Manipur Govt takes stand on current imbroglio morungexpress
Manipur Govt takes stand on current imbroglio morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): The Government of Manipur today issued a statement through the Nagaland media spelling out its stance on the ongoing tensions since the Mao Gate incident and related events that continue to make headlines. In a statement issued through spokesman N Biren, Manipur’s SPF government assured that any underground organization will be treated “with the same yardstick” and all the non-Manipuris living in Manipur will be protected with full proof, the Manipur government’s stated.
The SPF government said the sinister design of Th. Muivah, general secretary of NSCN (IM) to disintegrate Manipur and inflammatory remarks made by the group “is so unfortunate.” ‘Before going too long it is pertinent to understand together that no community or race in this planet would remain a silent spectator when their very peaceful co-existence had ever been disturbed and when their territorial integrity is threatened by some miscreants.’
The Manipur government’s statement said Manipur is formed by various communities and the SPF government “represents all communities neither its policy based on caste or creed nor working for the interest of a particular community”. Any nefarious activity to break the age-old bonds will be befittingly dealt with, the SPF stated, ‘no matter how big or small they are’.
The statement also strongly pointed out that it is a known fact the NSCN (IM) does not represent the whole of the Nagas. “The organization represents a section of people who are terribly infested with vested motive. Their evil deeds always disgraced the nomenclature ‘Naga’ in many ways,” the statement pointed out. Citing instances, the government said “some frontal organizations” of the group spared no effort in their attempt to thwart the ADC Election process held recently. “NSCN (IM) is deadly against the election for one simple reason that the money they have been robbing from the government officials at broad daylight by brandishing their AK47 and M20 pistol will no longer be in practice if once the election is held,” the government assured.
On the May 6 Mao Gate event
The SPF government then said the May 6 incident at Mao Gate was “so unfortunate” and that the motive in deploying the state’s forces in Mao area was to block Th. Muivah from entering Manipur and not to confront the people of Mao, the Manipur government said. The Manipur government pointed out: “Mr.Muivah is the root of all evils. Under his command many innocent Kukis that is estimated about 900 numbers have been butchered many Nagas who cherished peaceful co-existence have also been killed in retaliation by the Kukis. Many Kuki houses have been uprooted.
Prominent Naga leaders and hordes of Manipuri officials have been shot dead for the reasons best known to him. The people of Manipur have been subjected to inhuman torture; heavy illegal taxes have continuously been imposed on the National Highway 53 and 39. He had never been an indigenous man but a merciless alien that perpetuated unpardonable human crimes against his own people. Yes forgive and forget is the best policy and the changing time is the best healer but he never changed. The ghost of greater Nagaland still exists and haunting within him. His home coming is mingled up with his disintegration message of Manipur of greater Nagaland. This is as deadly as venom and we may not require it.
The SPF said Muivah’s proposed entry in Manipur triggered tensions which resulted in curfew at Mao gate. “Unfortunately amidst the worst situation two persons have died. The government has constituted an enquiry committee to find out the exact picture as to how the two students have been killed. The government is all set to take up action against those personnel as per the provision of law if found guilty.” The problem in Manipur, the Manipur government said, is not communal disharmony. “This is not among the Nagas, Kukis, Pangals or Meiteis. This is purely between Mr. Muivah who is openly challenging the territorial integrity of Manipur and people of Manipur one side who say no to him.”
On the incident in the Noneh areas yesterday, the government said it should not be repeated again. “While the forces reacts to the call of the duty it should also keep in mind that the life of the citizen and their safety are to be treated on top priority. The security personnel involved will be punished as per the provision of law if found guilty. Through this statement the SPF government would like to express its solidarity to the three injured people and befitting monetary assistance will be compensated to them,” the statement added.
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/49525.html
Open letter to K. Ranjit, Works Minister
Apropos to Mr. K. Ranjit Works Minister’s press statement “By Road or By Air, Muivah will be banned” that appeared on Thursday 27th May, 2010 in Hueiyen Lanpao dailly esteemed paper and Mr. Yambem Laba’s “Muivah-homecoming too far” in the same paper on Tuesday 25th May, 2010. Former represents SPA Govt. of Manipur and the latter represents the public minds of Meitei people.
If Mr. Minister is of the opinion that 95% of the people who were taking part in various forms of agitations are not willingly supporting Mr. Muivah but participated under pressure and if he thinks he is such and an expert on Naga Matter and statistics then he should be made the minister of Naga Affairs & Statistic Depts.
Nagas are more than happy to have Mr. Ranjit as one of the Hony committee members of any Naga Orgns. and see for himself whether people come out willingly or he has to go to every household and pressurize the people to come out.
Mr. Minister, politics is different from public/social activity. Its not like shooting Advocate General of a state and being rescued/covered by the power that be. Ones profession, as they say, is known by the initial-background of the person. Being involved in contract and business activities, you do not, as known, know about the ABC of social activity.
If such statement comes from such a Minister on behalf of the Govt. then one does not have to do indebt thinking to know the efficiency or the color of the Govt.
Mr. Yambem Laba, no doubt, is a great columnist. As per his statement, CM of Manipur sent him to Delhi to meet Centre Leadership to solve Yambem Thamkishore’s, the then DC-Chandel problem as the officer was abducted by Armed-group in Chandel. That, his effort solved the problem.
If he is such a good negotiator besides a good-writer, why does not the Hon’ble Chief Minister (O. Ibobi) of Manipur send him once again to Viswema to solve the present polluted atmosphere? His skills could cut short the suffering the people (both Hill/Valley) are undergoing at the moment.
Mr. Laba, Muivah holds Indian Passport, you acknowledge that. Having Peace talks betwixt the GOI-NSCN/GPRN. Mr. Muivah Ato-Kilonser has every right to visit his native village.
If, we were Mr. Yambem Laba, a good-writer, we would compose a poem as follow:-
I dot Welcome Mr. Ato-Kilonser
The Great Leader of Neglected N-E;
Why! UCM is right!
Why not! AMUCO is right!
Why! UNC is right!
Why not! ANSAM is right!
Thou the great people of SANALEIBAK
Wazir-e Azam, all India Radio Srinagar
Ato-Kilonser, thou know
Yonder in history-reasonable people
Done post-mortem; post-battle
Cry WE-why pre-homecoming
Sloganeering CHINGTAM-TAM amatani
Larger TAM-healing toucher
Call to, Alas! Yet falter yet
Comrades, think twice
Their Ato, could be harbinger! Wonder!
Presumption not but reasoning
Foreseen the world
Oh! This thinking world of mine.
Issued in the interest: Media Cell, CNCSCCC
Naga peace talks on Monday at Kohima Newmai News Network
Dimapur, May 28: The NSCN-IM and the government of India will hold next round of talks on Monday in the Nagaland capital Kohima. Informing this to Newmai News Network tonight, the NSCN-IM sources said that the May 31 talks will be participated by NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah and many senior members of the outfit.
Except for New Delhi's interlocutor in the talks and former Nagaland chief secretary R.S Pandey's name, it is still hard to figure out who are taking part in the Kohima talks from the government of India side. Agenda like the present imbroglio over Thuingaleng Muivah's proposed visit to Manipur will be tabled in the Monday talks. Earlier, the NSCN-IM had proposed New Delhi that the next round of talks will be held in "Naga country". It has been speculated that things will be ascertained about the much hyped proposed visit of Th Muivah to Manipur after the Monday parleys.
The NSCN-IM is ever determined that Thuingaleng Muivah will visit Somdal in Ukhrul district. NSCN-IM leader Th Muivah along with the outfit’s senior leaders is still camping at Viswema near Manipur-Nagaland border. Meanwhile, security has been beefed up in and around Kohima.
http://ifp.co.in/shownews.php?newsid=10015
NSCN leader may relocate - Central team to meet Muivah again NISHIT DHOLABHAI
New Delhi, May 29: A solution to the tension between Nagaland and Manipur NSCN (I-M) leader Thuingaleng Muivah’s visit to his native village in Manipur may be in sight even as the rebel leader might shift station next week. A central team, led by interlocutor for Naga talks R.S. Pandey, will be visiting Viswema, where Muivah has been camping for the past few weeks, and invite him to Delhi. The team, comprising senior intelligence bureau and home ministry officials, will be in the Angami Naga village on Monday, with plans to convince Muivah that there was no point continuing with the siege and increasing tension in the region.
Muivah’s visit had sparked tension in Manipur valley where chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh had refused entry to the rebel leader. Sources here said Ibobi had even offered to resign when he was summoned to Delhi earlier this month but had refused to allow Muivah entry into his state. The NSCN and some Naga civil society groups then staged an economic blockade on National Highway 39. Pandey and home ministry officials will apparently talk to Muivah about the fallout in the valley and the hills. This is the second visit by a central team to meet Muivah.
Earlier this month, home secretary G.K. Pillai and Pandey visited Imphal and then flew to Kohima to meet chief minister Neiphiu Rio and then Muivah. The Centre’s decision to send a team to Nagaland comes after a long wait during which Delhi tried to tire out the rebels and protesters while it helped ease supplies through Silchar and Jiribam into Manipur.
The rebel outfit has now decided to shift out of Viswema. “We will be going to Pfutsero to hold consultations with the people,” said a senior NSCN (I-M) leader over phone. Pfutsero lies in Phek district, which is dominated by the Chakhesang tribe. Both Angami and Chakhesang tribes were traditionally the domain of A.Z. Phizo’s Naga National Council (NNC).While staying in Viswema, Muivah tried to reconcile with old differences with the Angamis; now he will be attempting the same with the Chakhesangs.
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1100530/jsp/northeast/story_12501786.jsp
‘Destiny of Nagas lies with the Nagas’ morungexpress
Dimapur, May 29 (MExN): The National Socialist Council of Nagalim today held a consultative meeting with Naga civil society groups “in keeping with need of the hour to face the present situation created by the Manipur state government against the Nagas”. Stating this in a press note issued by the MIP, it was informed that the consultative meeting was held at Kilha Panchayat, Viswema village. It was moderated by Lt. Gen (Retd.) VS. Atem, Convenor, Steering Committee, NSCN and chaired by Ato Kilonser, Th. Muivah. According to the press note those who attended the meeting included the Naga Hoho, NSF, NMA, ENPO, NPMHR, UNC, NWUM, ANSAM, Senapati District Students’ Association, Mao Students’ Union, Poumai Students’ Union, Naga Ex-Parliamentarians’ Forum, Elders of Viswema village, Coordination Committee of Naga Civil Societies and NPMHR (Manipur sector).
Consultative meet focuses on how to face present situation the meeting focused on how to face the situation and solve the problem that had been forced on the Nagas by the Manipur state government, the MIP note stated. “How the Central government connived with Ibobi government against the Nagas occupied a prominent place in the discussion”, it was informed. Muivah drew the attention of the members when he said that “If you don’t stand your ground for your right, you are a lost nation”. All the members gave their commitment that they will contribute all their might and never to waver under any circumstances until and unless the Naga problem is solved, the MIP note further informed while adding that those who attended made it a point to “stress that come what may they will stand the ground and never to succumb under pressure”.
It was also informed that the meeting reiterated the stand of the Nagas that the destiny of the Nagas lies with the Nagas and the Meiteis have nothing to do with it. “I believe we have a bright future and we have to work towards that goal”, Muivah added. And putting a challenge before the Naga representatives Muivah said “If you want to do something for the Nagas, do it now”.
The MIP note also stated that the “focal point of the meeting gave clear indication that the Naga-Meitei relation is as good as closed and there is no meeting point whatsoever”. “What has happened to the Nagas under the chauvinist Meiteis had driven the Nagas to the point of no return, and the Nagas are not wrong to take this stand”, was the common opinion of the Naga civil society groups.
According to the MIP press note, the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) who was represented by its Vice President “added a point to be noted by the Khehoi Camp”. The Vice-President said that the “ENPO very much understand the problem of the Southern Nagas, though they could not do much to reach out to them”. He also further clarified that ENPO had given full support to the ongoing Indo-Naga Peace process during the 4th Naga Consultative Meeting at Hebron in 2004. “He also expressed displeasure against the Khehoi camp for using its name without its knowledge and approval and therefore, not to have anything with such statement against its name”, the MIP note stated quoting the ENPO official.
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/49526.html
Mao society to sever Manipur ties morungexpress
Dimapur, May 29 (MExN): Mao civil society today said it will severe all ties with Manipur state and have urged the Naga people’s front to work out an ‘alternative arrangement’ for the Naga areas with the Government of India.
Mao frontal organizations and Naga Parliamentarians’ Forum (NPF) met in Punanamei under the aegis of the Mao Hoho on May 28. The forum was represented by former MP Mani Charenamei, former minister Benjamin Banee, LS John, SP Henry and Henry Paotei, a joint statement from the NPF and Mao Hoho stated today. “That, in keeping with the decision of the United Naga Council, the Mao Hoho will sever all ties with the Government of Manipur and urge the members of the NPF to work out an alternative arrangement for the Naga Areas (in Manipur) with the Government of India,” a copy of the resolutions received here stated.
The organizations in meeting also noted the “defining” statement of Inner Manipur Congress MP, Dr. Th. Meinya Singh in an interview with CNN-IBN on 20th May, 2010 that the people of India regarded only Imphal as ‘Manipur’.
“As stated by Dr. Meinya, Imphal, i.e, Manipur and its government does not represent the Nagas at all. The Government of Manipur runs only at the whims and fancies of the Meitei community in Imphal. Therefore, the Nagas will henceforth seek to sever all ties with the Government of Manipur,” the statement said. The organizations strongly censured atrocities of Manipur’s Police commandos, Manipur Rifles and IRB at Mao Gate on May 6 that left two students dead and about a hundred injured. The May 6 shooting also left over 2000 villagers displaced and scattered in various places in Nagaland.
A number of resolutions emerged form the major meeting. While extending ‘undivided’ support to the Indo-Naga peace talks, the meeting urged the Government of India to expedite the peace process and bring about an early and amicable solution. Also the leaders demanded fulfillment of the government’s commitment to ‘immediately’ withdraw Manipur state’s armed forces from Mao Gate and other Hill districts of Manipur. This commitment and assurance was given by the Chief Secretary of Manipur and the GOC of 59 Mountain Division following the May 9 killing and also by the Government of India through Home Secretary GK Pillai and Interlocutor RS Pandey on May 13. Further, the chief negotiator of the NSCN (IM) Thuingaleng Muivah “must visit his birthplace without any prejudice and the Mao community will give a red carpet welcome to its leader,” another resolution stated.
http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/49553.html
Tml rally seeks separate administration By From Daniel Kamei
Tamenglong, May 29: A mass rally was held today organized by Concerned Organization for people’s Affairs Tamenglong district against the state government decision to go ahead the ADC election in Hills District of Manipur under the controversial ADC Act and against the indiscriminate firing of IRB and police commandos in Khumji (Lukhambi) near Noney on 28 May where the civilians were injured and brutally beaten up the innocent by the state forces. The mass rally seeks separate administration and justice from the government of India.
The rally submit joint memorandum to Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh through the Deputy Commissioner Tamenglong Sumant Singh, IAS seeking separate administration for Nagas and seek justice. The Nagas of Manipur have been peacefully protesting against the enforcement of Manipur (Hill Areas) District Council Act, 2008. Manipur (Hills Area) District Council Act 2008 combined with the Manipur Gazette (office memo no 16/2/misc/2008 cum (Rev) dated 26 August 2008) issued by Principal Secretary, Revenue which put the Hill district of Manipur under the revenue department of Manipur without the consent of the hills people, the memo stated.
The memo further stated that the District Council Act 2008 threatens to take the rights of tribal to land and resources as safeguarded by the constitution of India and hence the memo requested Dr Manmohan Singh, Prime Minister of India, to prevail upon the state government from enforcing the act against the will of the people. It also stated that in the continued process of the harassing the innocent Naga public, the arm forces of Manipur Commandos and IRB personnel indiscriminately fired upon the innocent public at Khumji (Lukhambi) village of Tamenglong district yesterday afternoon in which vehicles they were escorting met with an accident due to their negligence of the drivers.
However, the IRB and Cdos fired upon the innocent civilians in which Miss Esther Kamei 25 and Miss Ariang Riamei 45 of Khumji was shot in their lower limbs while Robinson Kamei 25 of Khumji village was brutally beaten after being dragged out from his residence, the memo stated.
The memo also stated that the Zeliangrong people of Tamenglong have completely lost confidence to continued living under such suppressive rule of the Manipur Government which continually violent and trample upon the Zeliangrong Naga’s rights. The lives of tribal Nagas are no more secured under the oppressive rule of the communal Manipur Government. And there was no other option but to request the Government of India to establish separate administration for the Nagas to govern by themselves, the memorandum stated. The memo was signed by Lungniliu Gangmei, Guiliangliu Panmei Co- conveners, Concerned Organisation for People’s Affairs, COPA Tamenglong and Kinderson Pamei, Convener of Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights, NPMHR.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=870
Police Cdos withdrawn from Mao gate By Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, May 29: Government has started withdraw of police force from the border gate at Mao even as demonstrations and rallies protest against and support to government decision banning NSCN (IM) general secretary from entering the state continued at various places of Manipur on Saturday. With the report of improving the law and order in the area, Senapati district administration has also lifted the curfew at Moa town under section 144 of CrPC further. Earlier, it was relaxed for 6 am till 6 pm only everyday. The curfew promulgated in Mao town and its adjoining area in connection with the proposed visit of Th Muivah, general secretary, NSCN(IM) imposed from May 2 last has also been lifted with immediate effect until further order, the order of the district magistrate, Nidhi Kesarwani.
However, the order further stated that prohibition on unlawful assembly of five or more person(s), carrying of lethal weapons, fire arms of any description or objects which can be used as weapons and public rally and use of loud speaker without prior permission from the competent authority within the prohibited areas still hold good. A government source said that Manipur government has started withdrawing state forces from the Mao gate which were deploying since May 3 to prevent rebel leader Th Muivah from crossing into Manipur territory. Police team led by IGP (law and order-III), V Zathang camping at Mao gate for the last nearly one month have left the Mao gate handing over the overall charge of guarding the border gate to CRPF and IRB.
Personnel of 109 battalion CRPF and 6 IRB are took over the charge of guarding the border gate after the police team led by the IGP left the place late Friday evening for Imphal, the source said. Troops of 22 AR having its permanent post at Mao gate is assisting the CRPF in guarding the border which is only few kilometer away from Vishema village of Nagaland where Th Muivah is camping currently. On the other hand, decrying the government ban on Muivah’s entry into the state and alleged atrocities meted out by the state security force at May 6 stand-off at Mao gate, hundreds of women of Mao area today marched a protest rally. Around 1800 women took part in the rally organised by the Mao Women Society and marched from Mao Bus Parking to Mao Forest gate, a report received here said.
The rally started from about 10.50 pm demanded review of the government decision barring Muivah from entering the state apart from pressing to withdraw the state force from the Mao gate alleging them of harassing the civilians in the area. Placards with various slogans condemning the shooting incident of Mao gate of May 6 that claimed life of two youths and injured to several others and yesterday’s incident of injuring two women by rubber bullets fired by security forces were also displayed during the rally. They also demanded befitting punishment to the security personnel and police involved in the incidents, the report added.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=873
IRB team replaces Mao forces OUR CORRESPONDENT
Imphal, May 29: Mounting pressure from the Naga community against deployment of state forces at Mao town in Senapati district today prompted the Okram Ibobi Singh government to replace a combined force of police commandos, India Reserve Battalion and Manipur Rifles personnel with an IRB team. The development took place on a day curfew was relaxed in Mao town that witnessed a peace march. A rally was taken out today in the valley demanding lifting of the highway blockades while blockade supporters in Tamenglong set a truck ablaze. The combined team, led by the inspector-general of police (law and order-III), V. Zathang, senior superintendent of police, Imphal West, L. Kailun, and SP, Bishnupur, K. Jayenta Singh, deployed at Mao Gate since May 2 reached here this morning after being withdrawn.
Women at Mao today held a peace march, demanding that all the state forces be withdrawn from Mao town. The rally was organised by the Mao Naga Women’s Welfare Association. One hundred IRB personnel, led by the commandant of 6 IRB, Laxmi Prasad Chhetry, replaced the combined team of about 400 personnel. The valley also witnessed rallies today by rickshaw-pullers and women protesters demanding lifting of the blockade along the Imphal-Dimapur highway and Imphal-Jiribam highway imposed since April 11. Blockade supporters torched a cement-laden truck at Awang Khul in Tamenglong district along the Imphal-Jiribam highway early this morning. The truck was part of a convoy of 300 trucks travelling from Jiribam to Imphal yesterday, but later broke down. The district magistrate of Senapati, Nidhi Kesarwani, today further relaxed curfew in Mao town from 4 am to 11pm. Today’s order, however, said prohibitory orders under Section 144 CrPC would remain in force.
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1100530/jsp/northeast/story_12501415.jsp
NSF intensifies agitation A Staff Reporter | EMN
DIMAPUR, MAY 28: Even as the Naga parliamentarians and church bodies appealed for relaxation of ban on Manipur vehicles in the State, the NSF got down to intensifying its agitation by damaging trucks from Manipur in various places in Dimapur. Around eight to ten trucks, coming from Manipur, were reportedly damaged reportedly by NSF volunteers today, when the truckers were attempting to cross into Assam following an Army convoy. Sources said that wind shields of the trucks were broken though the NSF volunteers couldn’t get custody of the trucks. Meanwhile, agitators reportedly damaged a Manipuri hotel along NH-39 at Jharnapani late this evening. According to reports, the trouble started after customers having food in the Manipuri hotel found a cockroach in the curry served to them. The agitators incidentally arrived at the hotel when the irate customers were having argument with the hotel owner. They then went on to damage furniture and the interior of the hotel.
OUR IMPHAL CORRESPONDENT ADDS: As the crisis along the two national highway remained unsolved, the Manipur state government brought in essential commodities in trucks through blockade ridden Jiribam-Imphal or National Highway 53. Police sources said the goods trucks numbering around 300 were escorted to Imphal from Jiribam. However, so far around 350 goods trucks including oil tankers, LPG and cement laden trucks have reached Imphal. On their way to Imphal, blockade supporters tried to disturb the movement of the trucks at Noney, a hill town about 45 km west of Imphal on the route. Even some women folk of the area tried to prevent the move to lift a goods laden truck from a gorge, sources said. However police intervened and averted any untoward incident.
Committee led by CS to look into devolution of power to ADCs
IMPHAL, May 28: A state cabinet meeting convened this afternoon chaired by the chief minister O Ibobi Singh at his official bungalow approved to take consent of the Governor to call a full budget session starting from July 7 this year. According to a senior cabinet minister the cabinet also elaborately discussed issues related to further decentralisation of the powers to the elected representatives of the Autonomous District Council once the ongoing two phase ADC elections are through. The minister further said the cabinet has agreed to have further details of devolution of powers soon to be confered to the elected representatives of the ADCs chalked out by a high level state committee headed by the chief secretary and including the state commissioner of finanacer and planning.
The cabinet also approved creation of the post of deputy director in the state arts and culture department. It also approved the direct recruitment of eight women demonstrators in state police department. Taking serious count on the failure of MPSC to announce the result of the combined entrance test through MPSC for MCS, MPS, MFS and Jr MCS examinations conducted during 2008, the state cabinet meeting has sought the reasons for the failure. The minister further mentioned that the state cabinet also approved for the appointment of three teachers including two graduate teachers, one under graduate teachers and one matriculate teacher for deaf and mute school under state social welfare department.
http://ifp.co.in/shownews.php?newsid=10016
Rickshaw pullers now protest Muivah visit Newmai News Network
Imphal | May 29 : Now it is the turn of the rickshaw wallahs in Manipur against NSCN-IM general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah’s proposed visit to Manipur. Around one thousand of rickshaw pullers took out a rally in Imphal on Saturday demanding to lift blockade along the national highways and against the proposed visit of Th. Muivah to the state. The rickshaw pullers under the aegis of All Manipur Rickshaw Association organized a rally which started from THAU Ground and converged at Hatta Kangjeipung, Palace compound in Imphal. In the meantime, some women folk took out a rally to submit a memorandum to the chief minister against the proposed visit of Th. Muivah to Manipur but they were prevented from doing so by the police today.
http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/49554.html
Five dead as loaded truck turns turtle at Jiribam Our Correspondent
Imphal, May 29: Five persons including a woman were killed in a road accident in Jiribam sub-division bordering Assam’s Cachar district today, reports received here said. Police said the incident occurred when a Shaktiman truck (MN01-2654) fully loaded with rice and other food grains, in which they were travelling turned turtle after it hit an electric post at Babupara area of Jiribam town around 3.30 pm today. “The Shaktiman truck was on its way to deliver the foodgrains in our village,” a resident of Tousem sub-divisional headquarter, about 250 km north-west of Imphal, in Tamenglong district, said when contacted over telephone tonight. Though identities of the victims are yet to be established, local sources claimed that four of them were from New Mandeu and Aben villages of Tousem sub-division. The woman victim is believed to be from New Mandeu, sources added.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=877
Truck burned down along NH-53 Newmai News Network
Imphal | May 29 : A truck transporting cement was burnt down near Awangkhul along the National Highways-53 in Tamenglong district, Manipur early this morning by the suspected blockade supporters, an official source said.
The source disclosed that the incident occurred at about 4.30 am when the truck bearing registration no.MN04A-0745 was passing along the NH-53 without any escort from Jiribam heading towards Imphal. The truck’s driver has been identified as one Chanambam Shyamo of Mayang Imphal while the truck’s owner was identified as Shyam Kumar of Thangmeiband, Imphal, it said, while adding that the truck transporting 360 bags of cement was badly damaged in the incident.
Naga organisations have been imposing blockade along the two national highways leading to Manipur since April 12 in protest against the Manipur government decision to go ahead with the elections to the District Councils in Manipur hills under the Manipur (Hill Areas) District Council Act of 2008.
http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/49556.html
AR denies it refused assistance to Irabot
IMPHAL, May 28: In an official release from the PIB (Defence Wing) the Assam Rifles has clarified on the CAF & PD Minister Y Erabot’s visit to Noney, which was reported on May 28 in the local dailies about Assam Rifles refusing to help, which is incorrect. It is clarified that the CAF & PD Minister’s party approached no personnel of Assam Rifles for any assistance. There was also no prior intimation given to the Army or Assam Rifles of the Minister’s visit to Nonei. Had any assistance been sought, it would have been promptly provided. In the rebuttal, the AR has also mentioned that the number of reports which were published in newspapers suggesting that the first convoy of trucks carrying on NH-53 on May 21 & 22 moved with only minimal security is not correct.
The release claims this was untrue and that a detailed planning for the move of convoy was carried out in conjunction with the State Police Forces and other Departments. Large number of BSF and CRPF personnel were deployed for road opening while troops of three Assam Rifles Battalions provided area domination and Quick Reaction Teams. It was this joint effort by all Security Forces, who were on the road, without any rest for over 48 hours, which ensured that the essential supplies reached Imphal with minimal problems. The reports which throws doubt on the sincerity of Assam Rifles units does grave injustice to the extremely difficult task that they were engaged in to provide security and assistance along NH-53 ensuring the essential commodities reach the people of Manipur. The press release claims that this task was done with total impartiality.
http://ifp.co.in/shownews.php?newsid=10010
Re-polling held at Chandel, Sadar Hills Newmai News Network
Imphal | May 29 : Re-polling was held in seven polling stations in the Autonomous District Councils (ADC) of Chandel and Sadar Hills in Manipur with over 90% voters turned out in all the polling stations. In Chandel district, re-polling was carried out at the 5/5 polling station of Khabam Khullen Primary School with 98.98% voters cast their votes.
In Sadar Hills constituencies, re-polls were carried out at the polling station 16/1-Malkhom UJB School with 98.6%, 16/2 Molkhom UJB-93.27%, Yangoi UJB-99.2%, Waithou Chiru LP School-98.5, Salam Vaiphei UJB School-96.4 and at the polling station of Island UJB School, no one came up to cast votes. Meanwhile, for the second phase elections of the remaining three Autonomous District Councils, tight security measurement has been taken up in all the polling stations in view of the protest against the elections under District Councils Act of 2008 and amid bandh imposed by different organizations.
Three different bodies have called total bandh in three hill districts of Tamenglong, Ukhrul and Senapati in Manipur for various reasons. All the three hill districts are scheduled for the second phase Autonomous District Councils (ADC) elections on June 2. In Tamenglong district, the Zeliangrong Students Union Manipur (ZSUM) will start its total bandh in the district from this midnight till June 6 midnight. The Tangkhul Naga Frontal Organisations (TNFO) already announced to impose 72 hours ‘total bandh’ in Ukhrul district beginning from May 31 midnight. The Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) called a 48 hours total bandh in Senapati district from midnight of May 31 up to June 2 midnight.
http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/49555.html
State govt rejects IM's allegations as baseless By Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, May 29: Hitting back at the charges hurled by the NSCN (IM) to the state Chief Minister, O Ibobi, spokesperson of the SPF government and IFCD and YAS Minister N Biren said that the allegations levelled against the Manipur government and Chief Minister O Ibobi are baseless, and the Secular Progressive Front government has no biased views toward the outlawed underground outfits. All the citizens of the country are equally treated and when the quit notice was issued to the non-Manipuris by the RPF/PLA, the government had made its stand very clear that it would protect the non-Manipuris, and also has taken up security measures to prevent any untoward incident from occurring as the government is determined to face any kind of activity aimed against the interest of the country, a statement issued by the government signed by Spokesperson, N Biren asserted. Connecting the RPF's quit notice with the Chief Minister, O Ibobi is the most extraneous act of the NSCN (IM), the Spokesperson said terming it as an unfounded allegation that the outlawed outfit is making such statement spewing communal venom to the people of different communities.
The Government of Manipur has been trying its best not to disturb the harmony of the people of different communities when the NSCN-IM general secretary, Th Muivah tried to enter the state in an illegal manner, the statement added.
Clarifying that the SPF government is not for a single community, all communities living in the state, whether they may be Kuki, Naga, Meitei and Meitei Pangal, are all Manipuris. This government will not remain silent with some actors (state or non-state) trying to create clashes among the different communities. NSCN (IM) is not an underground outfit which represents all the sections of the Naga people. It is an unlawful outfit formed by some people only. Everyone knows this. People of Manipur should know this too, Minister Biren said in his statement.
A clear example of this is that the NSCN-IM was trying to forbid the long suppressed democratic rights of the people of the state by threatening the hill people not to participate in the ADC elections in collusion with some of its frontal organisations, he said.
The NSCN (IM) has been trying to suppress the constitution of the ADCs in the hill areas because once the ADCs come to power, it will not be possible for the NSCN-IM's armed cadres to collect funds from the government officials by threatening them at gunpoint. Its cadres, with their utmost efforts, imposed public curfew at gunpoint and threatened the villagers not to come out and participate in the elections, the Spokesperson pointed out.
Despite, its utmost efforts, people were coming out as they knew that the people’s power is the Almighty's power, and trying to get their democratic rights. The Government is also trying its best to deliver the democratic rights to the people. The Government will never at any cost compromise the rights of the people, Minister Biren categorically asserted in his statement. The Government is also trying its best to rescue the people from suffering from the economic blockade imposed by some “frontal organisations of NSCN (IM) working under its policy.
The incident of May 6 last at Mao gate was an unfortunate incident. The state force was detailed there to prevent Th Muivah from entering Manipur. Muivah is a militant leader, who intended to break the territory of Manipur to form Greater Nagaland, and was involved in killing of hundreds of Kuki women and children, prominent Tangkhul leaders, government officials apart from looting people and vehicles on the two national highways in the state, burning of vehicles, imposition of unbearable “illegal tax”. The deployment of state force was not for torturing or harassing the people in Mao area. The curfew at Mao gate was imposed considering the heightened tension there in the wake of Muivah’s attempt to enter the state. The Government had already initiated inquiry into the incident in which two persons' lives were lost and several others injured.
If any of the security personnel was found acting outside the purview of the law, they will be punished as per law, the statement assured. While people are facing the extreme limit of sufferings due to the total blockade on the NH-39, and in the aftermath of the Mao gate incident, it is the duty of the government to prevent any untoward incident from happening on the NH-53. People residing in Mao, Ukhrul, Noney and Chandel areas are the people of the state. The Government knows that its forces will not treat them as enemy in war. Keeping this in mind, the government had sent a team led by MPCC Chief Gaikhangam and held talks with the people of Noney. The Government has the information that in the aftermath of the Mao incident, around 2000 womenfolk of Noney of Tamenglong marched a protest rally.
In that situation, the government had not used force despite having enough manpower in hand when the tension among the people got heightened up. On this ground, the government decided to procure the essential items from Mizoram and airlift the essential commodities to reduce the people from the clutch of shortage of day-to-day need items. Still the government is trying its best to import the essential commodities, revealed the lengthy statement of N Biren. At the same time, it is ridiculous that a man brought back the goods trucks on NH-53 from Jiribam, of which some stretch of the highway is dominated by the NSCN (IM), without full security coverage. It can be asked whether it was done by communicating with the blockade supporters, the statement reacting to Minister Irabot’s recent activities, pointed out without mentioning his name.
The Government has been convening series of cabinet or security or SPF legislators' meetings from April 12 last mainly to discuss the deployment of security on NH-53. On May 18, the Chief Minister held a close door security meeting where officials of IOC and FCS among others attended, and decided to escort back the freight trucks stranded at Jiribam on May 21. But unfortunately, a man (referring to Minister Irabot without directly mentioning his name) after knowing the secret information, took the opportunity and tried to fool the people as if it was because of his personal ability and courage that the large number of trucks were brought to Imphal on NH-53. In protecting the two national highways, state security force, CRPF, Assam Rifles and BSF are facing outmost hardship. For them government as well as people are with them. People should understand the corporation extended by the people of Tamenglong particularly residing on both sides of the highway and praised them.
Keeping this mind, security forces should also take outmost care not to repeat yesterday’s incident at Noney. Whether it may be state force or central force, they should not be done any act which would heart the sentiments of the people.
If the personnel involved in the incident are found acting unlawfully, they will be punished as per law. Government is expressing shock to the injure three persons in the incident and adequate compensation will be paid to them, the statement assured.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=878
Silent procession demands withdrawal of Manipur forces Chizokho Vero
Mao women folk stage silent procession at Mao Gate on Saturday. (Morung Photo)
Mao Gate | May 29 : Women folk of Mao area today staged a silent procession here demanding withdrawal of Manipur state forces and also to vacate the private houses at Mao gate. The procession started from Mao Gate Island and proceeded towards the forest office and later converged again at the starting point where mass prayer was held. The procession, joined by several women folk ended peacefully without any untoward incident. Later, Mao Naga Women Welfare Association (MNWWA) president K. Matia told newsmen that the Manipur Commandos had left Mao gate at 2:00 AM today but the IRB had arrived today at same time. She also stated that the army has occupied 8 private houses including town hall and forest office.
Through the placards, the women folk also demanded “Give way for our people to come back” and “Move out from our homes.” Among the other placards at the procession included, “Do not suppress democracy,” “We want peace,” “Do not provoke the innocent, “Stop robbing our properties,” “We do not want intimidation,” “Do not militarise our birth right,” “Withdraw Manipur state forces,” “ Revoke the imposed laws,” “Stop drinking and threatening us,” “ Stop stealing our livestocks.” In the meantime, a chain of prayer for peace and early Indo-Naga settlement is reportedly continuing under the aegis of Mao Women Society. Chain of prayer is now being held in the respective villages of Mao area. It would continue till June 9.
Curfew lifted in Senapati dist; CRPF moves in Newmai News Network
Curfew in Senapati district has been lifted completely with effect from Saturday and Manipur state security forces have been replaced by three companies of CRPF at Mao Gate in the Manipur-Nagaland border today, according to an official source. Curfew was imposed in Senapati district and also the state security forces was deployed at Mao Gate in connection with the proposed visit of Th. Muivah, general secretary of NSCN (IM) to Manipur, added the source. The curfew order under section 144 CrPC, 1973 promulgated in the Senapati district has been completely withdrawn with immediate effect, said Nidhi Kesarwani, deputy commissioner of the district who is also the district magistrate, Senapati.
Manipur church leaders meet NBCC
Dimapur, May 29 (MExN): A nine-member delegation representing All Manipur Christian Organization met the Peace Committee of Nagaland Baptist Church Council in Kohima May 28. From various denominations and communities, the AMCO leaders came on a goodwill mission ‘for creating wider understanding of the present crisis of blockade,’ the NBCCC and AMCO said in a brief joint statement today. “The exploratory discussions reaffirmed the urgent need for all involved to reach out to one another to evolve together an understanding that will work and last because they are right for all,” the two organizations stated. “The participants” the NBCC stated, agreed that “the possibilities discussed should be pursued in faith trusting in what God will give if people in conflict are prepared for dialogue for the sake of a better future.”
http://www.morungexpress.com/frontpage/49522.html
Naga students in Dehradun pray for May 6 victims morungexpress
Dimapur, May 29 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Union Dehradun held a prayer meeting as well as candlelit service on 23rd May 2010 at Presbyterian Theological Seminary, Dehradun to condemn the May 6th incident at Mao gate where three Naga brothers had lost their life and injuring more than hundreds of innocent Nagas brothers and sisters.
The meeting started with a prayer by Mr. W. Longvah (IFS) followed by singing a hymnal “Nearer my God to Thee”. Dr. Kaisü (Asst. Prof. Jamia University) spoke on the present issue trying to highlight the causes and justifying the protest. A two minutes silent prayer along with candlelit was observed as a prayer in solidarity for the Nagas in Senapati district. Some senior citizens like Mr.K.Wungreithei (Chief Geologist, DDdun), Mr Lüshichu Phor (Suptgd. ONGC, DDdun) and Dr Lokho Puni (IFS) spoke on the current situation and emphasis to stand together for the common cause of the Nagas. Neitho Khro (President NSUDD) in his address on the occasion highlighted the 6th May 2010 incident at Moa Gate as a direct insult to the Nagas and condemn the brutal and barbaric act of killing three innocent students and injuring more than hundreds perpetrated by the outfits of Manipur Police, Commandoes and IRB. The inhuman and uncivilized act of killing innocent civilians and students in the name of integrity and peace is indeed an evil frame-work of terrorists. The union also conveyed condolence to the bereaved family members at this time of grief and sorrow and further appeals the Govt. of India to prevent such incident in the near future.
http://www.morungexpress.com/regional/49552.html
Naga and Manipur church bodies call on NSF Our Correspondent | EMN
KOHIMA, MAY 28: Concerned over the prevailing situation and the sufferings of the people of both the States, Church bodies from Nagaland and Manipur today had a closed door meeting with the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) which has been spearheading the ban on movement of all types of Manipur registered vehicles within its jurisdiction since May 4 last.
NSF President, Mutsikhoyo Yhobu revealed that the Church bodies - Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) led by Peace Director, Rev. Kari Longchari and All Manipur Church Organisation (AMCO) led by Rev. Prem Paite urged upon the NSF to call off the ban. However, the Federation while conveying their regrets, at this juncture, highlighted their grievances as well as their demands to the Manipur Government. An unyielding NSF has also reportedly requested the church bodies to convey their message to Manipur Chief Minister, O Ibobi Singh that the restrictions on Manipur vehicles won’t be lifted till he meets the Federation’s demands. Earlier, the AMCO delegation, arriving in Kohima this morning, also had deliberations on the issue with NBCC at the latter’s office. However, the discussions or the outcome of the meeting could not be known as they said that things would be made public after tomorrow’s discussion.
http://easternmirrornagaland.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=24203:naga-and-manipur-church-bodies-call-on-nsf&catid=61:top-news
NSCN-IM blames Ibobi for trouble Newmai News Network
Dimapur, May 28: The NSCN-IM has put all the blames on the Ibobi Singh and his government for the present quagmire in Manipur. The NSCN-IM said that no one can deny that the present crisis in Manipur is the direct result of the misdoings of the Manipur government that has gained the notoriety of terrorist government and anti hill people. The Naga outfit also asks as who have been suffering at the hands Ibobi and wonders whether the people will ever forgive the chief minister of Manipur. "The battle line having been drawn against Ibobi and his Meitei community the forgiveness will come only after the issue has been settled protecting the rights of the tribals and the Nagas," said the NSCN-IM.
The outfit asked as to why the Manipur hill people were forced to agitate in the first place. The hill people seriously questioned the Ibobi government to look into the grievances of the tribals with regards to Autonomous District Council elections, pointing out the urgency to address the problems before going for election, it added. The tribals refused to accept the Manipur District Council Act Amendment of 1971 as it has nothing to do with the interests of the hill people. But the Manipur government played its own game to fool the tribals .Democracy was murdered at the expense of the hill people, the NSCN-IM said.
It said that the negative response forced the All Naga Students Association, Manipur (ANSAM) to use the highways as weapons to teach the Manipur state government and enforced economic blockade. This brought about immense suffering to the common people. "Whose creation is this?", the NSCN-IM asks. The NSCN-IM then stated that for quite a long time Ibobi was placed in a very uncomfortable position and his Chief Minister seat was getting shaky by day. The reason is not far to seek. There was a reign of terror and the state was in chaos. Ibobi has given free hand to the Manipur police commandos and many were killed in the fake encounters. This led the Manipuris to rise up against Ibobi and to demand for nothing short of throwing him out of Chief Minister’s room for good, the NSCN-IM further stated. "Even the education institutions were hit hard as the Meiteis forced the close down in the Imphal valley. Many of these institutions resorted to taking shelter by getting affiliated to CBSE. Because the students’ career were put at stake and the need to save them," the NSCN-IM alleged. The NSCN-IM also said that Manipur chief minster Ibobi created another drama when he collaborated with Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF) to serve quit notice to the outsiders (from Bihars,Uttar Pradesh etc) giving 31st May as the dead line. So far more then 10 such people from Bihar had been killed. The hands of Ibobi is smeared with the blood of these innocent daily labourers. Even the Home Ministry admonished Ibobi to take effective steps. But it never goes down to the implementation and threat against the outsiders stays alive, the NSCN-IM added.
The state employees were never happy with Ibobi, the way he handled the Revision of Pay (ROP). The employees demanded for arrears with effect from 2006. But Ibobi make a fool of their demand when he mentioned April-May arrears only on the pretext that there is no money to pay the arrears, the Naga underground outfit stated. "Ironically, whenever Ibobi go to Delhi he carried with him crores of money. Such money for what and for whom? Obviously to pay to the top bureaucrats in the Home Ministry. And for the monetary gains the Home Ministry people are made to speak for the Meiteis and giving them false promise," the Naga outfit said.
It is difficult to digest why Ibobi act so stubborn, refusing to rectify the ADC election issue and forcibly imposed ADC election in Manipur hill areas. The tribals are not wrong when they resorted to protest that is democratic in nature. It was in 11th April 2010 when the ANSAM went into action to enforce the highway blockade and it continues till now, the NSCN-IM further said. The NSCN-IM also stated that the Meiteis who are at the receiving end out of the present imbroglio should realise that the kind of hardship they are facing is the direct result of Ibobi’s own creation to safeguard his own interest. Ibobi, having put himself in such mess to wriggle himself out of the drowning catches a straw in the form of opposing Muivah’s visit to his ancestral place at Somdal.
"On April 1 Ibobi’s Cabinet passed a resolution to oppose Muivah’s visit giving reasons that since the state is embroiled with the issue of ‘quit notice’, ROP, and ADC election it is not conducive for such visit. But what has these issues to do with Muivah’s visit? Therefore on second thought Ibobi quickly pressed the bell of Manipur territorial integrity and shout from the rooftop that Muivah is making a journey to Somdal to disintegrate Manipur. The emotionally surcharged Meiteis with the exception of few thoughtful persons fell head over heels on the side of Ibobi., driving the situation to the point of no return," the NSCN-IM alleged. "By and large Meiteis are known for their strange reaction, selfish in nature and unconcern of the plight of the tribals in the hills. When the entire hill districts of Manipur was severely put at risk when put under the draconian laws like AFSPA,TADA,DAA (Disturbed Area Act) for several decades the Meiteis’ human rights groups remained a mute spectators. However, on June 14,2001 when the Bangkok Agreement clarified that the Indo-Naga ceasefire is universal and, therefore applies to Manipur the Meiteis came out on the streets to protest that they will not allow the Indo-Naga fighting to stop in the Naga areas of Manipur. What manner of undermining the Indo-Naga issue. But the Nagas have not forgotten the Meiteis’ unwarranted reaction and the unfolding events will shows what the Nagas can also do to defend their God-given rights," The NSCN-IM said.
The NSCN-IM alleged that the envy of the Meiteis against the privilege enjoyed by the Nagas stands exposed with every step initiated by the government under one pretext or the other. The Manipur Land Revenue Act, 1960 was a sore point for the Meiteis as this makes the land of the hill people untouchable by the Meiteis. The Joint Forest Management Act of 2006 was another attempt made to capture the tribal lands, though it failed miserably when rejected by the tribals. In the same manner ADC election was forced on the hill tribal notwithstanding of the fact that there is nothing in it to serve the interest of the hill people, the NSCN-IM said.
"On Muivah’s proposed programme to visit his native village Somdal and objection thrown by Ibobi let us face the reality from the human rights point of view. The same can be applied to Ibobi and even UNO Secretary General. The Meiteis in fact are simply dancing to the tune played by Ibobi. But the murder of democracy will remain strongly attached with Ibobi. This is history and the indelible impression forced on the mindset of the Nagas will make the broken bridge of Naga-Meitei relation beyond repair. The inevitable is just waiting to happen," the NSCN-IM predicts.
http://ifp.co.in/shownews.php?newsid=10011
NSF intensifies agitation A Staff Reporter | EMN
DIMAPUR, MAY 28: Even as the Naga parliamentarians and church bodies appealed for relaxation of ban on Manipur vehicles in the State, the NSF got down to intensifying its agitation by damaging trucks from Manipur in various places in Dimapur. Around eight to ten trucks, coming from Manipur, were reportedly damaged reportedly by NSF volunteers today, when the truckers were attempting to cross into Assam following an Army convoy. Sources said that wind shields of the trucks were broken though the NSF volunteers couldn’t get custody of the trucks. Meanwhile, agitators reportedly damaged a Manipuri hotel along NH-39 at Jharnapani late this evening. According to reports, the trouble started after customers having food in the Manipuri hotel found a cockroach in the curry served to them. The agitators incidentally arrived at the hotel when the irate customers were having argument with the hotel owner. They then went on to damage furniture and the interior of the hotel.
OUR IMPHAL CORRESPONDENT ADDS: As the crisis along the two national highway remained unsolved, the Manipur state government brought in essential commodities in trucks through blockade ridden Jiribam-Imphal or National Highway 53.
Police sources said the goods trucks numbering around 300 were escorted to Imphal from Jiribam. However, so far around 350 goods trucks including oil tankers, LPG and cement laden trucks have reached Imphal. On their way to Imphal, blockade supporters tried to disturb the movement of the trucks at Noney, a hill town about 45 km west of Imphal on the route. Even some women folk of the area tried to prevent the move to lift a goods laden truck from a gorge, sources said. However police intervened and averted any untoward incident.
Two hurt in Noney tear gas firing
IMPHAL Mayt 28: A crowd which gathered out of curiosity at a scene of an accident was fired upon by jittery security escort in which two women were injured badly having to be admitted to RIMS Hospital for treatment. The incident took place at Lukhomai Part 2 near Noney Khumji Village at around 11.30 am today. An oil tanker (MNO1/6458) carrying diesel overturned at Lukhomai and curious nearby residents came out anc crowded around at the accident site. The tanker was part of a convoy of 170 trucks en route to Imphal and were escorted by state forces. The security personnel on hearing that an incident had occured rushed back to inspect. When they saw that an oil tanker had overturned and suspected that the assembled crowd was responsible they tried to disperse them.
On instinct, the security personnel fired tear gas and mock bombs to disperse the crowd and as a result two women sustained injuries. The injured are identified as Ariang (45) wife of Narionyang of Khumji village and Esther Kamei (20) daughter of Athei Kamei of the same village. They have been referred to RIMS for medical treatment. Protesting the action of the security personnel, residents of the area came out in large numbers and started to block the highway. An Assam Rifles recovery vehicle which went to recover the fuel laden truck was halted by irate Khumji villagers from doing so, a reliable source stated. Meanwhile the United Naga Council, UNC, condemned the incident in the strongest term.
http://ifp.co.in/shownews.php?newsid=10012
AR denies it refused assistance to Irabot
IMPHAL, May 28: In an official release from the PIB (Defence Wing) the Assam Rifles has clarified on the CAF & PD Minister Y Erabot’s visit to Noney, which was reported on May 28 in the local dailies about Assam Rifles refusing to help, which is incorrect. It is clarified that the CAF & PD Minister’s party approached no personnel of Assam Rifles for any assistance. There was also no prior intimation given to the Army or Assam Rifles of the Minister’s visit to Nonei. Had any assistance been sought, it would have been promptly provided. In the rebuttal, the AR has also mentioned that the number of reports which were published in newspapers suggesting that the first convoy of trucks carrying on NH-53 on May 21 & 22 moved with only minimal security is not correct. The release claims this was untrue and that a detailed planning for the move of convoy was carried out in conjunction with the State Police Forces and other Departments. Large number of BSF and CRPF personnel were deployed for road opening while troops of three Assam Rifles Battalions provided area domination and Quick Reaction Teams.
It was this joint effort by all Security Forces, who were on the road, without any rest for over 48 hours, which ensured that the essential supplies reached Imphal with minimal problems. The reports which throws doubt on the sincerity of Assam Rifles units does grave injustice to the extremely difficult task that they were engaged in to provide security and assistance along NH-53 ensuring the essential commodities reach the people of Manipur. The press release claims that this task was done with total impartiality.
http://ifp.co.in/shownews.php?newsid=10010
Who is Thuingaleng Muivah? Vilhouthie Rhiepfu
Thuingaleng Muivah is a Tangkhul Naga who joined the Naga National Service only in 1965 and was given the post of General Secretary by the Naga National Council. After a few years he was sent by the Federal Government of Nagaland on a goodwill Alee mission. While in the foreign country, he was given a lot of honour because of his association with the Naga National Council (NNC). However, driven by personal ambition for power curl complete domination of the national defense, he started plotting against his own colleagues and eliminating those who disagreed with him. On their return journey from the foreign country, while crossing the Kachinland, he murdered Brigadier Ngamlao, Konyak and some others and started intimidating the others in the group. Many who survived this trip still remember Muivah’s words where he said “Kun Kun Phizo pichie jabo, guli ekta ekta khabo.” (Whoever sides with Phizo will each get a bullet).
In Naga culture, even when someone is doing something wrong, we try to tolerate, his wrong doing as far as possible without openly opposing him. However, Muivah’s wrong doing both spoken as well as acted out have all been recorded in writings. All these records show contradictory statements of arrogance, boastfulness, lies, treachery as well as humility. His utterances are full of diametrically opposed statements.
In his booklet “Manifesto and Polorization” (1980/1985) Muivah repeatedly called A.Z. Phizo, his family members, the Angamis and all who supported the Angamis as “Arch-Traitor” of the Naga Nation branding them as traitors and deceivers of the nation and being guilty of betraying the national cause. But now, in a complete turn about, it is most amusing to hear him praising Phizo and almost worshipping him again. In the light of all the contradictory statements, one is left wondering as to how many Muivahs actually exist as one Muivah is often heard saying the exact opposite of the other Muivah!
It is common knowledge that Muivah joined the Naga National Service as late as 1965 only. Such a latecomer thinking and acting as if he alone can solve the Indo-Naga conflict is an act of self disillusionment which cannot evoke the respect and honour of any right thinking Naga. Muivah had earlier declared that his talk with the Indian government would be at the Prime Ministerial level and in a foreign country. But his present talks with a mere Secretary of the Indian Home department he speaks volumes on who he actually is. Also his Z category security cover provided by the enemy and his inability to visit his own native village inspite of that protection has shown everybody, what kind of a Naga leader he really is.
In Naga national politics, NSCN is not NNC and NNC is not NSCN. Long before Muivah had even reached puberty, the national affairs of the Naga Nation had been mandated on the NNC by the Nagas. Therefore the NNC works for upholding and protection of the affairs of the nation. Muivah’s NSCN on the other hand is working for the integration of his Nagalim people under the constitution of India. In this effort, he is using the Naga national cause as a parent body, and while opposing the Manipur state is subversively trying to integrate the rest of Nagaland too under the Constitution of India. However, the Naga national affairs are in the hands of the Naga National Council (NNC) and the Council does not require the service of a Muivah to meddle in the affairs of the nation. Such a service is not only “un-required” but even invalid too.
Muivah’s uncountable records of murdering even his own people and intimidation of the general Naga public have all been documented and kept by his own people. In this connection, the general Naga public are urged to read the interviews compiled by David Swu in his book “Interview with Naga Leader.” In order to keep our people informed with the truth, The NNC from time to time, as the situation demands, gives out press statements and other statements. The NNC will not however give rejoinders and counter rejoinders to statements as the NSCN is in the habit of doing. NNC will also not indulge in repeatedly engaging itself with what is obviously evil. It is up to the Naga people to stand firmly with the truth and persevere for victory of the truth.
At this present juncture, our people are being subjected to a lot of inconveniences and difficulties because of Muivah and his activities. On the one hand many villagers have been forced to abandon their homes and villages and live like refugees in neighbouring villages. On the other hand, the hosting villages have been compelled to look after there dispersed villagers at the cost of sacrificing so many working days, inability to attend to their field works, none attendance of schools by school children and fearfully living side by side with gun totting cadres of the NSCN-IM. In our custom and culture, while giving hospitality to guests in an obligatory duty on the part of the hosts, the NSCN have gone beyond all limits of courtesy by overstaying their limit. In our culture such acts are considered as shameless exploitation of other people’s goodwill and generosity.
In his track record, Muivah has killed some of our best leaders and have even boasted over those evil exploits. It is absolute taboo in our culture to share food or host such murderers of our kith and kin. To associate or have social engagements with such people is taboo in our culture. May that which is good, be ours.
(Vilhouthie Rhiepfu) President, Angami Regional Council, NNC.
http://www.morungexpress.com/public_discourse/49471.html
Update of situation unfolding in Southern Nagalim Aya A. Shimray & Tennoson Pheiray
The Government of India and the NSCN entered into a ceasefire agreement in 1997 and since then has been involved in negotiating in bringing a peaceful solution to the drawn out Indo-Naga issue. Sixty rounds of talk, to find a solution. In a gesture of goodwill, the Government of India had recently agreed to Mr. Th. Muivah, the General Secretary of NSCN, to go on a National Peace Tour in which he will visit his native village Somdal, and other Naga areas in Manipur. It is worthwhile to note that Mr. Muivah had not seen his native village for almost 40 years. It was announced that Mr. Muivah will commence the National Peace Tour in Manipur from the 3rd till 10th of May. The Government of India had assured no disturbance from their part in this exercise and the Union Home Minister had instructed the Manipur Director General of Police to “arrange security for the NSCN (IM) General Secretary’s visit to Manipur” (See “Manipur to block Muivah Visit” http://in.news.yahoo.com/32/20100502/1054/tnl-manipur-to-block-muivah-visit.html). The Naga people in Manipur have been eagerly looking forward to the event and expected the visit to reinforce peace and harmony in the state. The BJP Manipur Pradesh has alleged that chief Minister O. Ibobi Singh had earlier granted permission to the general secretary of NSCN (IM) Th. Muivah for visiting Manipur during a special meeting with Union home minister P. Chidambaram held on April 28 in New Delhi. (See “CM had agreed to Muivah visit earlier: BJP spokesman” Imphal Free Press, May 22, 2010)
In direct conflict to the assurance given by the Central Indian Government, the state Government of Manipur in its Cabinet Meeting held on 29th April decided not to allow Mr. Muivah to come to Naga areas in Manipur as there are “possibilities of disturbances threatening peaceful coexistence of the communities” causing “social unrest” (See: “Government Says No To Muivah’s Manipur Visit; Seven Naga Mlas Welcome Proposed Visit Of Muivah,” Hueiyen News Service found at http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=1..010510.may10 visited 2nd May 2010; and “State Govt Set To Nip Muivah’s Proposed Visit In The Bud”, The Sangai Express, found at http://e-pao.net/GP.asp?src=15..010510.may10 visited 2nd May 2010).
To implement this decision, the Government of Manipur deployed a 600+ strong contingent of Manipur Police Commandos and Indian Reserved Battalion commanded by an Inspector General at Mao Gate, a small town that is the first entry point into Manipur from Nagaland state. Thus creating a situation that has the potential to escalate as the decision of the Manipur Cabinet is directly against the wishes of the Naga people in Manipur state. The war-like posturing of the state security forces created a situation of fear and panic among the locals.
In the historic Mao Gate March-May 6, 2010, two students were shot dead at blank point in cold blood at Mao Gate, they were students, studying in college- Loshua S/o Daikho (BA 2nd year in St.Joseph’s College), Jakhama, Kalinama village and Chakho s/o Nelli (BA.2nd Year, St Joseph’s Evening, College). The “Unsung Hero”- their sacrificed will not go in vain.
The Manipur Government also employed the same tactic in Jessami Village, another village that borders Nagaland and Manipur. Extra state forces were also sent to Ukhrul town, a place where Muivah was to hold a public meeting. Various public meeting and rally has been conducted to show their solidarity at different Naga inhibited places to raise their voice against the aggressive actions of the Government of Manipur On May 3rd 2010, Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code of India which gives wide ranging powers to the State Forces was enforced in Ukhrul and Senapati District and other adjoining areas and in Mao Gate as well. Naga people in Ukhrul defy the proclamation and stage a rally at the TNL Ground on the 4th of May 2010. State forces resorted into tear gassing; however, the public meeting and gathering was achieved and later in the evening the public took a mass torch rally, attended by more than 25,000 thousands of people and storm the Ukhrul Police Station damaging four vehicles The Naga people, especially the womenfolk from Ukhrul is still protesting the Manipur Cabinet decision and the GoI to allow, and ensure safe passage to Th. Muivah, Ato Kilonser, to visit his homeland. The sit-in-protest has been going on since 8th of May 2010. At the time of writing this, (IST 04:00pm, 26th May 2010) The Khampasom Shanao Long, Ukhrul is still staging sit-in-protest at the Gandhi Chowk, Ukhrul. The sit-in protest has enters 27 days. Poster, traditional welcomes gates numbering more than 20 at various points, white flags on the rooftop, Naga flag on every corner awaits Ato Kilonser maiden visit. The Stage at TNL Ground where a public meeting to be addressed by Ato Kilonser is completed and sealed. The Tangkhul Frontal Organisations has also issued a proclamation to cancel all public related meeting and feasting. In consonance with this proclamation, the supposed visit of G.K. Pillai at Shirui Village in commemoration of its Diamond Jubilee was cancel by the Concern Authority in accordance with the wishes of the people.
We are sending out this situation update so that Nagas and their friends everywhere is aware of the malicious intentions of the Government of Manipur to stop the Naga people from achieving peace and a just outcome to their rightful demand of living together as one people. At stake is the quest of the Naga peoples to find a just lasting solution to their legitimate demands and the hard earned process of trust and faith build up over the last few years between the Nagas and the Government of India.
Aya A. Shimray & Tennoson Pheiray
Ukhrul-May 26th 2010. http://www.morungexpress.com/public_discourse/49411.html
Reconcilation, and not confrontation–need of the hour By Seram Mangi Singh
Economic blockade imposed by some hill based organisations of Manipur in protest against holding of Elections to the Autonomous Hill District Councils followed by unrest over the entry of NSCN(IM) supremo Th. Muivah into Manipur has resulted in untold sufferings to the people of both the Hills and Plain of Manipur. Besides causalities including the loss of lives of two youth at Mao gate, prices of essential commodities in state have been hiking like anything. Forget about price, unavailability of essential items like petroleum product has dislocated the life of the Manipuri people.
Blockade, Counter-blockade, rallies, in support of this thing or against that thing has become a phenomenon of life in Manipur. Thank God, no communal tension or incident of communal nature is not witnessed. People love peace, harmony, welfare, and speedy development. However incidents of blockade, counter blockade, price rise, killings, kidnapping etc. have become parts of the reality of life. Any group of people or individual may have likes and dislikes and aspirations and demands. All these have to be settled through peaceful means and not through confrontations. Political Leaders including those in the ruling party use to say very frequently and on various occasions that there is no problem which cannot be settled through dialogue. Unfortunately, there has been, of late, a difference between the Chief Minister O. Ibobi and the Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Y. Irabot Singh during the days when both the government and the people of Manipur are facing an abnormal situation. What is the issue? The issue is not an issue as such. It cannot be considered as political, administrative or social. It is a matter of fixing the proper date and time of bringing in essential commodities from Jiribam or Silchar to Imphal. While the Government decided to bring in essential commodities, it was waiting for the convenient time. On the other hand, the Consumer Affairs Minister Y. Irabot was impatient to wait. He rushed to Jiribam to collect the essential items without informing the Chief Minister. The Chief Minister has to be informed of tour of his cabinet colleagues. The reasons are that security and other arrangement are to be made. The Chief Minister may require the services of the particular Minister at the Head Quarter anytime. Mr. Y. Irabot ventured to Jiribam to bring the essential commodities at any cost and under any circumstances and he openly criticised the Chief Minister through media. Of course Irabot's action served the purpose for which he ventured.
Now the question is where the collective responsibility of the cabinet is. How the Captain of the Ship (the Chief Minister) is sailing his Ship. Why is he not able to convince his cabinet colleague? How long and on how many occasions such things will be allowed to happen (not only Irabot's case it may be in the case of any cabinet minister or bureaucrats). The principle of collective responsibility implies that the decisions arrived at by the cabinet are the decisions of the entire body of ministers, and individual member cannot express his dissent for its publicly. This also implies that the government is carried on with the collective responsibility and the ministers stand or fall together.
The rule ensures that the council of minister works as a team and it is obvious that a government which does not work as a team cannot carry on for long. The principle of collective responsibility implies that the policies and programs of the ministry have to be supported by each individual minister whatever might be his individual preferences or predilections. Once a decision is taken, it is the duty of each minister to support it inside and outside the Assembly. In the words of the late Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru "A Government after Parliament model is one united whole. It has joint responsibility. Each member of the Government has to support the others so long as he remains in the government. The Prime Minister has to support his ministers and his ministers have to support each other and the Prime Minister. It is quite absurd for any minister to oppose or even to give impression of opposing a colleague of his. Opinions may be freely expressed within the cabinet. Outside, the government should have only one opinion. There is no question of a member of the government being neutral." (This holds good in the case of the state cabinet too.)
It is quite unfortunate that there appears to be a difference or misunderstanding between Mr. O. Ibobi Singh, Chief Minister of the Congress led SPF government and Mr. Y. Irabot Singh, a senior congress leader. Both of them need introspection. The general public particularly the elite ones want understanding and reconciliation amongst elected representatives for a smooth sailing of the governance. The SPF Govt. has archived a lot of things in the last 6 years. However, there is no room for complacency. Please move forward united. Don't leave a bad precedent. The need of the hour is reconciliation, and not confrontation.
[The author is a retired officer of IIS.] http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=879
Naga Council Condemns Manipur Police Actions in Noney, Manipur By sinlung
One of the three women injured due to firing by security forces at Khumji village near Noney along the National Highway-53 being treated at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS) in Imphal this evening.
Dimapur, May 29: The United Naga Council (UNC) today condemned the indiscriminate firing of Manipur Commandos on innocent women and brutal assault of villagers in Khumji village. The police personnel had reacted thus out of panic arising from an accident met by a fuel tanker on May 28, a note from the UNC stated today. “The accident occurred when a fuel tanker heading for Imphal from Silchar lost control on a turn at Khumji village and turned turtle on the road. Suspecting the accident to be sabotage, the Manipur Commandos coming up from Imphal escorting empty trucks heading for Jiribam, started firing indiscriminately on innocent bystanders…” the UNC stated.
One Ester, 25 years, a student of Noney High School sustained injuries on the left thigh and a Ariang Riamei, 45 years, sustained injury on ‘the lower limb’ the UNC stated. The Manipur police commandos then barged into the house of one Robinson Kamei, 25 years, a student of Noney High School, and severely assaulted him with rifles and kicks. Four other innocent villagers were also beaten for no reason, the UNC said. The UNC expressed shock at the uncontrolled and unwarranted use of violent force by Manipur’s armed forces.
“This unprovoked brutality is yet again a telling testimony of the psychological conditions of the Manipur state armed forces, whose trigger-happy fingers and violent approach have found yet additional innocents and unarmed victims. The panic ridden commandos and nervous wrecks that they have become are now let loose to cause havoc in civilian areas creating an atmosphere of fear and insecurity,” the UNC stated. Manipur state’s armed forces and the Manipur state government are held equally responsible for all the atrocities being continuously committed on the Naga people.
“The United Naga Council extends its fullest support to the 6 days Tamenglong District Bandh called by the Zeliangrong Students’ Union, Manipur to protest the brutality and also extend its solidarity to the protest rally scheduled at Tamenglong on May 29, 2010,” UNC said.
3 women injured in firing
Imphal, May 29: At least 3 women were injured near Noney in Tamenglong district of Manipur on Friday when security forces opened fire on a group of people milling at a site of a road mishap. Around 170 goods-laden vehicles including 40 transporters carrying fuel, reached Imphal this evening amid protestors blocking National Highway-53 near Noney.
Official sources said the three injured women have been shifted to a hospital for treatment. It has been reported that the security personnel used tear gas shells and other mob-quelling weapons to disperse people gathered at an accident site. Reports said that one Imphal-bound truck coming from Jiribam side met with an accident at Khumji near Noney area along National High 53.
Minutes after the incident, some people gathered near the site. Security personnel are believed to have misunderstood that the vehicle was pushed down by those who had gathered. The security forces started firing tear gas shells and other mob-quelling weapons at the people, leading to injuries of three women, sources said.
Photo courtesy: Newmai News Network Photo
[ via Newmai News Network/Morung Express/ PTI ]
Read more: http://www.sinlung.com/2010/05/naga-council-condemns-manipur-police.html#ixzz0pOvGsYt7
http://www.sinlung.com/2010/05/naga-council-condemns-manipur-police.html
Truck set afire in Manipur Sobhapati Samom
IMPHAL, May 29 – Unidentified persons, suspected to be blockade supporters, set on fire a cement-laden truck in Manipur’s Tamenglong district today. Today’s incident occurred close on the heels of Joint Parliamentary Working Committee (JPWC) of the Nagaland Assembly’s appeal to relax ongoing blockades on the Highways leading to Manipur. Sources said unidentified persons set on fire the truck near Awangkhul village, about 55 km west of here along Jiribam-Imphal sector of the National Highway 53.
Demanding immediate withdrawal of the police commandos from the Mao Gate, Mao Women Council continued to stage sit in demonstration besides convening a community prayer at Tadubi hill station,95 km north of Imphal in Senapati district. Meanwhile, more than a thousand rickshaw pullers braving the seasonal drizzle staged a mass rally here denouncing the continuous blockade on the highways leading to the State since the past more than a month. The rally district passed through the streets before it converged at Hapta Kangjeibung near palace gate in Imphal east for a meeting.
Demanding immediate alternative arrangement to lift necessary items for the State, the Rickshaw Drivers and pullers said they are hard up owing to the sudden sky rocketing of the prices of essential items. They also opposed NSCN-IM leader Thuingaleng Muivah’ move to enter. A group of women under the banner of Singjamei Nupi Lup also took the streets of Imphal to reaffirm the stand to protect the territorial integrity of Manipur while another women folk group staged a sit in demonstration at Kwakeithel area for the same.
http://www.assamtribune.com/scripts/detailsnew.asp?id=may3010/oth05
Truck burnt at Awangkhul By Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, May 29: Suspected blockade supporters, in the early hour of Saturday, burnt down a freight truck at a place about 2 km away from Awang Khul on the stretch of the NH-53 towards Jiribam, official source said. The cement laden truck bearing registration no. MN 04A-0745 was set on fire by the miscreants in the morning, at about 4.30 pm. The truck was stranded there due to a mechanical defect even though it headed Imphal from Jiribam with security escort yesterday.
Official reports said that in the arson, the truck loaded with 360 bags of cement was badly damaged. The report also identified the driver of the truck as one Chanambam Shyamo of Mayang Imphal Chabungbam Company and owned by one Shyamkumar of Thangmeiband, Imphal.
http://www.hueiyenlanpao.com/news.php?newsid=872
Change of guard at Mao Gate Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 29 2010: State forces deployed at Mao Gate to thwart attempt of NSCN (IM) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah from entering Manipur returned here today.
A large team of State police forces led by IGP (Law & Order-III) V Zathang and including Senior SP of Imphal West District L Kailun, SP of Bishnupur district K Jayenta Singh and others had been staying at Mao Gate since May 2 . However, after a company led by CO of 6 IRB reached Mao Gate at around 3 am today, State forces stationed earlier at Mao Gate set out for Imphal.
Three CRPF companies are still camping at the area. While the State forces including police commandos, Manipur Rifles and IRB withdrawn today, were still camping at Mao Gate, an advance security team of Th Muivah from Nagaland was forced to return on May 3 .
On the same day, a delegation of Naga Students' Federation (NSF) who attempted to cross Mao Gate for Senapati inspite restriction imposed under Section 144 CrPC was also foiled and forced to retreat by the State forces. Angry over preventing the delegation from entering, NSF announced that all vehicles bearing registration number of Manipur would not be allowed to pass through Nagaland.
Moreover, suspected NSF supporters or suspected NSCN (IM) cadres set aflame seven Imphal-bound goods laden trucks at Khuzama in Nagaland on the intervening night of May 3 and 4 .
On May 5, Muivah reportedly came upto Khuzama and there were rumours that the Naga separatist leader forced his entry. Though no such thing happened, on May 6, a mass rally was taken out in Mao area to protest preventing Muivah from entering Manipur.
In the subsequent police action, two youths got killed.
Meanwhile, hundreds of womenfolk reportedly took out a protest march today morning demanding withdrawal of State forces from Mao. a prayer session was also held before dispersal.
Frans on 05.30.10 @ 07:39 PM CST [link]
