu Ganmei in Delhi on 17th April 2009 etc.
These tragic incidents are indications that a society is spiraling out of control. It is high time for a society which claims to cherish its women with profound respect and honor so dearly, must declare and pronounce highest punishment to those who snuff out dreams and hopes of women through animalistic behavior. The highest degree of physical violation of the fairer sex must be responded equally with highest degree of punishment.
GPRN/NSCN calls upon the guardians of Naga society to rise up from the slumber and identify rapist-killers to ensure that Naga women are not reduced to becoming perpetual victims in their own backyard. Allowing these beasts to roam our towns and villages is a complete humiliation of our political, social, cultural, moral and ethical pursuits. Very soon dehumanization of Christian Naga society shall be final and revolutionary ideals completely abused. Unless a stern law is promulgated against rapists and their kind, all Naga customary laws stands dysfunctional, redundant and impractical against this menace.
At this testing hour, any lawyer, legal team defending the action of rapists must face the wrath of a traumatized Naga society. Rapists by their own actions cease to be a father, husband, son, brother, relative, friend or a neighbor.
Publicity Cell, GPRN/NSCN

Bodo organizations appeal for peace and harmony Sentinel
KOKRAJHAR, April 27: The frontal Bodo organizations— the ABSU, the Bodo Sahitya Sabha (BSS) and the Bodoland Citizens’ Forum (BCF) have appealed all the political parties and different organizations for prevailing peace and harmony amongst all sections of the society in BTC region.
In a press meet held at RN Brahma Memorial Bhavan on Sunday, BSS president Dr Kameswar Brahma said the Sabha has been closely observing the deteriorating situation in the region especially on the pre and post election violence in different parts of Kokrajhar and Chirang districts where killings, attacks and counter attacks caused a matter of grave concern. He said the BSS has been bringing out a peace mission in Kokrajhar and Chirang district since April 9 last, to shun the clashes and other forms of violence. Dr Brahma condemned the attack on the leaders of BTC and BPF candidate SK Bwiswmuthiary by unknown armed assailants at Gandabil on April 24, which claimed lives of the people and injured seven others. He also appealed all political and apolitical leaders to maintain peace and tranquillity for the greater interest of the people of the region. Secretary of the BSS Kamala Kanta Mashahary said the Sabha has undertaken peace initiatives through holding peace meeting in various sensitive places to end the present turmoil.
He also said the peace mission will be started from April 30 next, with the active collaboration of media fraternity. The president of ABSU Promode Boro, in press release condemned the Panbari incident where BTC leaders including BPF MP candidate Bwiswmuthiary was ambushed by unknown militant on April 24 last. He criticized BPF president Hagrama Mohilary for his comment that ABSU offices are sheltering place of the NDFB. He said that the charge of Mohilary ABSU was totally baseless and concocted one. He also blamed Mohilary for his horse trading act on NDFB by giving them a handsome money of Rs 50 lakh in the last 2004 election. Boro, however, appealed all for maintaining peace and amity at any means. Secretary of the Bodoland Citizens’ Forum (BCF) Chanakya Brahma, vehemently condemned the Panbari incident and said one should not prevent one’s rights in a democratic country.


Frans on 04.28.09 @ 11:05 PM CST [link]


Monday, April 27th

Extremism in the NE: Problems and Solutions Dr. Xavier Pfokrehe Mao Morungexpress



Extremism in the NE: Problems and Solutions Dr. Xavier Pfokrehe Mao Morungexpress

The English word extremism means the views or opinions that fall outside the normal range. In politics, extremism stands for very strong and abnormal views. In what follows, I wish to critically examine the brand of political extremism that has been prevailing in North-Eastern part of the country for the past many years. The reasons for political extremism are many and varied from state to state and within existing states of the North-East India. The first call for sovereign, independent nation state was given by the Nagas led by their late leader A Z Phizo. That was followed by Mizos led by their late leader Laldenga. Subsequently various other ethnic groups of the North-East also started raising similar demands although their reasons are different. Many of these organizations started using extremism or terrorism as a means or method to achieve their goals or objectives. Some of these outfits or insurgents started using violence or terrorism as the very objective itself, and not as a method.
The Nagas have given the clarion call for a complete sovereign, independent state even during pre-independent India. A. Z Phizo categorically stated that Nagaland (all the inhabited Naga areas) was never part of India, historically, culturally, racially and ethnically, and Nagas are not Indians. As a matter of fact, the Nagas and most of the tribes from North-East were not part of ancient and medieval India except during the British Rule. These tribal groups have the same cultural, linguistic ethnic and racial boundaries with the South-East Asia and East Asia people. Phizo met a number of Indian leaders like M K Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, Subhash Chandra Bose, Rajagopalachary for the purpose. Gradually the secessionist movement spread to other parts of North-East like Mizoram, Manipur, Tripura, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. Some people in North-East India even started saying that they are with India but they are not Indians. Since an influential section of the tribals are of Mongoloid origin, they are most of the time mistaken with the south-east Asian and east Asian people by the rest of Indians. Their food habit and life-style are very different from the rest of India. After being converted to Christianity and Hinduism they have given up their indigenous tribal religions. Thus, they suffer an identity crisis. They claim that they are Nagas, Mizos, Meiteis, , Khasis, Bodos, Garos etc. but have given up their tribal religions. At a deeper level there is a crisis. Of course this is true that they have not completely given up their respective tribal way of life. When it is pointed out that religion is an integral component of culture and by completely replacing their original religions by new religions, not the type of modification or reforms, they have lost substantially their culture too, they have no definite answer. Perhaps, this state of affairs coupled with minority psychology that is the fear of being completely assimilated with the majority, continues to create stir and turmoil in their unconscious and sub-conscious mind. The first general election of 1952 was completely boycotted by the Nagas. Even the second general election of 1957 was also partially boycotted by the Nagas. In due course of time, the Government of India in 1959 decided to create a separate statehood for Nagaland and eventually Nagaland became a separate full fledged state in 1963. Subsequently in the early seventies, a number of separate states were created in the North-East like Meghalaya, Tripura and Manipur. The Government of India partially solved the political crisis that emerged in North-East India through the creation of new states and entering into dialogues and talks and signed accord with insurgent leaders. In consequence, Mizoram was given statehood in 1987 and Laldenga became the Chief Minister of the state. Subsequently even Arunachal Pradesh was given statehood. Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh were given central universities and Assam got two central Universities and one I.I.T. Further, ten percent of the national budget is earmarked for the North-Eastern states and if unspent it automatically goes to the non-lapsable fund. In other words, seen in this light, the North-eastern states are being treated as most favored states unlike their fellow counterparts in Myanmar and Bangladesh.
At the same time, in spite of all the benefits extended to North-Eastern states, the persistent struggle for sovereignty is very much alive among the Naga insurgents. In the case of other North-Eastern states, occasionally there happens to be out burst of extremism and terrorism. One may be allowed to say in this connection that in some cases, this is the function of a handful of misguided youth. At the same time, instigation and encouragement of India’s neighbours and other powerful countries in this regard cannot be ruled out at all. From time to time, some self-styled intellectuals of the region have been consciously fuelling the fire of extremism. In early eighties a Professor from the region published a paper entitled “My Language and Yours” in Man in India, a journal published from Viswabharati University wherein he argued that language is the soul of man. He illustrated the point in the following manner. If some body’s mother tongue, say is Assamese his soul becomes Assamese and if a Bengali, for instance, learns Assamese and read, write and speak it fluently yet he cannot understand it completely because his soul is primarily a Bengali soul. Therefore, he concludes that two linguistic communities cannot live together because their souls are different. This is a kind of neo-nazism that the Professor concerned was trying to propagate. After some years the same Professor presented a paper in International Socrates’ Day, wherein he argued that his identity is that he is a ‘y’ tribes man. The Professor forgot that a person has multiple and various types of identities. Such identities are racial, ethnic, religious, linguistic and cultural. To pick up one identity and declare it as the sole identity of a person is a gross mistake.
Now time has come for North-Eastern people to have a serious reflection and realistic assessment of their societies. For whatever reasons, they are now an integral part of Indian republic, with almost full participation in the Indian electoral system the demand for secession at this point of history is perhaps impossible or unwise. Firstly, India as a nation-state has emerged as a very powerful player in the world today. Secondly, the various insurgent groups of the region have no shown any spirit of self-sacrifice and service to their societies or to humanity in general. On the contrary, what we witness is the endemic instability for the worse. Even the insurgent groups which have initial legitimate demands have degenerated into anti-social criminal gangs, devoid of any moral content or ideology. This is clearly illustrated through political fragmentation and endemic factional killings motivated by raw greed and taking violence as an end in itself and not merely as a means.
Further, there is no imposition of any alien language, culture or religion on the North-Eastern people. They are treated on par with citizens from other parts of the country. Policy of reservation and other special treatment have given to them a booster. It may not be out of place that because of policy of reservation many tribals from North-East are there on the faculty of many universities in other parts of India. If there is a suspicion, apprehension and doubt against the Indian state in this respect, it is misplaced. The North-Eastern people particularly the youth must rise to the occasion and make best use of the various benefits extended to them by the Government of India, sometimes at the cost of others. They should actively participate in the process of building their societies and work hard particularly in developing their language and culture.
The extremists should realize that the Indian state has gradually become democratic and secular in this regard. The only thing is that they do not wish to give away one inch of land to others. But greater autonomy, equal say in important decision making process and other desirable political, social and economic reforms can be debated for a better tomorrow. Modern state and citizenship is purely contractual and the Indian state is no exception to it. Democracy is gradually beginning to strike its roots in India. To become a member or citizen of Indian republic does not mean to sell away one’s identity, dignity, honour and respectability. Therefore, give up senseless extremism and terrorism and to participate in the process of development and progress should be the motto of the youth in the North-East. The dream that China, Pakistan or even the United States of America will come forward to liberate them in their endeavor to become sovereign nation state while they themselves are busy fighting for their own rapacious, greedy selfish interests with the consequence of moral chaos is perhaps too far fetched They must remember and realize that ten percent of national budget is earmarked and spent on only five percent of people and ninety percent is being spent on (95%) ninety five percent only. Such plain truths and obvious facts must be brought to the notice of misguided North-Eastern youths who still keep on indulging in acts of extortion, violence, extremism and terrorism.
Recourse to extremism and violence may be taken as a means of upholding justice and for defending a just cause and legitimate claim. Also, as the history has repeatedly shown, violence may be used in support of evil. Moreover, violence may become an end in itself serving merely the animal instincts or an expression of frustration, despair, oppression, suppression and thereby sacrificing the noble side of human nature. Very few people would object violence when used to defend and support a just cause. Violence has acquired its justification from the defense of such legitimate claims. But many a time it sinks into the abyss by defending amoral and immoral causes, modifying itself as an end in itself. These are the time tested lessons. Therefore, the excessive emphasis placed on violence and bloody armed struggle to achieve political independence without moral and spiritual content has its dangerous counter productive effect as we eloquently witness the activities of the various insurgent outfits of the North-East. Because even many great thinkers and saints have clearly stated that virtue and violence can never be friends.
The future of humankind rests with achieving enlightenment and cultivating compassionate love as the ultimate value to which all of us should try to adhere in all aspects of our life. All instrumentalities of social action should be based on the principle of compassionate love progressively limiting violence and replacing it by altruism, self-sacrifice and love for common good and welfare. The way of greed, insecurity, uncertainty, hatred and mutual distrust and self-centeredness must give way to ‘care’ reconciliation, love, freedom and understanding.

Impact of 15th Lok Sabha Election in Senapati District, Manipur By: Dr. R.B. Thohe Pou Kangla on Line
Some people believe that politics is a ‘dirty game’ but they continue to involve in politics. Some people believe that developments can be brought through politicians only forgetting the work of the NGOs. Personally I believe that politics is not a ‘dirty game’ but many politicians and the people involved in politics play the dirty game. How many politicians and the people who involves in politics are honest, respectable and work for unity and development of the people?
In 1952 under the leadership of Phizo – the Naga (NNC) boycotted the Indian election, which was quite successfully. The general election in 1952 was totally boycotted in Naga areas; not a single nomination was filled in the Naga areas; not a single vote was cast. The Nagas also stayed away from the District Councils. The school teachers and other govt. employers resigned their jobs and the people refused to pay taxes. Let’s also try to examine the cooperation, unity and capability to convince and mobilize of the present Naga leaders who boycotted the Indian election and commenced to involve in so called Indian election.
In last 13th Lok Sabha election – the NSCN-IM again boycotted Indian election in Nagalim as they don’t want to come under the constitution of India. In this election – the Outer Manipur seat was won by Kim Gangte (a non Naga candidate) as the Naga people boycotted the Lok Sabha election and other communities selected her unanimously.
The strategy and the policy of the Naga underground changed in 14th Lok Sabha election; the Naga underground wanted to have their own candidate who will represent in Indian parliament for the Naga people in Delhi. In this election – Mani Cheranamei (an Independent MP candidate) was chosen by the NSCN-IM faction for the Naga people and he was elected in last election. However many villagers and leaders said that NSCN-IM compelled them to vote for Mani only. When we studied the Naga political history it is observed that the Naga underground did not want the Naga people to involve so called in Indian election and boycotted twice. However the Indian politicians (leaders) want the Naga to be the part of the India and participate in every Indian election. Now the policy of the underground is just reversed and the thinkers and the people who are interested on Naga issue may be abstruse to comprehend this reversal policy.
In this 15th Lok Sabha election – the Naga underground wants MP Mani Cheranamei to represent again for the Naga people in Delhi. However they did not stopped any other Naga candidate to nominate and it is strange that after nomination – the people were not allowed to cast their votes for other candidates except for Mani. Why don’t they make understand and stop the aspiring MP candidates before their nomination is done? There were some round of talks between the village leaders and other leaders with the NSCN-IM leaders in Senapati and its periphery areas. However the NSCN-IM could not convinced and mobilized the public leaders and ultimately the voting day arrived. In Poumai Naga areas – the NSCN-IM once again commenced to threaten the village leaders to vote for Mani Cheranamei only. On the day of election – most of the underground went to their own villages and started to woo the villagers to vote for their candidate but the villagers were not convinced without any muscle power.
Many villagers were forcefully voted for Mani and this news spread like the wild fire in all the villages and in the periphery of Senapati areas as they have now better communication due to cell phone revolution. Learning the news about the booth capturing by the underground – the public or mass of the people got irritated and started to gather around Karong and Senapati areas and the annoyed mass of the people commenced to pelt stones to the vehicles coming from Mao and Poumai areas polling stations. Unfortunately, one of the NSCN-IM Kilonser’s Bolero (vehicle) was coming from Poumai area side and the aggravated mass of the people stoned the vehicle and almost crushed into piece but the NSCN-IM Kilonser and the others travelling in that Bolero were safe with some injuries in their bodies. On 22nd April, the alleged two leaders of the people who were involved in pelting stone to NSCNN-IM Kilonser’s Bolero were taken into Hebron, Dimapur – the NSCN-IM head quarter for further interrogation. There was meeting between the Naga leaders from Senapati District and the NSCN-IM leaders in Hebron camp on 23rd April till late evening. On 24th April the two alleged were bailed out by the Naga leaders from Senapati. Kudos goes to the NSCN-IM for releasing the two alleged leaders who were alleged to lead the group in stoning the Bolero.
It is also difficult to understand why the underground could not convince and mobilize the gullible villagers to vote for their candidate? Why they made the public irritated and brought such kind of consequences? It is also interesting to note that there was not news report in Manipur or Nagaland news paper about the pelting of stone and injury of the NSCN-IM Kilonser near Senapati H. Quarter. But one of the simple reasons may be that there is not a single local news reporter available in Senapati and the freelancers may be afraid or unworthy to get the price of reporting for such kind of report as it may bring heavy price on them for reporting such kind of ground reality and fact report to the newspaper.
With this kind of consequences through election problems in Nagalim may bring more bitter relationship between the public and the Naga underground. Not only the relationship between the underground and the public but the relationship among the people also will be affected enormously. The Naga leaders and everyone from Senapati would definitely appreciate the NSCN-IM for solving the problems amicably with prayers and mutual understanding. Disunity and bitter relationship may be the sadness to one community but it may be happiness to other communities and the leaders of every community may need to understand and bring good relationship and unity amongst their community.
Manipur: Summer Storm Bibhu Prasad Routray Research Fellow, Institute for Conflict Management
On April 11, 2009, the 57 Mountain Division of the Indian Army based in Manipur, along with the para-military Assam Rifles and State Police, launched a counter insurgency operation, codenamed ‘Operation Summer Storm’ in the Loktak Lake area and adjoining Keibul Lamjao National Park of Bishnupur District, located south of State capital Imphal. This first major mobilisation of troops this year ended on April 21. As the troops began pulling out, the Army spokesperson described the operation as a success, disclosing that 12 militants, all belonging to the People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) were killed. The Forces also claimed to have located and destroyed five militant camps during the Operation and seized 10 weapons, including six AK-series rifles, a rocket launcher, and an unspecified quantity of explosives and improvised explosive devices (IEDs). No militant was arrested. No fatality among the Security Force (SF) personnel or civilians was reported.
Located at a distance of 40 kilometres from capital Imphal, Loktak Lake, with a catchment of 1,040 square kilometres, is the only ‘floating lake’ in the world, containing Phumdis – islets consisting of a heterogeneous mass of vegetation, soil, and organic matters at various stages of decomposition – on its surface. These islets have traditionally served as ideal camouflage for several militant bunkers and hideouts. According to a 2004 survey, the Lake’s catchment area also included 5.86 square kilometres of dense forest, as well as 101 square kilometres of open forest, providing escape and concealment options to the militants. Incidentally, the largest phumdi in the lake is the Keibul Lamjao National Park, spread over an area of 45 square kilometres, in the Lake’s southern part. Not just PREPAK, but outfits like the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) as well as the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) have, in recent years, used the phumdis of Loktak to locate themselves in close proximity to the State capital.
Inherently linked to the objective of neutralising the disruptive potential of the militants before the two-phase elections to the Indian Parliament in the State on April 16 and 22, the Operation was meticulously planned. Led by the Army, it involved 500 SF personnel drawn from the 57 Mountain Division, the Assam Rifles and Manipur Police commandos. A month-long preparation, involving the survey of militant facilities using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), had preceded the mobilisation of troops. The Operation was confined mostly to the eastern part of the Lake, covering areas such as Chingmaipat, Nongmaikhong, Arong and Khordak.
As lightly equipped commandos, supported by helicopters, marched through the area, often wading through waist-deep water, much of the success of the Operation was achieved during the early April 12 to 14 phase, when the SFs managed to kill eleven militants and destroy four camps. The 12th militant was killed on April 16. Efforts during the remaining days consisted largely of a thorough scouring and mopping up operation, aimed at tracing out any militant remnants.
Describing the Operation, with significant exaggeration, as the ‘Second Kargil War’ – the Indian Air Force had played a significant part in neutralising the attempts of the Pakistan army regulars in the Kargil region of Jammu & Kashmir – PREPAK sources alleged that the SFs resorted to aerial bombing, using helicopter gunships. The Army spokesperson clarified, however, that the SFs in Manipur did not possess any helicopter gunships, that only ‘effective’ weapons were used by the SFs, and that every care was taken to avoid civilian fatalities.
The SFs had been explicitly advised to resist speculative fire in order to prevent casualties among the women and children members of the militant families living within the camps. Firing had, in fact, been temporarily suspended on April 13, after the SFs noticed a woman and child emerging from the area under Operation. The woman was later found to be the wife of a PREPAK ‘sergeant major’. The SFs were also advised to be restrained in order to avoid casualties among the Sangai (brow antlered deer) population – a protected specie in the Keibul Lamjao National Park. The 50 odd hamlets in and around Loktak Lake are home to almost 100,000 people, and only 2,500 people were temporarily displaced from their villages during the Operation. On April 21, the Army declared that the Loktak Lake has been cleared of militant presence.
In terms of the sheer number of militant cadres neutralised and weapons recovered, Operation Summer Storm may not go down as a significant anti-militancy initiative. However, the 10-day exercise did ensure an entirely peaceful election in the State. Almost 63 percent of the voters cast their ballot in the first phase on April 16 for the Outer Manipur constituency. Another 60 percent exercised their franchise during polls for the Inner Manipur constituency on April 22.
The neutralisation of 12 cadres does not inflict serious damage on the PREPAK, which, according to a 2005 Manipur Police estimate, has a cadre / overground workers strength of 500. PREPAK is a relatively less-significant outfit, compared to the UNLF and PLA, consequently, the Operation’s ‘success’ makes little difference to the overall scenario in Manipur. Notwithstanding the claims by the Army and the Police, moreover, the ‘clearance’ of Loktak is not expected to be anything but temporary, in the absence of a plan to secure the area through a permanent SF presence. Last year, in September, the Army and Police had carried out a week-long operation on the Loktak Lake, and had killed five PREPAK cadres. That did not deter the militants from re-establishing their facilities in the area in quick time, after the SFs withdrew.
The ‘success’ of Operation Summer Storm, however, comes in the wake of steady SF achievements since the beginning of the current year. According to Institute for Conflict Management data, as many as 86 per cent of the total of 160 militancy-related fatalities recorded this year (till April 24) were among the ranks of the militants. At least 22 of the militants killed belong to PREPAK. In terms of total fatalities, Manipur remains the most violent theatre of conflict in India’s Northeast in 2009, but has reported only 17 civilian and four SF fatalities. In comparison, the first four months of 2008 had witnessed 67 civilian, two SF and 95 militant deaths. During the current year, 105 militant deaths, out of a total 139, occurred in Valley areas, entirely consistent with the trend of militancy in Manipur, which has been much more concentrated and violently manifested in the four Valley District, as compared to the five Hill Districts.
Significantly, such steady gains have mostly been achieved in small encounters and minor operations against the militants. The SFs appear to have decided to put major operations, such as the two failed troop mobilisations in 2008 to take over the New Samtal area in Chandel District, on hold, and to concentrate on surgical strikes to neutralise active cadres of the outfits. Before the Operation Summer Storm, for instance, only five major encounters between the SFs and the militants, reporting three of more fatalities, had been reported.
The success of Operation Summer Storm demonstrated a new-found synergy between the Army, the central para-military forces and the State Police. Differences in perception and strategies to be adopted against the militants had sprung up between the Army and the Police, especially after the August 2003 Manorama Devi episode. The establishment of a Unified Command Structure under the leadership of the Chief Minister in 2004 had done little to bridge this divergence. Widening the divide, the State Police had continued carrying out operations against the Kuki militant outfits, with whom the Army had entered into a ‘suspension of operations’ agreement in 2005. Such discord appears to be a thing of the past, for the moment. Manipur Police commandos were equal partners, along with the Army and Assam Rifles, in Operation Summer Storm, and intelligence gathered by the Police prior to the Operation is reported to have been extremely valuable in terms of targeting militant facilities at Loktak Lake.
The gains made by the SFs and the peaceful elections certainly herald some hope for Manipur, teetering at the brink of collapse for a number of years. Whether these can be consolidated in the months to come, or would be allowed to be frittered away, as in the past, remains to be seen.


Frans on 04.27.09 @ 10:38 PM CST [link]


Sunday, April 26th

Sovereignty outside India not possible: Rishang Keishing Eastern Mirror FACE TO FACE Ngathingkhui Jagoi



Sovereignty outside India not possible: Rishang Keishing Eastern Mirror
FACE TO FACE
Ngathingkhui Jagoi
Some call him a toothless ‘Old Tiger’, but even at 90 Rishang Keishing is hale and hearty with the capacity to spring on any prey when it comes to politics. The longest serving chief minister of Manipur with four stints in the top chair, Keishing describes himself as an ‘Indian Naga’ who lives life on his own terms. This stand, however, has not always made everyone happy and attempts have been made on his life, all of which he has survived.
When I met him at his private residence at Mantri Pukhri, Imphal, recently for a Face to Face conversation, his first request was that no sensitive questions are asked. “It is election time,” he laughed. Notwithstanding the jocular start, the veteran politician made some explosive statements as we conversed. EXCERPTS:

EASTERN MIRROR: You have been in politics for more than half a century; gone through numerous ups and downs. First, would you like to share some of your experiences?
RISHANG KEISHING: Firstly, I don’t deny that we are Indians. I am a Naga of India and I try to adjust myself with this big nation. I feel that we have such a big opportunity for development and for our existence as honourable citizens of this big nation. And that is the line that I have tried to pursue.
EM: You were once very vocal on the Naga integration issue. You even went to Nagaland and met late Hokishe Sema when he was the chief minister of Nagaland to apprise on the issue. It was reportedly said that you even told him that you would collect the house tax of the Nagas of Manipur and submit it to Nagaland government. How far is this true?

RK: No, that is not true. It is true that Nagas, as a community in India, can think of having our own state. This I do not object. But look, to think that we are different from India and we must have our own Independence and all that, I don’t subscribe to that. I did that about forty years back. Now, after so many years, I realise that to think of a sovereign state outside India is something that is not possible. Now NSCN-IM is having dialogue with Government of India. It is for them to decide anything because Nagas cannot have so many issues since everyone cannot talk and shout for the issue. So it is up to them to decide what is good for the people. So far, I am pursuing in my own way as a respectable citizen of India.

EM: But what is your concept of Naga integration within Indian state? …

RK: You see, as a matter of fact, it is more of a sentimental question. The fact is that we happen to be Nagas and we want to live together under one umbrella from the progress and development point of view. But we have to think of whether having a separate state would be more beneficial and of more advantage for us or not. Today we are here in Manipur but we are no less than any other community in any way. I think we are in a way or the other better than other communities. The fact is that in Manipur, Naga community is also respected. The proof is that we have also ruled…

EM: Nagas talk about integration but there seems to be no emotional integration. If Nagas cannot come together under one umbrella, what, in your opinion, will be the best option?

RK: The best option is where you can live peacefully and you can be respected as honourable human being as citizens. If the Nagas are interested only in killing each other, and in having differences and immediately laying hands on each other, that can’t be a human society. Even in animal society that is not done. So if this kind of devilish policy is being pursued, I think it is better that we don’t live together. Human beings want peace - peace in the family, clan, village and society. And if that is not available, I think we are not fit to be a human being. As human being, we have to see that we live in peace and harmony and with respect. That is the true essence of a human society. If we can’t live together and continue to kill each other, then what is the point? If we can’t achieve to live together, the whole thing is gone.

EM: Recently AICC general secretary Mr Rahul Gandhi came to Churachandpur and declared that Manipur’s territorial integrity will not be changed. This means Congress is not prepared to fulfill the dreams of the Nagas…

RK: I have no comment on that. NSCN-IM is talking with the Government of India. It is for them to solve this problem.

EM: Another question is, for example, there are more than 15 underground groups in the valley but still there is development; whereas, in the hills, even as there are hardly two or three groups, it has been sidelined. The reason, according to what the government keeps saying – is ‘insurgency problem’…

RK: That is not correct. I must tell you that when I was chief minister, my annual development fund was only Rs 400 crore. But today it is nearly 2000 crore. Schemes are meant for every individual, village and for all people of the component state. But here you are right, this insurgency, all these insurgency groups are after money. So how can we depend on them?

EM: Do you mean to say that you agree with the Manipur government? Do you feel that it is not the government that is not implementing the developmental works, but that non-development in the hills is due to extortion or heavy taxation imposed by these insurgent groups?

RK: Aarey…. I don’t believe anybody but I also believe everyone. You see, we have elected our representatives to Manipur Assembly. They may be elected in Congress or any other party ticket. Through them the developmental works are implemented. But everybody is after money. I cannot forgive the state government for that. The state government is equally responsible. Delhi has given us money but the state government must carefully see where all these money are going to. The money should be used for whatever it is meant for; if it is for road development, it must be used for road development, if it is for education, it must be used for education and so on. But that is not happening today. Everything is hijacked, everything is misused. I can see individuals rising pocketing multi-crore rupees and the poor becoming poorer; the state is going down, roads are going from bad to worse, hospitals are in collapse conditions and everything is failing except undergrounds activists. We all must take responsibility for that.

EM: Coming to the Naga peace process, the reconciliation process among the Naga groups seem to have pushed the ongoing Indo-Naga peace talks between the NSCN-IM and GoI into the corner. How do you analyse the impact of this reconciliation process in the long run?

RK: The reconciliation process is being carried out by honest and God-fearing people. But what I see today is that the warring factions are resorting to something which mankind do not like. They are violating everything and whatever they do is what would make the devil happy. Whatever action they do is raw method, wrong method which humanity does not like. If humanity does not agree, God also does not agree. What is happening today is if I find what you think is not to my liking I kill you. If we continue to take this trend, we’ll all be falling apart and whatever we do will come to nothing.

EM: But do you think this reconciliation initiated by church workers and some NGOs will have a long-term impact?

RK: Church worker? You see what is happening in the church today. You are a Tangkhul man. You know what is happening in churches today. Are we true Christians? Are the pastors real shepherds? We are all going in the wrong way.

EM: As you bask in your golden years and reflect, what would you say you dislike most?

RK: Taking one as my enemy when his or her idea does not suit mine. This is something what I dislike most. We must know how to forgive each other, correct each other, tolerate each other and co-exist. Then only we can reconcile each other. I dislike hatred and thinking of taking immediate vengeance. As I enter 90 years and after 60 years in politics, I feel that we are further and further going away from the truth.

EM: 90 years now?

RK: Yes, I am running 90 years….

EM: But you still look young and healthy. What is the secret of your good health?

RK: (Laughs) There is no secret. But you see, I don’t drink alcohol, I don’t smoke… none of these intoxicating vices. I avoided all these things throughout and I try to be happy all the time. I also try to avoid enmity with anybody. That’s all and there’s no secret.
EM: What about food? Do you have any favourite food to keep you healthy?

RK: I am a habitual eater of bananas. Everyday and every meal I take two bananas. (Laughs)

EM: Unforgettable memories?

RK: Memories? Well, I have many friends and supporters during all these years. This I will never forget.

Govt may extend truce with NSCN Khaplang Nagarealm.com
NEW DELHI, APR25 [SNS] : Amid pending talks with the NSCN (IM) and allegations of “defections of cadres” by various underground factions, the Centre is now considering extending the ceasefire with another Naga group, NSCN (Khaplang).

According to informed sources, a five-member delegation of the ceasefire supervisory board of the NSCN (Khaplang) would be arriving here tomorrow for talks with the Union government on the possibility of extension of the ceasefire agreement. The delegation led by Mr C Singson will include, among others, Wangtin Konyak and Hokato Vusshe. During their parleys with senior home ministry officials, they would seek ceasefire extension for another twelve months and also sign a memorandum of understanding, the sources said.

This will not entail violation of Election Code by the government as the move is considered a “necessity” from the administrative point of view and does not involve any policy matters, sources clarified. The ceasefire between NSCN (Khaplang) and the government, which started during the NDA regime after the then Home Minister Mr L K Advani made a visit to Kohima, has entered the eighth year. The two sides are also likely to discuss the proposed fourth designated camp of the NSCN (Khaplang) in Mon district adjoining Myanmar.

Meanwhile, a key government interlocutor and ceasefire monitoring cell chairman Lt Gen (retd) Mandhita Singh is also likely to hold discussions with NSCN (IM) after the group’s representative Mr Phungthing Shimrang returns from Europe. The government entered into a ceasefire pact with NSCN (IM) in 1997 during the I K Gujral regime

CFSB meet discusses implementation of CFGR CJ: Dilip Sharma Merinews
A delegation of Government of India and GPRN/NSCN met for the usual Ceasefire Supervisory Board Meeting and discussed various issues pertaining to implementation of ceasefire ground rules and maintenance of designated camps.
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THE GOVERNMENT of India and Government of Peoples Republic of Nagaland (GPRN/NSCN) on Tuesday, stressed on strengthening the ceasefire mechanism in Nagaland and emphasised on total implementation of ceasefire ground rules.

A proposal to this effect was also made by the Government, which was agreed upon by the different parties present. Talking to a section of media persons, Chairman of Ceasefire Supervisory Board, Lt Gen Mandhata Singh said that the main reason for the meeting was to work out a proposal for implementation of Ceasefire Ground Rules at grassroots level. He said that the proposals were prepared with the law enforcing agencies and it found acceptance by the factions and law enforcing agencies.

He also said that involvement of Naga people was very much needed in the execution of CFGR and for that he had proposed to include people from all walks of life including GBs, Hohos, Churches, other organizations, representatives of Deputy Commissioners, Superintendent of Police, Assam Rifles and CFSB/CFMG Chairman. He said this will address the problem through collective decision of the society at the grassroots level. Lt Gen Singh said that he would be discussing the same thing with the NSCN (IM) in the next CMFG meeting.

About the issue of designated camps, he disclosed that so far NSCN (K) has three out of eight designated camps and the fourth one is proposed to be set up at Mon district. He said necessary formalities have been conducted and a reconnaissance has been already conducted. He said that designated camp would be set up within months and then cadres would be asked to move in.

The meeting also focused on illegal collections, extortions and giving shelter to criminals, who in the name of the factions are creating problems. Lt Gen Singh said that there is a need to check such activities and added that the cadres should also abide by the rules and identity such criminals. “The designated camps should not be misused for illegal/incorrect activity,” he stressed.

About extension of ceasefire between Government of India and the NSCN (K), the CFSB Chairman said that a meeting between both the parties is scheduled on April 23 at New Delhi, where the decision would be taken. Talking to media persons, Supervisor of CFSB, C Singson of GPRN/NSCN said that they have discussed about maintaining peace, besides GoI and CFSB have decided to enforce Ceasefire Ground Rules.

He said that they are working hard on that matter to restore peace and normalcy in the state. He also said that they need the support and cooperation of the NGOs and the people of Nagaland. “We want the people to understand, come together and understand the situation,” Singson said. When asked about the ultimatum of the CFSB asking cadres to go back to designated camps, Singson said that their cadres are going back to the designated camps and slowly they would be there.

On a query about the NSCN (K) cadre, who recently surrendered to police citing discontentment in the NSCN (K) setup, the outfit’s Kilonser said that there is no such problem. He said that the cadre had asked for retirement earlier. He was attached to one “Lt Col”, but since the latter was away, he could not wait for the order and deserted the outfit.

Singson also disclosed that their delegation would be going to Delhi in April 23 next for the extension of ceasefire, which expires this month. He expressed hope that the ceasefire with Government of India would be extended for another year on April 24.
From the Government’s side, the meeting was attended by CFSB Chairman, Lt Gen Mandhata Singh, Nagaland Commissioner, H K Khulu, IGAR (N), J P Nehra, DGP Nagaland, K Kire, DIG CRPF, P M Ramalingam while the NSCN (K) was represented by CFSB Supervisor, C Singson, Kideon Zhimomi, Joint Secretary and Nitovi, Tatar.

Mopungchuket upbeat for NSF conference Nagarealm.com
MOKOKCHUNG, APR25 [EMN] : As the countdown begins for the 23rd General Conference of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), to be hosted by the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) at Mopungchuket village in Mokokchung district from April 27 to 30, the village is enthusiastically preparing to receive the guests.

Convenor of the Mopungchuket Community Tourism Society (MCTS), Er. Ajung, talking to Eastern Mirror, said that Mopungchuket village has reached a new height in the field of Eco Tourism after MCTS declared it as a Tourist Village in 2000. Every year the MCTS organises various events like the Süngkotemen festival, Angling festival in addition to other events related to Mopungchuket village to boost up rural tourism with Mopungchuket village as an ideal spot. In view of the upcoming NSF conference, the society has started major renovations in all relevant spots.

It is worth mentioning that this village was the venue for Mokokchung Motor Rally for two consecutive years. The Motor Rally has been a big elevator in the village’s as a tourist spot. The enthusiastic people there consider the forthcoming NSF conference as a blessing for the village as it would open doors to a handful of local entrepreneurs. The villagers are busy with their plan to showcase a rich culture and tradition to the whole of North East and are hopeful of a positive response. The village has planned to launch a tourist resort centre during the forthcoming NSF conference where a pre Moatsü festival celebration has also been planned to exhibit the rich cultural heritage of the village.

“It is the right time for the people of the village as well as for the rest of the Naga community to celebrate both the conference and have a short glimpse of the Moatsu which is one of the biggest festivals among the Aos apart from launching of this Longrangtenem tourist resort,” said Dr. Aoyimsen, a member of MCTS. He also informed that the Society would replace the diesel generators with solar lighting system as a eco-friendly measure. When asked about the measures taken not to spar the NSF conference with the ongoing tourism activities, the Society maintained that they expect only 30 per cent of tourists to come for the conference while the rest 70% will be regular tourists for the pre- Moatsü festival. It is a usual routine for MCTS to entertain every tourist to the village, they added.

MCTS stated that apart from the jolly comfortable indigenous food and cuisines at the resort, MCTS has lots to offer to the tourist as well as to the delegates to enjoy their leisure to take a quick glimpse at the past history at the museum and the Log Drums at Süngkotenem area. The tea garden at Mangkolong will be the right place for nature lovers and for the bibliophile, MALT Library, will be a soothing place, informed convener of MCTS. As countdown for the NSF conference begin, people in and around Mokokchung are fervently waiting to experience exotic taste here in Mopungchuket village.

Ulfa extortion net spreads OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Itanagar, April 25: The proscribed Ulfa has started extorting money from businessmen in Arunachal Pradesh. This came to light after two cadres of Ulfa’s 28 battalion were arrested from Bihpuria in Assam’s Lakhimpur district yesterday, Arunachal Pradesh police said today.
Ghanakanta Saikia and Deepak Bhuyan of Majuli were arrested on charges of serving an extortion notice for Rs 50 lakh to a businessman at Banderdewa in Arunachal Pradesh last week and intimidating him.
A 10-member police team, led by sub-inspectors N. Sora and Krishendu Dev from Banderdewa outpost, arrested the two around 2.30pm yesterday when the rebels came to collect the money from a relative of the businessman. Plainclothes policemen, who were waiting for the cadres, swung into action when the latter approached the relative.
The two rebels tried to flee on their motorbike but the policemen chased them from Banderdewa to Bihpuria and arrested them, Dev said.
The sub-inspector said the militants’ accomplices fled, too, as soon as they got a whiff of the police’s presence. The police seized the motorcycle (AS-07B-1392) used by the militants, a mobile phone and some incriminating documents.
The two arrested Ulfa cadres told interrogators that they belonged to the 28th battalion of the outfit and that some other Ulfa cadres were also involved in extortion in the Banderdewa and Naharlagun areas of Arunachal Pradesh. The two were today remanded in police custody for 14 days by a local magistrate, adds PTI. Dev said they had launched a search operation to arrest the accomplices who gave the police the slip.
India, Bangladesh To Discuss Defense Relations The Defense News
April 24, 2009: New Delhi, Indo-Bangladesh defense ties are on the upswing under the Sheikh Hasina government in Dhaka. A high-level Bangladesh Air Force delegation led by the country's air chief, Air Marshal S.M. Zia-ur-Rehman, is in New Delhi to discuss defense ties between the neighboring countries, a senior Indian Defence Ministry official said. India is ready to export to Bangladesh defense equipment, including the Advanced Light Helicopter, and to assist the country in building warships, the ministry official said.
New Delhi is concerned about the increasing levels of defense supplies being sent from China to Bangladesh, Defence Ministry sources here said.
There are reports the Chinese Navy has access to Bangladesh's Chittagong port, the sources said. China already has a military base on the Coco islands, leased from Myanmar, near India's Andaman islands, which is considered a listening post over the eastern part of India, including India's ballistic missile center in the eastern state of Orissa. China is also helping Pakistan build the Gwadar deep-sea port. China has sold artillery systems, combat aircraft and small arms to Bangladesh in the last two years. The Bangladesh air chief will hold talks with Indian Defence Minister A.K. Antony, Indian Navy Chief Adm. Sureesh Mehta and Army Chief Gen. Deepak Kapoor.
India helped Bangladesh, formerly East Pakistan, during its 1971 independence war against Pakistan. Fire has been exchanged along the border between the countries in cases relating to forced migration and smuggling.
Satellite dishes bad for people: Junta mouth piece Nem Davies Mizzima New Delhi (Mizzima) – In what seems to be another warning, Burma’s state-run Newspaper on Friday carried an article that says Satellite channels that enables people to watch international news and entertainments are manipulated by big nations and should be banned in Burma.
A writer, who identifies himself as Ko Gyi on Friday wrote in the New Light of Myanmar, that powerful nations are exploiting the Satellite channels to instigate unrest, and harm the culture of the people by broadcasting entertainment, which have hidden agendas. The Writer said, therefore, the government should prohibit the sales of satellite dishes and receivers, which are widely used in Burma. A similar article appeared in the same daily newspaper two months ago which said, "Restrict the watching of uncensored satellite TV programmes telecast by the outside world'.

"We were surprised to see this article today. This is a warning to our satellite dish shops. But they have not done anything so far. We have to wait and see for another 10-15 days," Nyi Nyi Naing, a salesman at an the imported TATA Sky satellite dish shop in Rangoon, told Mizzima. In an earlier article on February 17, the writer, suggest the government to impose restricting on watching of uncensored TV programmes telecast by the outside world through satellite dish and receivers.

But Friday’s article focused on the sales of Satellite dishes, that leaves a warning message to many satellite dish companies and shops. The writer said, "Some people do not notice that attachment to satellite receivers is harmful to the morality of the viewers".

The article further said that in many countries, governments enforce restrictions in order to prohibit the people from using satellite receivers directly. In some countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Pakistan and Iran, 'the public are not allowed to use satellite receivers legally', the writer said. While satellite dishes and receivers are not popularly used in Indonesian capital city of Jakarta, the people are able to freely watch news programmes telecast by foreign news channels.

A Burmese citizen John Moe, who is living in Jakarta said, "We pay monthly fee of Indonesia Rupiah 150,000 and can watch foreign news channels such as BBC, CNN."
The article, while it is not an official government statement, is believed by Burmese media people as a sign of further tightening and systematic suppression of media freedom in Burma. In Burma, in an environment of no freedom of expression and no free media, the Burmese people can freely watch foreign news channels through these unlicensed satellite dishes and receivers. But since it is not affordable to pay the monthly official license fees, people are forced to install satellite receivers illegally, a local from Rangoon said.

"Yes, what the government said is right. Most of the people installed these satellite receivers and dishes without a license. But as for us, it's difficult to pay monthly fees of Kyat 15,000", he said. Warning the sales centres of satellite receivers in restricting installing such devices is in fact intended to levy taxes from the wide use of these. But these sale centres said that it cannot stop their sales volume.

"Shops have long been selling satellite dishes. They cannot stop the illegal sales of these devices. VOA Burmese Service news channel can be tuned into in Burma by using TATA Sky," an official from Satellite Receivers Import Company said. In the wake of monk-led protests in September 2007, Burmese media in exile were able to broadcast and telecast news, pictures and videos of the junta’s brutal crackdown. In its drive to block free flow of news and information to the outside world, the junta began arresting bloggers and domestic reporters, and handed down long prison sentences.



Frans on 04.26.09 @ 06:52 PM CST [link]


Saturday, April 25th

Impact of 15th Lok Sabha Election in Senapati District, Manipur Dr. R.B. Thohe Pou



Impact of 15th Lok Sabha Election in Senapati District, Manipur Dr. R.B. Thohe Pou

Some people believe that politics is a ‘dirty game’ but they continue to involve in politics. Some people believe that developments can be brought through politicians only forgetting the work of the NGOs. Personally I believe that politics is not a ‘dirty game’ but many politicians and the people involved in politics play the dirty game. How many politicians and the people who involve in politics are honest, respectable and work for unity and development of the people?

In 1952 under the leadership of Phizo – the Naga (NNC) boycotted the Indian election, which was quite successful. The general election in 1952 was totally boycotted in Naga areas; not a single nomination was filled in the Naga areas; not a single vote was cast. The Nagas also stayed away from the District Councils. The school teachers and other govt. employees resigned their jobs and the people refused to pay taxes. Let’s also try to examine the cooperation, unity and capability to convince and mobilize of the present Naga leaders who boycotted the Indian election and commenced to involve in so called Indian election. please warn about this to nscn leadership

In last 13th Lok Sabha Election – the NSCN-IM again boycotted Indian election in Nagalim as they don’t want to come under the constitution of India. In this election – the Outer Manipur seat was won by Kim Gangte (a non Naga candidate) as the Naga people boycotted the Lok Sabha election and other communities selected her unanimously.

However the strategy and the policy of the Naga underground changed in 14th Lok Sabha election; the Naga underground wanted to have their own candidate who will represent in Indian parliament for the Naga people in Delhi. In this election – Mani Charenamei (an Independent MP candidate) was chosen by the NSCN-IM faction for the Naga people and he was elected in last election. However many villagers and leaders said that NSCN-IM compelled them to vote for Mani only. When we studied the Naga political history it is observed that the Naga underground did not want the Naga people to involve so called in Indian election and boycotted twice. However the Indian politicians (leaders) want the Naga to be the part of the India and participate in every Indian election. Now the policy of the underground is just reversed and the thinkers and the people who are interested on Naga issue may be abstruse to comprehend this reversal policy.

In this 15th Lok Sabha election – the Naga underground wants MP Mani Cheranamai to represent again for the Naga people in Delhi. However they did not stopped any other Naga candidate to nominate and it is strange that after nomination – the people were not allowed to cast for other candidates except for Mani. Why don’t they make understand and stop the aspiring MP candidates before their nomination is done? There were some round of talks between the village leaders and other leaders with the NSCN-IM leaders in Senapati and its peripheral areas.
However the NSCN-IM could not convince and mobilized the public leaders and ultimately the voting day arrived. In Poumai Naga areas – the NSCN-IM once again commenced to threaten the village leaders to vote for Mani Charenamei only. On the day of election – most of the underground went to their own villages and started to woo the villagers to vote for their candidate but the villagers were not convinced without any muscle power.

Many villagers were forcefully made to vote for Mani and this news spread like the wild fire in all the villages and in the peripheral of Senapati areas as they have now better communication due to cell phone revolution. Learning the news about the booth capturing by the underground – the public or mass of the people got irritated and started to gather around Karong and Senapati areas and the annoyed mass of the people pelted stones on the vehicles coming from Mao and Poumai areas polling stations.
Unfortunately, one of the NSCN-IM Kilonser’s Bolero (vehicle) was coming from Poumai area side and the aggravated mass of the people stoned the vehicle and almost crushed into pieces but the NSCN-IM Kilonser and the others travelling in that Bolero were safe with some injuries in their bodies. On 22nd April, the alleged two leaders of the people who were involved in pelting stone to NSCN-IM Kilonser’s Bolero were taken to Hebron, Dimapur – the NSCN-IM Head quarter for further interrogation.
There was meeting between the Naga leaders from Senapati District and the NSCN-IM leaders in Hebron camp on 23rd April till late evening. On 24th April the two alleged were bailed out by the Naga leaders from Senapati. Kudos goes to the NSCN-IM for releasing on time the two alleged leaders who were alleged to lead the group in stoning the Bolero.
Now the question is why the underground could not convince and mobilize the gullible villagers to vote for their candidate? Why they made the public irritated and brought such kind of consequences? If that is the standard and quality of the underground leaders, will the NSCN-IM be able to deal the top Indian politicians who are 99% more clever and educated than the Naga villagers in Senapati District (where one of the Primitive tribes of India is also live). It is also interesting to note that there was not news report in Manipur or Nagaland news paper about the pelting of stone and injury of the NSCN-IM Kilonser near Senapati H. Quarter.
But one of the simple reasons may be that there is not a single local news reporter available in Senapati and the freelancers may be afraid or unworthy to get the price of reporting for such kind of report as it may bring heavy price on them for reporting such kind of ground reality and facts to the newspaper.
With this kind of consequences through election problems in Nagalim may bring bitter relationship between the public and the Naga underground. Not only the relationship between the underground and the public but the relationship among the people also will be affected enormously. The Naga leaders from Senapati appreciated the NSCN-IM for solving the problems amicably with prayers and mutual understanding. Disunity and bitter relationship may be the sadness to one community but it may be happiness to other communities and the leaders of every community may need to understand and bring good relationship and unity amongst their community.

Impact of 15th Lok Sabha Election in Senapati District, Manipur
by johnshimray96
The internal contradiction in Naga society is becoming more conspicuous. The NSCN (IM) continues to play terror tactics to pursue their own interest, in the guise of national interest. Those Public stone throwers should have stoned to death the so called Kilonser, whose only job is to snatch away the fundamental right to vote of the people.
We tangkhuls are so dirty in our thoughts that even our own brethrens begin to drift apart from us. It is high time NSCN IM does some serious introspection before its too late. Muivah - a person who killed his own loyal cadre to have his wife as his own like biblical King David, who live in lap of luxury in foreign shores while his own people in interior areas live in abject poverty, proclaiming Nagalim for Christ while at the same time indulging in brutal genocide against other communities - should no longer be allowed to lead the Naga society as he wish. He is a demon is sheep's clothing. I think we enjoy more freedom living under India. Even before getting Nagalim, our very fundamental right has been regularly suppressed. One wonders what would be the situation when Nagalim becomes a reality; Muivah may not even allow us to have a wife of our own...before enjoying the first night.

Re: Impact of 15th Lok Sabha Election in Senapati District, Manipur (Score: 1)

I agree with Dr Thohe. NSCN-IM has made more foes than friends after the ceasefire period because of two main factors – (i) involvement in Indian election and (ii) inter-village cases.

Thohe talks about Senapati district in particular. But let me put in general. Election is a multi-party game wherein only one party wins. If NSCN-IM chooses a candidate/party and wins, the rest candidates/parties are hurt and will definitely become their antagonist. But the supporters of the losers are more in number when combined. Is Mani Cheranamei or those PDA MLAs really better than the others? Will those who are not blessed by NSCN-IM not work for the Naga cause? In my humble opinion, like Mani, Naga blood runs in Adani and Ms Valley Rose Hungyo also.
If at all, they want to involve in Indian election, it would have better for the NSCN-IM to allow a fair fight and request/advise the winner to work for Naga cause. Who knows, Adani or Ms Rose may be more vocal than Mani, who was bureaucrat. If they want selection and not election, why allow other’s to file nomination? Why should the candidates waste time, money and energy? Why the public should stand in queue for hours to caste votes? Let’s not waste time if the NSCN-IM anointed somebody to represent them.
Likewise, involving in inter-village cases has more demerits than merits. To be very precise, there are no legal experts in the NSCN set-up. So its better for them to leave at the hands of those who should deal the cases as of now.
Looking at the trend the NSCN-IM is heading, it is apparent that the only objective of their involvement in Indian electoral politics is – to set up a representative whom they can handle and share the funds.
Stage set for NSF conference morungexpress
DIMAPUR | APRIL 24: The stage is set for the 23rd general conference of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) to be held at Mopungchuket village, Mokokchung district, from April 27-30 under the theme “Forging mutual destiny.” State Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Morung Makunga, MLA from Manipur, will grace the inaugural function as the chief guest and special guest respectively, while deputy chairman, State Planning Board, Neiba Kronu will be the special guest for the “Cultural Regale” programme (April 29) and Home minister Imkong L Imchen will be the “valedictory guest” on the closing day.
Hosted by the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM), the 4-day conference will focus and debate on two burning issues confronting Naga society – influx of immigrants vis-à-vis its impact on the socio-economic and identity of the Nagas and, the present educational system in the State.
The NSF has also allotted stalls to the Nagaland Bamboo Mission, Nagaland State Blood Transfusion Council and Climate Change Leaders.
Briefing mediapersons here Friday before their departure to Mokokchung, NSF President Imchatoba Imchen, General Secretary Hetoi Chishi and vice president Charles Lotha, appealed to all Naga organizations, public and students to extend co-operation and to attend the conference.
The federation also expressed gratitude to individuals and organizations who have rendered help and support for success of the conference.
The host unit has invited 100 members from each NSF federating unit and 50 members from each subordinate body as official delegates. Mopungchuket village, which has been accorded as a “tourist village”, is situated some 16km away from Mokokchung town.
NSF for ‘forging mutual destiny’ morungexpress Calls for ‘reality check’; reassessing the idea of Naga national struggle
Dimapur The Naga Students Federation has come out with a concept paper for the upcoming General Conference under the theme ‘Forging mutual destiny’. Giving a refreshing outlook to what it termed as the “unending journey” in the Naga struggle for nationhood, the NSF observed that generation after generation had been treading the same road without any logical outcome. “When the world is advancing rapidly the Naga people are still stuck in the ancient/ancestor’s trend of thought that - Nagas can live in isolation with what believes to be Full Independence”, the NSF concept paper states while adding that today’s generation needs to do a thorough “reality-check” and that Nagas need to realize that the world has become interdependent and not “fully independent.”
“We need to reassess the idea of our struggle and bring to a logical end without compromising the basic features of an independent nation”, the NSF observes. Pointing out that time was running against us, the NSF cautions that Nagas cannot afford to lose even a single moment from now but to “put our ideas together to see what is within our reach and what is attainable as this moment”. It states that this unresolved political issue has been “tremendously disturbing the minds of the younger generation” and that it was “impossible for the youths to develop themselves fully in the midst of conflict situations”.
The NSF also observes that Nagas are not engaged with the entire world as far as its struggle for nationhood is concerned. “But it is with Burma and India to whom we are directly concerned with as half of our home is within the administrative control of Burma and other half within administrative control of India”. As a matter of fact, the NSF calls for the need to “examine” the growing strength of these two nations and accordingly, “forge our mutual destiny.”
On the other fundamental concern for peace and unity, the NSF points out that the “inner differences within the Naga family require an urgent attention of every Naga” and that this has to be sorted out without any further “procrastination”. The NSF cautions that there are some forces actively involved in fragmenting the Naga family and “therefore a practical mechanism needs to be evolved in order to bring entire Nagas together”.
“Instead of the Naga Political Issue occupying the centre stage, we have been unconsciously pushing our inner differences to take the centre stage, which has been overshadowing the main issue for too long”, the NSF paper laments. The students’ body states that even as Nagas continue to put its efforts towards healing the wounds and bringing all sections of the Naga family together, it is “absolutely imperative that we carry forward the present Indo-Naga Peace Process vis-à-vis Political Dialogue as we have missed too many opportunities in the past”.
Naga women writers to publish book on short stories Staff Reporter NPN):



(Sitting 2nd from left) NEZCC director, Hekali Zhimomi with participants at a workshop –cum- seminar for women writers, Saturday. (NP)
DIMAPUR With a purpose to provide a creative platform for the ‘voice’ of Naga women writers to be heard and acknowledged by people globally, a daylong interactive workshop –cum- seminar for writers on “Naga Stories of Everyday Life as Seen Through the Eyes of Women”, sponsored by NEZCC, Dimapur, was held at IMC Lobby, Dimapur, Saturday.
Encouraging the participants to give ‘voice’ to the many issues that were prevailing in the Naga society through exploring creativity and creative writings, NEZCC director, Hekali Zhimomi, urged the participants to fill the void which was present in Nagaland as far as literary work was concerned.
Congratulating Holiday Abode for Writers and Artists (HAWA), for organizing the workshop cum seminar, Hekali expressed hope that more such similar workshop would be organized not only in Nagaland but also in regional level in order to encourage women writers to find themselves a place even in national and international arena.
21 participants including Hekali Zhimomi, renowned Naga women academicians, writers, social workers and journalists of the state were part of the workshop-cum -seminar, picked and invited to participate.
Being gifted and literarily versed but some of them relatively unknown, the participants were given an assignment three weeks prior to the workshop to write a short story which was context based and creative non-fiction in nature where they were later assisted by the resource persons---Susan Waten, a columnist in different local dailies of the state and also the founder director of HAWA, Dimapur, and Buno Iralu, who holds a Doctorate of Ministry in pastoral care and counseling, and is presently a lecturer at Shalom Bible Seminary, Sechu, Kohima, presented a paper each on “A Philosophical and Spiritual Approach to Literary Art and the making of Literary Artist” and “Musings, Hunches, Ideas and Writing” respectively.
Each of the participants who attended the workshop narrated some gist of the pre-written short story in order to open the floor for meaningful interaction and exploration of the short story’s scope towards a larger readership for which the ambience was set for informal, interactive and comfortable in order to enable each of the participants to emote and express their ideas freely.
For the participants, they were expected to do a little ‘finishing touches’ after the seminar by rewriting, expanding, modifying and editing their stories with the fresh new inputs they receive from the resource persons after which the stories would undergo a final editing before they were ready to be published in a book of short stories written by Naga women.
Highlighting about the short stories, Susan Waten said Naga stories centered around different plots and themes including family life, insurgency movement and its effect on individual’s lives, personal struggles and achievements, social problems and youth culture, outstanding Naga personalities, about innate talents, the educational system and its benefits or any other area of concerned.
She also said that the stories were based on reality pertaining to real persons in real-life situations for which creative techniques were applied to protect the identity (s) of the protagonist if one desired while also avoiding the tone being ‘preachy’ or moralistic but has depth, empathy, social significances or even ‘irony’ which made for a wide readership, going beyond small socio-cultural and religious boundaries in making genuine connections with human beings.
Besides creating platform for women writers, the object of the workshop was also to revive and promote the art of story telling in Naga culture from a woman’s perspective, to collect and compile contemporary stories pertaining to Naga life in book form for future references and also to let the participants share their ideas and gain valuable insights for personal growth and expansion through meaningful interchange with women of similar gifting, experience and interests.
It may be pertinent to mention that HAWA is a platform for writers, poets, journalists, research scholars, intellectuals, philosophers, thinkers and mystics; for painters, sculptors, ceramicists, photographers, designers, architects, musicians, singers, dancers, stage performers and theatre artistes, for people in film and TV arts, for just about anybody pursuing creative and aesthetic endeavours either as amateurs or professionals or even for individuals seeking artistic self expression in the closet.
NSF general conference to reassess idea of Naga struggle
DIMAPUR/MOKOKCHUNG, APR 24 (EMN): The Naga political issue will once again be in spotlight as the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) seeks to banish
into darkness the demons of inner differences dogging the heels of the Indo-Naga Peace Process and forge mutual destiny sans conflict.
Come Monday, the 27th of April, the scenic Mopungchuket Village, known for its eco-tourism will witness the largest annual convergence of young leaders as the Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) hosts the 23rd NSF General Conference.
With no pragmatic amicable solution the long drawn Indo-Naga Peace Process and its occupying the minds of the Naga,.
Under the theme ‘Forging Mutual Destiny’, the NSF has chosen to motivate a reality-check into the long drawn Naga Political issue and reassess the idea of Naga struggle, vis-à-vis the growing strength of India and Burma, inter-dependency of the world and the inner conflict of Nagas.
Sharing the limelight with the Naga political issue would be issues of ‘influx of immigrants’ and educational system.
An unprecedented turbulence within the NSF precedes its 23rd General Conference and for that and many more reasons, all eyes will be on the Federal Assembly (April 28) and Election (April 29) for the tenure 2009-2011.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio will raise the curtain on the Conference on April 28 with Manipur MLA Morung Makunga as the special guest at the inaugural programme. Former Judge of Supreme Court, Justice HK Sema will be attending as resource person along with Principal of Baptist High, Kohima, Pfelie Kesiezie.
Meanwhile, the host village of Mopungchuket, located 16 kms away from Mokokchung, Town is all dressed up to welcome its guests.
The Mopungchuket Community Tourism Society (MCTS) is striving to maintain eco-friendliness over the four days of the Conference by substituting conventional diesel generators with solar lighting system.
In a press briefing at Hotel Nagi, NSF president, vice-president and general secretary appealed to all, especially the common Naga to attend the Conference.
“We want our own people as dignitaries”, president Imchatoba Imchen said.

NSF Speaker Controversy
“The NSF has been caught unawares” over the scandal allegedly involving its Speaker in an attempt to capture the ballot box during the April 16 polls, near Porba village under 17 Chizami A/C.
NSF president Imchatoba Imchen informed that the Federation is “in the process of authenticating evidence” and assured that investigation into the issue would be completed before the Federal Assembly scheduled for April 28.
“If he (Speaker) is found wrong, action will be taken as our constitution doesn’t permit political affiliation,” general secretary Hetoi said while vice-president Charles Lotha asserted that the present team will clean up the image of the Federation before leaving office.

Bodo leaders escape NDFB ambush on convoy The Telegraph


One of the vehicles which came under attack in Panbari on Friday and (Below) an injured at the Gossaigaon Civil Hospital on Friday. Telegraph pictures


Kokrajhar, April 24: A host of senior Bodo leaders, including sitting Kokrajhar MP S.K. Bwiswmuthiary, ducked indiscriminate bullets and lay in a forest for 30 minutes as militants hiding in the foliage emptied their sophisticated ammunition on a convoy of 25 vehicles near Panbari around noon today.
The driver of an escort vehicle and a personal security officer accompanying Bodoland Territorial Council executive member Mono Kumar Brahma died on the spot while six Bodoland People’s Front workers were injured.
Parliamentary secretary Parmeswar Brahma, BTC Speaker Reoreoa Narzihary and a few journalists were also travelling as part of the convoy which was on its way to Tipkai where five houses were torched by unidentified trouble-makers last evening.
The vehicles carrying the BTC executive member and the BTC Speaker bore the brunt of the attack though they were just ahead of the police escort. Mono Kumar Brahma’s vehicle was believed to be the prime target. One of the bullets hit Brahma’s security officer, Mannaf Ali, who died on the spot.
The other to be killed was driver Sudem Mushahary. Among the injured are Manla Brahma, Devo Kumar Narzary, Brinda Brahma, Guru Narzary, Swrang Brahma and Pulen Daimary. The condition of Manla, hit in the stomach, is said to be critical.
The security personnel accompanying the leaders retaliated, forcing the militants, who are suspected to belong to the National Democratic Front of Boroland, to flee.
“We were heading towards Panbari to take stock of the situation after some houses were set on fire last evening. When our convoy was in the middle of a forest, suddenly it came under heavy firing from either side of the road. We somehow managed to save our lives by lying on the floor. Then we crawled out and lay on the ground for about 30-40 minutes. It was a horrifying situation, getting so close to death,” BTC Speaker Narzihary said. He, too, surmised that the vehicle carrying Mono Kumar Brahma could have been the target.
“I first mistook it to be blank fire, but as the firing continued, I realised it is an ambush and got out of the vehicle and lay on the ground,” said another BPF leader Jaikhlong Brahma, whose vehicle was next to Mono Kumar Brahma’s escort car.
BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary was also on his way to the village in Tipkai, but his convoy fell a little behind and hence escaped the attack.
On hearing about the ambush, he returned to Gossaigaon.
Army and CRPF personnel rushed to the area and launched a combing operation.
Bwismuthiary sniffed a political conspiracy behind the incident and blamed the rival BPPF for the attack. His vehicle was among the last in the convoy.
“Today’s incident is a political instigation of U.G. Brahma and Rabiram Narzary,” Bwiswmuthiary said and demanded a CBI inquiry into the incident.
Both Bwiswmuthiary and Mohilary were certain that the NDFB was behind the ambush.
“It is the work of NDFB,” Mohilary said.


Frans on 04.25.09 @ 10:05 PM CST [link]


Friday, April 24th

Kohima shuts down in protest INDEFINITE CLOSURE TO CONTINUE; IMMEDIATE SAFETY MEASURES DEMANDED Our Correspondent EMN



Kohima shuts down in protest INDEFINITE CLOSURE TO CONTINUE; IMMEDIATE SAFETY MEASURES DEMANDED Our Correspondent | EMN
KOHIMA, APR 24: Life came to a standstill in the state capital as business establishments downed their shutters to register their protest against the inhuman killing of fellow businessman Pradip Prasad, owner of a variety shop at Super Market, even as the business community stated that it would continue with the indefinite closure till the culprits are apprehended and punished.
Prasad was abducted on April 20 for ransom and was found murdered in the wee hours on April 23 at an area towards Meriema. Thousands of people turned up at the funeral programme and procession in Kohima on Friday to voice condemnation against the brutal killing.
Submitting a memorandum to the Kohima Deputy Commissioner Sachopra Vero, the Kohima Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI) stated strongly that the situation must be controlled before ‘jungle rule is instated where businessmen and traders are killed on regular basis and criminals roam free’. The Chamber urged formation of a new strategic structure to provide immediate safety to the business community and said the government authorities must demonstrate their commitment to tackle the issue at the earliest. It, moreover, asked that crimes committed on businessmen be recorded as a separate statistic.
Failure to meet the demands will compel them to take their own recourse, it was conveyed to the administration, and the indefinite closure reiterated.
The DC, in his assurance, said all efforts were being made by the district administration and police to nab the culprits while seeking support from the traders. He appealed to them to reconsider their decision on indefinite closure as the public would be the worst affected.
He also apprised that security has been beefed up with police patrolling teams deployed in Super Market and NST areas as well as National Highway 39 where instances of kidnappings have been reported.
SP Kohima Renchamo Kikon, who was also present at the DCs chamber, informed that police have already identified few suspects, but stated that divulging information at this point would jeopardise the investigation.
Earlier, thousands gathered outside the KCCI office to voice protest and express solidarity with the business community.
KCCI president Khriehuzo Lohe described Prasad as a simple and exemplary salesman who was successful in his job and vowed that the business community would fight his cause till the end.
Known businessman and former minister Seyiekuolie Kesiezie said the act has made a mockery of the slogan ‘Nagaland for Christ’ while Padmashree Neidono Angami, former NMA president, pointed out that if the killing was an outcome of business rivalry the practice should be routed out totally.
President of the Angami Women Organisation (AWO) Medovino Dolie urged the gathering to rise up and join hands in the fight against such menace alien to Naga culture. She also said all are equal before God and men, be it a Naga or a Non-Naga.
Kaka Iralu, noted activist, called it a disgrace to the Naga nation and extended apology to the family members. Vilanuo Yhome, KCCI executive, called upon the various national groups to join hands to deal with the situation if they are for the people while Neingulie Nakhro, KCCI spokesman, referring to the big turnout said that this was the voice of the business community which did not believe in violence and never took people to ransom.
Presidents of the Hindu Mandir Society, Hindu Kalyan Samiti, Muslim community, Fr NK Abraham, traders, etc, also spoke at the funeral programme.
A silent procession was carried out from Super Market, outside the victim’s shop, to the main town area. Black flags were also displayed at all business establishments.

KCCI appeals
IN A statement issued in the evening, the KCCI has again reiterated that the closure of shops will continue indefinitely till the culprits are brought to justice and appealed to the general public to bear with the inconveniences ‘for a greater cause to root out this evil’.
All shops in Kohima will continue to remain closed to register the resentment of the business community, the communiqué issued by KCCI president and general secretary Khriezohu Lohe and K Chris informed. The Chamber also thanked all organisations who have extended support while stating that it values the support of all responsible organisations

NSF session to focus on Naga issue (NPN):
DIMAPUR, The 23rd general conference of Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) scheduled to be held from April 27 to 30 at Mopungchuket village, Mokokchung is intended to focus on the “Naga struggle” by “forging mutual destiny” and to bring it to a logical end without compromising the principles of Naga nationhood.
Briefing presspersons here Friday, NSF president, Imchatoba Imchen; general secretary, Hetoi Chishi and vice president, Charles Lotha, said Naga struggle for nationhood has become an unending journey and added that Nagas need to reassess the idea of struggle and bring a logical end without compromising the basic features of an independent nation.
Lamenting that Nagas have been treading the same road for too long without any logical outcome, the federation said that even as the world was advancing rapidly the Naga people were still stuck in the “ancient/ancestor’s” trend of thought that they could live in isolation by claiming “full independence.”
They advocated that present generation need to do a thorough reality check and realize that the world has become interdependent and not “fully independent.”
The NSF while sensing that time was running “against us”, said Nagas cannot effort to lose even a single moment but put ideas together and to look at what was within the reach and what was attainable at the moment.
Underlining that the “unresolved political issue” was “tremendously disturbing” the minds of younger generation, the federation said it was impossible for the youths to develop themselves fully in the midst of conflict situations. Urging upon Nagas to realize and examine the growing strength of India and Myanmar “to whom we are directly concerned with”, the NSF further asked Nagas to accordingly “forge our mutual destiny.”
The federation felt that inner differences within the Naga family required an urgent attention of every Naga and needed to sort out without any further procrastination. Observing that there were some forces actively involved in fragmenting the Naga family, the NSF said a practical mechanism needed to be evolved in order to bring all Nagas together.
The federation also observed that instead of the Naga political issue occupying centre stage, Nagas have been “unconsciously” pushing inner differences to take the centre stage and overshadowing the main issue for too long.
A three-day conference would be graced by state chief minister, Neiphiu Rio as chief guest and Manipur MLA, Morung Makunga as special guest. The state planning board deputy chairman, Neiba Kronu would grace cultural regale as special guest while state home minister would grace the valedictory session on April 30.
The highlights of the programme in the conference would interactive session on the conference’s theme “Forging Mutual Destiny” with Baptist High principal, Pfelie Kesiezie as resource persons while former judge of Supreme Court of India, and incumbent UP Human Rights Commission, HK Sema would dwell on “Influx of immigrants vis-à-vis its impact on the socio-economic and identity of the Nagas.”
Cultural regale and debate session on “The present educational system is degree oriented,” would also be held at the conference.
2th IRB says sorry for assault morungexpress
Dimapur, April 23 (MExN): The commandant of the 12th IR (NAP) today apologized to the state’s Press fraternity for the assault of a scribe by a jawan of the battalion on April 14 in Mokokchung. A response from 12th IR Commandant Vika Sumi was received here today apologizing for the assault. In it was also mentioned that disciplinary action “is being taken against the erring jawan” but did not specify it any further.
“…the commandant (of) 12 IRB regretted (sic) the incident and apologize to the Press fraternity in general and the victim in particular. Appropriate disciplinary action is being taken against the erring jawan” stated Commandant Sumi, referring to the incident. The commandant said the deputy commissioner of Mokokchung on April 15 apprised of the ultimatum received from the Mokokchung Press Club following the assault. This was informed during a meeting that was taking place with office bearers of the Ao Senden in the presence of Mokokchung SP and the commandant of the 12 NAP (IR) in the office chamber of the DC “for related issue”, the commandant said.
“After deliberating on the issue it was decided to jointly own responsibility by district administration and police for the assault committed by the police personnel and as suggested by Ao Senden office bearers it was agreed to tender apology to MPC by district administration on behalf of all concern” Sumi said. “The battalion authority once again apologize for the unfortunate incident and holds no callous attitude towards Press fraternity” it added.

2 tribal girls from Dimapur raped in Delhi, sold to brothel (Page News Service)
Dimapur, April 23: Trafficking of minor girls from the Northeastern states to other parts of the country has become rampant as many innocent tribal girls are lured by people promising lucrative jobs and forced into flesh trade.
In a recent incident, two tribal girls from Dimapur were taken to New Delhi and after being raped continuously for several days, they were "sold off" to a brothel. However, the girls managed to escape and reached Dimapur after a month.
According to sources, 2 persons from Dimapur had promised them to impart vocational training in Delhi and also assured them a job. But upon reaching Delhi, the two minor girls aged 14 and 15 years respectively were allegedly raped by one of the agents and then "offered" to others, who also raped them.
The minor girls belonging to Adivasi community were then sold off to a brothel in Delhi and were forced into prostitution, but one day, getting an opportunity, they slipped off and informed their parents in Dimapur, about what had happened to them in Delhi. After arranging some money and tickets, they finally reached Dimapur.
A complaint has been lodged with the Police regarding the case.
A top police official when contacted disclosed that 2 persons identified as Zakir Hussain and Harjod Ali took the minor girls to Delhi in the month of March this year
He also said that the police are investigating the case.
This incident might not have come to light had the girls not escaped from the brothel, but it has also raised a question about the safety of innocent girls in the Northeastern states, who easily become victim of human trafficking and fall into flesh trade.
Recently, several girls from Manipur were rescued from Dimapur, who were being transported to other parts of the country and abroad, after being promised lucrative jobs.
Nagas Take Stand On Rape morungexpress
Dimapur, April 23 (MExN): Churches have the imperative to seriously scrutinize the “signs of the times”, and take an unambiguous stand against the prevailing evils in the society, the Nagaland Baptist Church Council today said. The NBCC was referring to the recent, increased rape and sexual violence in the Nagas’ land.
“We ask all churches to seriously scrutinize the grave signs of the times, and take up an unambiguous position against the prevailing evil in our society” the NBCC stated in a message from general secretary Rev. Dr. Anjo Keikung. The Nagaland Baptist Church Council expressed deep pain at the increased “rape, sexual assault, incest, and sexual abuse of all sorts in our society”.
Church must take stand: NBCC “If wolves and bears and birds take meticulous care of their young, why are human beings subjecting theirs to whippings and punches? Child abuse is the ultimate crime, the ultimate betrayal” the NBCC said in condemnation of crimes against women and children. It said criminals deserve the strongest condemnation and punishment. “God created all human beings equally, male and female, and any action or deed of dehumanization and injustice against any human being is a crime against all humanity. We believe in the dignity of family life as God’s ordination, and any attack on this dignity is aimed at God the creator himself,” the Baptist church explained.
All believers are urged to be “fervent in prayer” and to delve deeper into God’s word to be agents of Christ’s mission to “...preach the Gospel, heal the broken-hearted, and set the captives free” (Gospel of Luke 4:18). The NBCC has also appealed to all churches in Nagaland to pray, as a sign of solidarity with the victims and families of sexual abuse and violence.
The NBCC further expressed concern over the ongoing ethnic tension in the North Cachar Hills in Assam. The NBCC has urged all to pray for goodwill to prevail in the area. The council appealed to all parties “involved” to desist from any form of violence immediately, to avoid further escalation of the tensions and pave the way for an amicable solution.
AWO action to battle rape in Kohima

Dimapur, April 23 (MExN): Sharing in the frustration of rape victims and in that justice has not been found in the government or “customary laws,” the Angami Women Organization today listed out a number of measures against rape and sexual violence.
The AWO executives had met recently with women representatives from different wards and major tribal women organizations of Kohima. The meeting saw a number of measures decided upon to fight rape. The ‘measures’ are to be implemented in Kohima town, the AWO said today in a “public notice.”
The AWO said, in case of any rape incident in any ward in Kohima town, a rapist – irrespective of his background or social status – will be excommunicated from his ward for a period of 7 years over and above legal consequences. In the event a rapist is accepted into another ward or colony, “the heinous crime of rape committed by his person will be made public”, the adopted measures said. A poster-campaign “is expected to enhance the same”.
Further, the offender’s photograph along with his “vital statistics” will be published in all local papers and media, “compelling him to carry the shameful stain throughout his life”. The AWO requests and expects cooperation from all Kohima tribal women organizations and all ward women organizations to mobilize themselves.
“We share the deep anguish and utter frustration of our sisters who were victims of the recent outrages in Dimapur. Nothing can replace or repair the lives of the victims. For so long women folks have shown their anger through rallies, processions and demands for fit punishments, but have instead found that justice has not been meted out by the government law agency nor by customary law,” the AWO said in the “public notice.” The statement was appended by the AWO executives.
“When the law of the land does not render justice, there is no other option but to look to our traditions for inspiration of how such offences has been dealt with and find answers which are balanced with Christian compassion” the organization added.
According to the AWO, it was agreed after discussing at length how best to tackle the crime of rape, that rather than issuing the usual press statements of condemnations or demanding punishments for offenders, “the solution is to start from the family itself”.
Every mother is called upon to play her role in inculcating life values rather than shifting the responsibility to the schools, churches, and even if it is the responsibility of the government to protect women from such crimes, it added.
Abducted non-Naga trader dies of torture
OUR CORRESPONDENT
Kohima, April 23: Police recovered the body of a non-Naga businessman, who was abducted two days earlier, on the outskirts of the state capital this afternoon.
The trader — Pradip Prasad — was abducted from his shop in Super Market on Tuesday. His mutilated body was found in the Merima village area, around 5km from Kohima.
Prasad, who hailed from Bihar, was around 40 years old.
The abductors had demanded Rs 5 lakh from the family of the victim and later scaled it down to Rs 2 lakh.
But the abductors later informed the family members that the businessman had been killed and therefore the ransom need not be paid. The abductors also asked the family to collect the body.
Although there were no bullet marks, the police said the victim died of torture.
Police officials said they were investigating all angles. However, they did not rule out the involvement of some “terror elements” in the incident.
The Kohima Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI) said it would chalk out its course of action, not ruling out closure of shops in protest against the trader’s killing.
“We are yet to decide the course of action,” a spokesman for the KCCI told The Telegraph.
The trade chamber strongly condemned the killing and asked the authorities to bring the culprits to book at the earliest.
Of late, there has been a sharp increase in extortion and collection of taxes by outfits and “terror elements” here, which had forced the capital’s business community to resort to a total closure of shops on March 31.
The closure was against rampant extortion, collection of taxes by different groups, intimidation, among others, thus causing fear and insecurity among the members of the business fraternity.
Several organisations, including taxis, buses and trucks, supported the bandh.
The KCCI warned it would take further steps if the district administration failed to pay any heed to its grievances.
Last year in Dimapur — the commercial hub of the state — over 20 non-Naga businessmen were abducted and killed by elements having alleged links with militant outfits operating in Nagaland. Over 200 affluent non-Naga traders had fled the state for fear of their lives.
‘Beau Benreu’ By: Robert Lanky Kangla on Line
“Benreu” created by human beings in the lap of “Mother Nature” is nestled on the ridge leading to the Mt Pauna- the third highest mountain in Nagaland. Originally, Benreu village inhabited by Zeme-Naga of Mongoloid origin, under Peren district of Nagaland, is now the home of Zeliangrong and Kukis. It is an epitome of nature’s untouched beauty as it retains most of its age-old charm and simplicity with nature and man in perfect synchrony.
The meandering hills and paths leads to the lush green grassy village nestled along the ridge is abundant with wild life, fauna, birds and edible shrubs. It’s not at all required to venture into the jungles to hear the birds and animals as it can be heard in the village itself. This mystic village is the unexplored, non commercial, God’s own creation complete with nature’s paradise and reality.
This ‘God’s own creation’ is located 120 kms away from state commercial capital ‘Dimapur’ at a height of approx 7000 ft with Mt Pauna over looking the village & surrounded by virgin forests. At Benreu, the rare experience of being close to the mother’s nature can be felt. Benreu with approximately 122 houses and less than a thousand people is the home of Zeliangrong and Kukis and interestingly with higher female ratio than men. The village Chairman, Mr Tingbanbe proudly mentions that literacy rate of the village is 95% courtesy the “Government Middle School” in the village. He also proudly claims that every house of the village is electrified and the Village has a Primary Health Centre and Community Church as well. On inquiry he says the main source of living villagers are farming and cultivation of oranges and mangoes. He has lots of hopes about the development, employment and revenue of the village with the likely increase in the tourist inflow in coming years with construction of Tourist Lodge to the south of the Village along the Pauna ridge by the Nagaland Government.
The ‘Mt Pauna Tourist Village Resort’has eight double bedded cottages fitted with all modern amenities constucted beneath natural trees of different varieties, making the occupant feel the closeness with nature. It also has one Morung and a three storied restaurant .Above all, the hospitality and care extended by the staff at resort is heart felt and admirable more so, the personal touch which gives the feeling of closeness. Benreu can be reached by two buses plying from Dimapur and Benreu daily. But the road is prone to landslides during monsoon and remains closed, paradoxically preserving and conserving this paradise from outsiders. To conserve wild life and to maintain ecological balance, ten years ago, villagers had banned hunting of wild animals in the forest above the road, but allowing hunting in the jungle below the road. Besides giving the fresh lease of life to the Blythe’s tragopan, the ban has placed the Benreu among the most biologically vibrant areas in Nagaland, which otherwise the local populace are (in)famous for eating ‘anything that moves on the earth’ and could have left nothing in the vicinity.
Benreu has another treasure: the oldest Morung. There is nothing like feasting and getting high in the traditional dormitory inside the Morung where ‘khel specific male’ Nagas gather for community feasting and recreation .The wooden benches and beds with skulls of bears, wild boars and deers hanging over head, add a touch of eeriness to the Morung’s dark interior. The villagers claim that they also have one of the highest concentrations of the highly prized semi wild Mithun. And the wealth of a villager is gauged by the number of the Mithuns he or she owns. The animal earmarked for special feasts is allowed to roam in the wilderness unless it’s time to come home for addictive salt. Any one can offer salt to the Mithuns, but only the owner has the right to sell or kill.
But, alas! Benreu despite being God’s own creation in a lap of mother nature and with tourist facilities has very minimal flow of tourists. Reasons, one may surmise are ILP, RAP , bad road conditions, fear psychosis of Big Brothers camp (to Athibung camp), inadequate publicity & information and lack of good transportation. Although the village has been declared as ‘Mt Pauna Tourists Village’ but a cursory glance of the visitors book reveals as a low tourist destination .It is only the govt officials who have frequented the resort and enjoyed the hospitality of the village as they can afford. The author, with heavy heart would like to make a fervent appeal to concerned Govt agencies, PWD or Border Roads for providing good communication, tourist buses to enable commuters to visit this beautiful place safely and comfortably and to explore the mystic beauty of Benreu and carry with them nostalgic memories of the Village.
Related Stories
Bwiswmuthiary escapes bid on life CORRESPONDENT Assam Tribune
KOKRAJHAR, April 24 – Member of Parliament and Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) candidate for the Kokrajhar Lok Sabha seat, SK Bwiswmuthiary had a narrow escape when suspected NDFB militants tried to assassinate him in the Panijani forest area near Panbari village under Bogoribari Police Station in Kokrajhar district around 11.45 am today. Bwiswmuthiary’s driver Suren Daimary and his PSO Munnaf Ali were killed on the spot while six others sustained bullet injury in the attack.

According to sources the MP, accompanied by a large number of BPF leaders and members, was proceeding towards Panbari where miscreants had set ablaze 11 houses of BPF supporters last night, when the attackers, lying in wait in the area from before, opened fire on them. Apart from the casualties, three vehicles that were part of Bwiswmuthiary’s large convoy, were also badly damaged in the attack.

Later, talking to journalists Bwiswmuthiary alleged that the ‘pre-planned’ attack was the handiwork of NDFB militants under ceasefire, who were instigated by Bodoland People’s Progressive Front (BPPF) candidate for the Kokrajhar LS seat UG Brahma and BPPF president Rabiram Narzaree.

Brahma and Narzaree however refuted Bwiswmuthiary’s allegation and said that the BPF leader was trying to draw political mileage from the incident and to malign the BPPF in public. Both the BPPF leaders condemned the ghastly attack and called for peace among the people.
Meanwhile, BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary who rushed to the spot immediately after the incident, alleged the involvement of NDFB in the attack. Senior army and police officials meanwhile rushed to the area and launched a massive combing operation.

Several Bodo organisations, both political and non-political, have condemned the attack. They have also made fervent appeals for peace and harmony among all sections of the Bodo people. Meanwhile, as soon as the report of the attack spread, sporadic incidents of violence took place in different parts of the district. At Haltugaon under Kokrajhar PS, six BPPF members were brutally attacked by BPF supporters around 2.30 pm today. BPPF chief Narzaree alleged that three supporters of his party had gone missing from the area after the Panijani incident.

Tension continued to prevail in Kokrajhar till the filing of this report. Our Staff Reporter in Guwahati adds: Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today strongly condemned the attack by miscreants on BPF candidate for the Kokrajhar LS seat, SK Bwiswmuthiary. In a statement, Gogoi termed the incident barbarous, and said that the police and the administration had been asked to intensify operations against those involved in the heinous act.



Frans on 04.24.09 @ 10:52 PM CST [link]


Thursday, April 23rd

BJP & Federalism Mansukh Kaur World Sikh News



BJP & Federalism Mansukh Kaur World Sikh News

Akali Dal manifesto released by the epitome of decentralisation of power, Sukhbir Singh Badal, promised to work for decentralisation of power across India by pushing for real federalism. He hopes to get the NDA to take the country towards real federalism, but omits to mention that the BJP had always loved a two-party system and cares two hoots for regional parties.
By its very perception of politics in India, the BJP swears by the principle of Unitary State. True that it has been pushed to recognise at some stages movements for greater autonomy or statehood and now claims that “the BJP has always been in favour of formation of smaller States”. True that it claims credit for the creation of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Uttarakhand and backs the creation of Telangana as a separate State of the Union of India.
But lestthere be any doubt, the BJP is indulging in a bit of double speak. Its commitment to federalism is zilch, its reinvention of itself is proof of opportunistic readiness to make any compromise to win power. It is saying something else to get power and will do something completely opposite because its very founding is based on different principles.
The BJP is run in a very centralised way, controlled ideologically by the RSS and speaks of Akhand Bharat. True federalism has even space for sesessionist voices. Can BJP even think of the kind of voices that emanated from Texas recently?
It is now under pressure to make politically correct noises because of its stakes in the north east. It has been part of the ruling coalitions in Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya and Nagaland. Until Meghalaya was recently brought under President’s rule, the BJP was part of the ruling Meghalaya Progressive Alliance led by the Nationalist Congress Party. Contesting the Nagaland Assembly elections last year as part of the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland, it won seven seats and is presently part of the government, with one Cabinet Minister.
The BJP is also supporting the demand of the National Conference of Tripura, the latest of the quasi-separatist tribal based outfits in the State, for creation of a separate State comprising the Autonomous District Council areas which account for over two-thirds of the geographical area of the State.
The party’s choice of Kheroni in Karbi Anglong district as the venue of L.K. Advani’s first election rally was clearly intended to send a message that the BJP was sympathetic to the demand for the elevation of two autonomous districts of Karbi Anglong and North Cachar Hills as an autonomous State within Assam under the provisions of Article 244-A of the Constitution.
That Article was introduced to meet some special circumstances that existed when two other autonomous districts of Assam, Khasi and Jaintia Hills and Garo Hills, were separated and briefly constituted as an ‘autonomous State within Assam’ in 1970, before being elevated as the full-fledged State of Meghalaya less than two years later.
The BJP is a party that has always spoken of a strong and powerful Center, and works as a monolithic. It is run in a very centralised way, controlled ideologically by the RSS and speaks of Akhand Bharat. True federalism has even space for sesessionist voices. Can BJP even think of the kind of voices that emanated from Texas recently?
‘Democratic Elections’ without morality & principle Imkong Walling Morungexpress

Dimapur | April 23 : The hullabaloo called ‘elections’ have come and gone. All the activities concerning it have subsided except for hectic preparations for the counting of votes. The people have returned to their normal lives, some ‘content’ while some not so, just awaiting the ‘final mandate of the people’.
In a secular and democratic country like India, certain provisions have been enshrined in the Constitution that grants certain rights and freedom. The people have the freedom to practise and enjoy these liberties as long as it does not infringe upon others. However, it seems the people have misinterpreted these constitutional liberties and have given it a completely conflicting connotation.
In the just concluded elections, one apparently ‘harmless act’ was openly and rampantly practised. This supposedly ‘harmless act’ casually termed as “proxy voting” has become more than an ‘illegal practice’ that needs serious pondering. It has so deeply entrenched itself in the society that the measures adopted by the competent authority to check this menace seems to have come to nought. And it has become so rampant that nobody seems to bear a thought to the moral side of it.
The dictionary gives the definition of the word ‘Moral’ as ‘Of or concerned with the judgment of the goodness or badness of human action and character’. In its noun form (morality), it means ‘conformity to the rules of right or virtuous conduct’. In short, it would simply mean the sense of right and wrong. Even the Gospels preach of moral and ethical conduct. In a predominantly Christian state like Nagaland, ‘morals’ and ‘ethics’ are ideals passionately upheld by the society. However, such principles seem to take a backseat during such a time as ‘elections’.
For those who came in late, let this be known that democratic elections work on the basic ‘one person one vote’ principle. However, it seems to have degenerated into more of a ‘one person more than one vote’ policy. It has rendered the so-called democratic elections into a ‘some people’s mandate’ instead of the ‘people’s mandate’.
Many of the “proxy voters” during the just concluded elections seemed at a loss for words when queried upon the moral side of it. They did acknowledge that it is legally wrong but justified it by the all so common refrain: “everybody else is doing it, so why can’t we?” reminding of one popular album of the same name by the Celtic band, The Cranberries.
Another election to the civic bodies is expected in about a year or so. It would be interesting to see whether people uphold the ‘morals’ and ‘ethics’ next time.
Govt-NSCN(K) meet on ceasefire extension tomorrow Indopia
New Delhi, Apr 23 With the truce between the Centre and the NSCN (K) expiring this month, the Home Ministry has convened a meeting tomorrow to discuss the extension of the ceasefire agreement, possibly for a year.
The first ceasefire agreement was signed with the NSCN(K), headed by Myanmar-based S S Khaplang, in 2001, four years after its arch rival NSCN(IM) joined hands with the Central government to find out an amicable solution to the six -decade-old vexed Naga insurgency problem.
The ceasefire has since been extended every time for a year to facilitate the Centre to explore the possibility of a political settlement to the problem.
The NSCN(K) holds sway in Mon and Tuensang districts of Nagaland and the adjoining Naga inhabited territories in Myanmar.

Repeal of AFSPA 1958: Is it in public interest? Jagdamba Mall Nagaland Page
There was a time when Mizoram and Nagaland were much in news for insurgency. Laldenga was leading the Mizo insurgency under the aegis of Mizo National front (MNF). Because of fruitful dialogue between MNF and Government of Bharatvansh, Mizoram is one of the most peaceful and progressive states today. Nagaland was also besieged with insurgency and the militant cadres were armed with sophisticated lethal weapons and firearms. The public voice was choked. The truth was suppressed. The dissenting voices were never allowed to be heard. The dissention was a punishable act in the eye of insurgent leaders. The insurgent organizations had created terror in their respective areas of operation. The civil liberties and freedom of speech were hijacked by militant organizations. The agriculture, trade, industry and overall economy suffered beyond repair. The murder in factional clashes, the killing of innocent people, ambushes on the convoys of army and killing of security personnel had become order of the day. The looting of banks and government treasuries were often reported. The torture and murder of businessmen and Govt. Officers were increasing more and more. The rape and abduction of ladies and college going girls unknown to the Naga society till only 25-30 years ago in whole of the Northeast region particularly the janjati communities, has become a regular news items in local and regional media. These rape cases are reportedly sometimes by security personnels, sometimes by defiant cadres of different militant organizations and sometimes by the erring members of the same society with criminal instinct. The guilty security personnels are punished heavily, sometimes terminated as per the findings of departmental enquiries constituted under Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules. In addition to this, the Military Conduct Rule tougher than CCS (Conduct) Rules are applied. But Army do not leak out this information in public and media, obviously to protect their prestige and credibility in the eye of masses and also not to humiliate the guilty jawan in the public. In Imphal, several jawans were tried in civil court and punished. Army jawans and army officers are also liable to be tried in civil court if charges of serious misconduct are framed. Nobody is above the law of the land. I know a case in which a senior military officer was court-martialed and he was stripped off his medals and rank symbols in Kohima few years back when he was found defying the military rules while on duty in Dimapur. He was jailed for five years term. It was when social commotion was unbearable and law and order was almost collapsed in the year 2000 and there after. The state government had requested the army to assist the law enforcing agencies to maintain the rule of law when the militants were openly waving weapons on the roads of Dimapur, Kohima, Mokokchung and elsewhere after signing the Ceasefire Agreement on 1.8.2007.
After Ceasefire Agreement on 1st August' 1997, the Army had gone into their barracks. Lt. Gen. K.M. Seth had pronounced "Ten Commandments" for army jawans in the media. Ceasefire Ground Rules were cautiously framed and published in media. Lt. Gen. R.V. Kulkarni manned the post of Chairman of Ceasefire Monitoring Cell (CFMC). People took a sigh of relief. But by the advent of the year 2000 and the after, the Army was again called for assisting the state administration to maintain the law and order because the militants had come out with arms in open from their jungle hide-out and they were engaged in strength building mechanism torturing, extorting money and killing the innocent people. The army operation was opposed by the underground leaders but state government did not ask army to return to their barracks because the peace and harmony had became a thing of past. Hundreds of people were killed in factional clashes, ambushes, extortion, robbery, rape and rivalry. The anti-social elements took up the chance and added fuel to the fire. Many armed cadres also became defiant who, when caught, were punished heavily, sometimes killed by their respective group leaders. Such incidents brought bad name to respective underground organizations.
The Nagaland Post reported in its editorial "Neither east or west" dated 19.01.2009 quoting South Asian Intelligence -"201 people were killed in various incidents due to factional violence in Nagaland. The statistics to would indicate that on an average around one person was killed in two days during last year (2008). There were 244 insurgency related incidents during the year 2008 in which 130 activists of different underground cadres were killed while three law enforcement agency personnel and thirty civilians were also killed during the same period." The Nagaland Post reported further, "People want that the turf of war between factions must stop so also rampant extortion and abduction, all for money. People want peace to prevail and this means that those responsible for the maintenance of law and order should ensure that no one is allowed to circumvent the law". "Because of this", writes The Nagaland Post, "many businessmen have left Dimapur due to the problems they face and unfortunately "compromise" formula means only a brief respite or a brittle truce which could be abrogated anytime by those who write their own law". This was the reason that NSCN (K) camp in Mokokchung town was attacked by the people of the town and armed cadres were chased. An underground cadre was beaten to death in the packed court in Tuensang by enraged mob few years before. Only in very recent past in April 2006, the Phek Area Public Organization (PAPO) asked the both factions NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) to leave the vicinity of Pfutsero Town because of their anti-people activities. There have been a frequent "Peace" and "Reconciliation" meeting organized mostly by the Church and sometimes by Naga Hoho joined by other civic organizations but the peace and tranquility are nowhere to be seen. This has shattered the work culture, righteousness, economy, trade, industry, even educational institutions etc. The educated promising Nagas are settling elsewhere outside Nagaland. Almost all wealthy and worthy parents are sending their children of primary level onwards in the schools/colleges outside the state. There is unrestricted brain drain from Nagaland. The skilled persons and tourists are scared of visiting Nagaland.
The situation in Manipur has become worse than Nagaland. In Nagaland, there are four underground organizations- NSCN (IM), NSCN (K) NSCN (U) and NNC. But in Manipur, there are reportedly 28 undergrounds organizations of Nagas, Kukis and Meiteis. Frequent killings, ethnic clashes and robbery, National Highway blockade and bundhs have worsened Manipur more than Nagaland. The majority people are engulfed with poverty. In fact, the poverty and armed militants of different rebel organizations have pushed farmers to drug cultivation in Manipur and other insurgency-infested zones of Northeast region. To fill the coffers, the militants are smuggling explosives like RDX, narcotic drugs from notorious Golden Triangle and lethal weapons and fire-arms from Cox-Bazar of Bangladesh Until State and Central Government, so also the civic society decide to address these issues, this unseemingly unbreakable cycle of drugs, poverty, terror and HIV/AIDS will continue to wreak havoc with the life of Manipuris. Not that people do not raise their voice against these excesses by militants. For this, they had to pay heavy price. Several of opponents are murdered. The people of Heirok are remembered throughout the northeast for their heroic deed of opposing militants. The media men who supported the helpless public were also killed. Now, the traders from other states are targeted. Only on 23rd March one Deepak Gupta 40, a resident of Haryana was gunned down by miscreants in Imphal.
The condition in Asom is no better. As reported in Guwahati based media, at least 10,000 criminals wanted in connection with different criminal cases are moving freely in and around Guwahati city alone. The preoccupation with militancy related matters is cited as a reason behind the ineffective role of police in checking city crimes. Because of this preoccupation coupled with political patronage of criminals and militants, there is, though warranted, no matching response from the morally down police. The helpless people, then, look towards army for reprive from militants and professional criminals. Here also, those who stand for innocent masses are targeted. The executive editor of a vernacular daily, Aiji, Anil Majumdar was gunned down on 24th March by unidentified gunmen. The Northeast Frontier Railway withdrew train services from Lumding - Silchar section after an unsuccessful attempt by militants to blow up tracks in North Cachar Hills on March 23. This has raised fears of more attacks on railway staff and property. DHD (J) is allegedly involved in it. The order of withdrawal of railway, according to the railway sources, was to be in force indefinitely. The DHD (J) has demanded that construction of BG line, Mahasadak and running of trains between Lumding and Silchar be stopped till its demand is fulfilled. The militant of Dima Halam Daoga (Jewel) and Dima Halam Daoga (Dilip) have allegedly killed over two hundred innocent people in N.C. Hills district of Assam from January 2008 till March 2009. On March 19, Rajdhani Express narrowly missed a blast on the tracks in Karbi Anglong. The Karbi Longri National Liberation Front (KLNLF) was suspected to have triggered the explosion. These are the tip of the iceberg. The bomb explosions in Guwahati, Tinsukia and Dibrugarh have taken the toll of several hundred innocent lives. Over two dozen militant organizations including ULFA and ISI are allegedly masterminding the attacks and social upheavals. The Changlong and Tirap districts of Arunachal Pradesh is worst victim of factional fight between NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) who are attacking each other in quest of gaining dominance over each other. In the process, the people of the area are torn asunder.
The militancy related social upheavals have their reflections on the states of Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram also. The whole of Northeast region is connected with main land by 30 kms wide Siliguri-neck. Pakistan, Bangladesh, China and other foreign countries hostile to Bharatvarsh are active in this region to slit from this narrow-neck.
Here, Army has dual role to play. As the first and foremost duty, the Army and other wings of defence including paramilitary forces have to guard our International border which they are doing well. Secondly, they have to assist the respective state governments in maintaining law and order to ensure peace and prosperity of the people. Thirdly, the army is asked to render philanthropic services to local people in Nagaland, Manipur, Asom and other disturbed states of this reasons, obviously, to give a message that army personnel are not the enemy but the member of the one and the same society. With this view in mind, Army has to perform their duties assigned to them i.e. to control the militancy and restore the law and order. This is certainly unpleasant to underground organizations because they want unrestricted movement for causing chaos in whole of the Northeast reason and invite the enemy across the international border.
In fact, Army is meant to kill invader enemy and defend the international borders. When they kill the enemy while defending the sovereignty of the country, they are rewarded. Truly speaking, they are trained to kill. That is why, they are not supposed to be posted in civilian areas. Even the movement of Army personnel outside the marked boundary of military station is restricted. But in northeast region, the situation is quite abnormal because of secessionist movements. Here, they are asked by none other than the respective state governments manned mostly by none other than local people, to patrol and nab the anti social elements belonging to their own communities. It is, therefore but natural for aberrations to occur in patrolling army jawans because they are also human being and they are trained to kill unless otherwise ordered
But their mode of training to kill the enemy and win the awards cannot be an excuse to forgive the defiant army personnel. The erring jawan is also liable to prosecution under military court of law. But to deal with abnormal situation i.e. to contain militancy spearheaded by Bharatiya people, Bharatiya citizens, our own people and our own brothers, the abnormal rules and regulations are required. Here comes the need of Armed Forces Special Power Act 1958 as Prevention of Terrorist Acts (POTA) is felt necessary to contain the terrorism throughout the country.
Let us analyze why this Act is applicable only in NE Region and Kashmir. Why is not there in other parts of the country? The answer is very simple. Because, there is no such insurgency or secessionist movement. In fact, army also does not want to kill their own people and get killed in the ambushes followed by sever condemnation and major punishments when found guilty while patrolling. Because it is a thankless job. After killing a militant, the Army also do not rejoice the unfortunate incidents. The answer is straight-why should Bharatiya Sena kill another Bharatiya. I also feel that such draconian law should no more prevail but if situation remain volatile and explosive and innocent people continue to be killed by anti-social elements, who will be able to help in this regard? Army can be controlled easily but who will control the armed militants? Let us, then, work for sustainable peace and prosperity so that Army and paramilitary forces are not at all required to operate in civilian areas.
In that case, there will be double benefit. One, the society will lead a tension free life and rapid development will occur. The armed cadres will also lead a peaceful life. And secondly, there will not be any fear from Army. The army will also be happy and will be relieved of "thankless" duty incurring wrath of local people in return instead of their sympathy for bringing peace and harmony by restricting the movement of militants. The militant cadres can also live a family life peacefully with parents, wife and children. jagdamba 123@gmail.com">123@gmail.com
Govt imports 37,000 tonne of pulses from Myanmar Indo Burma News The Business Standard News
India has contracted to import 37,000 tonnes of pulses from Myanmar on a government-to-government basis and the commodities are likely to arrive at Indian ports next month.
"The contract for import of 30,000 tonnes of black matpe (urad) and 7,000 tonnes of pigeon peas (tur) has been finalised and these pulses would arrive here in May," a top government official told reporters here today.
This import has been finalised by STC on behalf of the government as both India and Myanmar have agreed to pulses trade on a government-to-government basis, he added.
The entire quantity of tur would come in May, while urad would arrive in two tranches, the official said.
Last year, a delegation of Indian officials had visited Myanmar to finalise an agreement with that country's government for importing pulses on a government-to-government basis. STC is the nodal agency for this purpose.
Under the government-to-government import, the risk of price escalation is minimised as India has agreed to pay the market rate for the pulses instead of floating tender, an expert said.
Since the government of Myanmar is the supplier, it has to export the pulses at a particular price, agreed by both the countries, he said, adding India imports mainly tur, urad and rajmah from the neighbour.
NHPC Plans Hydroelectric Power Projs In Myanmar, Bhutan - Chairman Sources: Dow Jones
April 22, 2009: New Delhi, India's state-run NHPC Ltd. is planning to build hydroelectric power plants in neighboring Myanmar and Bhutan which could together cost INR430 billion, its chairman said Thursday.
"There is a rich potential in Myanmar and their government is very keen that we start work. But we have to do some more surveys and investigation and also get approval from the Indian government," S.K. Garg told Dow Jones Newswires.
NHPC, India's largest hydropower firm, is also planning to foray into thermal and wind power generation in the country, through its subsidiaries, Garg added.


Frans on 04.23.09 @ 09:55 PM CST [link]


Wednesday, April 22nd

Naga Hoho says Thank you morungexpress



Naga Hoho says Thank you morungexpress

Dimapur, (MExN): The Naga Hoho expresses gratitude to all who contributed in various means and ways to making the hoho’s recent visit to troubled North Cachar Hills in Assam a success. A Naga Hoho delegation accompanied by the members of Zeliangrong Baudi, All Zeliangrong students’ Union and Zeme Council of Nagaland had visited NC Hills along with relief materials April 18-19.
The visit was necessitated to take stock of the situation in the backdrop of the displacement of Zeme Naga villagers in NC Hills following the killing of Zeme people by Dimasa militants in the recent past. A message from the Naga Hoho today thanked the chief minister of Nagaland and his colleagues for extending relief materials, civil society leaders, organizations and individuals including the Kachari Association of Nagaland and the Media fraternity who reached out in various ways. The hoho also appreciated the Deputy Commissioner of Halflong for extending ‘fullest co-operation’ to the delegation and the Government of Assam for providing security during the visit.

"Paradise unxplored" or insurgency brewing Hueiyen News Service Agencies
Guwahati, April 21 2009: Three people died on average everyday in the Indian states of Assam, Nagaland and Manipur in 2008 .

First quarter 2009 already threatens to challenge the 2008 figure.

Wreckage, devastation, black thick smoke crowning the fires that burn below, mangled and charred dead bodies, scores of limbless injured dripping blood and hundreds of weeping relatives, their faces stark with terror that stems from the fear insurgency has injected into them! .

That is the North East today, a cluster of seven states of this republic, which the tourism ministry in all its wisdom and nonchalence still prefers to brand "Paradise Unexplored" ! .
Welcome to one of the greatest ironies of Free India, 62 years after Independence as the country conducts its 16th Lok Sabha Elections ! Call it the world's greatest political circus or whatever you will, it is thumbs down in this far-flung corner of India, where poverty rules, development is fairly insignificant in modern-day terms and the earth is soaked red in the blood of people who die on it every day.

The only silver lining is Tripura, where militancy has declined, while Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Mizoram are relatively peaceful in so far as insurgency goes.

But then, the north eastern sky has always been dark for decades and even if shifting clouds do make away for a spot of silver now and then, you never actually know whether it will last.

In Assam, Nagaland and Manipur there are over 50 insurgency outfits, of which 34 are in Manipur alone.

In 2007, Manipur had recorded 388 deaths, caused by militancy, a figure that rose to 484 in 2008.The killed were of all kinds: security forces, civilians and militants too.

But what's interesting is, if you average it all.

In 2007, therefore Manipur on average, accounted for 1.06 insurgency-related deaths a day, while in 2008, it was 1.32 deaths a day ! Year-on-year therefore, Manipur's degree of devastation rose by 24.74%, which is something that those who canvass for votes every election season should perhaps chew on.

Overall, Manipur accounted for 47% of the total number of militant murders of the North East. In Manipur, extortionists have forced many an estalishment to close down.

Every institution is open to extortion including places of worship, educational institutes, health centres, commercial establishments et al.

Kanan Devi Memorial School at Pangei in the Imphal East District was closed for an indefinite period. Extortion demands forced the closure of two Government colleges in Imphal. Two private hospitals were closed down due to extortion demands.

Several doctors at the state's premier healthcare establishment, the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) have fled.

In all three states, common ordinary people are afraid to venture out of their homes.
Even the home is not safe because you never know when the militants strike.

The deadly blast at Maligaon in Guwahati city on April 6 have left an entire group of students of a local primary school, funded by the Prime Minister's MP fund, so traumatised that they have not been able to attend classes since.

In the troubled North East, they have actually started believing "Ignorance is Bliss" if the cost of education has to be paid with the life of a child. In Assam, everybody tells everybody else at home "Avoid crowded places", because that's exactly where the last 20 serial blasts have happened.
Bandh in Peren against rape - Residents outraged over the murder of minor in Delhi OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Kohima, April 21: Offices, schools, colleges and business establishments downed shutters from dawn to dusk today in Nagaland’s Peren district in protest against the rape and murder of a minor girl in New Delhi.
Six-year-old Gaipuilu Gangmei was raped and murdered in the national capital on April 17. She was found dead in a water tank in Delhi’s Mahilpalpur colony. Her funeral was held today at Mhainamsti village, around 3km from Jalukie sub-division.
No untoward incident was reported as thousands of volunteers poured into the streets to enforce the bandh, the Peren district administration said.
Thousands of mourners attended the funeral, prominent among them being members from Nagaland Women Commission led by its chairperson and wife of former chief minister Vamuzo, Sano Vamuzo. Several Naga organisations and representatives from Naga Hoho also attended the service and condemned the rape.
The Nagaland government has sought intervention of the Centre for security of the people of the Northeast in the national capital.
Chief minister Neiphiu Rio in his letter to the Prime Minister requested the Centre’s intervention to arrest the rapist and killer. Naga Hoho, Naga Students’ Federation, Naga People’s movement for Human Rights, Naga Mothers’ Association and several other Naga organisations have condemned the incident.
The North East Students’ Union, too, strongly condemned the incident and demanded exemplary punishment to the culprits. The chairman of the union, Samujjal Bhattacharyya, said the incident has once again exposed the Union government’s negligence towards the safety and security of the people of the region.
In a similar case, a rally was organised in Zunheboto town by Sumi Totimi Hoho (Sumi women’s organisation) against the rape of a 14-year-old by four boys on April 11.
The Zunheboto district administration said thousands attended the rally and demanded befitting punishment to the rapists.
The president of the Sumi organisation, K. Atoli Sumi, regretted the increasing violence against women in the state and the lackadaisical approach of the government in awarding punishment to the criminals. A son of a Baptist clergyman is allegedly involved in the Zunheboto rape. The Nagaland Women’s Commission has set up inquiry committees to look into the incident in Dimapur on March 25 where a girl was gangraped in front of her parents by five criminals. One of them was member of a militant group.
So far Dimapur police have apprehended only one of the culprits, but he has been released on bail. The National Socialist Council of Nagalim apprehended two of the culprits recently and they are in the outfit’s custody.
On April 1, another minor girl was raped by an India Reserve Battalion jawan from Dimapur. The inquiry committees will visit Dimapur and Zunheboto on April 22.
Thousands protest rape & murder of minor girl Nagaland Page
6-year-old Gaipuiliu laid to rest
Dimapur, April 21: There was, no doubt, a feeling of anger amongst the people of Peren district, especially in Jalukie, but they were emotional, too as one of their dear ones was laid to rest today at her native village in Mhainamtsi in Peren district, after being brutally raped and murdered in New Delhi last week.
The alleged rape and murder of 6-year old Gaipuiliu Gangmei had evoked strong protest and outrage amongst the Northeast communities residing in Delhi and the reaction from the Northeastern states, particularly Nagaland was indubitably the same
Thousands of people from all walks of life today marched from Jalukie town to Mhainamtsi village protesting against the rape and murder of a 6-year old girl, carrying banners and placards demanding justice for the innocent child.
The nearly 4 kilometer march by women and school children culminated at the funeral place under an emotionally charged environment, where they paid their last respects to the victim, Gaipuiliu Gangmei.
The mortal remains of late Gaipuiliu arrived Dimapur early Tuesday morning from Guwahati by road and was taken to her native place in Mhainamtsi, where her last rites were conducted at 1.30 a.m.
Entire Peren district today witnessed a spontaneous bandh with schools, shops and offices remaining closed as a mark of protest against the incident.
At the funeral, President of Jalukie Village Women Organization, Dalak Nehang said that after the incident came to light, there was anger amongst the people of Jalukie and they decided to organize a rally/processing protesting the rape and murder of the minor girl.
She was of the view that rape and murder should not be allowed to happen and demanded that the rapist allegedly one Manoj should be brought to book and punished.
She said that the women will fight till justice is delivered to them
President of Rongmei Women Organization, Peren district, Achingpui Gangmei said that rape of a little girl is an insult to the mothers. She was of the opinion that the law enforcing agencies should honour the Children Protection Act. "When we cannot save our own child at home, how can we ensure safety of others?" she questioned.
She also demanded that the culprits should be banished from the society and severely punished.
It may be mentioned here that the girl's bruised body was found on April 16 inside a building's water tank at Mahipalpur where she was staying with her mother and grandmother. Her body was flown to Guwahati yesterday from Delhi, accompanied by relatives and community students' leader.
While various Naga organizations condemned the incident, students from Northeast on April 17 staged a dharna outside Delhi police headquarters demanding that the culprits be booked immediately. (Page News Service)
ENPO approve NPSC morungexpress
•-For a very long time the NPSC has been accused of corruption and malpractices while selecting candidates for various posts as the State’s premier recruitment body. In doing so, many deserving candidates were relegated to the footnote in the narrative of Nagaland administration. Numerous individuals and societies have time and again alleged the NPSC for corrupt selections and manipulations and in the process, the NPSC continues to look like an unblemished rotten apple.
The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) is pleased with the new team of NPSC for owning responsibilities and for detecting the worm that was plaguing the system and the society. The State Government is urged to provide adequate help to ensure that the dignity and the sanctity of the commission is regained. After all, it is a tragedy for the future generation to lose hope and trust in such a premier institution. The investigating agency should employ all means, measures and resources to bring the culprits to book without any fear or favour. The culprits should be awarded exemplary punishment so that such malpractices are uprooted once and for all.

Y. Mangko Phom President, ENPO
NPF unit indicts NSF speaker in polls Nagarealm.com
DIMAPUR, APR21 [NPN] : NPF 17 Chizami A/C has alleged that NSF Speaker, Cusayi Lohe was involved in the attempt to capture the ballot boxes of Porba A polling station no. 8 and Porba B polling station no. 9 while transporting them to Phek district headquarters on April 16 at around 6: 30 pm, some four km away from Porba village.

The NPF unit vehemently condemned the incident after the polling was peacefully conducted in the two poling stations. NPF 17 Chizami A/C press secretary, Sapunyi Zholia in a statement said the attempt was unsuccessful as they were overpowered by the security forces who fired blank shots and in the process injured one person by a stray bullet. According to the statement, the vehicles detained on the spot by the security forces included Bolero (NL-05/2811) belonging to NSF Speaker, Cusayi Lohe; Scorpio (NL-07/3300) belonging to the Congress candidate, K. Therie; Gypsy (NL-08/0780) belonging to Kuveo of Pfutsero town and Maruti Zen (NL-05C/0051) belonging to Kuhucuyi of Porba village. The NPF unit said the vehicles were detained in Police station Pfutsero and under investigation.
Polling is over here but not animosity morungexpress
•-Nagas are by and large little bit of conservative, not talkative and exercise restraints by nature. We also believe in actions and not words. Yet some of us are not so. In the just concluded Lok Sabha and 4(four) Assembly Elections, NPF-led DAN candidate and other leaders have addressed to people what they had committed to do and what else more they are striving to do for the benefit of the people. By now, people have already experiences and seen by their own eyes its stewardship and dispensation.
Whatever might have been achieved on the ground and on-going vision, the political will in doing this one thing; and the actual participation of its bureaucrats and the people is another episode. Desperately, clutching the last straw, our esteem NPCC Pundits, at the same time, goes on concocting multiple flimsy stories and allegations against the NPF and its candidates, stating that their Lok Sabha candidate can do nothing and no time slot will be given to him in Parliament. That the DAN M.P if elected, will be unattached member in the House of Parliament and many other offensive false propaganda and that he had shot a GB in Noksen Village in the polling day itself and so on and so forth. Yet all these mischievous propaganda does not attract the attention of Election Commission Codal provisions and more importantly, does not shaken the minds of the people but afflicted back to the propagator themselves.
Literally, it is common knowledge that every recognized political party either ‘National’ or ‘State’ are equitably allotted the time according to its sizes in the House. Under the situation, a lone member from smaller State/Recognised party like Nagaland would be able to take advantage opportunity whereas, similar member from among a large party like BJP or Congress can avail very little time.
With humility, Nagaland People’s Front is all the more happier for the unflinching support of the people in the State this time around with their valuable votes. Besides, the party has gained momentum and strengthened with the joining of many good people to our fold to support the cause of the people. The NPF welcome gate is wide- open and confident that many more will be joining in days to come so as to unite all Nagas into one political front to achieve the aspiration of the Naga identity.
Under the prevailing scenario in our context, it is also advisable to set up more and more regional party like in Mizoram and Meghalaya de-camping from the National Party with whom we have no consistent ideology and practices.

Akang Ao General Secretary, NPF Kohima

Dispur mulls peace with DHD-J OUR BUREAU The Telegraph


File picture of trucks damaged in an attack by DHD (J) militants in NC Hills district last year
April 21: A spate of attacks by the militant Dima Halam Daogah (Jewel Gorlosa) in North Cachar Hills has forced Dispur to consider a truce with the outfit after having spurned its olive branch earlier.
Dispur also sent fresh directives to security personnel in the district today after it came to light that they had not followed security instructions.
Highly placed sources today said realisation had dawned upon the government that fighting the outfit with the present set-up in the hills was not making much sense.
“We are actually getting nowhere,” a senior official said, adding that any declaration of the government’s intention would have to wait till the elections were over.
“Doors for a ceasefire are always open. We are ready to walk the extra mile, but we would like the other side to appreciate that violence will lead nowhere. Till then, we will continue with our counter-insurgency operations.”
Dispur’s realisation has a lot to do with reports about the morale of police and civil officials deployed in the volatile district hitting rock bottom.
At least 10 persons have been killed, eight of them security personnel, in six attacks by the DHD (J) in the past fortnight.
Seven persons were killed yesterday when the group attacked a convoy and an office of a private cement company. Five IRB personnel and a driver were killed in the ambush on the convoy while a casual labourer, H. Haloi, was killed in the second attack. Haloi’s body was recovered this morning from under the water reservoir that he had climbed to talk on his mobile phone. The outfit had also attacked trains on April 10, 11, 15 and 18.
Sources claimed that most police personnel had thrown up their hands in the fight against the DHD (J), saying they were no match for the outfit in the hostile terrain.
A police official said the district would not only require a “huge injection” of trained and motivated personnel to ensure the success of the operations against the DHD (J), but also the “freedom” to plan and execute the operations.
“Our men are just not used to the terrain whereas it poses no problem for the militants... they were born and have grown up in these parts. We need the training, motivation and freedom,” he added.
The attacks carried out with impunity have also left officials wondering how such a small group could have grown to the level it has.
“Maybe it is time that this angle is looked into, including that of local politicians,” the official said. Referring to the security directives, a source said, “Precious lives would have been saved had they (the security personnel) followed instructions. They were not wearing bullet-proof vests or travelling in bullet-proof vehicles. If there were no bullet-proof vehicles, extra precaution should have been taken like using sandbags. We have asked our men not to lower their guard”.
Dilip Nunisa, chairman of the group that is in a ceasefire, accused the security forces of “improper planning, carelessness and procrastination” while conducting counter-insurgency operations. He once again pledged the group’s support in tackling the DHD (J) militants, regretting the government’s lukewarm response to his earlier offer. He, too, called for trained troops to mount “an all-out war” against the Jewel group.
In search of a bridge to peace PREETAM B. CHOUDHURY The telegraph
Considered the nerve centre of Bodo politics, Kokrajhar parliamentary constituency is one of the most sensitive of Assam’s 14 Lok Sabha seats.
With frequent clashes and fratricidal killings becoming the norm, political parties are trying to convince the electorate about their sincerity in stopping the bloodshed.
Sensing the gravity of the issue, the parties are trying to woo the voters by promising to restore peace and work for development. But not many are convinced. The pre-poll violence has already claimed six lives, including a woman in Kokrajhar, and over 50 have been injured since the declaration of the election notification, sparking off fears in the common man. Over 80 lives were lost in the last Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) and Assembly elections.
“How can we believe them? They had said the same thing even during the last Assembly election. But nothing has changed. The politicians should first learn and stop accusing each other. The people here are living in constant fear. There is no peace and security. One never knows what will happen next. And there are still some days to go,” said Mwkhtang Brahma, a first-time voter in Kokrajhar.
Kokrajhar goes to the hustings on Thursday. The parliamentary seat comprises 10 Assembly segments with a total of 13,76,693 voters and 1,606 polling stations of which 645 are sensitive, 119 hypersensitive, 300 very sensitive while 419 are safe.
“We want leaders to spell out the methodology they will be undertaking to stop killings and terror. The leaders are giving lectures about doing this and that. They promise development and uplift of the community. But what would we do when we are killing our own brothers? Is it what the Bodos fought for Bodoland?” asked a woman, who lost her husband in the fratricidal killings. Despite her loss, she pleaded for an end to the bloodshed. “Enough of the killings. I appeal to our leaders to end the enmity among themselves and let all live in peace,” she urged.
Notwithstanding the overriding concern for peace, the business of election has to be conducted. As such, Kokrajhar will see a three-cornered contest between the Bodoland Peoples’ Progressive Front (BPPF)’s Urkhao Gwra Brahma, Bodoland Peoples’ Front’s (BPF) Sansuma Kunggur Bwismuthiary and the AGP-BJP combine’s Sabdaram Rabha.
It will be an acid test for sitting MP, S.K. Bwismuthiary, who is eyeing his fourth consecutive win. In 2004, Bwismuthiary as an Independent candidate and support from the NDA had won with a margin of 484,129 votes, defeating Sabdaram Rabha, who had the support of the non-Bodos.
In 1998 and 1999, Bwismuthiary defeated T. Kisku Rafas, an “imported” Adivasi leader from Jharkhand. But this time, Bwismuthiary will not only face a stiff fight from Rabha but also from former Rajya Sabha MP, Urkhao G. Brahma, who was once his close aide.
Brahma had in past elections campaigned extensively for Bwismuthiary and ensured his success. Though the AGP-BJP’s Rabha is seen as a nonentity, he is considered the dark horse by many. However, Bwismuthiary is banking on the development work going on in BTC under the Hagrama Mohilary-led BPF to work in his favour. Bwismuthiary and the other BPF leaders are highlighting these achievements.
“Lots of development activities are going on in the BTC and it is there for everyone to see. See the roads in the villages. Moreover, apart from the Central Institute of Technology (CIT), several institutions like the Bodoland University, engineering colleges in Kokrajhar and Udalguri and a knowledge city in Chirang are coming up. Our party will continue to work for the development of Bodoland,” asserts Bwismuthiary.
Brahma hoped the anti-incumbency factor would go in his favour and work against the BPF candidature. He said Mohilary’s party had failed to address the hopes and aspirations of the people with corruption allegedly creeping deep into the system and funds from central and state governments, meant for development work, being misappropriated.
“There is a lot of frustration among the people due to the ongoing violence let loose by the BTC chief. He (Brahma) is the only leader capable of carrying the confidence of the people and delivering what the people of the region, irrespective of caste community and religion, want. Urkhao G. Brahma is an able leader not only among the Bodos but also popular among the non-Bodos in this constituency,” points out BPPF president Rabiram Narzary. Rabha, who came second in the previous election, is hoping of making it to Delhi this time.
He said he had everything to gain from the fight between the BPF and BPPF with a likely division of the Bodo votes. “People want change. They are fed up with the violence and killings going on in the Bodo belt. Besides development, what people want is peace,” he said.
Bodo leaders say the reasons and factors in the last parliamentary poll were different from that of today’s political situation. In the 2004 election, there was an issue between the Bodos and non-Bodos. But this time, such an issue may not be expedient because of the creation of BTC.
“People at large, irrespective of caste and creed, are happy with the development work executed by the present BPF-led administration,” said D.D. Narzary, a senior BPF leader.


Frans on 04.22.09 @ 09:19 PM CST [link]


Tuesday, April 21st

Centre/NSCN-K truce to continue FOURTH DESIGNATED CAMP TO BE SET UP IN MON SOON A Staff Reporter EMN



Centre/NSCN-K truce to continue FOURTH DESIGNATED CAMP TO BE SET UP IN MON SOON A Staff Reporter | EMN

DIMAPUR,: The truce between the GoI and NCSN-K will in all likeliness be sustained for another 12 months with both parties engaged in the parley since 2001 giving no indication of a fall-out.
The ongoing ceasefire between the Centre and the NSCN-K is set to expire on April 24 and the two parties on either end of the talks-table will sit on April 23 in the country’s capital and apparently announce the extension the day next.
The ceasefire review meeting between representatives NSCN-K and the Centre at Rhododendron Hall, NAPTC, Chumukedima ended on a harmonious note with discussions revolving around the new designated camp for the outfit, upholding ceasefire ground rules and involvement of civil societies to maintain peace and aid decisions.
Speaking to a section of media persons, Lt General (Retd) Mandhata Singh, Chairman of Cease Fire Supervisory Group (CFSB) informed that the fourth designated camp of the NSCN-K has already been confirmed at Mon district with verification of the particular area completed. ‘We are now in the process of acquiring the land from the village council,’ he informed without disclosing the exact location of the designated camp.
The representatives of GoI also impressed upon the NSCN to stop extortion, abduction or providing shelter to criminals and also cooperate in identification of law violators. The Chairman also stressed that designated camps should not be misused for illegal activities.
NSCN-K Kilonser for External Affairs C Singson who led the NSCN-K delegation at today’s meet said he has assured that the CFSB will work hard to push back their cadres to the designated camps within one month extended time.
Clarifying on the voluntarily surrender of one of their cadres along with a cache of arms and ammunition before the Police on April 18, Singson said there was no issue of disgruntlement as depicted by the surrendered cadre to the police. He said that the SS private was attached with a Lt Colonel and had applied for retirement. However, with his senior out of station, the retirement process had been delayed.
PM Ramalingan, DIG CRPF, HK Khulu, Commissioner, JP Nehra, IGAR and K Kire, DGP were other representatives from the Central side while Nitovi, Tatar and member CFSB and Kidion Zhimomi, Joint Secretary attended the ceasefire meeting from the NSCN-K side. The NSCN-IM and the Centre ceasefire review meeting will be held on Wednesday at NAPTC, Chumukedima.
Rape against human decency: NNC (EMN
DIMAPUR, : The Naga National Council (NNC) has voiced strong condemnation against all the rape cases which have been taking place in the Naga society in recent times.
‘These are all despicable acts against human decency and civilised world and these are totally against the rich culture and tradition of the Naga people’, stated a release issued by its Information & Publicity Wing, adding that it is also totally against Christianity.
Stating that the Naga people should not allow such despicable and inhuman behaviour to prevail in the Naga society any more, the release said rapists should be punished severely so that he or they become ‘handicapped in order not to act again of such madness called rape’.
Vehemently condemning particularly the brutal rape and murder of an innocent six-year-old Naga girl in Delhi, the NNC said the ‘Capital City (Powered Centre) of India called the largest democracy and champion of non-violence country in the World is the main centre of inhuman and gruesome action of rape and murder in the World now’. It maintained that, by and large, ‘the NE people do not like to live with Indians because of their nature of racial discrimination, hate, cruelty, killing, etc’ and called for the people of the region to unite.

Thousands rally for justice A Staff Reporter | EMN
GAIPUILU LAID TO REST AT MHAINAMTSI
DIMAPUR,: The mortal remains of Gaipuilu Gangmei, who was found raped and murdered in Mahipalpur, New Delhi, on April 16 last, arrived late last night and was today laid to rest in her native Mhainamtsi village under Peren district.
The entire Jalukie wore a deserted look with business establishments downing shutters, schools closed and vehicles remaining off the road in more or less a spontaneous bandh to register resentment and express solidarity.
Condemning the crime, Jalukie Valley Women Organisation (JVWO), Mhainamtsi Students Union and Zeliangrong Students’ Union organised a joint rally from Jalukie town till Mhainamtsi village demanding early justice. The thousands of rallyists sported placards reading ‘we condemn rapists,’ no justice, no peace,’ ‘we want protection for our women,’ ‘are we safe?’ and ‘government give prompt action.’
Interacting with a section of the media, JVWO president Dalak Nchang said rape and murder of an innocent minor is ‘unthinkable’ and vowed to fight till justice is delivered by the law enforcing agencies. She also informed that altogether 18 villages based in Jalukie valley and 18 schools have participated alongside the women organisation.
“Raping an innocent child is an insult to all women,” Rongmei Women Organisation Peren district Achingpei Gangmei said and pressed home the need to implement in letter and spirit the Mother-Child Safety Act.
She also questioned on the sense of security in a society wherein women and children could not feel safe in their own houses. Condemning the growing crimes against north-eastern people, the Rongmei women leader also pointed out the need for mainstream Indian society to learn to accept NE people as fellow citizens and give due rights and freedom.
The women leaders also vouched to mount pressure on Naga political leaders to pursue the issue at the national capital till justice is delivered.
Martin, father of the minor victim speaking to the media, said his daughter had gone to New Delhi with her mother who is working as a nurse in Indian Spinal Injuries Hospital in the last week of January to be educated in a good metropolitan school.
“Gaipuilu was studying in UKG in a Government Primary School Mhainamtsi before moving to New Delhi,” he said adding that her admission was due and she had been waiting for him to reach Delhi. Visibly pained at having lost his only child, he further said he had booked a train ticket and was expected to arrive in New Delhi on April 20. But it was on the day he had booked his ticket that his wife had called to inform that his daughter was missing.
To a query, Martin informed that the main accused Manoj used to reside in the same building and was known to the family.
On the arrival of the mortal remains at Guwahati Airport, the Naga Students’ Union Guwahati family on Monday organised a funeral service in Nagaland House to express solidarity with the family.
Also paying his respects to the minor victim and her parents at Jalukie, Planning minister TR Zeliang expressed strong resentment over the absence of security for NE people, especially women and children, in Delhi.
Terming the crime as an ‘insane act’ committed by demonic elements, he urged the central government and the Government of Delhi to take immediate steps in bringing the culprits to book and award suitable punishment befitting the gruesome crime.
He also urged all right thinking citizens to rise and protest the inhuman act regardless of caste, creed, tribe or religion.
The minister also conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed that almighty would grant solace in their moment of grief.

Joint meeting held to combat cross border problems Nagarealm.com
DIMAPUR, APR20 [EMN] : Continuing with the efforts to combat growing cross border crime , the Deputy Commissioners of Dimapur and adjoining Karbi Anglong district of Assam held a joint meeting along with the Superintendents of Police at the Dimapur DC’s Conference Hall on Monday.

Focusing on the law and order problems especially the growing nexus of anti-social elements, the two SPs agreed to strengthen information sharing and encourage more interaction of junior officers. SP Karbi Anglong KK Sharma, IPS, complimented SP Dimapur Liremo Lotha for taking up the illegal encroachment problem on March last. In a written statement, Sharma pointed out that about 300 people with arms had entered Daldali Reserve Forest through Ao Kashiram and tried to forcefully construct a church by felling trees.

Sharma also apprised the joint meeting of the kidnapping of one Ritesh Agarwal, son of Narayan Agarwal at Chiramill leaving the chowkidar Sunil Borah, son of Dina Borah with bullet injury in the legs. SP Karbi Anglong also pointed out that investigations have revealed elements from Nagaland behind the kidnapping and injuring the chowkidar of Chiramill. On the dispute along Karbi Anglong–Ao Kashiram borders, the two district administrators have resolved to constitute a joint committee comprising of Revenue Officer, LRSO, DFO and EAC Hq from Nagaland and DFO and Border Officer of Karbi Anglong to address the issue on May 25.

SP Liremo Lotha apprised his counterpart on the arrest of DHD (J) cadres in Dimapur suspected to be supplying arms to Naga outfits. Earlier, DC Dimapur Maongwati Aier complimented his counterpart on the ‘marked improvement’ in the curbing of free flow of alcohol and drug peddling in Lahorijan area in Assam. Terming the joint meetings as ‘constructive’, Aier expressed confidence that the initiative would go a long way to help resolve any issue.

Karbi Anglong DC MC Sahu, IAS and SP reacting to a request put forward by DC Dimapur assured to extend all possible assistance in the event of any road mishap situation across the border. Sahu also agreed to look into the illegal taxation under Karbi jurisdiction in Dillai and New Field Check gates suspected to be run by anti-social elements from Dimapur in connivance with the Assam counterparts. Meanwhile, the two district magistrates have agreed to hold the next joint meeting at the DC’s conference hall in Diphu.

The Assam delegation led by DC Karbi Anglong included SP Karbi Anglong, SDO (C) Bokajan PK Gogoi, junior police officers and host of other government officers. Dimapur district was represented by DC, SP, SDO (C), EAC Hq, border magistrates, ADC Niuland and ADC Dimapur.

Arms with ex-BLT, NDFB worry EC By our Staff Reporter Sentinel
GUWAHATI, April 21: The Election Commission is worried over the fact that the State police force was not successful in the seizure of illegal and legal arms from former BLT and NDFB leaders and cadres who are behind the frequent clashes between BPPF and BPF supporters in the BTAD where most of the polling stations have been categorized as sensitive, very sensitive and hypersensitive. A worried Asom Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Hemanta Narzary today reviewed the security situation in Kokrajhar and took a decision to send security forces to the BTAD as much as possible. The CEO is, however, not worried over other areas where the elections will be held on April 23 though the apprehension of group clashes among party supporters is always there. Arrangements for strict vigil along the international and inter-State borders have already been made so as to ensure free and fair elections on April 23 when as many as 1,47,32,929 voters will choose 11 representatives. The 11 constituencies that are going to polls on Thursday next have as many as 106 Assembly segments.
According to Election Commission sources, over 71 per cent of the polling stations under Kokrajhar Lok Sabha constituency have been either categorized as sensitive or very sensitive or hypersensitive. As many as 645 polling stations are sensitive, 247 are very sensitive and 172 are hypersensitive in the Kokrajhar constituency. Of the 15,772 polling stations in the 11 Lok Sabha constituencies going to poll on April 23, as many as 361 polling stations have been categorized as hypersensitive, 2,058 as very sensitive and 5,539 as sensitive. The number of polling stations that have been categorized as safe is 7,814.
Meanwhile, the polling officials have already started to leave for their respective destinations today. As many as 40 country boats, 37 machine boats, four elephants and some bullock carts have been kept ready. While the four elephants are meant for Guwahati constituency where services of elephants are needed in some polling stations in Dispur and West Guwahati Assembly segments along the Meghalaya border, the bullock carts are meant for some polling stations in Biswanath Chariali. This apart, two helicopters have been kept as stand-by arrangement.


Frans on 04.21.09 @ 10:32 PM CST [link]


Monday, April 20th

Peaceful re-polling at three Nagaland booths Indopia



Peaceful re-polling at three Nagaland booths Indopia

Kohima , Apr 20 Re-polling today in three booths in Nagaland for the Lok Sabha election was peaceful recording over 90 per cent voter turnout, CEO office here said.
The Election Commission ordered re-polling following damages to EVMs at two polling stations at Chizami in Phek district and at Tuensang in Tuensang district, while a booth at Pungro in Kiphire district polled excess number of eligible electorates registered at the station. The election to the lone parliamentary seat and by-poll in four assembly segments in the state on April 16 recorded 90 per cent voters turn out and the exercise was by and large peaceful.
K Asunga Sangtam of Congress was locked in a straight fight with C M Chang of ruling Nagaland peoples Front (NPF) in the Lok Sabha while there were nine candidates in the fray in the four assembly seats. The fate of the candidates will be known on May 16 when counting will he held at 12 centres across the state.
CM Rio is now ‘Warrior’ of Nagaland morungexpress

Chief Minister Neiphiu-u Rio in traditional war attire along with the elders of Mezoma Village during the 23rd ASU biennial general conference held at the village recently. (Morung Photo / Kuzhovesa Soho)
Mezoma, April 20 (MExN): Referring to what our forefathers called a man with special skills in the field of battle – Great Warrior – the Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu-u Rio, was traditionally anointed as ‘Warrior’ of Nagaland by the Mezoma community. Rio was given this honour during the 23rd biennial general conference of the Angami Students’ Union (ASU) held from April 17 to 19 last, here at Mezoma Village.
Describing Rio politically as the father of Nagaland, the organising committee stated that the CM looked after the affairs of the state despite facing many hardships and difficulties; thereby he can be rightly termed as the warrior of the State, they asserted. The Chief Minister was gifted with significant warrior’s gear – the Spear, to fight enemies and hunt wild animals; the Shield, to protect oneself from the enemies’ spears; the Dao, to be utilised for necessary needs, and a gear head, a symbolic crown of honour, etc.
According to Mezoma tradition, the person who usually put on this attire was someone who had been given the prestigious title of ‘Warrior’. Stating that Rio, being the guardian of the State, was eligible to put on the traditional warrior attire, the committee declared him ‘Warrior’ of Nagaland and wished him prosperity and success in all his upcoming endeavours while dealing with affairs of the State. As you have put on the traditional warrior attire, from now on you will be called the Warrior of the Nagas, declared the organising committee.
Many condemn rape and murder of Zeliangrong child at Delhi The Imphal Free Press From Daniel Kamei

TAMENGLONG, Apr 18: The individuals and different organizations of Zeliangrong community at Tamenglong district strongly condemned the barbaric act of rape and murder of an innocent child at Mahipalpur in Delhi on April 17 and appealed not to repeat such acts. The victim, Gaipuilu, 9, was the daughter of Martin and her mother Aluna is serving as nurse at Indian Spinal Injury Centre at Delhi. They were residing at Mahipalpur. Her original village is Sempang village in Tamenglong but went to reside at Jaluke of Nagaland.

A family member narrated to IFP last night that the incident took place on April 17, when her mother went for duty leaving behind the victim and her grandmother. The child went up to the roof to dry clothes and as the girl did not return after some 20 minutes the grandmother went up and found her missing. She immediately rang up her mother and started searching and finally found the girl in the water tank of another building block. Her post mortem confirmed that she was raped and murdered, the source said.

In the meantime, Sira Kharay, president of the Naga Students Union Delhi (NSUD) informed the IFP that after condolence service at Emmanuel Baptist Church of Zeliangrong Christian Fellowship at Rajniwaz, Delhi a public rally under the banner of “Is the law of the land merely a scarecrow without a law keeper?” was organized and submitted a memorandum to the commissioner of Delhi police HQs, the source said.

Meanwhile, the Zeliangrong Students Union, Tousem area and the Zeliangrong Pui (Woman) Baudi strongly condemned the barbaric act of rape and murder. While condemning the act Ramning, secretary of the Zeliangrong Pui (Woman) Baudi and Ileilung Newmei, convener of ZSUTA said that the north east students were not secure in Delhi. “This is not the first time such incidents happened in Delhi to the north east girls. The concerned authority should book the culprits and befitting punishment awarded to the culprits,” they maintained.

As per the memorandum, the Naga Students Union Delhi have demanded the commissioner of Delhi police arrest the culprits involved immediately, and deploy more police 24x7 in the localities where the vulnerable sections of the society like the north eastern communities reside. Further, the memo demanded setting up of a commission to check the negligence and discrimination by the Delhi police personnel towards the north eastern population, and book them according to the law for dereliction of duty and discrimination towards the minorities like SC/ST.

The memo also demanded setting up of a nodal police officer in charge of north eastern population in South Delhi police station under the capacity of Deputy Police Commissioner, for speedy delivery of justice, like the one set up in North Delhi the memo stated. The memo was signed by Sira Kharay, president of the Naga Student Union Delhi (NSUD) and its general secretary Zuben Ovung.
NSCN on Sianlem incident morungexpress MIP/GPRN
The Easter Sunday morning, i.e. 12 April 2009, incident at Sianlem village under Laju sub-division in Arunachal is most disgraceful. The combined forces of KIA, ULFA, UNLF and NSCN (K) numbering around 80 armed cadres attacked the Naga Army stationed there where one UNLF cadre Haubijun alias Kokillakva was killed. The NSCN (K) group knowing fully well that the Naga Army personnel would be observing Easter Sunday led the attack.
The NSCN (K) can no longer hide its nefarious agenda of fighting its own people with the help of other revolutionary groups. And Naga people are not naïve to pass judgment on your wicked plans. Naga people are very clear of their political issue so also who are genuinely working for the Naga people and who are not. Let it be known that the KIA, ULFA and UNLF are fishing in troubled water for the Naga Army will appropriately dealt with anything to come in its way. These groups would gain nothing by fighting the Nagas. The true revolutionaries do not meddle in other people’s affairs but only the mercenaries do. We believe the KIA, ULFA and UNLF represent their peoples’ aspirations. Fighting the Nagas will not lead you to anywhere.

Nagaland CM seeks PM's intervention in child murder case Indopia
Kohima , Apr 20 Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today sought Prime Minister Manmohan Singh&aposs intervention to ensure justice in the recent alleged rape and murder case of a six-year-old Naga girl in New Delhi.
"It is a matter of serious concern that people from North-east, because of their different ethnic background, appearance and culture have been increasingly subjected to various forms of discriminations and made targets of violence by anti-social elements in New Delhi,"Rio wrote in a letter to the Prime Minister.
The alleged rape and subsequent murder of the minor girl on Friday at Mahipalpur in the national capital, has evoked strong reaction from various organisations of the North-east, particularly from Nagaland. This trend has already made the national capital most unsafe place for the people of north-eastern states, particularly for girls and children. It has to be immediately brought to a halt, the chief minister asserted. Rio urged the Prime Minister to intervene so that people of the region were assured of their safety in the national capital. The victim&aposs body would be brought to her native village in Nagaland&aposs Peren district, leaders of her community said.
NSCN on recent defections MIP/GPRN morungexpress
It is shameful for the defectors who tried to clean themselves by joining other organization. Indiscipline and corruption always bring bad name to the government. And they never felt comfortable and secured due to the sense of guiltiness. Recently, when some Lothas defected to K-group they leave behind a record of their own that compels them to take shelter in K-group.
Sgt. Maj. Samuel Mozhui of Yamparosa Village was discharged from national service for drug abuse and willful disobedience of government order. Sgt. Maj. Chumben Kithan of Sanis Village was involved in extortion. He exploited the GPRN’s name to fill up his pocket. He extorted Rs.2 lakh of NREGS without the knowledge and authorization of GPRN. Myinthungo Humtsoe Pajou Peyu of Yonchucho Village and Pte. Tsulanthung Kikon of Sanis Village has turned themselves as misguided elements.
These sorts of elements in the organization with anti-social character will never contribute towards the process of reconciliation and unity. If K-groups Kilonser RM Lotha can reform these tainted national workers, well and good. The Nagas shall remain grateful to him. But everything is not as made to believe by RM. Lotha.

Fear and despair stalk NC Hills Imti Longchar | EMN
DISEASES, FOOD SHORTAGE LOOM LARGE FOR THE DISPLACED IN RELIEF CAMPS
HAFLONG (NC HILLS), APR 20: North Cachar Hills in Assam is once again caught up in a disturbing conflagration of displacement with the Zeme Nagas facing the brunt of the subversive motives of the Dima Halam Daogah (DHD-J) militants.
Five Zeme Nagas hailing from Boreneu (Choto Nianglo) and Tungie Pungo villages were shot dead and three others injured in a serial killing spree by the Dima Halam Daogah (DHD)-Jewel and Dimasa National Protection Force militants in the month of February (dated-11) and March (dated 19 & 23).
In the last killings on March 23, the DHD (DNPF) militants reportedly turned up at Boreneu village and told the villagers that they were NSCN-IM activists who had come to protect them. The militants then shot dead two youth and injured another even as they were preparing food for them.
An estimated 1100 Zeme Nagas inhabiting the 120 km stretch of the Kohima-Leike road area onward to Haflong, Assam, have taken shelter in Laisong, Lodi and Mahur villages where relief camps have been set up. Another estimated 375 are said to be taking refuge in the villages of Tousem, Phoklong and Mandeu villages under Tamenglong district in Manipur.
A visit to the affected area along with a Naga Hoho team and apex Zeliangrong organisations revealed the pathetic conditions of the relief camps. Rations were found to be in short supply and health conditions, especially of the children, are in a poor state. Moreover, there is no electricity in the area and the displaced villagers are clearly living in constant fear due to lack of protection around the camps.
Cultivation of paddy, maize and vegetables is their only means of earning and livelihood, but normal life has been completely paralysed for most of the eighteen Zeme villages under the area, with womenfolk seeking shelter in the relief camps while their husbands and sons stand guard in various pockets of bunkers and gates.
Starting from the first village Heralwa after passing the Zero Point-Ngam junction of the Nagaland, Assam and Manipur border, most of the villages could be seen reinforced with spiked bamboo barricades, gates and bunkers put up by the villagers themselves.
With regard to government action, besides an isolated visit from the administration to the relief camps with around 50 bags of rice, there has reportedly been no other measures ever since. As for protection, the DC is stated to have told the Naga Hoho delegates that no security has been deputed to the area because of lack of manpower due to election duties.
While most of the men appear to have resigned themselves to their new profession – that of guard their villages and families, they voiced deep worry due to inadequate weapons with only muzzle-loading arms and some shotguns to defend themselves. “If we must fight to protect ourselves and our soil, we need proper arms and ammunitions and also training,” a youth said while asserting that there are already around 70 volunteers waiting to take a stand against the militants.
Zeme Naga leaders and apex organisations on Sunday announced that there is now no question of compromise between the Dimasas and Zeme Nagas in the NC Hills after the recent killings.
The problem of the present misunderstanding originated from the proposal of the Autonomous Council of NC Hills to alter the nomenclature of the district to ‘Dima Hasao Rahi’ meaning ‘Dimasa’s Kingdom’, Zeme leaders stated.
The DHD militants are also stated to have made a three-charter demand that 80% government jobs should be reserved for the Dimasas, all lands be transferred to their ownership and Inner Line Permit (ILP) to be obtained by the rest of the indigenous tribes (non Dimasa tribes).
This proposal was strongly opposed by the Zeme Nagas and supported by non-Dimasa sister tribes such as the Khasis, Hmars and the Kukis through the formation of the Indigenous People Forum (IPF),’ I Zeme, senior leader and former Tatar said.
A Zeme leader also alleged that the NSCN-K cadres were staying with the DHD militants in the area.
According to latest reports from sources, DHD-J militants are stated to be sheltering at Intanki Reserve Forest while the newly formed DHD (Dimama National Protection Force) led by one James is said to be holed up in Jiribam, Assam-Manipur border.
The ratio of population in NC Hills is Dimasas - 37 percent and non-Dimasas - 53 percent.
Naga Hoho assures solidarity with Zeme community Reporter EMN
HAFLONG, APR 20: In a gesture to show solidarity with the suffering Naga brethren in the backdrop of communal flare up resulting in the loss of lives and properties, the Naga Hoho team led by its Speaker HK Zhimomi, Deputy Speaker N Hurui and Information Secretary C Daipoi visited North Cachar Hills and visited members of the aggrieved community.
It may be noted here that five Zeme Nagas were killed and three others injured reportedly by the Dima Halam Daogah (DHD-J & DNPF) militants during the month of February and March.
The Hoho team was also accompanied by the president of the Zeliangrong Baudi Akhang Kamai, Vive President Raitu Elu and Speaker D Abraham along with other members of the Zeliangrong organizations. Relief materials in the form of medicines, clothes and cash were presented by the visiting team to the displaced villagers.
The team first made a stop at one of the relief camp at Laisong village and proceeded towards Haflong where a meeting with the leaders of Zeme apex bodies namely Zeme Council (Assam), Zeliangrong Baudi (Assam) and Zeme Pui Baudi (Assam) were held.
In a series of meeting with the aggrieved members, Naga Hoho speaker assured the Zeme Nagas that all the Nagas are behind them who also said that the sacrifice made today is for the future. ‘You are not taking trouble for your daily bread alone but for all Nagas,’ Zhimomi said while adding that the sacrifice made today is for the future generation.
A written statement detailing the history, situation and the sequence of events of the killings was handed over to the visiting Naga Hoho delegation by the Zeme leaders.
I Zeme, senior leader and former Tatar, informed that the present misunderstanding between the Dimasa and the Zeme communities had originated from the proposal of the Autonomous Council of NC Hills for altering the nomenclature of the district which was strongly opposed by the Zeme Nagas.
The Zeme leaders also requested that a person from the NC Hills area be appointed as Executive member of the Naga Hoho.
Later, the team sought appointment with the DC of NC Hills and deliberated on the conflict at hand and requested for assistance and protection to the Naga villages inhabiting in the area.
Mentioned may also be made here that as a consequence of the fall out, people of Zeme community in thousands had fled their villages and have sought shelter in neighbouring Manipur and Nagaland states. Some were reported taken shelter with their relatives in nearby villages in NC Hills.

North East: "Paradise unxplored" or insurgency brewing ET Bureau Economic Times
"There are risks and costs to a program of action. But they are far less than the long-range risks and costs of comfortable inaction" -- John F. Kennedy

Three people died on average everyday in the Indian states of Assam, Nagaland and Manipur in 2008. First quarter 2009 already threatens to challenge the 2008 figure. Wreckage, devastation, black thick smoke crowning the fires that burn below, mangled and charred dead bodies, scores of limbless injured dripping blood and hundreds of weeping relatives, their faces stark with terror that stems from the fear insurgency has injected into them!

That is the North East today, a cluster of seven states of this republic, which the tourism ministry in all its wisdom and nonchalence still prefers to brand "Paradise Unexplored" !

Welcome to one of the greatest ironies of Free India, 62 years after Independence as the country conducts its 16th Lok Sabha Elections ! Call it the world’s greatest political circus or whatever you will, it is thumbs down in this far-flung corner of India, where poverty rules, development is fairly insignificant in modern-day terms and the earth is soaked red in the blood of people who die on it every day. The only silver lining is Tripura, where militancy has declined, while Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Mizoram are relatively peaceful in so far as insurgency goes. But then, the north eastern sky has always been dark for decades and even if shifting clouds do make away for a spot of silver now and then, you never actually know whether it will last.
In Assam, Nagaland and Manipur there are over 50 insurgency outfits, of which 34 are in Manipur alone. In 2007, Manipur had recorded 388 deaths, caused by militancy, a figure that rose to 484 in 2008. The killed were of all kinds: security forces, civilians and militants too. But what’s interesting is, if you average it all. In 2007, therefore Manipur on average, accounted for 1.06 insurgency-related deaths a day, while in 2008, it was 1.32 deaths a day ! Year-on-year therefore, Manipur’s degree of devastation rose by 24.74%, which is something that those who canvass for votes every election season should perhaps chew on. Overall, Manipur accounted for 47% of the total number of militant murders of the North East.

In 2008, Assam accounted for 384 such causalities and Nagaland 201. Along with Manipur, the three states together lost 1069 lives in calendar 2008, or at the rate of three lives a day. In the last 8 years there were 605 bomb blasts in Assam alone, while in the last three and half months of 2009, more than 20 incidents involving IEDs and grenades have taken place in the state.

During this period 49 civilians and 35 militants have got killed, while 307 from different militant outfits have been arrested while 130 have surrendered. Police claim that in last three months 79 incidents of bomb blasts were prevented and 376 kg of explosives seized in different places of Assam. Still, violence goes on unabated.

In the last 13 years, 3,754 people officially got killed in different insurgent related activities in Assam. During 1996 to 2001, a total of 2,644 cases of violence had taken place, that is at an yearly average of 528. In the period also, 400 security personnel were killed with a yearly average of 80, while 1,536 civilians lost their lives at an average of 307 ! In the period 2001 to 2009, 3,405 incidents of violence had taken place in which 226 security personnel got killed at an average of 28 per year, while 1,592 civilians lost their lives too at the rate of nearly 200 people annually.

When civilians or security personnel are not the target, the militants go about killing each other in what might be called a unique example of selective hysteria about blood. Consider Nagaland and the frequent clashes between the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-IM (NSCN-IM) and National Socialist Council of Nagalim-K (NSCN-K). Atleast 13 cadres of the fledgling National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Unification) got butchered at Seithekima-C village, 15 km off Dimapur in May last year and this wasn’t the only instance of its kind.

In Manipur, extortionists have forced many an estalishment to close down. Every institution is open to extortion including places of worship, educational institutes, health centres, commercial establishments et al. Kanan Devi Memorial School at Pangei in the Imphal East District was closed for an indefinite period. Extortion demands forced the closure of two Government colleges in Imphal. Two private hospitals were closed down due to extortion demands. Several doctors at the state’s premier healthcare establishment, the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) have fled.

In all three states, common ordinary people are afraid to venture out of their homes. Even the home is not safe because you never know when the militants strike. The deadly blast at Maligaon in Guwahati city on April 6 have left an entire group of students of a local primary school, funded by the Prime Minister’s MP fund, so traumatised that they have not been able to attend classes since. In the troubled North East, they have actually started believing "Ignorance is Bliss" if the cost of education has to be paid with the life of a child. In Assam, everybody tells everybody else at home "Avoid crowded places", because that’s exactly where the last 20 serial blasts have happened.
Indian business students snap up copies of Mein Kampf The Telegraph UK Monty Munford in New Delhi
Sales of Mein Kampf, Adolf Hitler's autobiography and apologia for his anti-semitism, are soaring in India where business students regard the dictator as a management guru.


Some Indian management students regard Adolf Hitler as a business strategy role model Photo: PA
Booksellers told The Daily Telegraph that while it is regarded in most countries as a 'Nazi Bible', in India it is considered a management guide in the mould of Spencer Johnson's "Who Moved My Cheese".
Sales of the book over the last six months topped 10,000 in New Delhi alone, according to leading stores, who said it appeared to be becoming more popular with every year.
Several said the surge in sales was due to demand from students who see it as a self-improvement and management strategy guide for aspiring business leaders, and who were happy to cite it as an inspiration. "Students are increasingly coming in asking for it and we're happy to sell it to them," said Sohin Lakhani, owner of Mumbai-based Embassy books who reprints Mein Kampf every quarter and shrugs off any moral issues in publishing the book. "They see it as a kind of success story where one man can have a vision, work out a plan on how to implement it and then successfully complete it".
Jaico Publishing House, one of the publishers in India, said it reprints a new edition of the book at least twice a year to meet growing demand. "We were the first company to publish the book in India and there are now six other Indian publishers of the book, although we were first to take a chance on it," said Jaico's chief editor, R H Sharma, who dismissed any moral issues in publishing Mein Kampf.
"The initial print run of 2,000 copies in 2003 sold out immediately and we knew we had a best-seller on our hands. Since then the numbers have increased every year to around 15,000 copies until last year when we sold 10,000 copies over a six-month period in our Delhi shops," he added. Senior academics cite the mutual influence of India and Hitler's Nazis on one another. Mahatma Gandhi corresponded with the Fuhrer, pro-Independence leader Subhas Chandra Bose's Indian National Army allied with Hitler's Germany and Japan during the Second World War, and the Nazis drew on Hindu symbolism for their Swastika motif and ideas of Aryan supremacy.
Dr J Kuruvachira, Professor of Philosophy of Salesian College in Nagaland and who has cited Mein Kampf as a source of inspiration to the Hindu nationalist BJP, said he believed the book's popularity was due to political reasons. "While it could be the case that management students are buying the book, my feeling is that it has more likely influenced some of the fascist organisations operating in India and nearby," he said.
India is not the only country where Mein Kampf is popular. It has been a best-seller in Croatia since it was first published in while in turkey it sold 100,000 in just two months in 2005. In Russia it has been reprinted three times since the de facto ban on the book was overturned in 1992. In Germany the book's copyright is held by the state of Bavaria where its publication is banned until 2015, 70 years after Hitler's death.
In India, any book more than 25 years old is free of copyright, which has paved the way for six separate publishers to print the book.
PM call to bridge regional divide A STAFF REPORTER The telegraph
Guwahati, April 19: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today sought to resolve the insurgency problem of the Northeast by bridging the regional imbalance.
Addressing the media at Amingaon here, Singh said if the Congress was voted back to power, the party would give more attention to bridge the imbalance between the region and the rest of the country by equal distribution of wealth.
The region needed a growth rate of nine to 10 per cent to bridge the gap and tackle poverty, Singh said. Backwardness and underdevelopment are perceived to be behind insurgency in the region. Singh said he along with his wife Gursharan Kaur would vote in the forthcoming elections in Guwahati.
He could not cast his vote during the 2006 Assembly elections. The insurgent activities were matter of concern for the Centre as well as the Assam government and needed to be tackled with more determination, Singh said. According to him, the Congress’s poll prospect will not be dented by the incidents of violence as the people know only the Congress is determined to solve the problem.
Addressing a rally at Amingaon, Singh appealed to the militant groups to come forward for talks, saying that the government was always ready to hold dialogues with them provided they abjure the path of violence.
He also welcomed the move by the pro-talks Ulfa leaders to shun violence. “One cannot do any good for the poor or the downtrodden through the barrel of the gun,” he said.
Earlier, while dwelling on flood and erosion in the state at the news conference, Singh told journalists that whatever promises his government had made to mitigate the perennial problems would be pursued with renewed vigour if the Congress was voted back to power. “Already some steps have been taken to solve the problems of flood and erosion in Majuli and other parts of the state. Seventy-five projects are being implemented to solve the problem, but I do recognise these are not enough.”
Singh said his earlier proposal of setting up a North East Water Resources Management Agency could not materialise because of a lack of unanimity among all the northeastern states on the issue. A renewed attempt should be made to set up the agency, he said adding that the twin problems of floods and erosion were perceived as national problems.
On the emergence of the AUDF, Singh said: “It will only divide secular votes and to an extent play a disruptive role. Communalism is a serious threat to the unity and integrity of the country.”
“I, therefore, appeal to all those who believe in secular values to unite and vote for the Congress.” He exuded confidence that the Congress would fare well in the elections and said that the Congress-led UPA would again form the government at the Centre.
Abduction bid foiled, 5 ultras shot Staff Reporter Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, April 20 – Army today claimed to have foiled a high-profile abduction bid after it, acting on a tip-off, launched an operation against a group of NDFB and MULTA militants, killing all of them during the course of a fierce exchange of fire, which lasted for almost four hours in Akabasti area under Sonitpur district last night. Of the five militants who were killed during the Army operation, three of them belonged to the NDFB, while the other two represented MULTA.

“The team of five militants were planning to abduct Parash Gurung, a local transporter from Lokhra area, situated couple of kilometres from Balipara,” said Lt Colonel Rajesh Kalia, public relation officer of Army’s 4 Corps Headquarters while talking to The Assam Tribune.

The army, according to Kalia, launched the operation after it received a late night intelligence input about the movement of the militants in the area.

“The army after confirming the presence of the militants cordoned off the area where they were taking refuge. Soon, the militants resorted to indiscriminate firing after which security forces retaliated,” Kalia divulged.

“The operation, which started around 9:30 last night continued till 1 in the morning,” he said. The three NDFB militants were later identified as Prabhat Basumatary, Krishna Basumatary and Daithang Basumatary, of which Prabhat is said to be the mastermind of April 6 Dhekiajuli blast. Babul Ali and Younis Ali were the killed MULTA militants. Army also recovered five 9mm pistols, a Chinese grenade, five kilograms of explosives, 10 detonators and 107 rounds of live ammunitions of AK series rifles.

10 truckloads of arms for ULFA seized Assam Tribune
DHAKA, April 20 – A top Bangladeshi intelligence official has been arrested in connection with the sensational seizures of 10 truckloads of weapons, believed to be destined for ULFA militants in Assam, reports PTI. National Security Intelligence field officer Akbar Hossain Khan was arrested as investigators found clues of his involvement in the arms haul, a Criminal Investigation Department (CID) official told PTI. The weapons were suspected to be bound for ULFA hideouts in northeastern India.

“Khan is now being interrogated after he was remanded in custody for two days under a court order following his arrest,” the official said.

The 10 truckloads of weapons, which included over 27,000 grenades, 150 rocket launchers, over 11 lakh ammunition and 1,100 sub-machine guns, were seized after the arms were unloaded at a government jetty on April 2004.

Investigators earlier said one Hafizur Rahman organised the unloading of the weapons from a ship to two fishing vessels in the sea and then loaded them in 10 trucks after their landing at a state-run fertiliser factory in Chittagong on instructions of ULFA leader Paresh Barua.

They had earlier questioned 26 Navy officials, who were serving at that time in Coast Guard. The officials could be called for further interrogation.

The arrest came weeks after the investigations indicated involvement of political bigwigs in the weapon haul, giving a new twist to the case.

Officials said Hossain had reportedly hired the 10 trucks under the fake name of National Security Intelligence (NSI) field officer ‘Abul Hossain’ to carry the weapons.

Officials said there was a deliberate attempt on the part of the then administration under former prime minister Khaleda Zia’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party to suppress facts in the case to weaken it. “We have got the leads from confessional statements (of the suspects) that the weapon consignment was meant for ULFA,” public prosecutor Kamal Uddin last month told reporters after two businessmen and major suspects in the case — reportedly engaged by ULFA for transporting the weapons to India — gave confessional statement before a court.

The Prothom Alo newspaper earlier said that their own investigation had found that the ULFA had planned to smuggle the weapons using the Bangladesh territory. The paper also named a lawmaker who is now hiding abroad to evade the murder charge of a television model.
Bodo Peace Forum to support BJP in Mangaldai Correspondent Assam tribune
KALAIGAON, April 20 – Bodo People’s Forum for Peace and Rights has suddenly declared their support to BJP candidate Ramen Deka in No. 8 Mangaldai HPC. The support will be significant as Bodo Peace Forum has been known as the consulting body of NDFB.

At an urgently called press meet at Kalaigaon AGP-BJP election office on Sunday, Srimal Eaglari, president of Kabirali Anchalik committee and Bhabi Ram Kachari, president of Kalaigaon Anchalik committee of Bodo Peace Forum, told media persons that, following the decision taken by their high command, Bodo Peoples Forum for Peace and Rights had declared their conditional support to BJP candidate Ramen Deka in Mangaldai HPC.

Both of them alleged that NDFB cadres, staying in the designated camps, had been unhappy at the peace process with the Government of India. According to them, the Government of India has totally failed to solve the Bodo problems. Niranjan Singh, president of Udalguri district BJP, formally welcomed the Bodo Peace Forum officials at the press meet.

AGP leaders Dhaneswar Deka, secretary, Kalaigoan LAC election committee and Dhruba Saikia also attended the press meet. Replying to a question, Bhabi Ram Kachari said that the decision to support BJP in Mangaldai HPC was taken after consultation with NDFB leaders. He also said that they would arrange at least 1.5 lakh more votes in favour of Ramen Deka of BJP in Mangaldai HPC. Niranjan Singh claimed that with open support of NDFB, BJP would secure at least 5 lakh votes, enough to make Ramen Deka the winner. But the Bodo leaders failed to give reasons for their supporting Congress candidate, Mani Kumar Subba in Tezpur HPC.

Violence refuses to die down Three NDFB, 2 MULTA militants gunned down Sentinel
TEZPUR, April 20: Five militants — three from NDFB and two from MULTA — were killed in a gunbattle with a joint team of the Army and Assam Police at Akabasti in the Khonamukh area under Charduar police station in Sonitpur district in the wee hours today. A large quantity of weapons and explosives were recovered from the militants.
The gunbattle began at midnight on Sunday and it continued for about three hours. According to sources, acting on a tip-off that a group of NDFB and MULTA militants were camping in a house in the village with a specific mission to exchange arms and kidnap a businessman for ransom, the Army and police cordoned off the area. When security personnel was zeroing in on the house, the militants fired at them from inside. The security forces retaliated the firing and the encounter continued for three hours during which five militants were shot dead, while others fled taking the cover of darkness, sources said.
Five kilograms of explosives, 10 detonators, 141 live cartridges of AK-47 Rifles and one Chinese grenade were recovered from the dead militants who have been identified as NDFB cadres Prabhat Basumatary, Krishna Basumatary and Deithang Basumatary, and MULTA cadres Babul Ali and Yunus Ali.

Frans on 04.20.09 @ 10:09 PM CST [link]


Sunday, April 19th

“No-frill” banking for the poor Our Correspondent Morungexpress



“No-frill” banking for the poor Our Correspondent Morungexpress

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and others during the inaugural session of the 23 biennial general conference of the Angami Students Union on Saturday at Mezoma village. (Morung Photo/Chizokho Vero)

Mezoma | April 18: Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today appealed to all ‘defaulters’ who took loans from the Nagaland State Cooperative Bank (NSBC) to clear their liabilities at the earliest and ensure ‘recycling of funds’. This is to ensure that other ‘deprived section’ of the community is also in a position to reap the benefit of financial assistance from the bank, he reasoned.
Expressing concern over poor loan-recovery, Rio said one has to pay back ‘when it had benefited’. Launching the state-wide campaign on “No Frill Saving Account” by NSCB on the sidelines of the 23rd general conference of the Angami Students’ Union here, Rio said he had learned from the management of the bank that from time to time they introduce packages with a view to provide relief to ‘defaulters’ through one time settlement, one time compromise settlement, special default settlement and so on. “But the response was far below expectation and only few people approached the management to avail benefit under schemes while most others remained unconcerned,” he said.
Rio declared that the state government, being the largest share-holder of the bank, will not remain a mute spectator and will certainly initiate strong measures to recover dues from ‘willful defaulters whatever might their affiliation and status so that the only local bank can be strong and vibrant’.
He said that the bank has been able to carry forward responsibilities entrusted to it through the network of branches spread over the state for the last 42 years. “With a view to bring more and more people under its fold, I am told that the bank has drawn up diversified plans and programmes, which is presently obstructed due to mounting of overdue and poor recovery of loan,” Rio said.
Referring to the state-wide campaign on “No Frill Saving Bank Account” under the financial inclusion policy, he said even the poorest of the poor shall have access to banking facilities by opening accounts with zero-balance. “…People interested to open such accounts shall not be subjected to any hassles as the KYC (‘know-your-customer’) procedures are simplified and such account holders can avail micro-credit at their times of need,” he said.
Rio expressed happiness that the bank has been playing pivotal roles in improving the socio-economic condition of the people of the state. He made special reference to the rural masses and weaker sections of the community consisting of agricultural farmers, cooperators, artisans and weavers and so on. They are extended thrift and credit through primary agricultural cooperative societies and individuals.
Earlier, NSCB managing director BK Thadani said “ my bank is here today to propagate the message that the bank with is a state partnered bank is committed to ensure banking facilities to the unprivileged and under privileged section of the people of Nagaland who are deprived of banking services from time immemorial.”
With this aim in view, he said the NSCB has introduced mass-banking and financial inclusions to enable even the poorest of the poor, the small farmers, marginal farmers, sub-marginal farmers, the unemployed youth and other weaker sections of the society to have access to banking and affordable credit facilities.
A ‘no-frill” accounts can be opened either with ‘Nil’ or very minimal balance as well as charges that would make such accounts accessible to the vast sections of the population, he said.
Thadani also appealed to the students’ community particularly the ASU to patronize the local bank and to extend all possible assistance in fulfilling commitment for the development of the state in general and the down-trodden and rural population in particular. The NSCB official also lauded the chief minister “who was kind enough to stand firm to protect the bank in the hour of crisis when the RBI had imposed embargo on the bank in view of poor recycling of fund to low-level of recovery.”
Prayers For Raped, Murdered Naga Girl MorungExpress News

(Left) Six-year old Naga girl Gaipuilu Gangmei is seen here in a photograph protestors displayed at a protest rally today near the Delhi Police HQ, Pragati Maidan in Delhi. Naga students in Delhi took out the rally denouncing April 17 rape and murder of the minor. (Betoka Photos)
Dimapur| April 18 : A day after the loathsome rape and murder of a six-year old Naga girl, Gaipuilu Gangmei, in Delhi’s Mahipalpur colony, a condolence service was held at Emanuel Baptist Church which was attended by over 300 people.
According to sources in Delhi, the family members of the victim and the Naga Students’ Union Delhi have met the Joint Commissioner of Police and the Deputy Commissioner of Police at the Delhi police headquarters in New Delhi. A memorandum was submitted there by the NSUD on behalf of the victim’s family, demanding fair and speedy investigation. The Joint Commissioner has assured the family that the culprits will be booked at the earliest, sources informed.
Sources informed that the victim’s body is still lying in the morgue and the official postmortem result will be declared only on Monday. Two suspects have been detained by the Delhi police in connection with the case, one of whom is the father of the main accused, one Manoj. Manjo is still at large. It was also informed that the victim’s body would be brought back to Nagaland for the last rites.
Meanwhile, the north-east community is expressing outrage at the rape and murder of the minor girl. Today, north-east community leaders went to the Delhi Police Head Office, demanding justice for the shameful crime. The delegation demanded that the Delhi police arrest the murders and absconding suspects without delay.
“North-east communities in Delhi and NCR have been targeted and continuously suffering at the hands of people for last four years. Young girls have been targeted, abused and assaulted sexually and physically,” the North East Support Center & Helpline today said in a message.
Postmortem result on Monday
It lamented that the mindset of the mainland people towards north easterners living in Delhi is that they are “cheap, strangers and a helpless community” one can “do anything one likes and none will bother, has been the major factors of the discrimination” the NESC said.
On top of these woes, the delay and denial and negligence of the police have added fuel to the fire of hurt and discrimination, the communities lamented. “In most of the cases where assaulted on NE communities, were denied and delayed in lodging the complaints. Until and unless media pressure is mounted, most of concerned police do not bother” the support-center said adding that “stories do not end here”.
Most of the cases registered are not taken up to punish the culprits or render justice to the victims, it said. It was informed that the NE Support Centre & Helpline team will soon meet the chief minister of Delhi and state officials to look into the cases pending and also to ensure appropriate action. The NE Support Centre & Helpline on behalf of the NE community appeals for immediate action to be taken to deliver justice and prevent further discrimination.
Also, condemning the crime, the Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) expressed hurt and anger over the rape and murder of the Naga girl. A press release issued by the NPMHR from Delhi said the “horrific murder serves as a chilling reminder of how unsafe the capital of India is, especially for women and children; if an innocent six-year old is not safe in the confines of her home, it reveals the degree of violence and danger that children are exposed to.”
NPMHR expressed concerns stating that the people of the northeast region have been marginalized in the city of Delhi. “The prevailing mainstream perception and stereotype on the northeast people, in particular of the women has fuelled conditions which make northeast women vulnerable to violence and discrimination,” the note stated. The organization pointed out that not a single case of rape, murder or abuse of northeast women has been addressed in just and fair manner and that they continue to be targets of violence.
Criticizing the slack response from both the administration and governance, right from the Delhi police to the court system, NPMHR said the trend “has proven to be appalling and that the family and the community of the aggrieved have been made to fend for themselves in a very alienating and antagonizing environment.” Such apathy on the part of the administration only demonstrates the systemic racial discrimination meted out to the people of the northeast, the NPMHR said.
The organization has demanded that the case of Gaipiliu should be investigated at the earliest and the culprits booked without delay. The authorities in concern are also urged to start taking cognizance of the systemic racial discrimination against people of the northeast and initiate necessary measures to address it.
Two DHD(J) militants held in Nagaland The Hindu
Kohima (PTI): Two militants of the Jewel faction of Dima Halom Daogah (DHD-J), responsible for recent violence in Assam's NC Hills district, have been arrested at Dimapur during a raid, police said on Sunday.
Acting on a tip-off, special branch of Nagaland police conducted the raid near Industrial Estate on Saturday and arrested Gokul Giri, an alleged arms peddler, and 'Corporal' Samarjit Hashu alias Sweet Dimasa of the outfit.
According to police, Giri allegedly used to supply arms and ammunitions to NE militant groups. Recently, he had supplied about 300 AK-47 rifles and a large quantity of ammunition and explosives to some militant groups of the region, they said.
Hashu had gone to collect some consignments from Giri's house, police added.
The arrested duo during interrogation admitted that two AK-47 rifles along with 233 live rounds, which were smuggled from Myanmar, were passed on to a militant group based in north east two days back, police said, adding that during the raid they recovered some AK-47 ammunition from the ultras' possession.
Naga students protest over five-year-old girl's death Times of India
NEW DELHI: A day after a five-year-old girl from Nagaland was found murdered in Mahipalpur in south Delhi, the Naga Students' Union, Delhi (NSUD)
submitted a memorandum to the police commissioner on Saturday, demanding an immediate arrest of the culprit.

The victim, who had come to the city two months ago to spend her summer vacations with her mother, was found lying in an empty water tank on a terrace on Friday afternoon with injury marks on her neck and private parts. She was rushed to the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre (ISIC) in Vasant Kunj where she was declared brought dead. Police said that the girl seemed to have been raped but only the post-mortem report could confirm it.

On Saturday, more than 100 students and professionals from the various North-eastern states gathered outside the police headquarter near ITO demanding justice for the victim and security for the women in the city. "We want speedy investigation and trial in the case. The culprit should be brought to book soon so that nobody else attempts such an act again. We plan to submit a memorandum to the home minister and the Prime Minister too,'' said M Gonmei, former advisor, NSUD.
Keishing demeans party-hoppers By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Apr 18: Rajya Sabha MP Rishang Keishing has categorically stated that the politics of the self-styled leaders who have no definite principle of their own and keep hopping from one political party to another during election time has become suffocating.
Addressing a public meeting held in connection with the election campaign of Dr Th Meinya, the Congress candidate for the Inner Manipur Parliamentary Constituen-cy which would go to poll on April 22, at Khurai Popular High School ground today, Keishing said such self-styled leaders would not last long and their promises are hollow.
Pointing out that there is no other political party in the country other than Congress which is the oldest and longest party at helm of the Government, the seasoned Cong- ressman said false charges being levelled against Congress by some political parties only during election time with an eye on the vote bank is ridiculous.
“Trading charges during election time would not bring any good. Instead of that any political leaders who is worth his salt and intent to work for the welfare of the State and its people should be ready to come out and debate on the important issues besetting the State,” Keishing challenged.
Maintaining that the Congress led SPF Government in the State has been taking up various developmental works, Keishing, who is also the longest serving Chief Minister of the State called upon the UG groups not to interfer in the developmental activities of the Government but to co-operate in resolving the insurgency problem so as to usher in peace and development in the region.
Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh, who was also present, noted that Congress-led SPF Govt has completed seven years today and it has been living up to its responsibility of ensuring a stable Government.
Over the past seven years, the SPF Government has accomplished many developmental works yet there are still many more things that need to be done. So to bring about a revolutionary change in the Manipuri society, the position of the Congress led UPA Government at the Centre needs to be strengthened, he said, while appealing to the voters to support Congress party and exercise their in favour of party candidate.
The Chief Minister further said that the SPF Government views the Opposition parties on same footing. But the manner of targeting the Government is so despicable that they (Opposition parties) need to be taught a befitting lesson this time.
The public meeting organised by the Khurai Block Congress Committee was also attended by other Congress MLAs and Ministers.
Similar election meetings of the Congress party were conducted at Wangkhei and Lamlai today wherein the party leaders pleaded the voters to cast their votes in favour of Congress candidate Dr Meinya.
‘Third Front will repeal AFSPA’ PTI
Sibsagar, April 18 (PTI): If the Third Front comes to power it will repeal the Armed Forces Special Power Act (AFSPA), CPI General Secretary A B Bardhan said on Saturday. “The controversial AFSPA must go as it has resulted in creating fear in the minds of people and has served no purpose. We will abolish it, if we come to power,” Mr. Bardhan, who was here to campaign for CPI candidate for Jorhat Lok Sabha seat Dhrupad Borgohain, said. “We will also rethink about the nuclear deal with the US,” he added.
He also asserted that Assam must be given a special constitutional status like Jammu and Kashmir as it is facing a similar situation. “Assam has many problems like porous international borders, unabated influx from across the border which has threatened the existence of local people and above all terrorism which can be tackled effectively only by special constitutional status,” Bardhan said.
The Congress, he said, claims that growth rate has increased but it is only the number of millionaires that has increased with the condition of 78 per cent of the population remaining same, he said. Borgohain is locked in a triangular contest with sitting Congress MP and Union Minister B K Handique and BJP’s Kamakhya Prasad Tasa.

DHD-J targets goods train again OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Silchar, April 18: Suspected Dima Halam Daogah (J) militants sprayed bullets on yet another train in North Cachar Hills district, thwarting efforts to resume train services in the volatile district for the second time in three days. However, there were no casualties.
This was the fourth attack on a train in the district by the outfit since April 10.
The DHD (J) rebels opened fire on a goods train between Lumding and Haflong near Migrendisa station on the metre gauge rail track of NF Railways around 10.30am today. The train had to be terminated at the station.
The incident occurred at a time when the railways had deployed two companies of the security forces to strengthen the security structure along the tracks in the insurgency-prone district and were toying with a plan to induct army formations for patrolling along the serpentine metre gauge section.
The Dimasa outfit had on April 15 rained bullets on a goods train running between Badarpur and Lumding at Migrendisa, 19km from the district headquarters town of Haflong.
Debashis Dhar Choudhury, the area officer of the NF Railways at Badarpur junction in Karimganj district, today said the incident came just when the railway authorities resumed the goods train movement which had been suspended on April 11.
He said there were no casualties during the exchange of fire today between the security forces and the small band of about half-a-dozen gun-toting tribal rebels.
The gunmen later managed to flee into the jungles on either side of the railway track, which was repaired only last night to enable the goods trains to run.
Dhar Choudhury said he was awaiting instructions from the NF Railways headquarters in Maligaon as to whether any such goods train would be steamed off from here tomorrow in view of today’s firing.
On April 10, the DHD (J) attacked the only passenger train which was kept running in the district, killing one CRPF constable and injuring 17 others near Wadrengdisha. On April 11, two special police officers of the railways were killed and another injured when the rebels attacked a goods train carrying rice at Diajobra station under Langting police station.
NPMHR Delhi concerned over murder of Naga girl Sangai Express NNN
Imphal, Apr 18: The Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR), Delhi is extremely hurt and angry at the rape and murder of an innocent six-year- old girl Gaipuiliu Gangmei. The young girl was living with her mother and grandmother in Mahipalpur, Delhi, said the NPMHR-Delhi.
It said that this horrific murder serves as a chilling reminder of how unsafe the capital of India is, especially for women and children. “If an innocent six-year-old is not safe in the confines of her home, it reveals the degree of violence and danger that children are exposed to,” terms the NPMHR-Delhi.
“The Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) is deeply concerned that the people of the Northeast region have been marginalized in the city of Delhi. The prevailing mainstream perception and stereotype on the Northeast people, in particular of the women has fuelled conditions which make Northeast women vulnerable to violence and discrimination. Our experience has shown that New Delhi has not been safe for women from the Northeast. And recent history has shown that not a single case of rape, murder, abuse of Northeast women has been addressed in a just and fair manner. Justice delayed is justice denied and sadly, northeast women continue to be targets of violence,” alleged the NPMHR-Delhi.
It then stated that in the various instances the response of administration and governance, right from the Delhi police to the court system has proven to be appalling.
“The family and the community of the aggrieved have been made to fend for themselves in a very alienating and antagonizing environment. The lack of response and responsibility on the part of the administration has been very disturbing.
The callous response of the administrative system has only demonstrated that the systemic racial discrimination meted out to the people of the northeast,” further alleged the NPMHR-Delhi. It also demanded to case and bring the culprits into book at the earliest.

UNLF mocks AR claim The Imphal Free Press

IMPHAL, April 18: The UNLF in a press release today mocked the claim by the Assam Rifles PRO that only one soldier was killed and six injured in the attack by the MPA, the party`s armed wing on April 14 at the Kasom area in Ukhrul district.

This was deliberate attempt by the Assam Rifles to hide its badly bruised ego at having been humiliatingly defeated by the UNLF in battle.

It said the bodies carried away in helicopters on the day is evidence of their defeat, and also claimed that in order to hide the fact from the media the injured where flown straight to Kolkata and not treated as usual at Leimakhong army hospital.

It said the soldiers posted at Singhat, Sajik Tampak, Khengjoy Range and Kasom are on their nerves` ends trying to anticipate what the UNLF would do next and many of them are driven to suicide, it said.

The UNLF release also said the current "Operation Summer Storm" is aimed at destroying the Sangai (Brow Antlered Deer) and its habitat. Those that the army claimed killed are also most likely to be civilians, it said.

As for the MPA, it does not have any camp in the area, and even if it did, there is precious little that the Indian Army can do about it, the release said.

UG camps busted at Khoidumpat, arms seized
The Imphal Free Press

Imphal, Apr 18: Temporary camps of underground activists were destroyed today by a combined team of Imphal west police commandos and 12th Maratha Light Infantry and several sophisticated arms and ammunitions along with assorted articles recovered after a search operation at Khoidumpat area under Waikhom police station.

In relation to the incident, L Kailun, SP Imphal west, who was involved in the operation told the media that on receiving specific information about the presence of armed cadres in Khoidumpat area, the combined team launched an operation today from 11 am to 2 pm.

He further said that the security personnel were fired upon by unknown armed cadres on reaching Khoidumpat and the security men retaliated resulting in firing from both sides for about 15-20 minutes.

After the firing ceased, the area was thoroughly searched and one temporary camp belonging to the outlawed KCP (Noyon faction) and two temporary camps of the Prepak were found destroyed.

During further search of the camps, the team recovered a generator set, an inverter set with battery, assorted utensils and kitchen materials, a gas cylinder and stove, three plastic chairs, one A-4 rifle, one universal machine gun, one lethod gun with five lethod bombs, one W/T set, five Chinese hand grenades and assorted ammunitions.





Frans on 04.19.09 @ 05:44 PM CST [link]


Saturday, April 18th

Minor girl raped, murdered in Delhi The Sangai Express



Minor girl raped, murdered in Delhi The Sangai Express

Imphal, April 17 2009: In an incident that was as abhorrent as it was shocking and chilling, a six-year old Naga girl was raped and murdered at Mahipalpur in New Delhi today. Police have arrested a suspect though another is absconding.

The victim belonged to Zeliangrong community. Her father, a businessman, is from Nagaland and the mother who is a nurse working there is from Manipur. According to spokesperson of NE Helpline Modhuchandra, the incident came to light at around 1.45 pm today after the mother of the girl went up to the terrace of the building in which they are staying to look for her daughter. The daughter had gone to the terrace to dry clothes at around 1 pm. But as she did not come down after a while, the worried mother went looking for her. After a thorough search, the victim was found inside a water storage tank located at another building. She was immediately taken to Spinal Injury Centre, a hospital at Vasant Kunj, where the doctors examined and confirmed the rape. Along with lodging a complaint with the Commissioner of Police, Vasant Kunj, police have started investigation into the incident. So far, a suspect who is a young boy staying in the same building has been arrested by the police and the hunt for an absconding Nepali boy is on.
Assam police refuses to vacate Naga school morungexpress
Dimapur, April 17 (MExN): In spite of repeated requests from the government of Nagaland, and even a directive from the Election Commission of India, a platoon of the Assam Police that occupied a school in Longleng has refused to vacate it. Assam Armed Police have forcibly occupied a Government Primary School building, a Nagaland-designate polling station, in Ladigarh, under Tamlu assembly constituency in Longleng. Because of the platoon’s refusal to vacate the school even after the Election Commission’s directive, polling could not be held at the station on April 16. The state went to polls for her lone Lok Sabha seat as well as to four assembly constituencies of the state.
The building was constructed in 1980 by the state government of Nagaland and was approved as a polling station. The polling station was approved during the early part of 1971 and residents of the Naga village have been exercising their franchise since then. Mention may be made here that even the Chief Electoral officer of Nagaland had issued a statement a few days ago that even in the past, polling activities were held at Ladigarh without hindrance. The Assam Police did not vacate the building in spite of repeated requests by the Nagaland government as well as directives of the Election Commission of India for which no polling was held, the deputy commissioner of Longleng CK Nihekhu Sema stated today in a message.
“The district administration and police of Sivsagar are doing it intentionally and by force without obtaining permission from deputy commissioner of Longleng or director of School Education, Nagaland” the DC said. The forcible occupation of the building by the Assam Police, which does not belong to them, is a clear case of trespass, the DC stated. For this reason, the DC added, the Assam police are liable to pay to the Nagaland government land rent and house rent “as much as we ask for”.
Army aid for Ao Kashiram village morungexpress
Col Ashwani Gupta, CO of 69 Engineer Regiment, in this image released to media seen here presenting a solar lamp to Temjen Jamir, chairman of the Ao Kashiram Village Council.
Dimapur, April 17 (MExN): Ao Kashiram village has been provided “infrastructural aid” as part of the overall plan for development of villages in Nagaland “as envisioned by Lt. Gen. R K Loomba, AVSM, GOC Spear Corps”.
Stating that the aid would ensure that “locals are provided basic necessities and amenities for better healthcare and living conditions specially in remote areas of Nagaland where basic necessities are nonexistent”, the 69 Engineer Regiment of the Spear Corps on April 15 donated solar lanterns, water filters, and high resolution searchlights and various other accessories to the villagers of Ao Kashiram. The OIC Media Cell of HQ 3 Corps informed in a press release that the contributions were handed over to Temjen Jamir, chairman of the Ao Kashiram Village Council, by Col Ashwani Gupta, CO of the 69 Engineer Regiment of the Spear Corps, on behalf of Gen Loomba. It was also informed that the Village Council chairman conveyed gratitude to Gen Loomba and the Army Engineers for extending their support “for upliftment of the Naga village in the larger interest of the people of Nagaland”.

Phased vote in Dhansa OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph


Cops to stalk red moves
Patna, April 17: Determined to provide their voters adequate security, Rohtas’s election machinery conducted polls at only three booths (out of nine) in Dhansa valley yesterday with maximum security present at the time of election.
The remaining six booths are slated to go to polls on April 19, a decision that was taken by the district poll machinery, headed by district magistrate Shravan M.
A request letter to his effect was forwarded to principal home secretary Afzal Amanullah who in turn forwarded it to the Election Commission.
Dhansa valley has as many as nine stations that are said to fall under the “liberated” zone of the CPI(Maoist) and have not witnessed polling in the past 20 years, with Maoists setting up their own police, executive and judicial system there.
This is the same place where on April 15 red guerrillas shot rocket launchers at a school and demolished it, beginning a four-hour gun battle with a BSF camp that was being put up there. The encounter killed 10 rebels and forced the Maoists to retreat to the surrounding forests.
The state poll authorities believe that April 19 — a poll-free day in the rest of the country — will be an ideal date as extra forces would be readily available. They are also hopeful that the election commission approve of their decision —which should arrive in the district by tomorrow morning.
Yesterday, Rohtas administration had deployed 130 companies of central paramilitary forces in the state that saw polls in most of its red zones yesterday. But, the officials felt that the Centre should have supplied at least 260 companies of the paramilitary forces.
Contrary to the perception that the politically conscious Bihar, where 46 per cent of its electorate cast their votes, saw a relatively low percentage of votes being cast (as against Kerala and Nagaland) authorities here are satisfied with the turnout.
“Nagaland is thinly populated and even if eight out of its 10 people cast their votes, the record shows as 80 per cent. On the other hand, Bihar’s constituencies have 13 to 15 lakh voters and given the concentration of the population 46 per cent voting is quite satisfactory,” said a senior official.
He added that ongoing harvest and wedding seasons may have stopped voters from joining in the process, along with the Maoist threat.
“Yesterday, Rohtas administration selected only three booths, out of nine, to conduct elections. Each booth had a police platoon (comprising 16 jawans) manning it,” said principal home secretary Afzal Amanullah. “People turned up to vote after almost 20 years.”
These three booths in Dhansa valley of Sasaram Lok Sabha constituency recorded 50 per cent of votes against Bihar’s total poll percentage of 46 in the first phase of polling.
Union minister and Congress nominee Meera Kumar is contesting to retain the seat from Rohtas.
“Yesterday’s enthusiastic turnout proved that the people still have faith in the democratic process,” the home secretary said, adding: “The administration has apprised the commission about its strategy of conducting phase-wise polls in Dhansa valley and has asked permission to conduct the second phase polls on April 19.”
Nagaland polled 90.21% morungexpress
Dimapur, April 17 (MExN): Nagaland recorded a voter turnout percentage of 90.21 for the Lok Sabha elections held on April 16, according to Chief Electoral Officer of Nagaland, CJ Ponraj.
April 20 for 3 re-polls Kiphire district recorded the highest with 97.49% voter turnout while Kohima district recorded the lowest at 79.30%. Kiphire district recorded the highest percentage in the 2004 Parliamentary elections as well, with 97.97%. The others are Dimapur at 83.47 %, Peren at 91.60%, Kohima at 79.30%, Pughoboto at 93.66%, Phek at 94.12%, Mokokchung at 86.26%, Zunheboto at 93.58%, Wokha at 94.76%, Mon at 93.56%, Longleng at 96.49%, Tuensang at 96% while Kiphire registered a voter turnout of 97.49%. For the four assembly segment by-elections, the voter turnout percentage registered 3-Dimapur III at 82.88%, 17-Chizami at 91.40% and 41-Tizit at 83.42% while 54-Tuensang Sadar registered a voter turnout of 83.35%.

Re-polls for three stations The Chief Electoral Officer of Nagaland CJ Ponraj has said that the Election Commission of India has ordered re-poll in three polling stations in the state, which will be held on April 20, Monday, from 7AM to 4 PM. Re-poll will be held at polling station No.16 of Thechulumi village ‘B’ wing under 17-Chizami Assembly Constituency for sssembly by-election and at polling station No. 8 of Tuensang village ‘A’ for both parliamentary and assembly by-elections. The ECI had ordered re-poll in the two polling stations following damage to Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) by miscreants. Under Chizami, a miscreant identified as one Daniel has been arrested and a case has been registered, while at Tuensang, case has been registered against “the miscreants” and police are investigating the matter. The ECI has also ordered re-poll at Polling station 28 of Penkim village under 60 Pungro Kiphire AC on account of excess polling.

UK team meets, Governor, CM, (NPN)



GOC 2 UK Divison Major Gen. David Mc Dowall and his team with Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio on Friday. (DIPR)
DIMAPUR General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 UK Division, Major General Mc Dowall accompanied by some senior officers paid courtesy call on state governor, K. Sankaranarayanan and chief minister, Neiphiu Rio Friday at their respective official residence.
According to official bulletin the state chief minister while highlighting on the World War II Museum at Kisama to visiting team said that the government was coming up with a permanent structure for the Heritage village.
He further reflected on the Naga political issue and on the recently held Naga Consultative Meet and the resolutions passed during the Meet.
The General and his team informed the chief minister that a simple wreath laying ceremony in the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery, Kohima would be conducted on April 18.
“British people hold Naga people with great affection” said Major General and wished chief minister success in his endeavours.

NPF questions Church's neutrality Tells Church to 'uphold true Christian principles' (Page News Service)
Dimapur, April 17: In an unprecedented move, the NPF has questioned the "neutrality" of the powerful Church in Nagaland as well as questioning "the conduct" of some Church leaders.
The NPF was reacting to the statement made by the various Church bodies over the reported remark made by State chief minister Neiphiu Rio that "marrying and living with more than one wife is accepted in Naga society."
Terming the CM's remark as "deplorable", Churches in Nagaland had declared that polygamy is against Christian teachings and practices.
In a press release issued by its general secretary, Gonei-u Angami, the NPF Kohima Division said, "It is very unfortunate that Churches had taken hasty decision by approaching the press on this issue which posed serious questions about the conduct of some Church leaders." It urged the Church to "maintain its good image" and "neutrality" in order to uphold true Christian principles.
In its reaction to the CM's remark, the powerful Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) had said, "God sets the rules for marriage and therefore the church is against polygamy," while the Assemblies of God, Kohima said, "Since polygamy is not accepted in the church, any of its members involved in polygamy or propagates polygamy is unacceptable."
The Council of Naga Baptist Churches (CNBC) and Kohima Chakhesang Baptist Church also said upholding of polygamy and extra-marital affairs is "un-Biblical and damages sanctity and purity of Christian doctrines," while the Kohima Baptist Pastors' Fellowship (KBPF) said the CM's statement had hurt the sentiments of the Church "because it is totally wrong and misleading."
Maintaining that Rio is an active member of the Church, the NPF Kohima Division said the question of his integrity as a true Christian does not arise as alleged by the Church leaders.
"It has come as a shock that these men of God had made serious charges against him even without verifying the authenticity of the press reporter, thereby, damaged the good reputation of the Chief Minister in the eye of the public," it added.
Assault on freedom of the press Eastern Mirror
THE LATEST ASSAULT on a member of the press by an IRB jawan is shameful and calls for the strongest condemnation. The Mokokchung Correspondent of Eastern Mirror was covering a situation involving the IRB personnel when one of the jawans took umbrage at a photograph being taken and butted him with his assault rifle.
Harassment and assaults on media persons while on duty are not new and numerous incidents have taken place over the years. But what is most disturbing about such incidents is that the state appears almost indifferent at best and complicit at worst.
In this particular case, the Mokokchung Press Club filed an FIR soon after the incident and demanded that the district administration should initiate immediate steps to identify the guilty jawan and see that appropriate action is taken against him. It also asked that a public apology be tendered to the press fraternity as a whole.
Surprisingly, even after the passage of three days, no response has been forthcoming from the administration. It may be reminded that the incident had taken place inside the DC’s office complex itself. We also notice with a sense of incredulity that there has been no official reaction whatsoever from the IRB authorities.
We understand that the state machineries have been preoccupied with the election process. However, an election surely cannot be an excuse for lawlessness to rule the roost.
When it comes to the IRB, they hit the headlines too frequently for reasons one cannot be too proud of. But despite the compelling evidences that they had stepped outside the bounds of their authority in many cases, authoritative action by the state has been rare, except by the merest off-chance. We are having therefore a situation where impunity reigns to an extent that even a journalist is being targeted for doing his job.
The freedom that a journalist has to impart information remains precariously balanced in a place like Nagaland where many a conflict exists. With increasing impunity prevailing, this balance will become even more dangerously tilted. But high and lofty pronouncements on the right that a journalist has to impart information to the public are of little use when the deafening silence of the administration and concerned authorities sends out the message that it gives little credence to such abuse of the law.
On enquiring about the steps being taken on the FIR, the district police are said to have told the MPC that investigation will begin only on Saturday as they have been occupied with the election process. We wait in hope that they will now sincerely pursue the matter free from encumbrances of other vital duties.
We would also like to remind the State Government of the need for stern action to deter such blatant violation of the rule of law from occurring again in future.

More condemn assault on Mkg scribe
DIMAPUR, APR 17 (EMN): The assault of a journalist in Mokokchung by IRB personnel on the evening of April 14 outside the office of DC Mokokchung continues to draw condemnations from various organisations even as the district administration and the IRB authorities failed to initiate action or apologise on the third day following the incident.
An ultimatum served to the DC Mokokchung by the Mokokchung Press Club (MPC) demanding identification and punishment of the erring personnel, subsequent to the assault of Mokokchung Correspondent of Eastern Mirror, has failed to draw any response. Surprisingly, the members of MPC informed that no intimation and approach has been made by Commandant of 12 IR Bn regarding the assault.
Mokokchung-based journalists under the banner of MPC registered their protest against the incident by wearing black arm bands while covering the Lok Sabha elections. The MPC had also resolved to boycott all government functions and events if the demands made in the ultimatum were not fulfilled.
But, neither the ongoing protest of the MPC nor condemnations from different organisations have managed to spur the district administration into action to bring the guilty to book or apologise.
The MPC also filed an FIR on the assault but sources informed that investigation would begin only from Saturday as the regular files were stalled due to election.
The Dimapur Press Club, meanwhile, in a press release issued today said it was ‘astounded by the arrogance of the IRB authorities and the Mokokchung district administration who have not had the minimum courtesy to approach the MPC to apologize for the assault of a journalist on duty by an IRB jawan.’
The DPC conveyed its support of the MPC’s demand of identification of the erring personnel and follow up disciplinary action. It also felt that commandant of the concerned IRB battalion should tender an apology to the victimised scribe and the MPC for the misconduct of his personnel.
Questioning the intention of the district administration and the IRB authorities, the DPC has slammed the DC Mokokchung for making ‘light of a serious issue’ and failing to initiate action till date. ‘The highhandedness of both DC Mokokchung and commandant of 12 IRB is highly condemnable’, a DPC press release stated.
The Watsu Mungdang too condemned the assault on the news correspondent by an ‘indisciplined’ IRB jawan and urged that he be punished so that ‘such incidents do not occur in the near future.
‘It is universally known that the media persons selflessly sacrifice themselves to bring to the public the true picture of the happenings whatever the situation might be and therefore all cooperation should be meted out instead of assaulting them,’ the Watsu Mungdang stated in a press release issued by its president Supongla Lemdor and general secretary Imtila Lkr.
The Ao Students’ Conference (AKM) and Kohima Press Club had yesterday come out in condemnation of the incident.

Karbi rebels trigger blasts, 2 hurt A STAFF REPORTER The Telegraph


Guwahati, April 17: Two BSF jawans were injured when suspected Karbi militants triggered twin blasts in Karbi Anglong early this morning, a day after polling passed off peacefully in the trouble-torn hill district of Assam.
The incident occurred near Jampar Hansa village under Borpathar police station around 5.30am when two sections of BSF personnel were on their way to Borlaguri, Borlong and Arlongati to escort a team of polling officials back to Bokajan, which is about 105km from the three polling booths and nearly 75 km from the blast site.
Bokajan sub-divisional police officer Chitren Gogoi said the blasts took place when the BSF team approached Jampar Hansa after trekking nearly 20km from their base camp at Chokihola.
“The militants (suspected to be members of the Karbi Longri NC Hills Liberation Front) laid an ambush in the area with one IED planted on a tree and the other on the dirt track the BSF personnel were travelling on. Both the bombs were triggered with remote control devices,” he said, adding that flexible wires were recovered from the area.
The splinters from the blasts hit head constable Darbar Singh and constable Hari Narayan, injuring them critically. The two jawans were taken to the Golaghat civil hospital. A BSF official based at Chokihola said, “The militants also fired at the patrol party soon after the blasts but fled when the BSF personnel returned fire.”
Security personnel, led by senior police officials, rushed from Bokajan to the blast site after the incident. Some of them, led by Gogoi, proceeded to escort the polling officials back even as the first BSF patrol returned to base.
“We trekked about 30km (from the blast site to the polling booths) to reach the poll officials, who were returning by then,” Gogoi said. He said the polling officials could not return last night after polling ended because it was not possible to travel on the dirt track deep inside the forests at night. Moreover, one has to travel 105km from the polling stations to Bokajan. He said though the polling officials had security personnel with them, the BSF had been asked to sanitise the dirt track passing through the deep jungles in the militant-infested district.
The BSF official said a combing operation had been launched in the area surrounding the blast site.
According to him, it is one of the most difficult tasks to conduct operations inside leach-infested rain forests of Karbi Anglong. “There is nothing apart from endless jungles in large areas of the district — no roads, no electricity, nothing that speaks of development. It is not easy to conduct counter-insurgency operations in these areas.”
Suspected militants of the KLNLF had also opened fire at a polling booth in Perkup on the Karbi Anglong-Nagaon border during the first phase of the Lok Sabha elections yesterday. They fired a few rounds but fled soon after the security personnel retaliated.
The outfit is also suspected to have triggered two blasts on the Howrah-Dibrugarh Kamrup Express route on April 12, four days before the polls. While the train reached Diphu safely, the pilot engine was derailed by the second blast. The outfit is also suspected to have lobbed four grenades on the houses of two Congress leaders in the district just ahead of the elections.
Mohilary pulls up cops over security OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Hagrama Mohilary


Kokrajhar, April 17: Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF) president Hagrama Mohilary today accused the police administration of failing to provide security to the public.
Mohilary’s charge came after a mob assaulted three of his party workers, who tried to take shelter inside Serfanguri police station, fearing retaliation, on Thursday.
The attackers, who were participating in a protest rally, organised by the ceasefire-bound National Democratic Front of Boroland, were incidentally prompted by the outfit’s cadres. The rally was taken out in protest against the killing of NDFB cadre B. Ansula alias Arjun.
Trouble started after the unidentified men suspected to be from the NDFB camp, fired gunshots in the air. The public later thrashed the BPF party workers, who tried to seek refuge in the police station.
Accusing the police of failing to provide security to the people, Mohilary, who is also the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) chief, said the role of the police was passive.
“They (police) did not take any step to give them (his supporters) protection even at the police station,” he said.
Mohilary and other party senior leaders met the BTAD inspector-general of police A.K. Singh Cassyap, Kokrajhar superintendent of police P.K. Dutta and deputy commissioner Carol Narzary at the DC conference hall and discussed the matter. Assam panchayat, rural development and transport minister Chandan Brahma and sitting MP and party’s candidate Sansuma Khunggur Bwiswmuthiary also attended the meeting.
A memorandum was also submitted to the deputy commissioner demanding action against the people involved in the incident.
“It is strange how people seeking safety even in a police station cannot be provided security. Therefore, providing protection to public living in remote rural areas would be out of the question. The police administration has failed to provide security to the people,” Mohilary later told reporters.
The BTC chief urged the administration to take action to confine the NDFB in the designated camps complying with the ground rules of ceasefire.
In the same vein, party candidate Bwiswmuthiary said the administration must control the situation. The incident is a clear violation of the ground rules by the NDFB. He also demanded adequate deployment of security personnel, including the army personnel, on the day of the elections.
The Bodo heartland of Kokrajhar has been on the boil since the declaration of the election notifications. The clashes have so far claimed 10 lives and injured over 50 apart from causing damage to property.
“We are doing our best to provide security. We are trying to manage with whatever security we have. It is not practically possible to provide security in every village. More companies of paramilitary forces are expected to arrive in a day,” the inspector-general of police said.
Beheaded NDFB cadre buried From our Correspondent Sentinel
KOKRAJHAR, April 17: Beheaded NDFB cadre Bijay Basumatary alias B Beowaifwr (23) of Podumbil under Serfanguri PS whose body was recovered yesterday evening at Swrmanga river bank was buried today by the NDFB with military honour in the river bank. The 2nd Battalion Commander of the NDFB offered traditional Aronai at the body of Bijay.
Sources from NDFB said, the head of Bijay was not found till date. They said their cadre Bijay and B Onsula were taken away by BPF activists on April 14 last from Aflagaon while they were coming to their village from Serfanguri designated camp on the eve of Bihu.

Former AASU, AGP leaders join BPF in Darrang From our Correspondent Sentinel
MANGALDAI, April 17: Prior to electing Dina Nath Das, a resident of Tangla town in Udalguri district, as their candidate, the Hagrama Mohilary led Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) had no organizational activities in the areas of Darrang district outside the jurisdiction of the BTAD. But, all of a sudden the party led by Mohilary came closer to the voters of Darrang. Several recent meetings of the party evoked response from the voters.
Significantly, in areas like Kuruwa, Garukhuti, Janaram Chowka, Sipajhar, Bordoulguri and even in the heart of Mangaldai town earlier known as the strong hold of the AGP and Congress, the BPF has been accepted as the alternative to AGP as a good number of workers of the AGP have extended their support to BPF.
More significant of all is that Dr Jadab Chandra Nath, who took active part during the AASU movement and AGP, has taken over the poll campaign of BPF in Darrang district. Also Former AASU leader and AGP Udalguri District Committee former secretary Dalim Bayan has also joined the BPF while in a major set back to the BJP’s poll campaign, BJP Darrang District Committee secretary Prasanna Hazarika officially joined the BPF in an election rally held at Mangaldai on April 16 in presence of Hagrama Mohilary.
In Kharupetia, under Dalgaon LAC mostly dominated by religious minority community, BPF chief Hagrama Mohilary today for the first time addressed a large crowd while at Mangaldai and Sipajhar the BPF successfully organized two massive election rallies thereby throwing a big challenge to the Congress candidate Madhab Rajbongshi.
"Bodo movement was not against any particular community or religion and this is the reason that the Bodoland Peoples’ Front" (BPF) under the dynamic leadership of Hagrama Mohilary has been able to unite all sections of the society under one regional political platform and our only aim is to bring about a total change in the prevailing political atmosphere of the state with concentration of undertaking development works through community involvement with broader outlook and farsightedness and to restore the communal harmony and peaceful atmosphere" said BPF leader and Asom PHE minister Rihan Daimary in a crowded rally at Kharupetia, Bhebarghat in Mangaldai and Sipajhar.
Expressing utter shock over the poor performances of five sitting parliamentarians from Mangaldai Parliamentary Constituency –former chief minister Syeda Anowara Taimur who represented Dalgaon LAC for quite a long time, former minister and legislator of Mazbat LAC Silvius Condpan, former Union minister and Parliamentarian from Mangaldai Birendra Prasad Baishya, APCC president and former minister Bhubaneswar Kalita (all are now Member of Rajya Sabha) and BJP’s sitting Parliamentarian from Mangaldai Narayan Borkotoky– Daimary accused them of doing nothing for the development of Darrang and Udalguri district as they miserably failed to raise their voice in the house.
BPF chief Hagrama Mohilary making his first public appearance in places like Kharupetia, Mangaldai and Sipajhar while taking part in the election campaign for their candidate Dina Nath Das appealed to the people to support BPF only to usher a new era with the development work in the rural and backward areas of Mangaldai HPC and claimed that the BPF is the only regional party to undertake the development activities with total commit
ment to the sentiments of the people. Hagrama Mohilary accused AGP for their failure to field their own candidate though the AGP came to the power for two terms which has reflected that the AGP has lost their regional identity with their alliance with the BJP.
He also termed BJP’s candidate Ramen Deka and AUDF candidate Badiuj Zamal as imported candidate as both the parties failed to find suitable candidates from the constituency.
"You have already tasted the representatives from Congress, AGP and even the BJP only to have a bitter experience, now give the BPF a chance and see what development with peace and amity we can achieve within five years" said a confident Hagrama Mohilary over their victory in the election. BPF candidate Dina Nath Das, Rajya Sabha member Biswajit Daimary, Kalaigaon legislator Maheswar Boro, Mazbat legislator Karendra Basumatary and other senior leaders of BPF also attended the rallies and were successful in winning the minds of the people with their eloquence.
Apunba Lup castigates Army, govt for Loktak operation The Imphal Free Press

Imphal, Apr 17: The working committee of the Apunba Lup has strongly condemned the ongoing Operation Summer Storm by the armed forces in the surrounding areas of Keibul Lamjao National Park, blaming the army for making the surrounding people suffer, acting against international law of war, breaching the peaceful living, taking away their living rights and devastating the villages.

The Apunba Lup also said that the operation had caused various kinds of inconveniences for the people of Khordak, Nongmaikhong, Arong, Laphupat Tera and Ithai where the army forcibly made the male persons row boats and used them as human shield in the war field as well as used them as forced labour. It also added that the firing sounds of bombs and heavy guns frightened the women, children and older persons and even led to the death of some old persons. The operation doesn’t also allow them to earn their daily living and destroyed their properties which are used for fishing, it added.

The operation may also lead to the wiping out of the Sangai deers which are found only in the state and was an example of the Indian government’s apathy towards the people of the state. The Indian army in the name of facing militants fired bombs and heavy guns in residential areas and challenged international humanitarian and human rights laws, especially the norms on not to harm the public during war as stated in the Geneva Convention.
Considering all this the operation must be stopped immediately and the AFSPA repealed as it was the root cause of such crimes, it said. The Apunba Lup also appealed to the people to extend help to those people of Khordak, Nongmaikhong, Arong, Laphupat Tera and Ithai who were affected by the operation and were taking shelter in relief camps.


Frans on 04.18.09 @ 02:02 PM CST [link]


Friday, April 17th

Naga issue, the most misunderstood issue Eastern Naga Students’ Association



Naga issue, the most misunderstood issue Eastern Naga Students’ Association

It is clear and loud that ‘Naga Issue’ has its own limit beyond India or Indian Election. It is owned by Naga people whether they are in Burma or India. But since some few years back, the issue is being used as main tool or theme in every Indian Election by the people/leaders.

Therefore we put our request forward to Naga National groups to recent over using the issue as main tool as whether it is fine and ok.

The Naga issue as such is so dear particularly for the suffering Eastern Nagas and the Naga people in general. We feel that to stand or fall Eastern Nagaland and its people lies in Naga political issue. We can no longer afford to overlook people/leaders misusing the issue as tool in Indian election campaign by promising to bring solutions to decade’s old problem which is not.

This costliest issue is not mean for election or using as main factor to wage vote but it should be used where it should be as the issue is purchased by the bloods and the tears of the Nagas wherever they are.

Y Khomong Khiamniungan General Secretary
Eastern Naga Students’ Association
‘Therie and aide assaulted’ Morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has alleged that its candidate for the 17-Chizami assembly constituency K. Therie and an aide V. Lasuh, a former INC candidate, were assaulted by NPF supporters. The NPCC has demanded re-poll in Razeba headquarter polling station no 19.
In a representation to the Chief Electoral Officer of Nagaland, NPCC president KV Pusa brought to the notice of the CEO on what was termed as the “total break-down of law and order situation and complete violation of Election Model Code of Conduct in the above stated polling station”.
Demand for re-poll in Razeba-19 “Bogus and impersonating voting have taken place and facts established”, complained the NPCC to the CEO. On detecting such illegal voting by candidate K. Therie, the complaint stated, NPF supporters assaulted Therie and his companion V. Lasuh, a former INC candidate. “In view of mob fury Therie has been restrained from lodging complaint to Presiding Officer of the polling station”, the NPCC stated.
Pointing out that the “NPF having majority, fear psychosis, threat, coercion and intimidation were executed all throughout the polling process.” This was ‘responsible for obstructing the INC voters to exercise their franchise’ the NPCC lamented. “In view of the gravity of the situation in this polling station where Election Model Code of Conduct have completely ceased to operate, the NPCC demand that re-polling is invoked in the aforesaid polling station”, the representation to the CEO stated.
A copy of the complaint was also forwarded to the Chief Election Commissioner, New Delhi and R.R. Mehta, Election Observer.
A separate note from the NPCC’s media cell alleged that the “rule of law” ceased in Razeba headquarter polling station no-19 today as NPF workers resorted “to all sorts of election mal-practices” including manhandling INC candidate K Therie and an aide.
The NPCC said that the entire polling station was virtually “hijacked” by NPF leaders and workers. “In the process, the INC candidate Shri. K. Therie was manhandled in the vicinity of the polling station by the NPF mob and the former INC candidate Shri. V. Lasuh also sustained injury on the head” the NPCC said.
The NPCC has vehemently condemned the “grievous misconduct of the NPF Party in creating a lawless situation in suppressing democracy and contravening of all Election Code of Conduct.” The Congress also expressed displeasure at the authorities in concern for their failure to protect the INC candidate and his aide at Razeba polling station today.
North-east sees high turnout Indo-Asian News Service
Guwahati, April 16: Voting for the first phase of elections in India's insurgency-hit northeast ended today with millions of people casting their votes amid stray incidents of violence and despite the rain in some places.
"Voting has ended rather peacefully in six of the seven northeastern states with heavy polling recorded," an election official said. According to preliminary reports, an estimated 65 per cent polling was recorded in the three parliamentary seats of Silchar, Karimganj, and Autonomous District of Assam.
"The final polling percentage could be much higher as we are still compiling figures from remote areas," the official said. "There were a few minor incidents of faulty EVMs (Electronic Voting Machines) and temporary suspension of voting, but otherwise polling passed off very peacefully," the official added.
Voting was also held in two seats each in Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya, and one seat each in Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.
An estimated 7.45 million voters were eligible to exercise their franchise in the first phase of elections in the six of the seven northeastern states. The electoral fortunes of 72 candidates would be decided in today's vote.
"In Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Arunachal Pradesh, the polling percentage is estimated between 60 and 70 per cent, while in Manipur it could be anything between 40 and 50 per cent according to preliminary reports," the official said. "There were rains in Arunachal Pradesh, but it failed to dampen the voters."
There were incidents of violence in the run-up to the elections in Assam and Manipur with militants triggering explosions and attacking trains, besides ambushing security personnel, in which about 15 people were killed and more than 100 injured.
"We are happy that the vote passed off peacefully so far," Assam police chief Mr GM Srivastava said.
The security situation in Mizoram, Nagaland, and Meghalaya is comparatively better than in Assam and Manipur.
85% turnout in incident-free polls Our Correspondent | EMN

KOHIMA, APR 16: An estimated 85 per cent out of 13,17,729 voters today exercised their franchise at 1790 polling stations across Nagaland to elect the lone representative to the Lok Sabha as well as four Assembly Constituencies in an exercise that remained largely peaceful.
Briefing media persons, Chief Electoral Officer, Nagaland, CJ Ponraj said the estimate was as per 3 pm confirmation and added that final reports were awaited from Tuensang and Kiphire, delayed due to poor connectivity.
The highest polling percentage was reported from Kiphire with 95%, followed closely by Mon at 94.5% and third Pughoboto at 93.66%.
Other districts like Dimapur registered 67% voter turnout, Peren -70%, Kohima-80%, Phek-75%, Mokokchung-88%, Zunheboto- 77%, Longleng-86%, Wokha-70% and Tuensang-67%.
The Assembly segment poll percentage stands at 86% for 41 Tizit(final), 54 Tuensang Sadar II(71%),Dimapur III (65%) and 17th Chizami(75%).
Returning Officer and Commissioner HK Khulu said the overall polling in the state was peaceful with no major incidents, no mob violence or clashes.
Although some unconfirmed reports had been received of the movement of cadres in the by-election A/Cs, Khulu said there was no report of direct involvement while adding that the polls for the Parliamentary and all 4 A/Cs concluded peacefully in a smooth manner. The entire process was conducted with the underlying principle of ‘neutrality’, he affirmed.
Meanwhile, he informed that re-polling has been recommended in Tuensang Sadar II (Tuensang Village A) and one in Chizami A/C by the respective DCs for destruction of 3 EVMs. The matter has been forwarded to the Election Commission, he apprised. On the reported manhandling of Congress candidate K Therie in Chizami constituency, Khulu said no official complaint has been received while adding that the EC cannot take action on the basis of rumours.
Critical and vulnerable stations were covered by 41 video cameras and 40 digital cameras and exclusive women polling parties 49+1 (reserved) was deployed. Polling stations not connected by road stood at 56 - mostly in Peren, Phek, Mon, Wokha, Longleng, Kiphire, Tuensang.
Some further complaints have also been received, Khulu informed - 3 from Mokokchung, 2 from Phek (both parties) and 5 PS of Tizit (from NPF) – for which verification is expected to be carried out. On the Ladaigarh issue under Tamlu, where the Assam police had been reported to have occupied an LP School polling station, Khulu said the matter had been taken up with the EC and a clear decision given that the Polling Station had been set up in 1972 before the ban issued by the Supreme Court. Hence this matter will not come under SC decision, he said.
He said the Assam government had been asked to vacate but due to late information another Polling Station had to be set up in a nearby LP school. However, he reported that no voter out of the 908 enrolled had turned up to cast their vote.
Polling in this station was conducted freely in 1982, 1987 and 1989, but with some families shifting, inter-state border dispute has cropped up subsequent to 2002, he informed. The matter would be taken up with the concerned government after the elections, he added.
On whether polling would be called for again in the said station, the Returning Officer said though no vote had been cast, the PS had been open and the EC cannot force anyone to vote.
Counting of votes is scheduled to be taken up on May 16 next.

Free and fair polls successfully held: Rio
DIMAPUR, APR 16 (EMN): Barring a few pockets, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has stated that free and fair elections to the lone Parliamentary seat from Nagaland to the Lok Sabha and by-elections for four assembly seats were held successfully all over the State under an environment or peace and tranquillity today.
Issuing a statement on the conclusion of polling, the CM said except for a few pockets where ‘undemocratic forces had tried to disrupt the polling’, Nagaland witnessed free and fair elections where the electorate of the State could come out and exercise their franchise without any fear or apprehension. Maintaining that the successful conduct of the elections indicates that the State is undergoing a period of peace and tranquillity, Rio said this has been possible because of the wholesome public support that the State Government has received from all sections of the people. While voicing appreciation at the ‘excellent performance’ of the administration, police and election department for conduct of peaceful elections where the electorate of the State could exercise their franchise as assured in the Constitution, the CM also congratulate and thanked the people of the State for standing firm and strengthening the democratic process by coming out to cast their votes.

Peace in hills but Maoists strike OUR BUREAU The Telegraph
April 16: Fears of widespread violence proved unfounded as the first phase of polling in 10 of the 24 parliamentary seats in the Northeast was peaceful, barring stray incidents of violence, but the democratic exercise in Nagaland turned into a mockery with allegations of rampant proxy voting.
The turnout was between 48 and 85 per cent. Repolling was ordered at three polling centres in Manipur and 12 centres in Arunachal Pradesh. In Manipur, officials confirmed 70 per cent polling but said it could increase as information from several polling centres was still awaited. Elsewhere in the country, Maoists killed 18 people in Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Orissa during the first phase of polling today and looted several electronic voting machines.
A jeep carrying poll officials was blown up in Rajnandgaon, 75km from the Chhattisgarh capital Raipur. Five officials were killed on the spot and two were injured, inspector-general of police (Durg) Mukesh Gupta said. Zonal officer A.K. Acharya was among the dead. Naxalites struck at a dozen places across the state, looting nine EVMs and exchanging fire with security forces at various sites in Dantewada and Narainpur districts, 350km and 250km respectively from Raipur. Two CRPF jawans died of bullet wounds and five were injured at Maruki in Dantewada.
In Nagaland, even without a boycott call or threats, the electorate was indifferent. In some villages and colonies in Kohima, gaonburhas (village headmen) had to come out on the streets and request voters to cast their votes. In some booths, election agents of political parties had to force passersby to cast proxy votes. Under-age boys and girls voted with gay abandon.
No political party could give concrete reasons for the indifference which largely, according to some voters, had to do with same old rhetoric about the Naga political problem, corruption-free government, transparency, accountability so on and so forth.
But the turnout for the four Assembly byelections was high according to Nagaland CEO C.J. Ponraj. The seats are Chizami, Tizit, Tuensang Sadar-II and Dimapur-II. “I am satisfied with the election process this time,” the CEO said putting the turnout at 85 per cent. Arunachal East recorded 63 per cent while Arunachal West recorded 59.5 per cent, for a state average of 61.45 per cent even as the Opposition BJP accused the ruling Congress of “massive rigging” and several incidents of “booth capturing” in Papum Pare, Ziro, Daporijo and West Kameng districts of the state.
The turnout was healthy in the three seats of Assam — Silchar, Karimganj and Diphu — with election officials in Silchar, Karimganj and Haflong towns indicating an average of 65 per cent voting. Much enthusiasm was seen among the voters in Silchar town who turned up in large numbers. Damage to a couple of EVMs in Katlicherra, drowning of an EVM in a pond in Algapur and two cadres coming to blows in Silchar town’s Malugram locality were the only aberrations in an otherwise smooth polling that would decide the fate of Union minister Sontosh Mohan Dev, the BJP’s Kabindra Purkayastha and AUDF president Badruddin Ajmal.
Dev has pleaded with the Election Commission for repolling in the four polling stations under the Kathigorah Assembly segment under Silchar seat alleging that there was widespread proxy voting. Two policemen were injured when the police fired in the air at Borthal tea estate under Lakhipur subdivision in Cachar district, part of Silchar Lok Sabha constituency, for dispersing a group of rampaging tea workers there. Official sources added the labourers ran away when the police opened fire.
Assam CEO Hemanta Narzary this evening put the percentage of Karimganj at 60.88 per cent, Silchar at 63.71 and Diphu at 60.40. The voting percentage for these 10 seats in 2004 elections were: In 2004, the turnout was 68.5 per cent in Karimganj, 69.18 per cent in Silchar and 69.29 percent in Autonomous District (Diphu). There will be repelling in station no. 41 of Katlicherra in Karimganj because EVMs and voting papers were damaged. However, polling for the lone Lok Sabha seat in Mizoram ended on a lacklustre and desultory note as only 48 per cent cast their votes in comparison to 63.38 per cent in the 2004 polls. Deputy chief electoral officer in Mizoram, Lalhmingthanga, said the turnout reflected the indifference of the voters to national issues.
There was also not much enthusiasm in either Meghalaya’s two seats — Shillong and Tura — that went to polls under President’s rule. Like the low-profile election campaigning due to the political instability in the state, polling was also a low-key affair. Tura registered over 67 per cent voter turnout while Shillong 68 per cent. In Manipur, voters in seven Assembly constituencies in Thoubal district turned out in large numbers as Outer Manipur went to the polls today.
Barring some stray incidents of attempts to disrupt the polling and damage of an EVM, polling went off peacefully. Polling was cancelled at a polling booth in Tamenglong district after reports of booth capturing. Similarly, polling was cancelled in one polling booth each in Tamenglong and Senapati districts. Chief electoral officer Shambhu Singh said barring some stray incidents, polling was brisk and peaceful. The poll percentage is expected to be over 85 per cent.
Naga officials prevented from setting up poll booth Indopia
Sibsagar , Apr 16 Polling officials from Nagaland were prevented from setting up a polling both in Assam&aposs Sibsagar district by the administration, police said today.
Four polling officials accompanied by a officer of Nagaland&aposs Tamlu sub-division and two sections of CRPF had gone to the Borhola border outpost area under Geleki police station late last night.
But they were stopped from setting up polling booth as officials from Assam claimed that the territory belonged to their state.
Nazira sub division border magistrate Rajiv Thappa arrived at the spot and claimed before the polling officials that the area belonged to Assam, the police said.
Youths apathetic towards voting Deepak Rana

New Delhi: If we take a look on the participation of the youth in the Lok Sabha polls, it is a dismal one. However, why this the trend that people don't come out of their homes and waste their right to franchise is not clear.
Turning to percentage, Nagaland registers the highest voting turnout with 91.77 per cent. Jammu and Kashmir is the lowest at 35.20 pc .
In the last four LS polls, the percentage of voting by youths saw a decline in 1996 it was 54 percent in 1998 it reached 60 percent but again saw a nosedive at 57 percent in 1999. The percentage further declined to 55 percent in 2004.
This time various drives are being launched to aware the youths towards the important of voting and it would be in the interest of the youths who have to play a very important role in the development of the nation to exercise their franchise.
Chang decries rumour, appreciates (EMN
DIMAPUR, APR 16): Terming the polling day rumours as another false propaganda by the Congress to create confusion and mislead the people
, DAN consensus candidate for Lok Sabha CM Chang this evening issued a statement to clarify that he was in Kohima all along and ‘therefore the question of such an incident taking place just does not arise’.
A rumour that Chang had shot and critically injured a goanbura in his native village Noksen had been spreading like wildfire since polling began in the morning raising questions among voters who had lined up at the various polling booths.
“It is just another attempt of the Congress at character assassination and speaks volumes of how low the Congress is willing to go to mislead the people and carry out a strategy of spreading lies,” Chang said, adding that this strategy of the Congress explains its pathetic position and ‘the sort of mental make-up that the Congress leaders have’. He went on to say that if the Congress thinks they can fool the Naga people with such lies and wild allegations, ‘then they are totally wrong and they are undermining the wisdom of the Naga people’ while also stating that this should be another pointer to the people on ‘what sort of a party the Congress is in Nagaland’.
Meanwhile, the DAN candidate expressed his appreciation to the government machinery, including the administration, police and election department, for conducting peaceful elections all over the State. He also voiced appreciation to all rank and file of the DAN parties and supporters of the independent MLAs who have put in all efforts for the coalition and his candidature. ‘Most importantly, my appreciation and thanks goes out to the lakhs of people who have supported me in the elections with their precious votes’, Chang said.

Naxal violence mars 1st phase LS polls, 10 killed Assam Tribune
NEW DELHI, April 16 – Naxal violence rocked certain parts of Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and Orissa today in the first phase of polling for the Lok Sabha elections leaving 10 dead, including five BSF personnel, as moderate to brisk voting was reported across 17 states and union territories, reports PTI. Shortly after voting began at 0700 hrs, Naxals triggered a landmine striking a bus ferrying Border Security Force personnel in Latehar district in Jharkhand in which five personnel and two civilians were killed.

In Bihar, a homeguard and a police personnel on election duty were shot dead and another injured by naxals in Singhpur village in Gaya district, police said. Two other police personnel were missing.

Two polling booths were set on fire and polling machines snatched in Dantewada and Narainpur in another naxal-infested state Chhattisgarh by the Left-wing extremists who also triggered IED blasts and exchanged fire with security forces. One CRPF personnel was killed in the clashes.

Maoists also set afire at least three polling booths, electronic voting machines and other materials in Orissa’s Malkangiri district today, disrupting voting.

Voting began on a moderate note in 124 constituencies spread across 15 States and two union territories during which the fate of RJD chief Lalu Prasad, BJP’s Murli Manohar Joshi and Yashwant Sinha and TRS president K Chandrasekar Rao will be decided. There are 1,715 candidates in the fray.

Houses burnt down in group clash
From our Correspondent Sentinel
KOKRAJHAR, April 16: The houses of three families at village Hazarika under Serfanguri police station were totally burnt down in group clashes on Tuesday night at around 8.30 pm.
The first incident happened when BPPF supporters burnt the house of surrendered NDFB cadre and BPF supporter Sambram alias Samarendra Brahma where a good number of household materials including a motorbike were burnt to ashes.
In retaliatory measure, the houses of BPPF supporters Dungra Wary and his father Birthang Wary were also burnt down completely. However, there was no reports of any injury.
BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary accompanied by EMs Derhasat Basumatary, Mono Kumar Brahma, Sabha Ram Basumatary and MCLA Dokendra Nath Brahma visited the site of incident along with DC and SP.
In another incident, the houses of three families Biswanath Brahma, Pramila Brahma and Megnath Brahma of Dumbruguri under Dotma police station were allegedly damaged by BPF activists last night at 8.30 pm. BPPF candidate UG Brahma visited the spot today to take stock of the situation.
Bodies of 2 NDFB cadres found From our Correspondent Sentinel
KOKRAJHAR, April 16: The body of an NDFB cadre B Onsula alias Arjun Narzary (23) of Belguri under Serfanguri PS was recovered by police at Swrmanga river bank near Ranighat on Wednesday at 2.30 pm. He received cut mark at his throat and head crushed who was later buried in the sand.
According to the sources, Onsula with his other companion- Bijya Basumatary (24) of Podmabil came to home from Serfanguri designated camp of the outfit on April 14 while the BPF youths chased them and took away.
Meanwhile, the body of Onsula was cremated today at his village in presence of the villagers and NDFB leaders.
It may be mentioned that, Onsula was the second son of social worker Baren Narzary. His first son-Nilambar Narary was the BLT cadre and got absorbed in CRPF after surrendering before the Government in 2003 but unfortunately he died in a bike accident in 2006.
Now, Baren Narzary has no sons to look after him after Onsula was killed. This is not the first tale who lost everything due to fratricidal killings among the Bodos. Baren Narzary is one of many such victims. A huge public rally was brought out by the NDFB today at Serfanguri taking the body of B Onsula. When the rally was continuing, the surrendered NDFB members opened several rounds of blank fire from their camp which is located about 200 metres from Serfanguri PS. Hundreds of rally members started fleeing. The surrendered NDFB member and BPF workers, later, came to police station in fear of possible public attack. The agitated public and NDFB (Ceasefire) cadres severely tortured four BPF workers including a surrendered NDFB who is critically injured. The public beat them up inside the PS complex. The injured were– Mohini Narzary (Surrendered NDFB), Andrei Jwhwla Hazoary, president, Dotma Block BPF, Chakramoni Narzary and Swrhani Boro, all BPF workers. On the other hand, the body of another NDFB cadre- Bijay Basumatary alias B Beowaifwr of village Podmabil under Serfanguri PS who was taken away by BPF activists on April 14 with B Onsula was recovered today from Swrunanga river bank near Pwthaigaon.
Two NDFB linkmen arrested with explosives From a Correspondent Sentinel
DHUBRI, April 16: Two NDFB linkmen identified as Sailen Hasong and Moqbul Mondal have been arrested by 3 Sikh Regiment based at Lakhipur under Goalpara district today.
Sailen Hasong has been arrested from Jogijhar while Moqbul Mondal from Janaruguri under Tikkrikila police station of West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya.
Army recovered seven gelatin sticks and 44 detonators with wires from Sailen Hasong while one Chinese hand grenade, nine gelatin sticks, six detonators and two kilogram explosives were recovered from Moqbul Mondal.
They are suspected to have been planning trigger major blast in run up to parliamentary election in Meghalaya and Asom. Timely arrest and seizure of explosive materials, however, averted the major blasts, army sources claimed.
Voter turn out tentatively pegged at over 70 percent Outer voters seal fate of 9 candidates amid minor tremors Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Apr 16 : The fate of nine candidates in the Outer Parliamentary Constituency was sealed today with over 70 percent of the registered voters turning out to exercise their franchise rights amid tight security and apprehension of violence.
The polling was by and large peaceful except for some minor incidents of booth capturing and impersonation. The 70 percent report is however tentative as till the time of filing this report the official figure could not be worked out as night movement of polling officials is strictly prohibited. Moreover polling officials on duty in far flung places could not touch base with the district headquarters due to poor communication network.
Polling started from 7 am and went on till 4 pm, though reports reaching here said that voters at Thoubal district who had managed to make their way to the enclosure of the polling booths were allowed to vote till past the deadline. Long queues inside the enclosure of the polling stations could be seen.
Though the polling went off peacefully, repoll has been ordered in at least three polling stations. The repoll to be held include 44/40 Nungshong Khullen in Ukhrul district, 53/9 (A) Tamenglong district headquarters and 52/48 Dolong Khunou in Kangpokpi ADC.
Speaking to The Sangai Express State Chief Electoral Officer Shambhu Singh said that contrary to earlier apprehensions, voting in the Outer has passed off peacefully save for some minor incidents.
“We were apprehensive that repoll may be necessary in many polling stations, but since there has been no major incident, repoll may be held in only a few polling stations,” he added. Getting into specific mode, the CEO said that repoll will be held at each polling station at Tameng-long, Senapati and Ukhrul and added that repoll may also be held at some polling stations in Churachandpur district. All necessary steps have also been taken up to ensure smooth and peaceful conduct of the second phase election to be held in Inner Manipur on April 22, added the CEO. Repoll may be held either on May 18 or 19, said sources from the State Election office. CCpur (tentatively fixed turn out pegged at 60 pc) : Relatively peaceful. Voters turned out since early morning to exercise their franchise in relatively small numbers but increased steadily, marking an approximate poll percentage of 60 plus with at least two likely re-poll. Though relatively peaceful, polling in some adjoining villages allegedly witnessed threats from UG groups, but the security forces acted on time. Surprisingly, some of the polling stations recorded a record breaking poll percentage of 99 !
To cite a few examples, Bijang Loubuk recorded the highest number with 99.05 percent. Polling Stations under 59 Saikot - 59/44 and 59/49 also recorded 99 percentage.
Despite some polling stations recording excep- tionally huge poll percentage, DEO/Churachandpur Sumant Singh told The Sangai Express that he is yet to receive information from the interior areas and thus could only approximately put the over-all poll percentage to 60 plus for now.
Tamenglong (tentatively fixed turn out pegged at 70 pc) : Polling was stalled for a while at 53/9 (A) Tamenglong Higher Secondary School following disturbances given by some elements at about 9 am today. The EVMs at 52/14 Katiyang and 54/18 Luwanglong conked out and it is still to ascertained whether repoll will be held or not.
Senapati (tentatively fixed turn out pegged at 80 pc) : Tension reigned at Karong polling station resulting in some elements yanking off the cord of the EVM. Unidentified miscreants stopped voters from exercising their rights in polling stations located between 47/1 to 47/4 at Koide. Armed miscreants abducted polling personnel, including the Presiding Officer but they were rescued by women folk. Additional security forces, Assam Rifles, were sent to the said places. Reinforcement was also sent to Phaibung following reports of miscreants disturbing the polling process. Trouble broke out at 51/48 Dolang Khunou after miscreants broke the EVM. Chandel (tentatively fixed turn out pegged at 75 pc) : Largely peaceful although it was held under tight security arrangements. However, in some polling stations some people were seen casting votes representing the whole village or groups as usual. As such, the usual scene of queues of people waiting for turns to cast votes as observed in most other polling stations was absent in these polling stations. Yet, rate of poll percentage was amazingly high.
Moreover, three/four voters entering the polling booth at the same time were also observed.
At some polling stations in Chandel district, there were agents of only one single candidate. Some people were also seen exercising their franchise without identity cards prescribed by the Election Commission of India.
Ukhrul (tentatively fixed turn out pegged at 70 pc) : Polling was by and large peaceful though some miscreants disturbed the poll process at some places necessitating repoll at 44/40 Nungshong Khullen. Unidentified miscreants destroyed an EVM at the said polling station.
Thoubal (tentatively fixed turn out pegged at 70 pc) : By and large, polling in the seven Assembly seg-ments of Thoubal district went off peacefully. Al-though, voter turn out was low in the morning, a large number of voters came out in the afternoon to cast their votes. Chief Minister O Ibobi and his wife MLA Landhoni cast their votes at Thoubal Athokpam polling station.
Electorate of the seven Assembly segments of Thoubal exercised their voting rights at 206 polling stations. Jiribam : By and large peaceful, Significantly 110 voters of Rangkiakilong village, Tousem sub-division abstained from voting after it came to light that their voters ID were issued in the name of Sehjan village which is non-existent.
Chairman of Rangkiakilong said that this is an insult to the people of the village as Sehjang had been abandoned earlier.
AR debunks Sanagai Express
IMPHAL, Apr 16 : Referring to the incident of fire fight at Khonkhan in Ukhrul district between troops of AR and cadres of the UNLF on April 14, the Assam Rifles PRO has debunked the outfit’s claim as baseless and completely untrue.
In a press release, PRO Lt Col PK Wankhade asserted that the gun fight at Khonkhan and Phaikoh area resulted in a number of militant casualties while the security forces also lost a soldier.
The UNLF cadres fled to Myanmar as they were chased by AR troops right up to the Indo-Myanmar border, the PRO claimed while adding that every attempt made by the outfit to re-establish their camps within the Indian territory has been effectively foiled.
Loktak residents rally in Imphal, petition CM The Imphal Free Press

Imphal, April 16: Residents of the Loktak lake area who have been affected by the ‘Operation Summer Storm’ came to submit a memorandum to the state chief minister today but were stopped by the security personnel at the CC Higher Secondary School this evening. Later, five representatives of the residents were allowed to proceed to the chief minister’s bungalow to submit the memorandum.

Around 50 rallyists with banners demanding ‘Stop operation Summer Storm and save Sangai’ reached Konung Mamang before they were stopped by the police near the CC school.

The main grievances stated in the memorandum were that the women and children were not able to stay in their own home due to the operation and were taking shelter at Ethai Khunjao community hall, Tera Khunou Bazar Mandop and Arong Khunjao community hall. The number of people taking shelter was around 2500 and some had gone to other safer places.

As a result the residents were not able to work for their daily bread which was a great threat to the right to life since they were completely dependent on a hand to mouth living in the lake area, it said.
Some of the residents were used as human shields and forced labour by the security men and also for rowing boats for the army, it claimed while stating that since leaving their houses they were extremely worried about their domestic animals, fowls, fish farms etc.

The children were unable to go to school for the last few days and the firing and bombing in the area were also a grave threat to the Sangai deer, it said while appealing to the state government to suspend the operation which was affecting the lives of the people.

Meanwhile, Dr. N Mohilan, secretary of the Bio-diversity Ecology and Environment Network, Manipur. said at a press meet held today at the Manipur Press Club in Imphal that to preserve and protect the Sangai at Keibul Lamjao National Park ‘Operation Summer Storm’ needs to be suspended immediately.

He added that the Keibul Lamjao National Park which is located at the south western part of the Loktak lake is the only floating park in the world inhabited by the Sangai deer which also is found only in Manipur. He further said that in order to save the Sangai all the concerned environmentalists and other related organisations need to join hands to ensure that not a single Sangai is harmed. Due to the ongoing operation it is feared that some of these animals might get hurt and fall into the water pushing the unique species further towards extinction. He appealed to the state government, Central government and the Army to stop the operation for the sake of the Sangai deers.

Arroyo offers Philippines as a model for Burma by Mizzima News
New Delhi (Mizzima) - Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has held up her country's democratic experience as a guiding light for Burma's military regime, urging Burma's generals to adopt a similar approach to that of her administration in matters related to political reform and the strengthening of national unity and reconciliation.

In a statement released today by the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs, Arroyo is quoted as saying, "Like Myanmar, the Philippines has over a hundred ethnic groups and a variety of political persuasions, but rather than impair the vibrancy of our country’s democracy these have only served to strengthen it."

According to Burma's military government, the country is home to 135 distinct ethnic groups. Arroyo, speaking of her administration's actions directed at brining all Filipino citizens into the national political fold, added, "I have reached out to them [ethnic groups] in the spirit of reconciliation and national unity, which has enabled our society and political system to move forward without giving undue importance to their political mystique."

Further, the Philippine President called on the Burmese regime to release opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi upon the expiration, this May, of her most recent term of house arrest. Arroyo expressed her concerns on the lack of political reform in Burma to Burmese Prime Minister Thein Sein on April 10th, during the second phase of the 14th ASEAN summit to be held in Thailand.

Acknowledging the views of the Philippine President, the Burmese Prime Minister, according to the Philippines Department of Foreign Affairs, stressed that his country is progressing along the path to the democracy, with the adoption, last year, of a new constitution the first step toward achieving the goal – with next year's general election to continue the process.

Yet, the Prime Minister's interpretation of the advice offered by Arroyo directly conflicts with the position taken by the U.S. Senate's Women's Caucus on Burma, as spelled out in a letter to U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon on Tuesday.

By calling for the abandonment of the electoral process in Burma, the Caucus is denying the legitimacy of the constitution as a basis for building a democratic Burma.

"The constitution in its current form precludes women from holding high-level government positions and attempts to give amnesty to the military junta and thus deny access to justice for the victims of the military regime’s systematic sexual violence against ethnic minority women," argues the 11-member panel. Significantly, under the terms of the constitution, Aung San Suu Kyi would not be eligible to occupy the country's top office.

On Wednesday, the office of the Secretary General gave notice of his receipt of the letter, adding, "The Secretary-General continues to follow closely the situation in Myanmar, including through his Special Adviser [Ibrahim Gambari], to promote national reconciliation, democratic transition, and respect for human rights in accordance with the mandate given to him by the General Assembly." Ban is scheduled to travel to Southeast Asia in the upcoming weeks, and is said to be contemplating a visit to Burma.

KNLA fights Burmese Army and DKBA by Daniel Pedersen Mizzima

Mae Sot (Mizzima) - Fighting broke out tonight at the Karen National Liberation Army's base camp in Wah Lay Kee between the KNLA’s 201st Brigade, the Burma Army and its allies the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army.

Speaking at a border location at about 7.15 pm Colonel Nerdah Mya said the fighting was expected to carry on into the night. For months now the camp has been on tenterhooks, with both DKBA and junta troops maintaining forward positions nearby.

The KNLA lost the camp once last year, but reclaimed it within a matter of days. Colonel Nerdah said the Burmese Army and DKBA troops were now maintaining forward posts armed with heavy armour that was capable of hitting the main base camp at any time.

Observer says Karen defection "insignificant" by Nem Davies Mizzima

New Delhi (Mizzima) – The defection of another Karen National Union group resulted largely from a personal matter and has nothing to do with issues concerning the broader Karen ethnic nationality, according to an observer.

In the two weeks since March 30th, 161 Karen rebels led by Captain Saw Nay Soe Mya, son of late KNU Chairman General Bo Mya, have defected to join the Karen National Union/Karen National Liberation Army Peace Council (KNU/KNLA Peace Council) led by Major General Htay Maung.

But Sino-Burmese border-based analyst Aung Kyaw Zaw said, "It is nothing significant. Saw Nay Soe Mya is just the son of General Bo Mya. He is not Bo Mya himself. There will be many more such incidents in the course of a revolution. It is more of a personal matter and does not have anything to do with the entire nationality. We can call him a traitor of the family and from the viewpoint of the family."

On Thursday, Burma’s state-run media, The New Light of Myanmar, carried a front-page story of Captain Saw Nay Soe Mya being welcomed by local residents in Karen state, terming his change in orientation as 'returning to the legal fold’. Before joining the KNU/KNLA Peace Council, Saw Nay Soe Mya twice visited the Burmese capital of Naypyitaw in 2008, meeting with junta leaders. Major General Htein Maung and his KNU/KNLA Peace Council broke away from KNU in February of 2007.

The New Light of Myanmar, in its report, said the group had joined with the KNU splinter group after finally realizing the ill-intentions of the KNU, which state run media claims is to push the Karen people into trouble and misery rather than to bring them welfare and prosperity. The paper said the government will provide the defecting members with housing, land for farming, running water, electricity, health care and education, in addition to other necessities. However, no mention was made as to whether or not the defecting troops would be disarmed.

Thailand-based Burmese analyst Win Min said that for now the junta is unlikely to pressure the Karen splinter groups to surrender their arms, as it is still too early.

"They [the junta] let Bo Htay Maung's group hold their arms as before when he joined with them. It is likely they will let this new splinter group hold their arms too. They will not disarm them as they have to use this new splinter group in attacks against their mother organization, the KNU," he elaborated.

Meanwhile, the joint forces of the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA), another KNU splinter group, and the Burmese army were reportedly launching attacks on the 201st battalion of the KNLA – the armed wing of KNU – even as KNU leaders were meeting with the Thai Foreign Minister and his team in Bangkok.

Win Min observed that the junta seems to be using a policy of dividing its adversaries in an aim to weaken the KNU in a war of attrition.

"This is the usual tactic of the junta. They have been dividing the KNU and persuading [various members] to join with them since long before," he said. The KNU is the oldest ethnic resistance group fighting in Burma, a campaign which has ebbed and flowed for over 60 years.



Frans on 04.17.09 @ 01:15 PM CST [link]


Thursday, April 16th

Naga Mothers Ass. tells Govt to get Serious morungexpress



Naga Mothers Ass. tells Govt to get Serious morungexpress

Dimapur, April 15 (MExN): The existing “name-sake” women police cells in Dimapur and Kohima need to be empowered and reinforced with decision-making authority while more women cells need to be opened in all the districts. Making this demand, the Naga Mothers’ Association today reminded the government of Nagaland of the increasing crime of rape and sexual violence against women. The state government is also reminded that “mere existence” of these “name-sake” women cells won’t do at all.
In a statement from its president and joint secretary, the NMA sought from the Government of Nagaland opening women police cell in all the districts in view of rising crimes against women. Besides the NMA said, the two existing “name-sake cells”, one in Dimapur and the other at Kohima, needs to be empowered with decision-making and enforcement authority with any problem relating to women.
“…its mere existence is not enough to protect our women folks,” the mothers’ said. The NMA also urged the government to expedite instating the women police battalion. It should be manned by women Police officers and personnel in all ranks and files cent percent, the NMA said. Mention may be made here that recently the National Commission for Women had taken note of the state government’s appointing a male police officer to the top job of the women IRB, when a lady police officer of the same rank and batch was already there qualified to head the battalion.
Meanwhile, the NMA has expressed strong dismay over the growing menace of rape. It said “our society has become totally insecure for women as is in the recent cases of where two of our innocent daughters were raped and made to suffer humiliations of the worst kinds, which is beyond human tolerance.”
The NMA was referring to recent spurt in sexual crimes in the last two months.
The NMA queried the patriarchs of the Naga society: “And adding more salt to our injuries is the apparent complacency of our tribal hoho leaders and the respected church leaders whose have become silent spectators… Why? Or is it to say that for anything to do with women, women alone should tackle it?” The tribal hohos, “who are our leaders” should do justice in such a situation and take leadership in dispensing stringent measures against perpetrators of such heinous crimes, the NMA said.
Wondering “How can your silence protect us?” the NMA challenged, “for once prove yourself that you are man enough by taking the lead in wiping out such barbaric and devilish works from our society”.
Troublespots may spell trouble for Congress Times of India
A nervous Congress hopes to keep its bastion intact with 10 constituencies in six north-eastern states going to the polls in the first phase of
the Lok Sabha elections on Thursday.

While the party is battling hard against BJP and regional parties in Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Manipur, Assam United Democratic Front is likely to give Congress a tough fight by splitting minority votes in Assam.

The 10 seats include three seats in Assam, two each in Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya and one each in Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram. The rest — 14 seats in Assam, Manipur and Tripura will go to polls in the second phase.

While the peace process plays a key role in Nagaland’s lone seat as well as in Outer Manipur constituency, the issue of development dominates in Arunachal, Mizoram and three south Assam seats. Highlighting the track record of its young candidate Khiren Rijiju in the last Lok Sabha, BJP is trying to convince voters the need to send him back to Parliament this time, too.

In Mizoram, Congress is riding high after its victory over Mizo National Front in the Assembly polls in December last year. Mizo voters are unhappy with the 10-year rule of the MNF government.

In Meghalaya, NCP stalwart P A Sangma is using the imposition of President’s rule in the state as the main plank to counter Congress.

Except for Mizoram’s lone seat, Congress is facing tough challenge in other constituencies. Nagaland People’s Front is likely to defeat the Congress nominee in the lone seat in Nagaland, while NCP is marching ahead of Congress in Tura.

In the two seats in Arunachal, Congress is in a direct fight with BJP. Congress has an edge over the saffron party in the Arunachal East seat. Congress hopes to win the Outer Manipur seat it had lost in the 2004 polls, but the BJP’s emergence in the state has made the party worried. Of the three seats in Assam, Congress is confident of winning the Autonomous District (Diphu) seat, but it’s facing tough fight in Karimganj from AUDF, which is also likely to spoil Congress chance in Silchar.
Tight security in North-East for phase - I elections Sushanta Talukdar The Hindu
Guwahati: Assam and five other north-eastern States will go to the first phase of polling on Thursday amid heightened security measures. Polling will be held in 10 of the region’s 24 seats in the first phase — three in Assam, two each in Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh and one each in Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram.
In Assam, Chief Electoral Officer Hemanta Narzary flew in a chopper to the trouble-torn North Cacahr Hill district and Karbi Anglong district, which constitute the Autonomous District (ST) constituency in central Assam, to take stock of security measures and poll preparations. The CEO was accompanied by Inspector-General of Police (Law and Order) Bhaskar Jyoti Mahanta.
A senior official at the CEO’s office said all polling teams had reached their destinations safely and were fully prepared to conduct free and fair elections.
Administrations in both the districts stepped up patrolling to instil confidence among voters. Additional forces have been rushed to the two districts for area domination against the two militant outfits — Dima Halam Daogah (Jewel Gorlossa faction) and the Karbi Longri N.C. Hills Liberation Front (KLNLF) — which were active and indulging in violence.
In all, 27,40,728 voters will decide the fate of 37 candidates in the three constituencies in Assam — Silchar, Karimganj (SC) and Autonomous District (ST).
Prominent among those in the fray are Union Minister for Heavy Industries Sontosh Mohan Dev, Assam United Democratic Front (AUDF) president and perfume magnate Badruddin Ajmal, the former Union Minister, Kabindra Purakaystaha (BJP); the former Union Minister, Biren Singh Engti; the former Chief Executive Member of the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council, Jayanta Rongpi (CPI-ML-Liberation).
Special security measures have also been taken to ensure smooth polling in the Outer Manipur constituency of Manipur that will go to the polls in the first phase.
The two Lok Sabha constituencies of Meghalaya — Shillong and Tura — are going to the polls under President’s rule.
Prominent among those in the fray include the youngest member of the 14th Lok Sabha, Agatha Sangma, who is seeking another term from Tura constituency. Ms. Sangma is the daughter of the former Lok Sabha Speaker, Purno A. Sangma.
Ex-MLA files complaint against Charenamei Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, April 15 2009: Alleging the PDA candidate of Outer Manipur constituency, Mani Charenamei of violating the Model Code of Conduct published by the Election Commission of India, RTI Activist, L Ibomcha, and former Secretary (Law) and Ex-MLA has sought the detention of Mani Charenamei under NSA to the Chief Election Commissioner.

L Ibomcha has wrote to the CEC, N Gopalaswami, Nirvachan Sadan, Ashoka Road, New Delhi referring to news reports in local dailies on April 12 issues based on the statement made by Mani at election rallies at Kasom Khullen, Lambui, Nambashi, Phungyar, public ground of Kamjong in Ukhrul on April 9 and 10 .

The complaint letter of L Ibomcha which was made available to the press alleges Mani Charenamei of making provocative and inflammatory statements on the contemptuous issue of integration of all contagious Naga inhabited areas of Manipur to the state of Nagaland with a view to form a 'Nagalim' on the basis of Naga Community.

The complaint letter contends that Mani Charenamei has attempted to disturb harmony among the different communities in the state and to incite violence in Manipur. L Ibomcha accused Mani of committing offences under Section 123 (3-A) and 125 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951; Section 124-A and 153-A of IPC for sedition and promoting enmity between different groups; Section 2 of the Criminal Law Amendment Act, 1961 for questioning the territorial integrity or frontiers of India; and Section 3(2) of the National Security Act, for preventing him from acting in any manner prejudicial to the security of the State Government.

Further, the complaint letter stated that in order to prevent Mani from acting in any manner prejudicial to the maintenance of public order, his detention under Section 3(2) of the NSA, 1980 may be recommended.
NSF units informed for 23rd general conference morungexpress

Hectic preparations are going on at Mopungchuket village, in Mokokchung district, for the 23rd general conference of the Naga Student’s Federation (NSF), to be held from April 27 to April 30, 2009. Seen here are the villagers constructing the entrance gate to the conference hall venue, on April 13. (Morung Photo)

Dimapur, April 15 (MExN): The Mopungchuket Ait Laishir Telongjem (MALT), the local organisers for the 23rd General Conference of the Naga Students Federation (NSF) to be held at Mopungchuket village under the aegis of the Ao Student’s Conference, has requested all federating units and subordinate units of the NSF, “if possible”, to send in details regarding the total number of delegates (both male and female), expected date of arrival and departure, and other necessary information.
Informing this in a press release, MALT’s general secretary, Limalenden Longkumer, has directed the concerned units to send in the required details on or before April 25, to the President, MALT, P.O. Impur – 798615, or email at mopungchuket@gmail.com">mopungchuket@gmail.com.

Boycott I: Mani shunned OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph


Mani Charenamei
Imphal, April 15: The Thoubal District Development and Demand Council, an organisation formed by voters of eight Assembly constituencies today announced that it would boycott Mani Charenamei, who is seeking re-election from Outer Manipur constituency.
The president of the council, Sougrakpam Roben, said the council decided to boycott Charenamei, who is contesting on a Peoples Democratic Alliance ticket, for advocating Naga unification in his election campaign. The announcement came on the eve of tomorrow’s polling in the constituency.
Seven Assembly constituencies in Thoubal district — Heirok, Wangjing Tentha, Hiyanglam, Khangabok, Wabagai, Kakching and Sugunu and Imphal East’s Jiribam — are included in Outer. The majority of the voters in these constituencies are Meiteis.
As the constituency is reserved for Scheduled Tribes, other tribals under the banner of the council have fighting for the right to contest elections in the Outer.
The council is also demanding the creation of one more Lok Sabha seat out of the eight constituencies, which has a total of 207,888 voters. Charenamei is openly campaign for the unification of all contiguous Naga-inhabited areas and he promised voters that he would continue to fight for Naga unification if re-elected.
By promising Naga integration, Charenamei has been targeting Naga voters, who are a majority in this constituency. However, a boycott may not have much impact as Charenamei could garner only 2,224 votes in the last election. But he is likely to get the support of the Scheduled Tribe voters in the eight Assembly constituencies, particularly the Nagas.
The council did not support any particular candidate but its president appealed to the voters to vote for candidates who could fight any design to break Manipur’s territorial integrity.
“Mani openly said he was elected by the Nagas, so he would work for the Nagas in Parliament. This is very unfortunate because he is not representing only the Nagas but various communities living in his constituency,” Roben said.
Nine candidates are in the fray in this constituency. The others are Thangso Baite (Congress), M. Yamkhongam (RJD), Thangkhangin Ngaite (Lok Jana Shakti Party), Rose Mangshi Haokip (Independent), Lamlalmoi Gangte (Independent) L.B. Sona (NCP), D. Loli Adanee (BJP) and Valley Rose Hungyo (Independent).
Rio re-assures free & fair conduct of poll Correspondent Nagaland Post
KOHIMA, (NPN):
State Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio Tuesday reassured the smooth and free and fair conduct of the parliamentary election and bye-election to the four assembly constituencies.
“We assure the people of the state that the polling process will not be allowed to be deviated by undemocratic forces or elements which try to disturb the peaceful atmosphere in the state,” Rio said and appealed the electorate to come forward and exercise their franchise without any fear or apprehension.
He was addressing a joint press conference with NPF party president and Urban Development Minister, Dr. Shurhozelie Liezietsu at the closing hour of the last day of election campaign at NPF party central office here today.
He said the state machineries were all geared up for a free and fair conduct of the parliamentary election and bye-election to the four assembly seats under peaceful environment. The administration, police and the election department have been working tirelessly to ensure that the democratic process is upheld and democracy is strengthened, he stated.
Meanwhile, Rio also took a dig at the opposition Congress for making a public appeal to the underground groups to “help the Congress party on the polling day.”
Rio termed the appeal as nothing but one that undermined the national workers and a gesture that explained the Congress party’s approach to the Naga political issue. He said the appeal spoke volumes of the Congress party’s position and stand which also justified the fact that the party has lost all semblance of public support for which it was now appealing the underground groups.
He also reiterated that the Naga political issue remained at the top of its agenda and that it would continue to play the role of active facilitator.
Rio also said that both the Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha MPs if elected would continue to pursue with the government of India to expedite the peace process and speed up the ongoing negotiation.
He described the Congress party’s claim that they only could bring solution to the Naga political issue as “false promise.”
He wondered what the Congress was doing in their 45 years of rule in the country all by itself and another 5 years of coalition rule.
“If they could not bring solution in 50 years, who will trust them that they will bring solution if given another chance?” he asked. Reiterating his statement on the Congress candidate Asungba Sangtam’s assurance to be a “good facilitator”, Rio pointed out that the latter was MP for two consecutive terms but that he could not do anything for the Naga issue. “He could not do or say anything for the Nagas during the period and today he is claiming that he can be a good facilitator. It is just another eye wash which will not convince the people,” Rio added. The chief minister also reiterated that the NPF was a recognized and registered party and that it would do justice to the state. He rubbished the claim made by the opposition Congress that its MP, even if elected would remain unattached in the parliament not getting sufficient time to participate in the debate and discussion. Rio also furnished the lists of the recognized party during the last 14th Lok Sabha where the NPF was listed at serial number 33 and termed the Congress’ claims as “totally false and misleading.”
He said NPF would be given sufficient time to participate in every discussion and debate in the parliament and that the party would also be invited to every meeting of the Chief Whips and All-party meetings. “Moreover, our MP will be at the liberty to freely express the feelings and desires of the Naga people,” Rio added.

Frans on 04.16.09 @ 05:03 PM CST [link]


Wednesday, April 15th

NSCN-K/GoI truce extension talks soon Nagarealm.com



NSCN-K/GoI truce extension talks soon Nagarealm.com
AHTHIBUNG [EMN] A five-member delegation of the Ceasefire Supervisory Board of the NSCN/GPRN is scheduled to leave for New Delhi after April 20 for talks on extension of the truce between NSCN-K and the GoI.

Disclosing this to a section of media persons, Supervisor of the Ceasefire Supervisory Board and Kilonser for External Affairs (NSCN/ GPRN) C Singson said the delegation would comprise of himself, Wangting, Hukato, Nitovi and Bohoto. The Government of India and the NSCN-K had come to a ceasefire agreement in 2001 which has been extended for a period of one year since then. The current one expires in April end. Singson said the delegation would opt for truce extension stating that it was the aspiration of the common people, while also exuding confidence that the Government of India would comply with the wishes of the people. Voicing a personal view, he also felt that ceasefire should continue till the commencement of the Naga political talks.

On the reconciliation process, Singson viewed the inculcation of the power of understanding amongst various leaders as key step towards achieving forgiveness and unity in the Naga society. “We need the power of understanding; only then will we have the power for acceptance; and ultimately I think we will have the power to forgive,” he said. Stating that he did not see any reason why India should not relent to the wishes of the people when all Nagas are reconciled and united, he stressed that Naga leaders should move away from blame games of the past and forge into one in the larger interest of the Naga society. Singson further lauded the initiatives of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and felt that it should continue with their activities. He also urged the people to understand the gravity of the situation and play a constructive role to bridge different underground groups while adding that people’s role is most crucial at this juncture.

EM correspondent assaulted by IRB jawan Nagarealm.com

MOKOKCHUNG, APR14 [EMN] : The Mokokchung Correspondent of Eastern Mirror was today physically assaulted by an IRB jawan while he was on duty covering a situation that had cropped up in Mokokchung town.

A confrontation had taken place between IRB personnel and drivers of the vehicles requisitioned for the election, after the drivers, accusing the jawans of physical harassment, had refused to undertake any kind of poll duty. Correspondent Nungsang Jamir was covering the situation at the DC’s office complex at around 8:30 pm and was trying to take a photograph when an IRB jawan started shouting at him (konpara noksa khechi asi) and then hit him with his assault rifle.

The Mokokchung Press Club (MPC), in the aftermath of the shocking incident, held an emergency meeting and has decided to submit an ultimatum to the Deputy Commissioner while strongly stating that this kind of action by an uniformed personnel is uncalled for since the reporter was carrying out his duty for the people and the government. The press fraternity of Mokokchung has demanded that the IRB Jawan should be identified and appropriate action taken against as per the law. The action taken should then be made known to public, it has demanded.

It has also asked the District Administration to publicly apologise to the people of Nagaland and the Mokokchung Press Club, on behalf of the IRB, for the misconduct and high handedness towards members of the fourth estate. Until and unless the government satisfies the above mentioned demands, the Mokokchung Press Club will not cover any govt function, meetings, events, etc, from Tuesday onwards, the ultimatum said.

Meanwhile, the MPC has also resolved to cover the ensuing Lok Sabha Election, ‘since election is for the people, of the people and by the people’, with black arm bands in protest against the crime committed against the Forth Estate. It is also contemplating observing April 14 as a black day for the Mokokchung Press Club, a MPC press communiqué informed.
Nagaland on the verge of financial bankruptcy: Chishi morungexpress
Dimapur, April 14 (MExN): The Convener of the NPCC Election Coordination Committee and former Chief Minister KL Chishi today cautioned that that Nagaland state “might fall into the ditch of financial crisis due to the mismanagement of funds by the state government”. Addressing media persons at his residence at Dimapur, the veteran Congress leader and MLA said that the Centre has promised a fund of Rs 1500 crore to Nagaland; however, the state government had incurred a deficit of Rs 600 crore before the election and now the deficit has shot up to Rs 900 crore. He said that out of the Rs 1500 crore, if the deficit is deducted then there would be only Rs 600 crore left to run the State machineries. Besides, the state government has availed many “ways and means advance” from different financial institution ‘amounting to few hundred crores’. He said that the central government might give the fund after ‘adjusting’ the Rs 900 crore deficit and release only Rs 600 crore.
In this regard, while saying that the state government has not disbursed the salaries of the government teachers, the work charged employees and other government employees and also to the contractors in the State, Chishi said that the Rs 600 crore will be used up easily while running the state machinery and paying the salaries of the state government employees. Besides, while alleging that the state government has resorted to purchase of MLA by utilizing funds from the public exchequer, Chishi asserted that the state might face a financial crisis after the election.
Pointing out that there is a provision in the Indian Constitution which empowers the Reserve Bank of India to declare financial emergency for a state, Chishi said that the state government will face a state of bankruptcy, since the UPA government (which he predicted will come back to power after this election) would not come to the rescue of the DAN government. “Perhaps our state will land in that technical ditch,” said Chishi.
On the NPF constantly harping on the booklet Bedrock of Naga Society, Chishi said that what was contained in the booklet was the opinion of an individual and since anybody can opine on any topic, it should not ‘sway’ them into ‘war of words’. However, he said that the words were purportedly written by SC Jamir but that next to him during that time was Neiphiu Rio who was the then Home Minister. Chishi alleged that it was Rio who proposed the book to be published and circulated in the name of the NPCC. “The book to the Naga people is a redundant book. It only remains as the thought of an individual. NPCC has disowned it,” Chishi asserted.
Chishi also expressed optimism that Asungba Sangtam Congress LS candidate would be elected as the MP from Nagaland and would represent the Nagas in the Indian Parliament. Saying that Asungba stands taller than CM Chang, Chishi stated that Chang was more of a bureaucrat than a politician while Asungba was described as an outstanding social worker who has served in the Parliament in the past and a Padmashree.

Cong chants unity mantra OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph


K.V. Pusa
Kohima, April 14: The Congress has fervently appealed to the Naga voters to elect its candidate K. Asungba Sangtam to push forward the protracted Naga political problem and give momentum to the integration issue.
Addressing a rally last evening on the penultimate day of campaigning for the April 16 election, Nagaland PCC president, K.V. Pusa, said the Indian National Congress can take initiatives for finding a lasting and honourable solution to the Naga problem.
He said the Congress was committed to the “Naga integration”, which is a common aspiration of the people in the state. He said the party had been all along been supporting the issue and that there would be no backtracking on it.
Pusa said Nagaland became the 16th state under the Union of India by virtue of the 16-point agreement of 1960, whose clause 13 mentions about the integration of all contiguous Naga-inhabited areas. However, the Centre is yet to implement this clause, he said. Pusa said the 12-year-old Naga peace talks between the Centre and the NSCN (Isak-Muivah) was too long and that a solution “acceptable and honourable” to both the parties must be worked out. He said the ceasefire vis-à-vis peace talks have taxed the Naga people to the maximum.
The PCC chief also urged the Centre to expedite the Naga talks in a transparent manner. CLP leader Chingawang Konyak said the Congress has been protecting the unique identity of the Naga people and, therefore, it is the only party which can resolve the issue.
Former chief minister and PCC election convenor K.L. Chishi also lashed out at the Nagaland People’s Front, the main constituent of the ruling Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN), for its “high political rhetoric” just to woo the innocent Naga voters for political mileage. He said only the Congress could deliver justice to the people.
PCC vice president Nillo Rengma said the regional party spoke about the Naga political issue and their identity only during poll time, adding that after April 16, the Nagaland Peoples Front (NPF) would forget all about it.
Recalling that the then Congress Prime Minister Narasimha Rao had declared the Naga problem political, he questioned the inability of the Nagaland Peoples Front to resolve the Naga issue. The Congress also branded chief minister Neiphiu Rio as “Varun of the East” because of his strong anti-Centre and anti-Constitutional statements throughout the election campaign. “In order to gain electoral mileage he spoke more like a rebel leader than a chief minister of the state within the Union of India. Rio should spell out the harms the Congress had brought to the Nagas,” said R. Paphino, convenor of the PCC media cell. He said Rio’s statements are contradictory because on the one hand he projects himself as a champion of the Christians and on the other he joins hands with the BJP, the communal “anti-Christian party” that is part of the DAN government.
On Rio’s defence of the NPF candidate for the LS seat, C.M. Chang, that marrying and living with three wives is accepted in Naga society, the Congress said the statement of the chief minister had displayed “his height of hypocrisy”. The statement is an insult to the Naga Christian community as Rio had directly challenged the authority of the Church that permits monogamy only, the party said.
Congress indicts Govt on Law and Order, morality morungexpress
Kohima, April 14 (MExN):Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) president, KV Pusa today said the Congress party in Nagaland is seriously considering the views given by public in their recent election campaign throughout the state. “We are glad to see that the people by and large are against the way DAN government is functioning; be it political, academic or law and order”.
He said ‘people feel security of property and lives were not properly protected by the DAN government’. He was addressing a press conference here this evening at the Congress Bhavan. The party pointed out and ‘highly objected’ the recent NPSC paper-swapping scandal, scams in the PWD department, RGVVY-power and irrigation departments as well as bogus appointment of teachers under the School Education department. While expressing resentment at the failure of the government to stop the corruption, the party said “social security system in the state has completely collapsed”. “There is killing, molestation, rape, extortion and nobody is doing anything to stop these things” the NPCC president said.
The party further highlighted the various undertakings and schemes of the centre’s UPA government like the NGRES, PMGSY, ARWSP, SSA and the RTI. The NPPC president said the DAN government is indulging in ‘very heavy corrupt activity’ in implementing them at the state level, despite fulfillment of commitments made by the UPA. “Numerous corruptions which were not heard during Congress regime have emerged” he said.
“People are the best judge” Pusa said and expressed confidence that people will give a befitting reply to the DAN government in both the Lok Sabha and by-elections.
‘If everything goes round the truthful nature of Naga people’, the NPCC president said, ‘the party may get 60 to 70 percent of the votes for Lok Sabha election’. “I am confident that people will repose trust on the party and the candidate”, he added.

Congress on Rio’s sense of morality
In a separate press statement, the Congress has questioned the Christian credentials of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio after reports emerged of his purported condoning of polygamy and extra-marital affairs’.
The NPCC media cell chairman in the statement today contextualized the NPF’s ‘befriending’ communal and anti-Christian parties like the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). “… the NPF leaders, particularly the Chief Minister have been diluted and adulterated to such an extent that they could not differentiate between black and white of Christian life” the NPCC said.
In a state of moral degradation, the NPCC said, the NPF leaders have failed to identify the abhorrent polygamy and extra-marital statuses with that of strict Christian ideals of keeping only one wife. The NPCC has expressed deep appreciation to Nagaland Baptist Church Council, Council of Naga Baptist Churches, Kohima Baptist Pastors’ Fellowship and other churches for coming out strongly “against the State Chief Minister’s statement approving and acknowledging a Christian member Shri. C.M. Chang, NPF candidate for keeping three wives”.
“..In line with the Christian standing principle of holy matrimony and the clear doctrine of monogamy, the NPCC fervently appeals to other Church Organizations to come out with their view points on this issue” NPCC added.

Regional parties seethe against Cong - Small groups, Delhi dreams The Telegraph


A child plays with flags during an election rally at Williamnagar in East Garo Hills on Tuesday. Picture by Eastern Projections
Guwahati, April 14: The regional parties of the Northeast are looking for options to jointly influence the formation of the next government at the Centre, especially a non-Congress one. Notwithstanding their present alliance and seat-sharing arrangements, the parties have initiated discussions to evolve a “workable formula” which would enable them to be an “influential factor” in government-making.
The man behind the movement is former Lok Sabha Speaker and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Purno A. Sangma and the common rallying point of the parties is their stiff opposition to the Congress.
“Our main purpose will be to see that a non-Congress government is formed at the Centre because the Congress has this uncanny habit of destabilising regional party governments in smaller states,” Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio said. He should know. Rio’s government was unceremoniously dismissed in 2007, just months before it was to complete its term, and President’s rule imposed in the state. Rio, however, bounced back to power after the Assembly elections in February last year.
To work out the “workable formula” that would bond the regional parties together, Rio recently held a threadbare meeting with Sangma at the Nagaland House here. The rethinking is triggered by the realisation that the BJP-led NDA might not manage to get the requisite number to take a shot at government formation.
Rio, however, said his party, the Nagaland People’s Front (NPF), was not in favour of floating a common platform of regional parties immediately. “We tried floating such a platform in the past, but it did not work. This time, we are trying to come out with a workable formula which will enable us to remain as a group so that we have enough bargaining power in Delhi,” he said. He did not elaborate on the “working formula”.
Rio said he was in touch with the AGP and the leaders of other regional parties in the Northeast. The AGP has a seat-sharing adjustment with the BJP in this Lok Sabha election. But AGP president Chandra Mohan Patowary made it very clear that his party was yet to be part of any alliance, meaning the AGP is keeping its post-poll option open.
Rio, too, said all post-poll options were open. “We are weighing all possibilities of forming a non-Congress government at the Centre. It could be the NDA, a third front on its own or a third front-led government backed by the Congress or the BJP from outside.”
In Nagaland, Rio is running a government with the constituents of both the NDA and the UPA. “The BJP, which is leading the NDA, and the NCP, which is in the UPA, are part of my government. In Meghalaya, the NCP is fighting the Congress despite supporting the Congress-led government at the Centre,” Rio said while insisting that political equations would further change after elections. Rio’s NPF is already providing “logistic (read financial) support” to some of the regional parties and Independents. He is also planning to extend the NPF’s base to Naga-dominated areas of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
UDP hits out A day after Congress president Sonia Gandhi heaped scorn on smaller parties for creating instability in Meghalaya by switching allegiance, United Democratic Party president Donkupar Roy hit back, saying it was the Congress that encouraged defection and instability in the state.
At an election rally held here yesterday, Sonia said, “The voters should reject parties, small groupings, and individuals who have shifting loyalties, narrow and divisive agenda with no regard for the national interest and no vision for the future.”
Roy today said the UDP (a major constituent of the Meghalaya Progressive Alliance) had never shifted allegiance. Rather, it was the Congress that had always been instrumental in creating instability by actively encouraging defection.
“In fact, Sonia should advise the state Congress leaders to give up the old habit of encouraging defection,” he added. He said Sonia should practice what she preached and what was happening in the state was the result of the Congress’s clever move to divide regional parties and other small groups for its own gain. Alleged Congress-engineered defections had reduced the NCP-UDP-led MPA to 27 from a strength of 33 in the 60-member House, triggering a political crisis and imposition of President’s rule.
Initially four legislators — Independents Limison Sangma and Ismail Marak, Paul Lyngdoh of the Khun Hynniewtrep National Awakening Movement (KHNAM) and Sanbor Shullai of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) came out of the MPA fold for the Congress-led Meghalaya United Alliance. This was followed by the resignation of two UDP MLAs, Nimarson Momin and Ampareen Lyngdoh, from the Assembly. Roy also said though Sonia was attacking the smaller parties, the Congress always depended on these parties to form the government in Meghalaya. “National parties like the Congress do not know the ground reality in Meghalaya as they are Delhi-centric. During elections, the central leaders of the party come to Meghalaya and pass comments which are devoid of any truth,” he added.
Nagaland candidates parade "Arms" before Battle Poll morungexpress

Lok Sabha runners for the lone Nagaland seat, DAN consensus candidate CM Chang and INC candidate K Asungba Sangtam, spell out their priorities as the state goes to polls in April. The Morung Express put forward a Common Questionnaire for the Lok Sabha Candidates. The following are their responses:
RESPONSE OF K. ASUNGBA SANGTAM
1. Key issue you will raise during your poll campaign
I will give priority to the Indo-Naga political issue and ensure that I am a functional facilitator to help bring the curtain down on the issue.
There is monumental development work to be done especially the problem of high rate of unemployment in the State. The work that I did during my 6 years tenure as a MP was only the beginning and if given the opportunity to represent Nagaland in the Lok Sabha again, I am confident that with the support of the people of Nagaland together we will be able to improve Nagaland and bring a sea of change economically, socially and politically.

2. Whether a Regional or National MP will be able more effective at the Center. Why?
I do believe that an MP from a National Party would definitely be more effective especially for Nagaland since we have only one seat allocated to us in the Lok Sabha.
In the Parliament, a MP belonging to a major National Party is given more importance and also has the support of his party members especially on key issues and debates whereas a representative from smaller regional parties are tagged as unattached or independent and does not receive much support from other political parties. A prime example would be, when in the year 2002, there were many fratricidal killings happening in Nagaland, Madam Sonia Gandhi, President AICC, asked me to lead a delegate which included the present Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, Mr Oscar Fernandes, Madam Ambika Soni and many other senior party MPs to approach the then Prime Minister Mr A.B Vajpayee of NDA government, to apprise him about the situation and effectively take measures to ensure that the killings were brought to a halt. Because of the support that I received from party members and eminent leaders the meeting proved to be very effective.
Also, we need to know that in the Parliament when there is any debate on key issues of national importance of a ministry, it is the National Party who will be allotted maximum amount of time to highlight the problems or issues. Whereas the time allotted to a MP from a regional party is marginal which leaves insufficient time to talk on key issues in the Parliament. For example: when the Indo-Naga political issue is brought up in Parliament how would a MP from a regional party present in detail the complex issue when given the time to talk on it but it is just a couple of minutes whereas a MP from a National party would be given maximum time. So it is a question of who would do more justice on behalf of the people of Nagaland.

3. First priority in the event of being elected to Parliament
If given the opportunity, I would want to revive the projects that I undertook during my last tenure and give fine tuning. For instance, after a long and arduous debate in the Parliament by me for lifting the ban on the usage of mobile phones in the North East now almost every household owns a mobile phone in Nagaland. However, the connectivity seems to be a major problem in Nagaland that most often we have to keep dialing a number several times to get clear connection and money is spent unnecessarily. So this is one of the several issues I want to take up.
Also, I will lobby for various new projects and schemes that are made available by the Government of India from which the Naga people will benefit.

4. What is your view/s on the Government of India’s Look East Policy in particular with reference to Nagaland?
I do believe that the Government of India’s Look East Policy is beneficial for Nagaland and should be utilized to capitalize and profit from this policy. If the Look East Policy is adopted in a proper manner it will provide business hubs which will create employment and act as a launching pad for boosting the economy of the State.

5. What corrective measures can you suggest to ensure proper utilization of funds meant for development reaches the people at the grassroots?
There are few measures that I could suggest regarding proper utilization of funds at the grass root level:
i. Ensure regulation of rural population with the help of bio-cryptic system.
ii. Keep a check that the real beneficiary names are identified and recorded in a central hub which would require advanced technology to be installed to keep a check on misappropriation of funds by the authority concerned. At the same time, the authority will be able to track whether the real beneficiaries have received the allocated funds.
iii.Awareness of funds available should be created amongst the public to make sure that there is transparency in the system.

6. What is your personal viewpoint on the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA)? Is the continuance of AFSPA in Nagaland justified?
I feel that the use of AFSPA should be removed in Nagaland and the rest of the North East region. There are several other acts which exist in the country that do not violate human rights that can replace AFSPA.

7. What about the issue of law and order in the context of fratricidal killings, extortion, kidnappings etc? Is factional violence a breakdown of law & order?
In any society, such acts of violence and killings are condemned and do not create an environment for the progress of the society therefore we should work towards an understanding and settlement which will put a halt to such heinous crimes.

8. What is your personal thought on the Indo-Naga political issue as things stands today?
There should be an amicable settlement between the two and it should be taken on a fast track so that the society benefits from it. Once there is peace and harmony in the State it will create a situation for peaceful co-existence which will lead to progress and development.
9. You are well aware about the work being put in for peace and reconciliation among the Naga factions. Give us your personal thoughts on ways/measures to take this forward to its logical conclusion.
There should be certain amount of give and take as long as the reconciliation is concerned. The issues at hand should be approached according to its relevance in the present times which will benefit the society.

10. On the basic infrastructure of road, power and water (scarcity), what can you as an MP do to improve on each of the three sectors mentioned.
In a state like Nagaland the rains play a deciding factor on the road development front so as an MP, I would have the capacity to lobby and pressurize the ministry in the Centre to release funds well ahead of the dry season so that all work can be executed once the monsoon rains stops.
For the infrastructure of power, an MP will be able to direct the Central Government to take up minor and medium hydel projects to ensure proper power supply to meet the state’s urgent requirement.
To tackle the problem of water scarcity, an MP could direct the Ministry concerned for water resources to try and conserve water by rain harvesting and water treatment and various techniques applicable to the state.

11. On the two fundamental social issues of ‘health’ and ‘education’ what changes if any or suggestions do you recommend for improving the current system?
There are several measures that can be taken up to improve the current system. For improving the health care system there should be clean and accessible clinics set up in every village to guarantee every citizen of quality health care. Hospitals of excellent service and updated instrument and technology should be made available so that people do not have to travel to different cities to receive their treatment. Also, various schemes and incentives should be introduced and there should be awareness amongst the public so that the citizens are protected and ensured a good health care system.
Regarding education, we need quality education which means absorption of teachers that will teach students not only bookish knowledge but inspire them to believe in themselves. Montessori education should also be given importance. There should be introduction of more polytechnic institutes, Industrial Training Institutes (ITI), hospitality management institutes as well as human resource management courses this will definitely lead to specialization and help a section of the educated unemployed in the State.

12. What is your opinion on the RAP, should it be lifted?
In my opinion RAP is unnecessary burden which is imposed on tourists who want to visit particularly Nagaland for leisure and are prevented from doing so. I would recommend the Government of India for lifting the Restricted Area Permit.
RESPONSE OF CM CHANG
1. Key issue you will raise during your poll campaign?
At the top of the NPF agenda, which is also my agenda, is the Indo-Naga political problem. This decades old issue needs early resolution through a negotiated settlement that that is honorable and acceptable to the people. If given the opportunity to represent Nagaland in Parliament I will join the DAN Government to play the role of facilitator to expedite the peace process while also calling upon the Government of India to take up the issue of the suffering eastern Nagas who are being suppressed under the military government in Myanmar. The Nagas in Myanmar need political recognition and they need to be given development for progress especially in education, health care and economic growth. The fact that I will tirelessly work for accelerated development of the State goes without saying. We will also have to put our heads together as one Naga family to work towards peace, reconciliation, understanding and oneness.

2. Whether a Regional or National MP will be able more effective at the Center. Why?
Definitely a regional MP from a party like the NPF so far as Nagaland is concerned. As a recognized and registered political party, the NPF will be represented at all forums that concern political parties. The NPF will be invited to every all-party meeting, it will be represented in all matters concerning chief whips and as a recognized and represented party in parliament the NPF MP will be given specific and reserved time in all discussions and debates that take place in Parliament. The NPF MP will also have the liberty and space to express the true desire of the Naga people both inside and outside parliament especially political issues that concern the Naga people. However an MP from a national party will have to be a backbencher since there will obviously be dozens and dozens of MPs who are more seasoned and senior. Moreover, he will hardly get the opportunity to speak since priority will have to be given to the seniors. But most unfortunately, if at all he gets the opportunity to speak, he will have to tow the party line and speak as per the requirements of the policies of the Congress and he will not be allowed to deviate from the party’s policies. Therefore a regional MP will definitely be more effective at the Centre instead of sending someone from the national party like the Congress who will remain a perpetual back-bencher who will rarely get the opportunity to participate in any parliamentary discussion. Past record clearly justifies my statements.

3. First priority in the event of being elected to Parliament
As mentioned earlier, at the top of our agenda is to address the vex Indo-Naga political problem, while also working for reconciliation, unity and understanding while giving special focus on accelerated development of the State.

4. What is your view/s on the Government of India’s Look East Policy in particular with reference to Nagaland?
The Look East Policy of the Government of India has been spoken about for quite some time in numerous forums and platform however apart from the theoretical policy, not much has happened in reality. The look-east policy can only take off if the country invests in improving infrastructure and all related sectors in the region through which the policy is to take shape. The east-west corridor has to be taken up on a war footing, communication and connectivity have to be upgraded significantly, and the physical infrastructure must be able to support and propel the dynamics of the look-east policy. The Government of India must realise that the Centre must put in place appropriate infrastructure in multiple sectors to make the policy work instead of making big commitments that have hardly materialized. For example, the Centre could not implement even the four lane highway between Kohima and Dimapur which was the commitment of the Prime Minister of India. If this is the attitude of the Centre, how can the look east policy work?

5. What corrective measures can you suggest to ensure proper utilization of funds meant for development reaches the people at the grassroots?
The DAN Government has been the most transparent government in the State so far and this policy of transparency will be further strengthened. We have to capitalize and take full advantage of the enormous social capital at the grass roots level to ensure that the targeted sections benefit from the policies and programmes of the government. Over and above such measures, there are instruments and tools like the RTI which ensure that transparency will have to be implemented at every level of governance. On this count the DAN Government has performed in an admirable manner and institutions like the State Information Commission has had a significant role to play without any government interference so far. It is because of such an approach, where transparency is at the heart of the government’s functioning that the DAN Government enjoys mass public supports in every part of the State.

6. What is your personal viewpoint on the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA)? Is the continuance of AFSPA in Nagaland justified?
My opinion like that of my party is firmly with the people and the civil societies. Such draconian laws have to be removed so that democracy is strengthened. How can nation building take place or democracy progress if the people are kept under suppression through such laws? As far as Nagaland is concerned there is no justification to implement of putting in force the AFSPA since the underground groups are in a ceasefire with the security forces and there is an ongoing political dialogue taking place. Moreover there in not a single banned group that is operating in Nagaland. The undergrounds groups have been recognized by the government of India and that is why they are participating in the dialogue. There is no need for the AFSPA since both the ceasefires are guided by the guidelines and the Standard Operating Procedure.

7. What about the issue of law and order in the context of fratricidal killings, extortion, kidnappings etc? Is factional violence a breakdown of law & order?
It is unfortunate that factional killings are taking place within the Naga family, though all will agree that the fratricidal killings have substantially reduced after the mandated DAN coalition took over the government. It is also a fact that fratricidal killings are political in nature and cannot be termed as breakdown of law and order. If there is anybody that says that fratricidal killings are not related to the Naga political issue, then they are undermining the political problem. However it is unfortunate that the innocent and peace loving public are made to suffer due to the factional clashes. I once again appeal to our brothers and sisters to cease killing each other and rather come closer to each other so that we can all work towards unity, understanding and oneness.

8. What is your personal thought on the Indo-Naga political issue as things stands today?
As things stand today, there is no doubt that the ball is in the court of the Centre. The Indo-Naga peace process has to be expedited and the Centre must listen to the voice and desire of the people. The people are crying out for lasting peace and this peace can only come about through peaceful dialogue where both sides understand and respect each other. But, I must repeat that the ball is in the Court of the Centre and more than a decade of dialogue is definitely sufficient time to reach an acceptable and logical conclusion. The Centre must show its seriousness and sincerity on the matter.

9. You are well aware about the work being put in for peace and reconciliation among the Naga factions. Give us your personal thoughts on ways/measures to take this forward to its logical conclusion.
First and foremost we must appreciate the Forum for Naga Reconciliation, which has been working tirelessly for reconciliation and unity. The recent Naga Consultative Meet was another platform in which the message was loud and clear. It is high time that we bring the senseless killings to a halt. How long will we keep killing within ourselves? Bloodshed only succeeds in creating more hatred and division. It is time for us to come together as a family and unite so that together we can overcome the challenges that lie ahead and bring lasting peace to our people especially to our children and the future generations. All sections of Naga leaders must listen to the voice of the people if they genuinely claim to represent the voice of the people.

10. On the basic infrastructure of road, power and water (scarcity), what can you as an MP do to improve on each of the three sectors mentioned.
I hope that I can make some genuine contributions. We all know that we are not a revenue generating State and the State depends on grants and assistance from the Centre. We will have to pursue with the Centre to do justice to the State by allocating sufficient funds for us to use in order to improve our roads and augment water supply to the masses. In the power sector, we are not even getting our State allocated quota due various technical problems like low generation and depleting water resources. The Centre will have to come up with a long term master plan that will immediately be put to the implementation process keeping in view present requirements and increasing future needs in the power sector. The north eastern region has vast potentials in developing hydro-electric power generation and the Centre must take up projects that will target not just sufficient power supply to the region but take an approach where we look at exporting power beyond the region to other parts of the country and even to neighboring countries.

11. On the two fundamental social issues of ‘health’ and ‘education’ what changes if any or suggestions do you recommend for improving the current system?
In the health sector, the DAN Government is aggressively pursuing its target of quality health care for all. We must strengthen our existing systems while leaving no stone unturned to improve our infrastructure and facilities. The CIHSR, previously the Referral Hospital must be upgraded to introduce a nursing college and then a medical college. The Naga Hospital Authority also needs to add more facilities to what is already a very well equipped facility. Constant improvements must continue in the major centers while not neglecting the interior and rural sections. In all this the Centre must understand the needs of the people and ensure that quality health care is reached to the people at all levels.
On the education front, the present leadership of the department has been tirelessly working towards streamlining of the department and taking tough decisions. This is being supported with political will and we hope that the department will take a positive turn after decades of years where the department has been unable to provide optimum output. The department needs to be supported by all sections so that the State Government’s total literacy drive is achievement sooner than later. The Centre must also introduce facilities for higher education especially in the engineering and medical fields. The vast potentials of our youth and human resources can only be effectively utilized if we have quality centers of learning at our doorsteps. Nagaland is perhaps the only state in India which does not have any technical college in even the common areas of civil engineering and medicine. This trend has to be reversed.

12. What is your opinion on the RAP, should it be lifted?
My personal opinion on the RAP/PAP is crystal clear. These regimes have to be abolished. Where is the practicality of look-east policy or promotion of trade and industry and tourism when we have these outdated strictures in place? The Government of India must apply practicality and listen to the State Government which has taken up with the Centre on several occasions for removal of these guidelines. They are not only impractical but also illogical if one goes into the details like the rule where only groups of even numbers can be given permits and not groups of odd numbers! Nagas can take care of ourselves and there is no need for these regulations anymore.

Note: The Morung Express encourages our readers to respond and comment to the viewpoints provided by the intending candidates for the Lok Sabha elections. Some of your responses will be published in this column.
Rebels claim attack on Assam Rifles OUR CORRESPONDENT The Telegraph
Imphal, April 14: Militants ambushed an Assam Rifles convoy near Kongkan village of Kamjong subdivision in Ukhrul district around 8 this morning as Operation Summer Storm launched by the army in Loktak lake continued for the third day today.
The United National Liberation Front (UNLF) has claimed that it had attacked a convoy of the Assam Rifles in the area.
Ksh. Yoiheiba, the senior publicity officer of the UNLF, said in a statement that the Manipur Peoples Army (MPA), the military wing of the outfit, had ambushed the convoy and also attacked another group of Assam Rifles reinforcements from the nearby Nambisha camp.
It claimed that it had killed 14 Assam Rifles personnel and injured 10 others.
Assam Rifle spokesperson Lt Col Prasant W. said he was yet to receive the details of the incident.
The police were yet to rush to the sites of the encounters. In another development, the army today handed over five more bodies of militants killed in the operation in Loktak lake. The troops launched Operation Summer Storm on Sunday morning to flush out militants from the lake. On the first day, the troops killed one militant and recovered three more bodies yesterday. The troops today handed over five bodies of militants along with four AK-series rifles, one lethod gun, one hand grenade and live ammunition.
In their report to Kumbi and Moirang police stations, the troops said they had killed two militants at Khordak and killed three others at Keibul Chingmei last night.
Meanwhile, the lake settlers fled their homes out of fear of being caught in the crossfire and are now staying at a relief camp opened by villagers at Ithai Khunjao, a village on the fringe of the lake. More than 330 villagers living on phum houses and hillocks inside the lake have left their homes since yesterday and are now sheltered at the relief camp.
The displaced villagers alleged that the troops forced them to work as boatmen during the operation. Congress MLA representing Thanga Assembly constituency T. Mangibabu Singh visited the relief camp this morning. A human rights group from Imphal also visited the relief camp this afternoon.
Army spokesperson Col Rajesh Mishra said 11 militants have been killed during the operation. Nine bodies were recovered and two more were caught in the phumdi (floating biomass) inside the lake. He said 10 weapons, including six AK rifles, one lethod gun, three pistols, two hand grenades and explosive materials, were recovered till today. He said no harm was caused to the Sangai population at Keibul Lamjao National Park during the operation.
Ops Summer Storm : Eight confirmed killed, claims Army By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express

Army men at Loktak under Operation Summer Storm
IMPHAL, Apr 13: In continued Army operation, code named Summer Storm, in Loktak lake which is still under siege with even the staff of the Forest Department barred from entering Keibul Lamjao National Park to assess possible damage to the home of the endangered Sangai species (Cervus Eldi Eldi), three (four as per the claim of Army PRO) more suspected underground activists were reportedly gunned down in an early morning swoop today.
Yesterday, one suspected underground activist was killed in the operation.
Army PRO in a statement today claimed that so far eight militants have been confirmed killed and added that three more bodies have been spotted in the lake during a recce by an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).
The PRO said that the troops had to suspend firing for a while during the course of the operation as they saw a woman along with a child.
The woman has been identified as the wife of a S/S Sgt Maj of PREPAK Suresh Kumar, claimed the PRO. The woman and the child are safe and sound.
Stating that troops of 73 Brigade are still continuing the operation, code named Operation Summer Storm, the PRO claimed that another camp was busted at 4.30 pm today.
According to local sources, Army personnel are still present in the surrounding villages of the National Park which has been under siege since the intervening night of April 11 and 12. A team of mediapersons from Imphal which had visited Kumbi, Ithai Wapokpi, Nongmaikhong and Khordak today also witnessed signs of Army still surrounding the National Park even as troops were seen keeping close vigil atop the watch tower at Nongmaikhong. On the other hand, the staff of the Forest Department who have expressed concern over the fate of the Sangai following the gun battle and bombing raids of the suspected hideouts of the UGs inside the park have been reportedly given cold the shoulder treatment by officials of the 7 Assam Rifles which has set up a temporary camp at the Inspection Bungalow (IB) located at Keibul Chingmei.
An official of the Forest Department said prior to the operation no infomation had been given and access is being denied till today.
It is learnt that the troops of 7 Assam Rifles set up their temporary camp at the IB since March 3 along with opening up of a range office from there. Under this range office, check posts have also been established at various places like Chingmei Natal, Thangbren, Keibul Sagram, Khodangkhong, Laphupat Tera and Khordak.
Leaders of social organisations and Meira Paibi bodies of Keibul Lamjao, Kumbi and Nongmaikhong who interacted with the visiting media team suspected possible casualties on Sangai population in the only world famous floating National Park as a result of the ongoing bombing and firings. Over and above this, they informed that continued siege of the Army has given a serious impact on the livelihood of villagers who depend on fishing activities in the lake. They also fervently appealed to the UGs to stay away from the lake as well as to the Government for taking up necessary steps to ensure normalcy in the area without waiting for the poor villagers to agitate. A statement issued by the Human Rights Initiative has also called upon both the security forces and the armed UGs to respect Article 21 of the Indian Constitution as well as the Common Article 3 related to International Humanitarian Law of the Geneva Convention during the course of the ongoing operation at Loktak lake. No collateral damage should also be caused to Sangai and its habitat, it added. In the meantime, three more suspected underground activists have been reportedly killed by the troops of 7 Assam Rifles during an encounter which took place at Khordak Mayai Leikai, eastern side of the lake at around 3 am today.
However, the report of the 7 Assam Rifles furnished to the police in con- nection with the incident, said that the encounter broke out in the wee hours of April 12.
However, when the media team visited Khordak today, the villagers inform-ed that apart from hearing sounds of gun firing and bomb explosion at around 3 am, AR troops were seen bringing about three bodies at around 10 am today.
Sound of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) flying in the night sky and helicopter in the morning were also heard, the villagers added.
The report of the AR furnished the police further listed recovery of one AK-47 Rifles and magazine loaded with 10 live rounds of ammunition, two 9 mm pistol with 10 live rounds of ammunition from the possession of the three slain UG suspects.
Along with these three bodies, the body of another UG suspect who was shot dead by the 21st Para-troopers at Ungamen Pat during the operation yesterday have been deposited at the mortuary of RIMS Hospital after being picked by the Kumbi Police.
Police sources said that the identity of all the four slain UG suspects have not yet been able to confirm. Although troops of 4.8 GR and 7 Assam Rifles were also part of the operation yesterday, the report submitted to the police only stated that the suspected UG cadre was killed by 21st Para-troopers at an encounter at Nongmaikhong Pat at around 2 am. However, according to local sources there is no Nongmaikhong Pat (lake) in the area though there is Nongmaikhong village.
Three more armed persons killed at Loktak; PIB claims all seven killed are PREPAK The Imphal Free Press

Imphal, April 13: Three unidentified armed persons were killed today in an encounter with the AR following the successful operation yesterday at Loktak lake in which a militant activist was killed, arms recovered and camps destroyed.

The encounter took place this morning around 9 am at the area of Khordak Nongmaikhong of Thoubal district. According to a source from the police, the encounter took place when a team of the 7th AR entered the area of Khordak Nongmaikhong at midnight after receiving specific information on the presence of some UGs. One AK-56 rifle and one 9mm pistol with two live rounds were recovered along with the three dead bodies.

Police later picked up the dead bodies and deposited them at the RIMS mortuary for identification. Meanwhile, the dead body of the militant killed yesterday in the Loktak operation was picked up by the Kumbi police station and is now being kept at the RIMS mortuary for identification.

Meanwhile, a PIB (defence wing) reklease said in a release that seven Prepak cadres have been killed in encounters in the ongoing operation named, `OP Summer Storm` to flush out militants from the Loktak lake. While one body was recovered on April 12 three more bodies were recovered this morning. The fifth militant was killed in an exchange of fire in the evening while two more bodies were recovered, the release said.

While trying to escape three to four militants at Khordak opened fire but in the retaliation by the security men one militant was killed and weapons recovered from him. The others tried to escape using a woman and a child as human shield, the release said.

On seeing this, the troops stopped the fire and permitted the militants to flee. The lady and her infant child were escorted to a relatively safe area and handed over to the Kumbi police station. Later, she identified herself as the wife of SS sgt maj Suresh Kumar of the PREPAK. One AK-56 rifle, one German made 9mm Mouser gun and one 9mm pistol were also recovered alongwith some ammo. Three big huts were part of a camp destroyed by the Red Shield troops in Chingmaipat area at about 5 pm on April 13.

A total of five camps have been destroyed so far, said the release adding that the militants who managed to escape were seriously injured. The operation is still going on to flush out the militants trapped inside the camp. The PREPAK`s design to disturb the election process has been thwarted to a great extent, the PIB release said.
Border trade reviewed Mizzima Sources: The Telegraph, India
April 10, 2009: Imphal, India’s ambassador to Myanmar, Aloke Sen, today said physical work under the Kaladan project— an Indo-Myanmar venture— would start by the end of this year.
Sen along with officials from Manipur reviewed the ongoing border trade between the two countries.
“We have done the technical survey for the Kaladan project twice and the physical work would start by the end of this year. However, the introduction of Imphal-Mandalay (Myanmar) bus service would have to be examined further,” Sen told reporters before leaving for Calcutta at the end of a three-day visit here today.
Under the Kaladan project, India will construct a port at Sittwe in Myanmar, about 400km from Aizawl. Once completed, the project would open links between the Northeast and Myanmar through the sea route and thereby boost trade in the region.
“Both India and Myanmar are very interested in the Kaladan project as it would benefit both the countries. The completion of the project would take five to six years,” Sen said.
China planned $10 billion invest fund at failed summit Indo Burma News Sources: Reuters
April 12, 2009: BEIJING, China had planned to announce a $10 billion (6.8 billion pound) infrastructure investment fund and offer credit to neighbours at a cancelled weekend summit of Asian leaders in Thailand, its foreign minister said.
Anti-government protestors forced the cancellation of the summit in Pattaya after they swarmed into the summit venue. In an interview with state media on a flight back to China, Foreign minister Yang Jiechi avoided direct criticism of the Thai government while detailing measures that Chinese premier Wen Jiabao had planned to offer at the summit. China plans to establish a $10 billion China-ASEAN investment cooperation fund to promote infrastructure that connects it to ASEAN nations, Yang said.
China has been active in building roads from its southern border through neighbouring Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam, to ease trade. It will also offer a credit of $15 billion to ASEAN countries, including preferential loans of $1.7 billion for cooperation projects, Yang said. It plans to offer 270 million yuan ($39.51 million) in aid to Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar to help those impoverished countries combat the global financial crisis, and will inject $50 million into the China-ASEAN cooperation fund, Yang said.
While not an ASEAN member, China's growing economic clout, huge market and competitive exports make it an important participant in ASEAN summits, although tensions persist over competing claims to the South China Sea and Chinese plans for dams that are opposed by other nations along the Mekong river.
China recently appointed its first ambassador to ASEAN, after the 10-member grouping formally adopted a charter.


Frans on 04.15.09 @ 01:21 PM CST [link]


Sunday, April 12th

Zero tolerance for poll misconduct morungexpress



Zero tolerance for poll misconduct morungexpress

Dr S.Y Quraishi, Election Commissioner of India addresses the media during a press conference ahead of the 15th Parliamentary election at Dimapur on April 10. (Caisii Mao/Photo)
Dimapur |: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has assured to ensure “free and fair election” in Nagaland for both the lone Lok Sabha seat and four assembly seats, slated for April 16. “We have made it very clear that neutrality is the keyword and there will be zero tolerance to anyone violating the ECI guidelines. We have external observers in position; they are the eyes and ears of the commission,” said Election Commissioner Dr. SY Qurashi. He briefed the press Friday in Chumukedima.
ECI assures free and fair polls in state
The election commissioner has met with political parties including the NPF and Congress, chief secretary and director general of police as well as returning officers, assistant returning officers and SPs earlier in the morning. He said about 100 micro-observers would be deployed in sensitive polling stations. Qurashi also said the commission has introduced “vulnerability mapping” and that video cameras would be installed in sensitive and vulnerable polling stations.
Disclosing that the commission had so far been able to procure only 132 video cameras, which were “unfortunately” too less in number, the election commissioner said deputy commissioners have been instructed to hire and requisition private digital cameras for the purpose. Reiterating zero-tolerance against electoral malpractices and poll misconduct, Qurashi said the commission would not hesitate to order re-polling in any polling station if there was “reasonable suspicion” that unfair means had been adopted.
Queried on the low percentage of EPIC coverage in the state (42.90%) for the ensuing election, the election commissioner said it was mainly due to threats from extremist groups. He said there were instances where EPIC teams have been attacked by militants. Deputy Election Commissioner Dr. Alok Shukla and Chief Electoral Officer of Nagaland, CJ Ponraj was also present at the briefing. According to the revised electoral roll of 2009, the state has 13, 17,729 voters including 6, 73,047 males and 6, 44,682 females. A total of 1790 polling stations have been set up for the ensuing Lok Sabha election with Dimapur district having the highest number of polling stations (259).
ECI notes Cong’s complaints
Meanwhile, the Nagaland Congress party has highlighted a number of complaints to the Election Commission of India against alleged misuse of government machinery and other violations of code of conduct by the ruling NPF-led DAN Government. Election Commissioner, Dr. SY Qurashi, who visited Nagaland Friday last told media persons that the complaints of the Nagaland Congress party include alleged misuse of government machinery by the ruling NPF-led DAN Government; the chief minister and the planning minister allegedly induced voters by distributing two truckloads and a truckload of rice respectively; the chief minister promising GBs to upgrade Akuluto sub-division to that of ADC headquarter, and violation of ceasefire ground rules by some underground outfits, ECI listed out Qurashi said the Congress party has also requested the commission that Assam Rifles personnel should be deployed along with election observers and video cameras in polling stations. The election commissioner assured to look into the complaints and necessary action taken.
Jamir, Rio greets on Easter morungexpress
Dimapur, April 11 (MExN): The Governor of Maharashtra Dr. SC Jamir and Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio wish blessed Easter to the people of the state. Separate messages were received here from the two today. In his message, Governor Jamir said Easter Sunday is a day of celebration for the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from death. “It is a day of hope, renewal and peace. Through His sacrifice and triumph over death, Christ lifted the sights of humanity forever”, Jamir said in his Easter greetings. “Let us all celebrate the festival in the spirit of forgiveness and harmony”, Jamir said and wished the people a happy Easter. In a separate message, Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio and his wife Kaisa Rio extended greetings to the people. In an Easter message released to the media by the press secretary to the chief minister, Rio said “the resurrection of Jesus Christ offers us a message of hope, love and peace.” He said the resurrection of Christ is victory over darkness and “brings the hope of new life.” The chief minister called upon the people to “understand the message of Christ and rededicate ourselves to peace, understanding and brotherhood.”
Street play to promote peace staged in Nagaland Vibou Ganguly Sindh
Kohima, April 12 (ANI): The theatre art has long been considered an effective medium to propagate social messages and influence people, especially in the north-east parts of the country.
Recently, a group of stage artists performed a play, depicting the State of affairs in the northeastern states due to militancy.
Aimed at sending out a message about the need for peace, the play was staged in Kohima and Wokha in Nagaland.
Organised by National Institute of Performing Arts, New Delhi in collaboration with united theatre artists, Tezpur, the play highlighted the message of peace, prosperity and normalcy.
The play also urged the audience to work towards bringing lasting peace and finding a solution to militancy, besides focusing on the problems created by insurgency.
“This drama is depicting the scene in Nagaland. It tells how the youth of today are misguided. They want money, luxury and everything but they are not following the right paths for doing that. They want easy path, easy way to earn money,” said Bappi Adhikari, one of the audience in Kohima
“I am touched and encouraged watching this drama because looking at the contemporary Naga youth today, one of the main drawback is adequate platform and adequate awareness through which the Naga youth today could expose their skills and talents,” said Ketou, another in the audience.
Realizing the problems caused by militancy, people have started coming out openly to condemn militant activities.
And street plays are one way of creating awareness among the youth about the effects of insurgency.
“This drama is about the present scenario prevailing in the entire northeast state, like insurgency. We would like to tell through this that insurgency is not the ultimate route of the people. Those who have already gone from the mainstream of our state or country, through this drama we would like to invite them back to the mainstream,” said Aishwarya Kakoti, Secretary, United Artist, Assam.
“I am personally touched. This performance will provide platform to express those who are not able to express themselves. There are some who joins militant groups out of anger,” said Akumla, an artist, Kohima.
The initiative was an attempt to make people aware about the urgent need for harmony in the society.
Similar Street plays were staged in other parts of the region as well and they attracted sizeable crowds. (ANI)
India: The world's most remarkable election The Independent
As the largest democracy on the planet prepares to elect a new government, Andrew Buncombe reports on the choices facing the 714 million voters AJIT SOLAN KI / AP
From the mountain heights of Kashmir to the palm-fringed beaches of Kerala, from Nagaland in the remote north-east to the Maharashtra heartland, India will this week throw itself headlong into the world's largest and most extraordinary election.
Here, in the planet's biggest, if imperfect, democracy, candidates from 1,055 parties will be seeking the support of more than 714 million registered voters – a number that has jumped by 40 million since the last election in 2004. Across India's 35 states and "union territories" there will be 800,000 polling stations ready to receive voters, while six million police will be on duty to try to maintain order. Such is the sheer scale of this enterprise that the voting is to be staggered over a month with five separate polling days. The result will be announced in mid-May.
Among some of the leading players in this political carnival are a movie star turned politician, whose rallies lure countless thousands of the poor, desperate for him to transform his on-screen Robin Hood heroism into real-life action; a "Dalit Queen", whose support among so-called Untouchables could carry her to the prime minister's official residence; a chief minister whose state saw a massacre of Muslims yet who has risen to become a potential leader of his party; and an elegant, Italian-born widow who holds the position as India's chief power broker. There are wealthy and poor, old and young, high-caste and low, nationalists and those who want to separate from India. There are those who preach peace, and those who promise violence. There are dozens of languages and many different scripts.
Related articles But if an Indian election provides a window in the extraordinary diversity of the subcontinent, it should not distract from the fundamental point that this is a contest for power. The centrist Congress Party, which heads the current ruling coalition, is battling to fight off a challenge not just from the main opposition, the right-wing Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), but also from a third front of communist and left parties and even a fourth front that includes disgruntled former allies. Some analysts believe this election – the 15th since the country won independence in 1947 – is the most open in recent years.
What is clear is that the election is taking place against a backdrop of uncertainty and anxiety for India. While this emerging nation with its middle vision fixed on superpower status has not suffered the same sort of economic downturn as the West, many middle-class professions in the IT and software industry have for the first time faced redundancies and layoffs.
At the same time there is mounting concern about the threat of terrorism. Last year's Mumbai attacks saw more than 160 people killed by militants from Pakistan, and the issue of how to avoid a repeat of such incidents has dominated much public debate. India's relationship with Pakistan, which has never been warm, but which in recent years had been enjoying something of a thaw, has effectively now reverted to a stand-off. Meanwhile, the bodies of nine of the militants who carried out the attack – another man was captured alive – remain in a Mumbai mortuary waiting to be claimed.
"I will be voting BJP. The risk of terrorism is high and the Congress does not support a strict law against terrorism," said Praveen Rana, an Indian air force officer. "The problem for India is that 60 per cent of the population is poor and they vote in their own interests. The middle classes don't care about politics. That is why we only have bad politicians."
This criticism of politicians, particularly their alleged corruption, is a constant among supporters of all parties. In a country where bribery is embedded in everyday interactions – from getting a job or a canister of cooking gas to paying off a policeman – ordinary voters are disappointed but not surprised at reports of corruption. Indeed, Indian newspapers have been full of such stories. Just this week, police in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh, parts of which go to the polls on Thursday, uncovered wads of cash worth about £3m in a supposed "votes for notes" scandal. One regional watchdog claims £137m will be spent in the last few days of campaigning to pay for inducements. Many ordinary people believe instinctively that politicians are only interested in themselves.
"Nobody will help the poor. I have to work for my survival," said Krishaiah, a wizened flower-seller from the southern city of Hyderabad, touting strings of blooms alongside a noisy, traffic-filled road. "Neither the Congress nor anybody else can help." That people have such distrust of politicians ought not to be a surprise. Of the 543 MPs returned to the Lok Sabha, or lower house of parliament, in 2004, a total of 128 had outstanding criminal charges against them. Of those alleged offences, 84 were for murder while other allegations included kidnapping, extortion and robbery. "[To be prevented from standing] the law requires a person to be convicted but a lot of these cases just drag on and on," said Anil Bairwal, coordinator of the Association for Democratic Reforms, a watchdog group that has collected these statistics. "By the time it comes to court, the person may have retired or passed on."
Leading the Congress's re-election campaign is party chairman Sonia Gandhi, the autocratic widow of assassinated former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, and prime minister Manmohan Singh, a quiet, uncharismatic economist credited with kick-starting India's development but who has taken the country into a closer alignment with the US. Mrs Gandhi's quietly spoken 38-year-old son, Rahul, a great-grandson of India's first prime minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, is already a major presence in the party and is widely tipped as a future prime minister. The Congress, which bought the rights to the Slumdog Millionaire hit "Jai Ho" (Let There Be Victory) to use as its theme song, has sought to highlight the country's progress over the past five years.
Leading the BJP is the octogenarian L K Advani, a man who despite, or perhaps because of, his age has pitched himself as a politician of vitality and new ideas. He has even started blogging. Despite the ascension within the party's hierarchy of figures such Narendra Modi, a right-wing ideologue and chief minister of Gujarat, which in 2002 saw a massacre of Muslims, the BJP has tried to position itself towards the centre, arguing that it has moved away from its nationalist past.
But its dilemma of whether or not to give up the so-called Hindutva vote was underlined by the recent antics of Varun Gandhi, also a great-grandson of Nehru but the black sheep of the dynasty. Campaigning for the BJP in India's largest state, Uttar Pradesh, Mr Gandhi, who falsely claimed he had earned two degrees in London, vowed to cut off the heads of Muslims – an election promise that might have pleased Hindu extremists but which saw him thrown in jail and held under anti-terrorism laws.
Uttar Pradesh, which sends 80 MPs, was once a Congress stronghold but has since been controlled by two caste-based parties. The current chief minister, Mayawati, draws her support from Dalits and has gradually built her support elsewhere in the country. Brimming with ambition and with a penchant for commissioning super-sized statues of herself, the diminutive Mayawati has been tipped as a possible premier if she takes her Bahujan Samaj Party into an alliance with left parties in a third front.
In recent weeks, a fourth front has also emerged, made up of regional parties such as the Samajwadi Party, another caste-based party from Uttar Pradesh, and the Rashtriya Janata Dal from impoverished Bihar. While this grouping is unlikely to be able to form a government by itself, its fortunes have been boosted by the support of Konidela Shiva Shankara Vara Prasad, better known as Chiranjeevi, a popular Telugu-language movie star, who last year formed his own party in Andhra Pradesh. The larger-than-life actor has drawn huge crowds as his campaign tours the state. "Reforms need to take place," he said. "Rural areas have been neglected."
Pundits predict that whichever single party emerges with the most votes, it will be forced to make a coalition to form a government. This time around, there have been few pre-poll alliances with most parties opting to see how they stand in a month's time. "The real election will start on 16 May," said the veteran journalist and political analyst M J Akbar. "[The coalitions] are all marriages of convenience. There are no clear ideologies."
In a region where democracy has often struggled, it is perhaps a compliment to India's enduring civilian rule that few see radical changes, regardless of whichever of the major parties forms the next government. What the election does promise is terrific political theatre. Pull up a chair.
The India election in numbers States:
West Bengal: Bengal has been under Communist rule since gaining independence, and hammer and sickle flags jostle for space with images of Bollywood stars.
Kashmir: The most densely militarized place on Earth and still at the centre of South Asian tension.
Uttar Pradesh: India's largest and most important state, with a population of over 190 million. It is the electoral base of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty, with Rahul and Sonia Gandhi both having constituencies here.
Gujarat: Fast becoming India's business hub, Gujarat is responsible for the production of about 90 per cent of India's required Soda Ash. It also provides about 66 per cent of all the salt used in India.
Kerala: A survey in 2005 ranked Kerala as the least corrupt state in the country. At 91 per cent, it also has the highest literacy rate in India.
Bihar: Nearly 85 per cent of Bihar's population is rural.
Haryana: At 29,887 rupees (£410), the state of Haryana has the third highest per capita income in India. It also has the largest number of rural crorepatis (similar to millionaires when taking into account the cost of living) in India.
Himachal Pradesh: In a 1981 census it was found that Hindus made up 95 per cent of the state population.
Maharashtra: Contributing to 15 per cent of India's industrial output and 13.2 per cent of its GDP in 2005-06, Maharashtra is the richest state in India.
Punjab: With just 6.16 per cent of the population living in poverty, Punjab is considered the least impoverished of India's states.
Nagaland: Over 85 per cent of the population of Nagaland are directly dependant on agriculture.
Orissa: Nearly half of the 38 million people living in Orissa are classed as living below the poverty line.
Tamil Nadu: More than 10 per cent of India's businesses are based in Tamil Nadu – the largest number for any state.
Sikkim: With only 540,000 inhabitants, Sikkim is India's least populous state. At 76 people per square kilometer, it also one of the least densely populated.
Mizoram: Christians make up 87 per cent of Mizoram's population – one of only three Indian states with a Christian majority.
Karnataka: With GDP growth of 56.2 per cent and per capita GDP growth of 43.9 per cent, Karnataka has been the fastest growing state over the past decade.
Arunachal Pradesh: The one million-strong population of Arunachal Pradesh is grouped into more than a hundred tribes and sub-tribes.
Manipur: A politically sensitive area, foreigners wishing to visit must get a permit which lasts up to ten days. Visitors are required to travel in groups of four on arranged tours with authorized agents only.
Chhattisgarh: Known as "the rice bowl of India", Chhattisgarh is one of the largest producers of rice in India – around 1.6 tonnes per hectare.
Assam: Separatist rebels and ethnic tension make this an unstable region, with attacks on migrants and 605 bomb blasts in the past eight years.
Madhya Pradesh: Sixty per cent of children aged under five are malnourished, leading to a mortality rate of one in 10 – among the world's worst areas for malnutrition.
Jharkhand: With a rapidly advancing economy, poverty declined by 2 per cent per year between 1994 and 2002.
Goa: Hundreds of thousands of tourists flock here each year attracted by Goa's beaches and world heritage architecture.
Rajasthan: The largest state in India, Rajasthan has an area of 342,269km2, around 100,000km2 more than the UK.
Andhra Pradesh: At 972km, Andhra Pradesh has the second largest coastline in India.
Meghalaya: The population is mostly composed of tribespeople, 70 per cent of them Christian owing to the work of early missionaries.
Tripura: A state ruled by members of the Left Front, including the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Revolutionary Socialist Party.
Uttarakhand: The capital, Dehradun, is sometimes known as "the Oxford of India" for its wide array of boarding schools.
Union territories
Chandigarh: The city of Chandigarh has the highest per capita income in the country at 99,262 rupees (£1,350). It is also a union territory.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands: The islands were struck by the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami; 2,500 people were killed and 5,000 pronounced missing.
Lakshadweep: India's smallest union territory with a population of just 60,650.
Delhi: Current estimates put the municipal population at 17 million, making Delhi the sixth most populous city in the world.
Puducherry: With colleges for engineering, the arts, sciences, medicine and technology, Puducherry is considered an educational centre for southern India.
Dadra and Nagar Haveli: These Portuguese colonies were liberated in July 1954, and an agreement signed in 1961 to merge them with the rest of India.
Daman and Diu: With a population of just 158,204 , this is India's second least populous area.
General election facts
There are 543 seats in the Lok Sabha, the directly elected lower house which is also known as the House of the People. Elections take place every five years. There are 730 million registered voters in India, an increase of 40 million since 2004.
Voting will be conducted at 800,000 polling booths and 1,368,430 electronic voting machines. More than two million security personnel will be on hand to ensure the elections run without a hitch. Of the candidates announced so far, at least 70 have criminal cases pending against them. The charges include murder, rape, kidnapping, extortion and assault.
Voting takes place over five phases between 16 April and 13 May. India's biggest political party, the Indian National Congress, is part of the United Progressive Alliance which brings together parties willing to support a Congress-led national government.
The main opposition, the Bharatiya Jarata Party (BJP), is part of the National Democratic Alliance. This coalition was the first to be forged between a major national party and a range of regional players. The Third Front, a leftist grouping, re-named itself the United National Progressive Alliance last month. The UNPA lists the Communist Party of India, the Forward Bloc and the Revolutionary Socialist Party among its 10 members.
Manipur voters worry about the state’s borders | Sindh Today |
Imphal, April 12 (IANS) Political parties in Manipur are trying their best to prove who can protect the state’s territorial integrity - an emotive issue dominating the Lok Sabha election campaign. The special powers given to the armed forces is also a key campaign theme. Elections for the two parliamentary seats in Manipur take place April 16 and 23. With 16 candidates in the fray, no party or political formation has emerged as the frontrunner yet.
Safeguarding the boundaries of Manipur has been a sensitive issue ever since the state saw widespread violence in 2001 when then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee agreed to extend the truce with the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) beyond Nagaland into Manipur.
At least 20 people were killed in the unrest. The state assembly was set on fire by mobs belonging to the majority Meitei community, angry over Vajpayee’s decision to allow the NSCN-IM a free run in Manipur. While the estimated 400,000 Nagas in the state of 2.4 million are siding with the demand for a ‘Greater Nagaland’, a concept mooted by the NSCN-IM, the majority Meiteis are opposed to any fragmentation of their state.
The NSCN, a rebel group in adjoining Nagaland, wants a ‘Greater Nagaland’ by slicing off parts of neighbouring Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh that have sizeable Naga population. The United Naga Council (UNC), the apex body of the Nagas residing in four districts in Manipur, favours integrating Naga-inhabited areas with ‘Greater Nagaland’.
“The Congress party’s stand is very clear and firm. We are not going to part with even an inch of our land. It was during the NDA’s (National Democratic Alliance) time that the centre announced extension of NSCN (I-M) ceasefire without any territorial limit,” Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh told IANS.
With the Congress harping on the theme of safeguarding the territorial integrity and accusing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of compromising the state’s boundary, the BJP is having a hard time. Almost all the parties have highlighted the issue of territorial integrity in their manifestoes. Another important issue pertains to repealing the controversial Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), an anti-terror law aimed at quelling insurgency.
The 1958 act provides unlimited powers to the security forces to shoot on sight and arrest anybody without a warrant. “We are committed to repealing the act by voicing the sentiments of the people of Manipur in parliament,” Nationalist Congress Party leader Purno Sangma said after releasing the party manifesto here.
Chief Minister Okram said his government had already withdrawn the act from the Imphal municipal areas. “We also want an end to the act as soon as possible, but before we lift it completely we must ensure that killings and extortions stop,” he said.
Human Rights Watch describes how the act has become a tool of state abuse, oppression and discrimination. (Syed Zarir Hussain can be contacted at zarir.h@ians.in">h@ians.in)


Frans on 04.12.09 @ 06:00 PM CST [link]


Saturday, April 11th

Nagas must not initiate in Indian election Naga Military Army Force, NNC.



Nagas must not initiate in Indian election Naga Military Army Force, NNC.

In the year 1947, June 26, we the NNC govt. had meeting with Akbar Hydari for Nagas Nine point, agreement but could not finalized. After that Kughato Sumi and Phizo elected delegation member in July 19, 1947 and went to Delhi and had a meeting with Mahatma Gandhi, Father of the Nation in Bangi Colony not to interfere in Nagas’ right.
Then Mahatma Gandhi told that if you people of Nagas want to live in your own you don’t have to tell us.

So Kughato, Ivulho, Tolhopu together declared Naga Independence day on August 14, 1947 and hoisted Naga National Flag by Kughato in Kohima Choto Bosti Dibashi Line. We the Naga have our own right but don’t want to have enmity with Indian.

In 1954, we demanded them to leave Nagaland but they don’t. So in March 24, 1956 we had a clash with Indian Army force A.P. Battalion in Satakha Village and apprehended 78 Indian Army with arms, ammunition but released them without any harm because we are Christian Country and don’t want blood shed.

We demanded Indian to leave our country and not to interfere in our Naga country right. According to 1951 May 16, plebiscite known by most of the country, we have been given every right and want the people of Naga also. We the Nagas must not initiate in Indian election. Who ever is a ring leader in Indian election, he or she will be not counted as Naga and if anything happens he or she will be responsible (as in the azha).

If any of the NNC non accordist 15 Battalion 5 Brigade Naga Military Army Force is involved in the election he or she will be punished. M.I.P, Battalion 5 Brigade,

UNPC tells, IM, Mani to go to Nagaland The Sangai Express
Imphal, April 01 2009: Taking strong exception to the manner in which Mani Charenamei has been advocating the formation of Nagalim at the expense of Manipur, the United Naga People's Council has dubbed him a stooge of the NSCN (IM) and 'advised' him to instead go to Nagaland to represent that State.

In a statement issued to the press today, the outfit said that it seriously views the statement of Mani Charenamei during the Nag Reconciliation meeting held at Komlathabi Kapam Public ground in Chandel in October last year wherein he said that no one should oppose the aspirations of the Nagas to live under one administrative unit.

Mani Charenamei is an MP from Manipur but since he deems it to speak against the interest of the State, then the ideal thing would be for him to contest the election from Nagaland, it asserted. Till date UNPC has neither sought the help of any Minister, MLA or MP and has also never issued any threats to them, but the stand of Charenamei is taking things a little too far. The outfit also reminded that Mani made the statement under heavy security provided by the State Government.
Though some sections of the Nagas of Manipur may support the idea of disintegrating Manipur, the UNPC will oppose such an agenda till the last breath, said the statement.

The UNPC is fully committed to the peaceful co-existence of the hill and valley people, it added. Going on the offensive against the NSCN (IM), the statement said that the dastardly killing of Dr Th Kishan and his two subordinates is ample proof of the mindset of the IM leaders. The Lt Col who carried out the murder must have surely received the blessings of Hebron in committing the hideous murder, it said and added that though they have been stating that the guilty would be punished, it is clear that they are far from doing that. Recalling the instances of Baby Lungnila Elizabeth, UNPC said that the prime accused, James Kuki was released from the custody of the IM group on a parole of Rs 40 lakhs. What does this say, it countered. Even the murder case of Muheni Martin and Hriini Hubert has been allowed to die a natural death, it reminded and said that the time has come for the Nagas of Manipur to banish the IM group.

Negating the press statement published in the State papers on September 7 last year, UNPC said that there are no district officers. The officers were named as William Tangkhul (Ukhrul), Robert (Senapati), Dimgolmei (Tamenglong) and Megheiber (Chandel) and army wing commander DS Ason. Till date the UNPC does not have an army wing. Till an official decision of the UNPC is taken all works will be executed under the is general secretary BT Lansha and finance secretary Apam Tangkhul, it added.

The outfit also asked the renegades to confess to their misdeeds or else they will be taken an enemies of the people of Manipur.
Bullets can't be a reply to NE terrorism' 'Bullets can't be a reply to IST, B B Goswami Times of India
SILCHAR: External affairs minister Pranab Mukherjee on Friday said the problem of militancy in the North-East could not be solved by using bullets only or putting the rebels behind the bar. "Peaceful means are a better option to solve the problem," he said while addressing a number of election rallies in the Barak Valley of Assam.

"There's no doubt that the UPA government has been controlling the menace in the region with a firm hand. There's no question of being soft towards the militants. But at the same time, we have to understand that the youths who have taken up arms are our own boys. Unfortunately, they are a misguided lot. The UPA government is interested to listen to them and solve their demands through dialogue. If UPA returns to power after the election, the new government will accelerate the peace process," he said.

Addressing his first meeting at Nandan Kanon Tea Estate in Cachar district near the state's border with Manipur, the Union minister said the problem of insurgency in the southern part of Assam was influenced by militants based in Manipur and Nagaland.

"I understand the phenomena here. The government is committed to solving the problems of insurgency in Manipur and Nagaland and ensure that peace returns to this part of Assam," he said.
Coming down heavily on the Opposition for nailing the government for the recent blasts that rocked Assam, Mukherjee said they (the Opposition parties) "only know to criticize but fail to go through the government's achievements in terms of containing terrorism."

He added, "It's true that militants are frequently triggering blasts in Assam. But this is nothing new. There were major terror attacks including one in Parliament during the NDA's tenure. Terrorism has become an international problem and different countries are discussing the issue to take on the menace jointly. The achievement of UPA government is that during this period India has managed to succesfully present the problem of terrorism at international forums. But the NDA government had failed to do so."

Taking a pot shot at BJP leader L K Advani for describing Manmohan Singh a "weak" prime minister, Mukherjee said, "It's not necessary that Manmohanji has to put on many kgs to become a PM. For a prime minister, his head has to work, not his body."

Rio was proposer of "Bedrock of Naga Society", claims NPCC Page News Service)
Dimapur, April 9: In response to the statements of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and NPF President, Dr Shürhozelie on "Bedrock of Naga Society" during the election meetings, the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee asked Rio to refresh his memory when the meeting for the release of the booklet was organized at Congress Bhavan, Kohima in June 2000 and added that Rio, the then Congress Home Minister was the proposer and Z Lohe, the then Speaker was the seconder.
It may be mentioned here that the NPF leaders, including the Chief Minister had said that the Bedrock of Naga Society cannot be a closed chapter as claimed by the Congress Party unless Congress Party officially tender apology to the Nagas.
In a release, NPCC Vice President, Nillo Rengma stated that for NPFF it is a totally a closed chapter from August 31, 2005 when former CLP leader I Imkong pronounced before the Naga Convention on Integration that "I hereby put on record that it is a closed chapter. Let the past rancours and hatchet be buried, sink differences, be reconciled and unite to go forward for a glorious future blessed with peace and prosperity". On that day the booklet has been put at rest and disowned, the release stated adding, for the NPCC, the matter end there.

NSCN (I-M) lauded for apprehending culprits Nagaland Post
DIMAPUR: DVC: The Darogapathar Village Council (DVC) has expressed gratitude to NSCN (I-M) for apprehending two of the accused involved in the 25 March incident. The Council chairman Tsukjem Jamir and secretary Ate Kapfo further request NSCN (I-M) for early arrest of the other accused. ASUD: The Ao Students Union Dimapur (ASUD) has expressed gratitude to NSCN (IM) for their active and sincere work in apprehending the two main absconding culprits who were part of the heinous crime of robbery, attempted murder and rape on March 25 at Darogapathar. ASUD president N. Sashi Walling and general secretary S. Toshi Longhcar, in a press release issued further lauded the service of police and administration in capturing the third absconding culprit. ASUD has appealed the authorities to apprehend the last remaining culprit at the earliest to conduct a speedy trail and award befitting punishment to the culprits. SSU: The The Süngratsü Students Union has expressed gratitude to NSCN (IM) and police department for apprehending the culprits who were involved in March 25 incident. SSU in a press release issued by its president Meren Aier urged all authorities to cooperate in bringing the absconding the culprit to justice. SSU has appealed the authorities to punish the culprits as per the law to serve as an example to other criminals from committing crimes aganist humanity.
Discussion: Both Lalu and Vaiko should be detained under NSA Latest India News By Satbir Bedi
I have heard Railway Minister, Lalu Prasad Yadav saying “If I were Home Minister, whatever the consequences, I would have had a roller move over the chest of Varun Gandhi for the latter’s inciting the Hindus to act against 15 crores of Indian Muslims”.
It is clear that just as Varun Gandhi wanted to get Hindu votes by speaking against Indian Muslims, Lalu is also hell bent on getting Muslim votes whatever be the consequences. Clearly, he wants to incite the passions of Muslims. A case has been registered against him at the Kishan Ganj police station in Bihar for his threatening remarks. Maneka Gandhi, mother of Varun Gandhi had also written to the SSP, Badayun for acting against Lalu for threatening to kill her son. What Lalu has done is just like what Varun Gandhi has done and if Varun Gandhi is detained under NSA, then Lalu should also be detained under NSA.
On the other hand, the Chennai Police sources said a case was registered against MDMK leader Vaiko after his ‘bloodbath’ speech in which he warned of a bloodbath in Tamil Nadu if Prabhakaran, the Chief of the LTTE got harmed under the current Sri Lankan Army’s operation against LTTE.
Vaiko also supported Tamil Eelam (freedom) by dividing Sri Lanka into a Tamil Sri Lanka and a Sinhalese Sri Lanka. He has been booked under section 124A (sedition) of Indian Penal Code and section 505(1)(b) (making a statement to cause alarm in the public and induce a person to commit offences against the State). The case is also under section 13(1)(b) of the Unlawful Activities (prevention) Act, 1967 (advocating or abetting unlawful activity). The LTTE is a proscribed outfit under the Act. However, Vaiko has not been arrested so far.
This man, Vaiko is clearly linked with LTTE which is a terrorist organisation and is banned organisation. He should not be permitted to act against the interests of Sri Lanka which is a friendly country. It is also not clear whose blood will be spilled if Prabhakaran gets harmed. He is clearly inciting the feelings of the Tamilians to get votes. He, too, should be detained under NSA just as Varun Gandhi was detained under that act for inciting the feelings of Hindus against the Muslims. Moreover, his idea of Tamil Eelam is a dangerous idea. It could have repercussions in the various States of India with Kashmiris in J&K, Sikhs in Punjab, Nagas in Nagaland and ULFA in Assam demanding a separate State for them.
Moreover, according to news reports, Sri Lankan government has warned India that there is a threat to Sonia Gandhi and her children from LTTE which of course, has been denied by the latter but still there is a great need of caution as Sonia Gandhi’s husband had been killed by LTTE earlier.
Confident Rio claims 80% victory for Chang RIDICULES CONG’S TWO-FACED NATURE ON BEDROCK AS DAN CAMPAIGN OFFICIALLY ENDS Our Correspondent | EMN
PUGHOBOTO, APR 9: A contented and confident Neiphiu Rio today announced the conclusion of the DAN election campaign for Lok Sabha polls while predicting victory for the coalition’s consensus candidate CM Chang by a whopping 80 percent.

The 14-day DAN campaign, which underscored the Naga political issue, kicked off on March 27 last at Mon District to conclude with a public rally at Pughoboto, four days prior to the deadline set by the Election Commission.
Expressing satisfaction over the ‘good response’ from the people, Rio, interacting with media persons, exuded confidence and stated that the main aim of the coalition was to win the LS polls with the highest margin in the whole of the country.
Going by his assessment, DAN’s CM Chang will pip Congressman Asungba Sangtam for the lone Lok Sabha seat by about a margin of 80 percent.
Stressing on the insensibility in letting a ‘high command’ in Delhi address local issues, Rio questioned – “Why should we continue to let high command to rule our people. They don’t know the grass-root level.”
The Chief Minister further categorically stated that NPF-led DAN was mature enough to make decisions for the good of its people.
However, Rio clarified he is not biased about any leader of the Congress at the Centre but admitted that the fight was with the state Congress, which according to him has brought much misery to the people of Nagaland.
On the same refrain, he once again expressed distaste for the two-faced nature of the state Congress, particularly with regard to the controversial booklet - Bedrock of Naga Society.
While the Nagaland Congress has been trying to protect its Achilles’ heel by claiming that the ‘Bedrock’ is a closed chapter, it has stopped short of making any apologies over the booklet which caused a furore and brought about its downfall in the 2003 general elections.
Ridiculing the claim that ‘Bedrock’ was a closed chapter, Rio said ‘it is still the Holy Bible for Congress’ and once again challenged the State Congress to plead forgiveness from the public and to condemn the Bedrock of Naga Society, as ‘it is a matter of the whole Naga family’.
Meanwhile, lambasting the comparison with Varun Gandhi made by the State Congress, Rio said Varun and any other person who addresses hate speech against any community deserves punishment. “If I am to be punished, I will be punished for speaking up for the rights of the Naga community at large,” he said, adding that he was the first person to voice against communalism in a Delhi meeting attended by Chief Ministers and Union Ministers of the country, for which he claimed he has received appreciation from various organisations, including the Bishop of India.
Addressing today’s public at the Pughoboto Local Ground, the CM asserted that the real strength lies in the regional party and DAN Government is a people’s Government with a view to work for the development of the people.
He said Congress cannot work for the interest of Naga people as they will only talk party policy and not about Naga policy. DAN Government’s policy is ‘equi-closeness’ and our top priority is to bring solution to Naga political problem, he added.
Minister for Higher Education and Urban Development and also the president of NPF, Dr Shürhozelie Lezeitsu, in his address, also reiterated the NPF’s commitment to bring solution to the political problem with a political approach. The veteran regionalist described Chang as the fittest man and appealed to the electorate to elect him to represent the Naga people in Delhi.
Other dignitaries including Power Minister, Doshehe, Parliamentary Secretary, Co-operative, R Khing, Neiba Ndang, Member NCP and NPF Youth President also addressed the rally.
Motivations and Methods of India’s United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) Publication: Terrorism Monitor Volume: 7 Issue: 9: Derek Henry Flood
Category: Terrorism Monitor, Global Terrorism Analysis, Home Page

ULFA militant The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) has been terrorizing India’s northeastern states since a student-led insurgency began thirty years ago on April 7, 1979. The movement’s primary goal is to achieve a sovereign homeland for the Assamese people. After three decades of political violence, the ULFA shows few signs of abandoning its struggle for an independent Assam, as demonstrated by a recent pre-election bombing in Guwahati, the state’s commercial capital (Hindustan Times, April 1). The blast occurred before India’s Minister for External Affairs, Pranab Mukherjee, was due to address a campaign rally on behalf of his ruling Congress Party.

The northeast Indian states known as the “Seven Sisters” are an ethno-linguistic archipelago of seething and unresolved conflicts with the central government in Delhi. Assam is the bridgehead both for the northeast region’s economy and the Indian security forces counterintelligence operations. ULFA represents the biggest indigenous strategic threat to the “Chicken’s Neck,” the vulnerable 20 to 40 km wide corridor sandwiched between southeastern Nepal and northwestern Bangladesh that connects West Bengal to Assam. Decades of ULFA insurgency and terrorism have led to the permanent presence of the Indian military (though nothing on the scale of Delhi’s forces in Jammu & Kashmir). Thirty years of political violence has been an obstruction to the development of this vital yet impoverished region. Assam is essential for the development of India’s crumbling domestic infrastructure and markedly growing economy. Upper Assam state’s carbon-based energy resource sector was developed under British rule and bequeathed to the Nehru government at independence. After nationalization via Nehru’s socialist inspired policies, it has continued to supply petroleum and coal to the Indian “mainland,” while many Assamese who inhabit villages adjacent to petroleum production in Digboi that open pit coal mining in Margherita cook dinner with firewood and eat by candlelight.

Droves of workers from India’s Hindi belt have migrated to Assam to cultivate its sprawling tea plantations and chip away at its mines. These mass migrations were encouraged during the British Raj when colonial officials needed vast numbers of laborers to fill the imperial treasuries and have continued unabated to the present day. Thus, the ULFA’s primary targets consist of both national and local political elites, the security forces and the Hindi-speaking migrant laborers (primarily from the poverty-stricken eastern Indian state of Bihar). A dominant factor in ULFA’s raison d’etre is an anti-migration sentiment mixed with linguistic chauvinism toward outsiders. The UFLA’s xenophobic doctrine insists that the influx of illiterate migrants into the state’s labor pool drowns out indigenous Assamese culture and leaves locals out of participating in their own rightful industries.

Critics in the Indian security establishment point to inconsistencies in the group’s rationale; the ULFA is vehemently against internal economic migration from within India but remains relatively silent on the illegal immigration of Bengali-speaking Muslims from Bangladesh (Rediff January 9, 2007). This contradiction is regarded by Indian officials as de facto evidence of the involvement of Bangladesh’s Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), which Delhi believes to be supported by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) (Rediff.com, January 17, 2007).

Though links to regional Islamist groups are often ascribed to unnamed government officials in Delhi or the Assamese state capital of Dispur the ULFA differs from the many militant Islamist groups operating on the sub-continent by being Hindu in origin and militantly ethno-nationalist in nature, not unlike the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam in Sri Lanka (Times of India, October 21, 2004). Any coordination between the ULFA and religiously motivated non-state actors in Bangladesh and Pakistan would be of an operational nature based on temporarily dovetailing interests rather than any ideological commonality. Delhi seeks to emphasize the ULFA’s Islamist/terrorist connections through the national press, though publicly it presents scant empirical evidence to make such a case (Economic Times [New Delhi], February 7). Indian authorities and the Indian press seek to link the group to ISI-sponsored Islamist groups in Bangladesh and directly to the ISI itself.

The ULFA’s theater of operations and training is or has been comprised of the Buddhist kingdom of Bhutan, the predominantly Muslim hereditary democracy of Bangladesh, the Orwellian state of Myanmar and Nagaland, home of a predominantly Baptist revolutionary movement. The ULFA fights and terrorizes within an astonishingly Balkanized belt of ethnic and religious diversity. ULFA activities are rarely reported in the Western press unless they produce a mass casualty attack, such as the January, 2007 incident in which approximately 70 Bihari civilians were killed in a multi-day orgy of violence (Bloomberg, January 8, 2007). These attacks are partly aimed at disrupting the Assamese and Indian economy. Often when Bihari civilians are attacked they flee Assam en masse, leaving the state devoid of much needed labor.

Looking Eastward Following the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi by a teenage Sri Lankan Tamil suicide bomber in 1991, India moved from an idealistic Nehruvian foreign policy into an era of realpolitik under the leadership of P.V. Narasimha Rao. India’s traditional support for democracy in Burma and its vanguard, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, was put on the back burner in favor of creating trade relations with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Several of India’s northeastern insurgent movements maintained bases in the jungles of northern Myanmar, including the ULFA and the bitterly split factions of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland. The ULFA insurgency in northeast India stands in the way of India rebuilding the historic Stillwell Road that connects the region to China’s Yunnan province via Myanmar (Times of India, April, 11 2005).

A Roadblock to Regional Integration Suppressing insurgency in Assam is an essential element of India’s “Look East” policy, as Delhi seeks to enhance trade linkages and military cooperation in Southeast Asia. If Assam is the gateway to India’s turbulent northeast, than Myanmar is India’s gateway onward to Southeast Asia. After the ULFA was largely expelled from its Bhutanese camps by the kingdom’s security forces in the 2003 Indian-assisted “Operation All Clear,” the Indian government has since sought to encourage the Burmese junta of General Than Shwe to expel ULFA rebels from its territory (which would leave Bangladesh as ULFA’s last external training center) in exchange for closer military-military and commercial ties (Times of India, December 30, 2003). The armies of Myanmar and India staged the “India-Myanmar Friendship Rally” in 2006 under the guise of memorializing the collective loss of Allied indigenous soldiers in WWII.

The impetus for India engaging Myanmar is twofold. Primarily, India is uneasy with Chinese expansion into Myanmar as China seeks out resources and blue water ports to meet rapidly increasing domestic consumption demands and strengthen its influence in the broader Southeast Asian/Indian Ocean realm. Secondly, India is seeking to exploit natural gas fields and other resources, along with China and South Korea, off western Myanmar’s Arakan coast (Asia Times, April 3). Creating pipelines, reviving WWII colonial era roads and turning a blind eye to human rights are factors in India’s new relations with the Than Shwe government. The ULFA and its goal of Assamese secession is a nagging impediment to Delhi’s belated plans for development of the Northeast necessary for integration with ASEAN.

Methods of Terror ULFA guerrillas, who are routinely referred to in the Indian press as “cadres” or “ultras,” routinely extort money from sprawling tea estates that blanket Upper Assam and target estate officials for kidnapping and assassination (The Telegraph [Kolkata] November 30, 2008). Tea estate workers in Upper Assam interviewed by the author described night visits by ULFA insurgents demanding cash, food and silence on the group’s movements in exchange for remaining unharmed. The workers, primarily Bihari peasants, said that while the Indian Army controls the roads in Tinsukia district during the day, the ULFA operates freely at night. ULFA members occasionally slaughter groups of Biharis to demonstrate the reality of their threats.

In Assam’s urban centers, ULFA members commonly plant explosive devices on motorcycles and bicycles, hurl grenades into unsuspecting marketplaces and place bombs in rubbish bins to make their point (Telegraph, March 26, 2008). The ULFA also instructs whole commercial districts to commence bandhs, or strikes, where guerillas force commerce to come to a halt under threat of violence. Shop owners seen conducting business during a bandh may be killed or have their enterprises destroyed for disobeying an ULFA ultimatum. By issuing bandh diktats, ULFA leaders seek to send a message of immense dissatisfaction to Delhi and punish local leadership in Dispur for its perceived intransigence.

Though the Indian government has had a certain degree of success with getting particular factions of northeastern insurgent groups to demilitarize and surrender, there always seems to be hardcore elements within these fissiparous, personality-driven movements that are irreconcilable to anything less than their stated aims. The “Charlie” and “Alpha” companies of the ULFA’s 28th Battalion, allegedly based in Myanmar, have ceremonially surrendered and agreed to ceasefires while other irreconcilable elements within the movement have yet to come in from the cold (The Hindu, June, 25 2008).

Conclusion At the thirtieth anniversary of ULFA’s founding, the group and its activities in Assam show few signs of genuinely abating despite pronouncements by Indian authorities to the contrary. The ULFA’s military leader, Paresh Barua, also appears no closer to being apprehended in his sanctuary in neighboring Bangladesh, though negotiations on the ULFA issue are under way following the election of the pro-India Awami League government in Dhaka. As the Indian military’s primary focus will likely remain along its western frontier with Pakistan and maintaining one of the world’s largest military occupations (and subsequent counterintelligence operations) in Jammu & Kashmir, it will be very difficult for Delhi to dismantle the ULFA in the long term. The ULFA has suffered military and logistical setbacks in recent years but not nearly enough to bring the organization to an end. The grievances that have fostered the Assamese insurgency, primarily allocation of resources, unfettered migration from the Hindi-speaking belt and prospects for Assamese independence, are unlikely to be addressed by the central government. With India and China in competition throughout this complex region while still retaining a degree of distrust stemming from unresolved territorial disputes in the aftermath of the 1962 Sino-Indian war, prospects for a comprehensive regional peace process are highly unlikely. Economic interdependence between Asian powers is moving ahead faster than the resolution of long standing ethno-nationalist grievances (with their suspected foreign sponsors) and trade may ultimately trump diplomacy in this bitterly contested region.
Rebels rain bullets on train CRPF jawan killed, 17 hurt SARAT SARMA The Telegraph


Nagaon, April 10: A CRPF constable was killed and 17 persons were injured when suspected militants of the Dima Halam Daogah (Jewel Gorlosa) sprayed the Badarpur-Lumding Barak Express with bullets in Assam’s North Cachar Hills district today.
Thaiso Langthasa, a 32-year-old passenger, said, “The train was moving slowly as it was climbing. The attackers fired from either side of the track as soon as the engine reached their level. They also lobbed a grenade. Five coaches were hit.” The grenade exploded after hitting the window of a coach, Thaiso, who was travelling from Haflong to Langting, said.
The attack took place near Wadrengdisha between Haflong and Maibong railway stations on the metre gauge track around 2.15pm. The site is 153km from Badarpur railway junction to the south and 75km from Lumding and 30km from the district headquarters of Haflong to the north. Maibong civil sub-divisional officer Ghana Kanta Pegu said the train continued its journey despite the firing and reached Maibong station. The injured passengers were taken off the train there.
“A special train on medical duty reached Maibong this evening. We are shifting all the seriously injured to Lumding and Haflong,” Pegu added. The rest are being treated at the Maibong community health centre.
Amarjeet Singha, 21, a constable of the 5th Assam Police Battalion, said from the Maibong health centre, where he was undergoing treatment before being shifted to Lumding, “I was in the coach for security personnel next to the engine. I saw at least five militants firing at us from sophisticated weapons...bullets were raining on us.
“Two bullets hit me, one on my right arm and another on the left leg,” he said, ruing that he did not have a firearm as he was returning after work. The other security personnel in the coach retaliated, he added. Singha, who was on his way to Lumding from Haflong, hails from Jalukbari in Guwahati and had joined the battalion two years ago.
The deceased constable, identified as A.K. Tiwari of the 144 CRPF, was also travelling in this coach. Three persons — RPSF constable Dhanesh Buragohain, Rangthang Haflongbar of Semkhor and an unidentified middle-aged man — were seriously injured in the attack. The unidentified person suffered serious burn injuries as a kerosene stove, being carried in one of the coaches, burst after being hit by a bullet. “He was sitting close to the stove,” a senior doctor at Maibong CHC, Tilok Deka, said.
The two civilians have been shifted to Haflong while a jawan of the Railway Protection Security Force has been shifted to Lumding, Deka said. Two women and two children were also among the injured, he added.
Another passenger, Dipti Hojai of Lumding, who suffered splinter injuries and was also undergoing treatment at the Maibong CHC, said, “We were peeping out to see from where the firing was coming. At that moment a grenade was hurled and it hit the iron grill of the window of our coach. I can’t remember anything after that.”
NC Hills district superintendent of police Mridulananda Sarma said the DHD (J) are suspected to have launched the attack, but investigations are on to ascertain the facts. He and deputy commissioner S. Jagannathan visited the spot. An NF Railway spokesperson said discussions were on to decide whether to run trains in the section from tomorrow. Train services in the district have often been disrupted because of militant attacks. The railway still does not run passenger trains in this section at night.
Cong’s vote-bank politics has harmed Assam: Modi Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, April 11 – The choice in the coming Lok Sabha elections in Assam would be between vote-bank politics of the Congress party and the politics of development that the National Democratic Alliance stood for. It is the politics of vote bank that has created the gravest of problems in the State, which has been under Congress rule for several decades.

Asserting this at a campaign rally of the BJP’s candidate for the Guwahati constituency, Biyoya Chakravarty, Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi said that the time has arrived for the electorate to bury the Congress for good, so that much needed development can be ushered in. The future of the entire country would reside on the foundation of development, he said.

Contrasting the status of drinking water availability in Assam with Gujarat, he said that while a place like Guwahati had limited access to potable water, every village in water-starved Gujarat had access to water. “This shows the difference between vote-bank politics and what can be achieved by politics of development,” Modi thundered.

He agreed with BJP leader LK Advani, who had described Prime Minister Manmohan Singh as a weak leader. “Had you been strong, you would have arrived in Assam the very next day after the blasts that killed and injured scores of people…You would have dismissed a cabinet minister who had favoured granting citizenship to Bangladeshi immigrants.”

Modi referring to the security scene in Assam said that the Congress Party has failed to ensure the safety and security of people across the State. “Vote bank politics would never eradicate terrorism from the State,” he said.

Appealing to the people of the State to vote for the NDA and the leadership of LK Advani, Modi noted that only if the NDA came to power would the fruits of development be enjoyed by the masses. “Unlike in the case of the Congress, the NDA believes that the first claim on the country’s wealth is that of the poor,” he commented.

“I have spoken at several rallies today, and I feel a change coming…the Congress Party would be finished in Assam!” the senior BJP leader claimed. Addressing the gathering, Bijoya Chakravarty sought the blessings of the electorate, and promised a discernible difference to Guwahati and Assam when the NDA came to power.

AGP president Chandra Mohan Patowary told cheering crowds that no major development has taken place in Assam during the tenure of the Congress-led UPA government. “All the major benefits that the State has enjoyed was because of the initiatives of the AGP government and the BJP government,” he remarked.

Several other BJP AGP leaders attended today’s campaign rally, including SS Ahluwalia, Sudhangshu Mittal, Dhruba Baishya and Ramen Kalita.

Our Correspondesnts add: Nagaon: “Vote for the BJP-AGP combine and save Assam,” said Narendra Modi here today while addressing a large crowd. He said that the voters had three options – to vote for the UPA whose partners share power with Congress in New Delhi, but turn into vocal critics of the Congress in their states, or the third front that does knows neither their leader nor its objective, or vote for the NDA which will never break.

It is the wish of the people that the NDA should come to power, Modi said, adding that Advani represents nationalism and the NDA is for the welfare of India and also for Assam. Modi criticized the UPA, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in particular, because he did nothing for Assam even though he was elected from the State.

Rangiya: Narendra Modi today accused the ruling UPA government in centre and the Congress Government in Assam of failing totally in providing the basic needs of the poor and the deprived. “Both the governments are turning a deaf ear to the burning problem afflicting the common man and the development process has been completely sidelined,” he said while addressing a public rally.

Criticising the Congress, the BJP leader said that the party was only trying to play vote-bank politics in Assam to woo the voters but failed to understand the problems of the people. Urging the people to vote for the BJP, Modi said that if elected to power his party would accord top priority to development and providing a stable government. “The State of Assam has seen no development under the Congress regime ,” Modi said adding that it was high time the people ousted the Congress by putting up a united stand.

Jorhat: “The vote bank politics patronized by the ruling Congress party has crippled India during the last 60 years”, said Narendra Modi, addressing a huge election rally at Jorhat District Sports Association (JDSA) Field here today. The prominent BJP leader, Modi arrived here at 11-30 am to campaign for Kamakhya Tasa, the young BJP candidate of the Jorhat constituency for the ensuing LS election.

Modi further added that the illegal migrants from Bangladesh during the rule of Congress have changed the demography and socio-economic structure of Assam which is a serious threat for the indigenous people of the land.

Criticizing the Congress government and the MP of Jorhat constituency he said that the scarcity of drinking water in the district itself is the worst example of the vote bank politics of the party in power, while the river Brahamaputra is only 10 km away from the Jorhat town. Contrasting to it he presented the picture of Gujrat, where BJP government linked 1400 km of pipeline from Narmada within 700 days and provided drinking water to 8000 villages. The insecurity of life in Assam according to the Chief Minister of Gujrat was due to the failure of the Congress government in both the state and Centre. It indicated the unheeded attitude of the government for the common folk. In Assam there occurred four blasts within a week which according to him was an astonishing instance.



Frans on 04.11.09 @ 10:14 PM CST [link] <