Naga bodies hail Rio Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Naga bodies hail Rio Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Senapati, September 19: The United Naga Council (UNC), Naga Women Union, Manipur (NWUM), Naga Peoples' Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) and All Naga Students Association, Manipur (ANSAM) have termed the passing of a legislation in Nagaland Assembly regarding the School board issue as a "historic effort of the Nagaland Government".
The Naga organisations said that the Nagas of South (Manipur) in general witnessed one of the most remarkable and historic events to remove the hurdles of affiliation of schools through the decision taken by the Nagaland State Cabinet to adopt an open door policy by allowing affiliation to Nagaland Board of school Education (NBSE) from other areas in the region.
"The subsequent enactment in the 10th Nagaland Legislative Assembly on 18th Sept. 2007 will surely be remembered in the history of the Naga people. The Government of India is anticipated to appreciate the role model of Nagaland State of Universal Education in consonance with the National Education policy," said the UNC,NWUM,NPMHR and ANSAM in a joint statement.
While lauding the Nagaland Government, the joint statement said that the Naga people in the south welcome the "bold legislation and extend our heartiest congratulation, gratitude and appreciation to Mr Neiphui Rio, Hon'ble Chief Minister, Nagaland, his esteemed Council of Ministers, Mr I Imkong, leader of the Opposition and all the MLAs cutting across party line for making the affiliation process a reality with a vision to introduce a model Education system in the region".
The statement also expressed their gratitude to the Nagaland bureaucracy and NBSE and its staff for supporting and showing solidarity to the noble venture under the aegis of the Naga Hoho and the Naga Students' Federation (NSF). The Naga organisations also thanked the Naha Hoho and its tribe Hohos, Naga Mothers' Association (NMA), NPMHR, NSF and its federating units and sub-ordinate organisations, Churches, schools, individuals and every Naga people "for their understanding and co-operation in making the efforts of school affiliation a reality.
"We appeal to every section of society in the region to discourage and shun politicising the school affiliation issue because pursuit of education is universal. The ethnic minority seeking better and suitable syllabus according to the choice of the people under any school Board is a process of building quality education for the deprived", urged the UNC,NWUM,NPMHR and ANSAM.
Dissidents seek Central rule and CBI probe in Nagaland The Hindu
Kohima, Sept. 19 (PTI): Dissident legislators of the ruling Nagaland Peoples Front today demanded central rule and a CBI probe into alleged financial irregularities by the Neiphiu Rio government in Nagaland. Four NPF MLAs, K Therie, Z Obed, Vatsu Meru and Yeangphong Konyak, who resigned from the assembly yesterday, submitted a memorandum to Governor K Shankaranarayanan, demanding his intervention.
There were joined by NPF MLA Khutovi, who also resigned from the ruling party. K Therie, a former finance minister in the Rio ministry, told reporters that they urged the governor to intervene as he was empowered to play a special role under Article 371(A) or recommend imposition of the Article 356. Therie, speaking about alleged financial irregularities of the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland government, said the governor should recommmend to the Centre to probe them as also cases of "nepotism".
The MLAs also demanded that the agreed cease-fire ground rules be enforced in totality without disturbing the harmony of Naga society.
14 more NPF MLAs likely to resign from DAN govt Newmai News Network
Kohima, Sep 19: Though the Nagaland People`s Front, NPF, party has declared that the resignation of four of its MLAs from the Nagaland legislative Assembly yesterday will not affect the party the Neiphiu Rio led DAN government is likely to be in troubled waters with 14 other NPF MLAs preparing to resign and join the dissident group. Revealing this to reporters in the state capital while addressing a press conference here today, former finance minister Kewekhape Therie along with dissident MLA Vatsu Meru said Independent MLA Khutovi said that fourteen other MLAs are likely to join them very soon but he refrained from revealing the names of the MLAs or the political party they belong.
Alleging that DAN government under the leadership of Neiphiu Rio has miserably failed in all fronts and also betrayed the hopes of the Naga people, Therie said there is no decency at all in the DAN government and "DAN is the most corrupted government ever since Nagaland attained statehood". Therefore, he said, if the MLAs are concerned about the life and property of the Naga people they should decide if they are for the people and whether to join us. Holding Rio responsible for not fulfilling the DAN Common Minimum Programme (CMP), Therie said they are not concerned about the life and property of the Naga people but only worried about the coming election.
Declaring that the dissident MLAs would remain steadfast during the next election, they also affirmed that NPF would fall below single digit. "We cannot continue with traitors," they said while expressing that Rio should be grateful to us and bid farewell to the chair (of chief minister).Meanwhile, Therie also revealed that dissident MLAs today submitted a five point memorandum to the state Governor .Sankaranarayanan at Raj Bhavan demanding delivery of the promise of Article 371(A), Clause (b) and Article 356 whichever is applicable to salvage the people of Nagaland from the prevailing lawlessness and internal disturbances. The five-point memorandum signed by resigned MLAs K. Therie, Z. Obed, Vatsu Meru, Yeangphong and Independent MLA Khutovi alleged that the DAN government led by Neiphiu Rio has miserably failed to maintain law and order and now the rule of gun has gone against the rule of law with too much governance but to little administration thereby completely negating the ethical principles of vibrant democracy practiced amongst the Nagas from time immemorial without fear or prejudice.
The five of them in the memorandum also charged the chief minister of betraying the mandate of the DAN CMP which promised the people to secure negotiated settlement of Naga political issue. Rio has arbitrarily adopted a policy of facilitating and supporting the factions and this has ruined the political dialogue between the government of India and underground factions while also completely distancing the people from the state government. Other charges of the five MLAs against the NPF led DAN government include selling of Likimro Hydro Project to a private party without experience where chief minister is a sleeping partner in the running of the project, purchased support of 14 MLAs to remain in power by placing Rs. 30 lakhs including himself from the CM`s Road Fund, siphoned off Rs. 25 crore from the Industrial Transport Subsidy, misused civil supplies etc.
Congratulating the eastern Nagas for securing 25% job reservation demand, the memo expressed that reservation has been adopted for clear electoral gains and the policy is bereft of justice. On the issue of NBSE affiliation, they opined that it should not be for political gains and the future generation should not be affected. The memorandum while pointing that Neiphiu Rio has lost majority in the house and he does not have moral rights to continue in office, appealed to the Governor to use his authority to uphold the moral order of the highest forum, thereby sending a clear message to future generations.
Further, the five of them also demanded that ceasefire ground rules be enforced in totality by all parties without fear and prejudices. Sustain the ceasefire without disturbing or burdening the harmony of the Naga society by arranging ceasefire mutually and resolve the Naga political problem with bold initiative and with political will and within a stipulated period of time. The five dissident MLAs also asked the state Governor to recommend probe into the various corrupt and nepotism activities of the DAN government by Central Bureau of Investigation, CBI, so as to bring the culprits to book and more importantly to regain the confidence of the people on the principles of natural justice. Meanwhile, they also revealed that the dissident groups would soon be approaching the chairperson of United Progressive Alliance, UPA, Sonia Gandhi at New Delhi and discuss the issues prevailing in the state. Therie on behalf of the dissident MLAs also appealed to the people of Nagaland to support the five point demand.
The cage that sets offenders right Hindustan Times
A seven-foot coffin-like wooden cage erected near the entrance of this village near the boundary with Assam has made many an "offender" repent his misdeeds.
Erected by the local village council, the cage is used to "punish" those found guilty of offences like theft, quarrelling or abusing narcotics and alcohol, the sale of which is banned in Nagaland.
An "offender" is locked up for a 12-hour stretch in the cage as punishment. "Besides being locked up in the cage, generally at night, an offender is fined Rs 500," village headman Mar Longchar said. "Few months ago, a 28-year-old youth was locked up in the cage after he was caught using drugs," Longchar said. Adding to the agony of the offenders is the fact that the small cage, which was built nearly two decades ago, is made of 'khajuli gos', a tree whose wood causes an itching sensation. Punishment is usually swift with offenders lined up before the headman, who is apprised of their guilt. The headman then decides on the punishment.
Even women have been locked up in the cage for their misdeeds, locals said. However, the detainees are given food, Mar said. Even residents of Assam who commit any offences in the village face the same punishment, he said. Assiring is located between Assam's Jorhat district and Nagaland's Mukokchung district, an area that has been disputed by the two states.
Though the practice of locking offenders up in the cage is peculiar to the village with 1600 residents, the headman said there are other remote villages in Nagaland where "sinners" are punished in a similar fashion. Asked whether police had ever interfered in the matter, Mar boldly said in the local dialect: "Aamikhan dao di katile bhi policor permission loikine nokore." (Even if we hack a person, we don't seek permission from police).
Dissidents meet Governor; heap charges on DAN govt Morung Express News
Kohima After a hiatus following the failed coup to dislodge the Neiphiu Rio-led DAN government some months back, three out of the four NPF dissident MLAs who resigned from the Legislature yesterday and an independent member, who has withdrawn his support to the DAN government, are back with renewed vigor in fostering their charges against the DAN government over deteriorating law and order situation in the State and rampant corruptions, nepotism and prejudice by the ministers.
The three suspended NPF legislators, Z Obed, K Therie and Vatsü Meru, and Independent MLA Khutovi, met the State Governor today and submitted their five point demands, which included invocation of Article (A), Clause (b) or Article 356 of the Indian constitution, whichever is applicable to contain the law and order problem; to enforce ceasefire ground rules in totality; sustain ceasefire without disturbing or burdening the harmony of Naga society by arranging ceasefire funding mutually; to resolve the Naga issue with bold initiative and within a stipulated period of time and to recommend CBI probe into various corruptions charges.
Therie along with Vatsu and Khutovi, who addressed the media at Hotel Japfü after submitting the memorandum, held Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio responsible for the failure to carry out DAN’s common minimum programme by shifting its promise from securing negotiated settlement, to becoming a mere facilitator. Expounding the content of their memorandum Therie accused Rio of misusing DAN’s equi-closeness policy by resorting to a confrontationist approach and patronizing a particular underground faction.
He also said that law and order problem is going from bad to worse and therefore, people are taking law into their own hands to protect themselves from lawlessness. The present government is eclipsed by parallel “governments” run by the factions whose writs run stronger than the state government.
Illegal taxation on every item available in the market is carried on by these “governments” right under the nose of state administration, the memorandum said, further alleging that the state government is conniving with UGs in collection.
“Under the reign of DAN government human life has lost its value and there is no security for the lives and properties of the people”, the memorandum said.
The four leaders also submitted a long list of corruption and nepotism charges being practiced by the Ministers. These included sell out of Likhimro Hydro Power Project to private party; allotment of Canning Factory at Dimapur to Industries Minister’s son without following norms; manipulation of medical seat by Education Minister; bribing of 14 MLAs by Chief Minister by giving them Rs 30 lakhs each to support his ministry; siphoning of Rs 25 crore from transport subsidy by CM and Industries Minister; flouting of rules and norms in awarding construction works; allotment of supply of text books to Urban Minister’s son without issuing tender; selection of near and dear one of those in power as beneficiaries in various schemes like CM corpus fund; misuse of supply materials like AAY and BPL rice, wheat and sugar, SK oil, and rural development fund.
While the State government condemned heavily and provided relief when Wungram colony was burned down, it remained silent on burning down of Jalukie Zandi and refused to provide even relief to affected family which is an absolute prejudice, the memorandum also charged.
It also questioned the motive behind the state reservation policy, wherein the government has agreed to secure 25% to people of eastern Nagaland without taking into consideration the other backward tribes and termed it as ploy to gain vote banks. The trio did not spare the government notification on affiliation issue either, claiming that arbitrary amendment is more for political gain than academic. The government’s failed economic policy, and mishandling of boundaries issue also found its way into the memorandum. The four also appealed the people to support their demands.
Cong is my home: Therie Dissident NPF MLA, K Therie, who resigned on Tuesday as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, today said that his former party, Congress, is his home. Therie, who was sacked from SC Jamir ministry as Power minister five years back because of the difference with the latter on ‘Bedrock of Naga Society,’ a booklet published by Congress, today hinted he will resign from the NPF party shortly and had apparently expressed his willingness to return to Congress.
“Congress is my home. I don’t know whether they will welcome me back. I have not approached them still”, Therie said at a press conference. To a query which party, regional or national, he is comfortable working with as he had already tasted the flavour of both types, Therie, suggestively said that Nagas are still yet to learn how to handle power efficiently, and emphasized on the need to have some experience guide and advisor in running the government.
Therie, who was removed from the present DAN government as a Finance Minister because of difference with Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio over Rs 365 Crore central grant, also hinted that he along with other dissidents would resign from the NPF party. He alleged the NPF was a party devoid any ‘democratic set up.’ Appearing prophetic, Therie, predicts the fate of NPF party in the forthcoming election stating that the latter would fall below single digit. “Rio should be grateful to us for making him bid his chaired good bye’, Therie quipped.
Asserting that he, Z Obed, Vatsii, and Khutovi (independent) will sail in the same boat, Therie also boasted that more NPF legislators are likely to join them in the forthcoming election. “Those who are concerned for people should come out and join us. We cannot support who are not doing the right thing”, Therie said, adding that they cannot allow the DAN government to continue.
State responds to ultimatum Dimapur, September 19 (MExN): The state government today issued a response to the NSCN-K’s ultimatum to the minister for Education over allowing students from the hill districts to sit for examination through the NBSE. The Nagaland government has reminded that no individual can be held solely responsible for executing a decision of the government strongly backed by civil society, including NGOs and frontal students’ bodies.
The statement issued through Chief Secretary Lalhuma stated that the Cabinet in its meeting held on November 2, 2006 decided to allow Naga students of Manipur to be admitted in schools in Nagaland and appear in the HSLC examinations. For this, the department of Education was entrusted to make necessary arrangements. The decision was prompted by humanitarian considerations, the government reminded.
Pursuant to the decision of the Cabinet, proposals for providing funds to accommodate students from the hill districts were forwarded to the NBSE to the school education department to meet various contingent expenditure to facilitate the appearance of these students in the NBSE examinations held in various centers of Kohima and Dimapur. The examinations conducted by the NBSE were held without any untoward incident due to support of a cross-section of NGOs of all tribes and frontal organizations like the NSF and the Naga Hoho, it stated.
The government further informed that in the just-concluded 15th session of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, the NBSC rules were tabled in the house. It provided that “the NBSE may, in selective cases, extend the services and facilities of the board to institutions located outside Nagaland, and recognize the various internal promotion examinations conducted by them.” As such, there was no voice of opposition or discussion despite the Speaker allowing opportunity to the house to seek clarifications.
“In the light of the aforesaid submission of facts, the decision to allow Naga students of Manipur to appear in the HSLC examinations conducted by the NBSE and to make necessary arrangements for them to appear in the examinations was a decision of the Cabinet and therefore a decision of the government. Hence, no individual can be held solely responsible for executing a decision of the government strongly backed by the civil societies, NGOs and the frontal student bodies etc…” the state government stated.
Five-point memorandum to the Governor of Nagaland- Nagaland Post
We are pained to bring it to your notice that the DAN Government, under the leadership of Neiphiu Rio, has miserably failed to maintain law and order and we now have the rule of gun against the rule of law, too much governance but too little administration, too many public servants but too little public service, too many controls but too little justice, too many directives but too little for the people, thereby completely negating the ethical principles of vibrant democracy practiced amongst the Nagas from time immemorial without fear or prejudice.
The Chief Minister has also betrayed once again, the mandate of the Common Minimum Programme which promised the people to secure negotiated settlement, and he has arbitrarily adopted a policy of facilitating and supporting the factions, this heinous betrayal and shocking volte-face has ruined the political dialogue between the Government of India and the Underground factions and has completely distanced the people from the Govern-ment. The policy of equicloseness was meant to facilitate the Naga peace and political process, but the DAN Government has misused it to patronize certain factions and to create confrontation among the factions whereby we have witnessed villagers having to vacate their homes and hearths, occupation of schools and other Government/public houses by armed cadres of the underground totally disregarding the welfare, security and wishes of the people. There has been a sharp rise in the incidence of killings/assassinations, extortion; looting and illegal taxation in the last few years, but much to the dismay of the people, the Government has justified its inability and helplessness by terming these as political problems and not a law and order problem. The Government claims that since the Ceasefire Agreements were signed between the Government of India and the Naga National Workers, it is the duty of the Government of India to enforce the mutually agreed upon Ceasefire Ground Rules! Under the reign of the DAN Government, human life has lost its value and there is no security for the lives and properties of the people.
The present Government is eclipsed by parallel Governments run by the factions whose writs run stronger than the State Government. Illegal taxation on every item available in the market is carried on by these Governments right under the nose of the State Administration, further, the Government is conniving in their collection and burdening the public therefore, people have lost faith in it. The people are seething under the pressure of all these multiple taxation. They are, at the same time, help-less since the Government is not taking any corrective measures.
Under the DAN Government, corruption has reached the highest order with ab solute power derived from the 91st Amendment which empowers minority rule. The Government has been sham- elessly indulging in naked nepotism and bias while awarding works and supply orders such as
Sell out of Likhimro Hydro Project to a certain private party which has no experience whatsoever in power generation but whose qualification is proximity with the Chief Minister who is the "sleeping partner" in the running of the said project; Canning Factory at Dimapur which was given to the Industries Minister's son without following any norms at a throw-away price; Manipulation of Medical seat from the Government quota by the Education Minister for his son and another relative of the wife of Chief Minister; Purchase of the sup- port of 14 MLAs by the Chief Minister to remain in power by placing Rs 30 lakh each to them including himself from the Chief Minister's Road Fund; Siphoning off Rs 25 crore from the Industrial Transport subsidy by the Chief Minister and the Indus- tries Minister
Flouting of all rules and norms in awarding the work for construction of the Headquarters of 9 IRB at Saijang worth Rs 39 crore by the Home Minister at the rate of 85% above the scheduled rate, thereby robbing the State exchequer; Award of supply of text books by the then Education Minister and present Urban Development Minister to his son without calling for any tenders and failure of the son to provide text books to students even at the fag end of the academic year;
Selection of the near and dear ones of the powers that be as beneficiaries under schemes like CM's Corpus Fund while depriving the genuine candidates; Misuse of civil supplies materials such as AAY, BPL rice, wheat and sugar, SK Oil, misuse of Rural development funds which more often than never, are allotted to relatives of the Ministers and party functionaries. There are many more in the cupboard.
Further, Neiphiu Rio has lost majority in the house and therefore, has no moral right to continue in office. 22 DAN Members have withdrawn support to Neiphiu Rio's leadership with 17 Congress in opposition Members opposing the leadership of DAN thereby constituting an effective strength of 39 in the house of 60. MLAs' signed letters addressed to His Excellency expressing withdrawal of support to Rio's leadership were submitted to the Speaker and Your Excellency on 30th May 2007 evening, demanding the dismissal of Rio's Government. On 31st May 2007, Chief Minister distributed Rs. 30 lakhs each to few MLAs. On the third day i.e., 1st June 2007 afternoon at 3PM, 10 Members defected alleging that they were made to sign under duress. These are some of the most disgusting liars as there is no logic that Shri. Obed had single handedly taken 10 MLAs under duress to make them sign. He has made clear in his statement that it was they who drove down all the way from Kohima to Dimapur in a group, to Shri. Obed's residence and insisted him to lead them and also gave their petition of withdrawal of support to Rio's leadership. The episode reflects their pathetic state of morals for which we cannot associate ourselves with such shame-less political prostitutes any more. As the Constitutional Head of the State, we hold your esteemed office as the highest moral office and since the petitions are addressed and submitted to Your Excellency and that they have betrayed your esteemed office and colleagues, appropriate action should be taken to discipline them to uphold the moral order of the highest forum, thereby sending a clear message to future gene rations.
That, the present Government indifference attitude to the people is clearly shown when it came down heavily on the torching of Wungram Colony at Dimapur and a large amount of relief money was given to the 28 households, but did not even have the heart to condemn the razing of the 30 houses at Jalukie Zangdi, let alone provide relief materials. This Government is prejudiced and the anti-people stance cannot be tolerated anymore. While we congratulate the Eastern Nagas for securing 25% job reservation, it is clear that the reservation has been adopted purely for electoral gains, and is with- out application of mind since benefit cannot be given to someone at the cost of other backward tribes and minority tribes. The policy is bereft of justice and is not a solution to the problem.
Education falls under the Concurrent List (Clause 25) under the VII Schedule of the Constitution and such arbitrary amendment is more for political rather than academic gains. The Cabinet note says Amendment of NBSE Act of 1973, however to avoid debate the rule is said to have been amended. What we are concern is that the future generation should not be affected. If the degrees acquired from NBSE are not recognized by another sister state it will cost the future, therefore in our considerate view the issue should be mutually resolved. Economic policies have failed miserably in developing and investing the State's natural and human resources while existing infrastructure are neglected and devalued.
The State Government has, instead of resolving vexed issues of Boundaries with neighbouring States through Constitutional provisions and goodwill, adopted a policy of confrontation thereby earning the State a distinction of being a rogue State, perceived or otherwise, in the eyes of the nation.
Your Excellency, considering all these, we are of the firm belief that Neiphiu Rio's Government has completely failed on all fronts to provide moral leadership and all its actions and policies are anti-people. This Government is of, for and by a selected few and absolute power has corrupted these few in an unprecedented manner resulting in acute misery of the people. This Government is by the corrupt, for the corrupt and of the corrupt. We, therefore, unanimously and resolutely decide to withdraw our support to the deceptive leadership of Neiphu Rio and DAN Government and have also resigned as MLAs of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, so as to work assiduously and diligently for salvaging our state and our people from the ceaseless persecution and sufferings; and to contribute effectively and constructively in resolving our outstanding issue for fostering comprehensive growth and socio-economic development of the state. In view of the afore-mentioned repugnant and deplorable scenario in the state of Nagaland and also considering the fact that the Governor of Nagaland has "special responsibilities with respect to law and order" unlike other Governors of the country; we most fervently and passionately beseech your esteemed self, to exigently consider the following course of actions:
To deliver the promise of Article 371 (A), Clause (b) and/or Article 356, which-ever is applicable according to your esteemed individual judgment, and salvage the people of Nagaland from this prevailing lawlessness and internal disturbances. That the Gentlemen's agreement of Ceasefire Ground rules be enforced in totality by all parties without fear and prejudices. Sustain the Ceasefire without disturbing or burdening the harmony of the Naga society by arranging Ceasefire funding mutually. Resolve the Naga political problem with bold initiative and with political will and within a stipulated period of time.
Recommend to for probe into the various corrupt and nepotism activities of the DAN Government by Central Bureau of Investigations so as to bring the culprits to book and more importantly and regain the lost confidence of the people on the principles of natural justice.
Khutovi (IND), 33 - Suruhoto A/c Z. Obed (NPF), 9 - Kohima Town A/c K. Therie (NPF), 16 - Pfutsero A/c Yeangphong (NPF), 41 - Tizit A/c Vatsu Meru (NPF 7 - Peren A/c
The all embracing justice of God and its implications on Naga society today Kaka.D.Iralu The Morung Express Perspective
A great political injustice has been done on the Nagas when India and Burma invaded Nagaland in 1955. And ever since that period, we have been fighting with both arms as well as through diplomacy to rectify that injustice. That fight must go on until the injustice is removed and freedom and liberty is restored in our land and country.
But, “What about the many injustices that we have inflicted on one another using the Indo-Burma invasion as an excuse?” It is indeed wrong on the part of India and Burma to invade our lands. But is it alright to invade one another lands with Indian government assistance? In the same vein, who has killed all our brilliant Naga leaders under this pretext and that pretext? Who has murdered our own fellow Nagas and burned their village to ashes? How shall we also respond to the cries of the many widows and orphans whose husbands and fathers, we ourselves have butchered like animals? What of the blood of the thousands of innocents whose blood are crying to God for Justice from within our own blood soaked lands?
Were these injustices, crimes that were committed by the Indian and Myanmar armies? Or can we justify these crimes on the grounds that India had imposed divide and rule policy on us and that therefore we are the victims and India should be blamed for these crimes?
One day sooner or latter, the perpetrators of these crimes will stand before international tribunals of law to answer for these crimes. However, even if they escape worldly justice here on earth, one day they will stand before the holy throne of God to answer and pay for these crimes in hell. This will be so, because on earth we may even be able to fool earthly judges with false alibis and excuses, but none of us will ever be able to fool the Supreme Judge of the universe into believing a lie or a false excuse.
In this connection, is injustice a cause that needs to be fought only at the international level but can be tolerated at the national and tribal levels? If indeed we are insisting on justice at the international level but are tolerating and even condoning injustice at our own level, then are we are guilty of practicing a double standard form of justice.
In this same connection, a corollary question that comes to mind is: “Are there different forms of justice at different levels or is justice an all level, all embracing law that demands our obligation and our obedience?”
The answer from the Bible is clear that justice has a uniform code that address all facets and levels of our social existence. But before we proceed any further, allow me to first explain what justice and injustice is all about. In the Biblical understanding of the word justice; justice is the upholding of God’s just laws. Injustice on the other hand is the breaking of those just laws of God. Both justice and injustice are therefore related to God’s laws which are revealed in his word – the Bible. Now, in the Biblical sequence of justice; behind justice is the law and behind the law is the lawgiver – God. In this context, let us remember that God’s prophets through whom God’s words were revealed and written never said that they were the ones pronouncing the laws. For example neither Moses nor any of the other prophets ever said that they were the ones pronouncing the laws on their own authority. They all said: “Thus saith the Lord.” In other words, they all acknowledged that they were not the final authority in issuing the laws that are written in the Bible. Moses for example said: “I will proclaim the name of the Lord; ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the rock; his work is perfect; for all his ways are justice; a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he” (Dt. 32:3-4) Through the mouth of Isaiah God also declared: “Thus saith the Lord, keep justice and do righteousness…” (Is. 56:1) In chapter 45:19 of the same book, God further declares: “…I the Lord, speak righteousness, I declare things that are right.”
Justice therefore is practicing those things “That are right;” while injustice is practicing those things which are wrong. Christianity in its true essence is therefore a religion of doing the right and opposing the wrong.
Coming back to the question of the wrongs that we have done to one another in our 52 years of political struggle, here, the question that we must ask ourselves in the presence of God and in the presence of our own conscience is: “While demanding justice from others; can we go on practicing and even condoning injustices among ourselves?”
Now one fact of history that is found in the Bible as well as in secular history is the fact that if we go on practicing and tolerating injustice then God himself acts and executes justice on those who are guilty of practicing injustice.
In this context we must understand that the practice of justice is not an option given by God to mankind where we can choose either to practice it or disregard it. On the contrary, we are commanded to practice it. To disregard it is to face the consequence of God’s wrath. Here there is no option or escape from this obligation of mankind to practice God’s justice
In this context, God in Zachariah 5:16 -17 says: “These are the things that you shall do. Speak the truth to one another, render in your gates judgements that are true and make for peace. Do not devise evil in your hearts against one another, and love no false oath, for all these are things that I hate, says the Lord.”
In the present Naga context where injustice is reigning, where men are plotting evil against fellow men, where execution orders are being issued and carried out, where the public are being extorted at gun point; many have told me: “The best thing is to keep quite.” However remember this fact that the practice of justice and righteousness is not an option but a spiritual duty and obligation. Therefore to choose to be silent is a choice for evil to reign and God’s judgement and wrath to come upon us and our children. Here, silence is not a neutral or escape route but a negative decision for evil to befall us and our children. In this context, in Is. 3:9, God lamenting on the judgement that had befallen Jerusalem and Judah because of their disobedience and sins says: “…woe unto their soul! For they have rewarded evil unto themselves.” Earlier in chapter 1:17 God had commanded them to “Learn to do well, seek justice, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.” But Jerusalem and Judah chose to disregard and disobey God’s commands. Further, in chapter 59:4 there is a significant statement about these disobedient Jews. The word of God here says: “None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth, they trust in vanity and speak lies, they conceive mischief and bring forth iniquity.”
Perhaps in our context today, SILENCE OVER EVIL is our greatest sin. God is a merciful and patience God, but because his very nature is righteousness and justice, he cannot go on tolerating injustice forever (Pslm 97:2). If we Nagas do not repent and oppose injustice the sin of silence will not go unpunished forever.
On the other hand, those who are perpetrating injustice are desperately fasting and putting up a very outward religious look with calls to repentance and forgiveness etc. But this is what God is demanding from them: “Is not this the fast that I have demanded – to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free and that ye break every yoke.” (Is. 56:6.)
In conclusion, God’s justice must be established between India, Nagaland and Burma. God’s justice also must rule between the various Naga tribes in their inter-tribal relationships. God justice also must prevail at every village level and clan level. God’s justice also must dwell in every neighbourhood and family. And his justice must also prevail between every husband and wife and parents and children throughout the length and breadth of Nagaland. This is because God’s justice cuts across all these levels of our human and social lives in a uniform code of law. His commandments which “declares things that are right” (Is. 45:19) demands our reverence and our obedience. We are duty bound to practice his justice and his righteousness at all levels of our existence at all times.
GOD LOVES NAGALIM
It indeed was a great honour for me to have been given the wonderful opportunity to speak to the British people on 16 September 2007 on the political situation and Christianity in Nagalim. And, yes, we are thankful to this church for dwelling on the Naga people on 19 August 2007. God loves Nagalim! I express my heartfelt gratitude to all those Naga brothers and sisters for accepting my request and remembering me in their prayers. May God bless you all and give abundant peace and happiness! It is our hope and fervent prayer that the Nagas, Indians and British can do great things for lasting peace and justice in God’s wonderful world, especially in India and Nagalim.
My speech received a thunderous applause and the church prayed for peace in Nagalim. Also, in response to a request, I have submitted an article to this church for publication. This will enable one to can get a clearer picture of the conflict between India and the Nagas which had caused immense misery to both the nations and claimed thousands upon thousands of precious Indian and Naga lives. As far as we know, this avoidable conflict continues to exist primarily because of India’s unwise failure to recognise and honour indigenous Naga people’s right to self-determination as enshrined in international law. India must rectify this shortcoming at the earliest.
Though I am a Naga by birth and a Naga in heart, I am a South Korean national from head to toes. And as an employee of a South Korean central university and my short contract in my present British university as a University Fellow with Visiting Professor status will end on 1 January 2008, a time has come for me to end all other activities and give the remaining short time to tying up all the loose ends of my university project duties. Hence, it is likely that this is the last time of my interaction with you all. I am aware of the fact that I am the weakest of the weak; nonetheless, within my limited budget and many frailties, I did whatever I could for my Nagalim.
KUKNALIM
In God’s grace, Professor Timothy Kim (Kaping) Great Britain
Naga-ism, T. Shishak & collective leadership RS Jassal The Morung Express Perspective
Apropos to T.Shishak’s ‘Confession’ published in various dailies in Nagaland on 24th July and Press Communiqué by Collective Leadership (CL) dated 8th Aug both of 2007, to start with I am aware of my position to comment but with experience of 40 years in the rolling ins & outs of the fluid situation of Naga issue, created by some with different intent diverted by some to other contents and mostly dictated by changing times and circumstances , I do not wish to carry the weight of truth buried in my third chamber forever hence it needs releasing. Since personalities involved in issue are of much higher importance. I attempt my comments in all humility with respect to both sides. If contents of both the communiqués are taken in their true spirit, these may act as basis for reconciliation of Nagas to Nagas keeping the nomenclatures of tribes a bit aside, and provided extra ink used in both is also shed.
The author is associated with Naga affairs since 1967. I have met Rev. Shishak only once i.e., in his office chamber at Patkai college and my age, service rank was too small to interact with him, since he being of a tall stature and me just a beginner in my career as a Captain. So he won’t be remembering me even that I had met him. I was accompanying some of my friend who was of Tangkhul origin. Shishak was away to her parents state i.e., the STATES. Two signatories from CL , I have never met other than Raising seen in playful mood with a pistol in his hand in a video cassette recovered from Yangkhullen GHQ camp by troops 3AR ex Maram on 22nd Aug 1989. With this backdrop please read on…. Rev. Shishak may be right in venting his concern, conveying anger and going emotional since he & his family connections with Americans had labeled them with numerous charges of abetting the FGN/NNC to fan the secessionist move, hobnobbing with Rev. Michael Scot of Peace Mission & I am told at times SF’s even searched his college premises for nabbing some UGs based on intelligence reports. He has seen the difficult days, tumultuous periods faced by Nagas of Naga Hills (till creation of Nagaland) the pangs of painful memories contained in his letter are carried forward into present day intolerable which he attributes to the current leadership. With passage of a decade of peace talk, reconciliation efforts non- productive and immediate happenings following creation of Nagaland, killings aggravated, bullets flew directionless in the NH’s with Naga luminaries/ champions of people’s cause like Dr. Imkongliba Ao, T. Sakhrie, and Chikhino Angami eliminated are some of the sad memories which can dampen anyone’s spirit appears to have found expression in his statement.
Two personalities like Dr. Longri Ao of Churches who was banned by DC Jorhat to enter his village Changki area for 15 years (till India attained independence) because of his links with MK Gandhi and noted Assamese singer Bhupen Hazarika brought peace to burning Nagaland whereas JayPrakash Narayan left peace mission out of disgust and anger & Rev Michael Scot was deported. Perhaps recollection of these conditions and no reduction in suffering by the UG/general public have left permanent imprint on his mind which also find reference to current situation. Rest use of words to express, feeling / anguish have perhaps gone too strong to taste bitter to Collective Leadership. But the touching concern for Nagas perhaps ruled his mind. Now I turn to Press Communiqué of collective leadership. They feel they have been charged as ‘terrorists’, their sacrifices to reach to this stage commencing from Grand coup of Khaplang are negated and Shishak perhaps has acted as RAW’S stooge and his letter written under influence of Khaplang or some other vested party. Well, let this not be contested as language used by CL is slightly spurious and leads one to feel written in vengeance to put Shishak in the withdrawn state of mind, and they have also overstretched the contents & intents of his letter. After all what could be his aim. Quite obvious, to suggest urgency of reconciliation. Reconciliation with whom when offended /wronged and offender all feel it their right to do so without prepared to attend to logic. It is also a fact if reconciliation initiative which is started by IM fails to strike accord no other faction or any egoist can achieve. BUT for this IM has to act with restraint & invite open criticism from others too. The question arises how to reach at a solution; when all the three have shared history of killing. I will attempt in the end how, but before that I will give some important events for both sides as a dispassionate critic.
Four Point & Nine Point Proposals: Contents of Four Points are known to everybody only names, their qualifications and tribes of signatories (18 of them) need to be recalled. It will clarify some academic doubts since repeatedly it is being taken as the start point. It shows at that time there was a situation of NO CONFLICTS politically.
Sixteen Point Agreement: 13th Point in it has become a point of discord. GOI feels benevolent and gracious to convert Naga Hills into Nagaland by bringing Naga areas from NEFA adding Dimapur (of Kachari- Dimasa erstwhile Kingdom) and jungles along Assam- Nagaland border into its folds. Areas from Manipur were beyond PM power due to Merger Act 1949 signed with then Govt. of Manipur in which one clause clearly says “It will be duty of GOI to protect the territories and interests of Princely State of Manipur”. At that time there was no conflict in Manipur. This point still acts as deterrent and continue to influence finality at the Center. So to continue the conflict this 13th point remains in a lever role. NDA Govt have tried to sort it out but not possible and UPA Govt. is now facing it today. Even if any leader from CL is appointed as PM, he will also find himself in similar predicaments. Some historical database: 1st Dec 1963 i.e., inaugurations of Nagaland with full fledged Assembly of 60 members in one go as Sixteenth State of Indian Union is considered as golden day. But sadly dual path to further the cause in name of Sovereignty during undivided /leadership FGN/NNC was adopted by one group to go to East Pakistan for procurement of arms/ammo and training under Thungti Chang’s command and the other group under SS Gen Mowu Angami to go to Yunnan through Khaplang’s territories (Heimi Areas) . This later group was obvious to come under influence of communist ideology of Chinese origin while the previous one under influence of ISI of Pakistan. This imbalanced the FGN think tank. And no student of Naga insurgency has touched this point so far. Silver line however appeared that the progressive thinkers in the UG’s, circulated open letters through all the means and resources and after protracted discussions decided to have no trucks with Chinese ideology since Nagas were or going to be a Christian State. These years of academic struggle disappointed those who were in London & America so Prof Copland Plan which had somewhat hope of revival got scuttled forever. At the same time this also deepened differences among Naga intellectuals and other activists so new organization under name RGN came up after arrest of Gen. Mowu Angami though short lived & came to end with shooting down of its leader i.e., Kaito Sema. Thereafter 1975 Accord welcomed by many though but completely discarded by present IM/ K (then part of NSCN combined leadership). This again saw many killings. But one aspect emerged boldly i.e., control of armed groups and major policy decisions fell to Tangkhul leadership and unfortunately during that period of transition & immediately after split of NSCN, maximum killings of civilians & UG to UG after 1975 Accord occurred which gradually gave negative publicity to Tangkhul leadership hence still meeting opposition from many Naga tribes. At this juncture and with this back ground, if ‘confession’ of rev. Shishak is read, his expression need be valued. Collective leadership or separate entities- NONE is clean of killing. Keeping acts of SF’s out, Naga to Naga casualties may be higher. And to dismal these are adding up day by day. At times K faction blames SF’s siding with IM and the IM vice versa. These will lead them nowhere who are in search of peace.
Events Worth Recalling: Naga (UG’s) sincerity for Indian Govt. in 1962 (China Border Skirmishes) 1965 (a war of fortnight with Pakistan) and 1971 (liberation struggle of Mukti Bahini Bangladesh) in which 8 Mtn Div from Zakhama had to move to Indo Bangla borders to manage the influx of Bangladeshi into Assam/Tripura, Naga UG’s did show solidarity with GOI. Indians will always honour it.
How to achieve Reconciliation
Difficult to dictate. But some suggestion as follows needs consideration:
(a) Collective leadership must value Shishak’s letter changing heading from Confession to suggestion and invite more & more from other well wishers if anybody wishes to participate.
(b) For one year observe functions of 14 Aug, 22 Mar and 6 Sept together from a common platform.
(c) Draw comprehensive lists of victims who lost their near & dear ones in connection with the Naga struggle from day one. Approach Nagaland Govt. irrespective of Party affiliation for a suitable compensation and rehabilitation
(d) Conscientious admittance to completely ban Killings
(e) Th.Muviah to thank Khaplang to save his life during coup in which 108 Tangkhuls were killed in (ghallookara) chase to kill And Khaplang to confess wrong done and announce reconciliation of that dark event. Here you need services of some dedicated facilitator.
(f) Withdraw slogan Nagaland for Christ and rename suitably if necessary. Lord Christ’s grace for entire universe cannot be limited to small area. As Holy Spirits transcend borders and their GRACE becomes benevolent to the world like Ram, Rahim Nanak & so many others Imagine! Mir Jumla’s army of 90,000 foot soldiers, 10,000 horses 30, cannons march started in boats from Dhubri through Brahmaputra and either side of its banks devastating plundering the kingdom of Agnigarh, Tezpur Chutia Cachars Sibsagar, right up to Tinsukia & then how he met with end Malaria and dysentery finished him & his entire army. Where man, thinks his armed prowess can subdue the weak, GOD, intervenes .Let this not happen to us. We must seek his blessings. Enough is enough.
The Road to Partition Nagarealm.com
On the subject of India’s partition in 1947 most historians, in book after book, concur on a single point: it happened too quickly. When India’s last Viceroy Lord Mountbatten – after using recriminations together with his effusive charm – finally persuaded community leaders to agree to partition, its timetable suddenly accelerated.
Mountbatten arrived in India in March 1947 with clear instructions to hand over power to the Indians within fifteen months. But already in early June he suddenly announced that August 15 would be the day on which power would be transferred. The reason for bringing forward the British government’s programme is not known, but as a precipitate decision it was largely responsible for the bloody catastrophes which followed; partition was born out of mayhem and savagery. Today it would be impossible to gloss over the fatal consequences of that decision, but in England at the time, politicians played down the scale of bloodshed; imperial success was preferable to imperial defeat, even though the reality on the ground was a disintegrating empire. Later in his life Attlee was to say that giving India independence was his greatest achievement. He had, claimed many biographers, “achieved what virtually no one else, in any country, has achieved before or since: to withdraw in good order from a vast slice of Empire.”
In last week’s column I wrote that there are signs of a painful struggle to develop better relations between India and Pakistan. The struggle is painful because the politics of partition cannot by definition be less than strained more often than not they are vicious. Kashmir is part of the unfinished business of India’s partition, while Bangladesh – artificially created by Radcliffe to start life as East Pakistan - showed that partition can lead to further division. East Pakistan was made up of half of what had once been the state of Bengal; Bengali Muslims wanted their own nation-state. Only after showing that ‘fellow Muslims’ are capable of ethnic cleansing between themselves did Bangladesh come into being. Since 1947 India has never been free of sectarian violence; Hindu nationalists massacred more than two thousand Muslims in Gujarat state as recently as 2002. Other minorities felt stifled by the emerging postcolonial nationalism of India and Pakistan and began to demand political autonomy. Sikhs, Baluchis, Kashmiris and the Nagas – who have fought a four decade old small war for their homeland – rebelled and were put down with a ferocity not displayed by their former British masters. The daydreams of Empire have vanished like smoke, and it is hard to believe that partition – Palestine, Ireland, former Yugoslavia – can be anything more than a primary cause of human suffering. It is even harder to believe that present day advocates of partition see it as a tidy solution to problems of intercommunal friction resulting from ethnic and/or religious differences. Hardest of all, is to accept that categorising people according to their ethnic/religious identity, then putting them into boxes tied to a delineated geographical area, somehow represents progress by and among civilised nations.
Few examples of ‘peaceful partition’ : Territorial borders have moved throughout history; what is new is the mass transfer of populations, as a result of an idea that conflicts between heterogeneous peoples can be resolved or prevented by ‘unmixing’ them. For Indians in 1947 ‘refugee’ was just a vaguely familiar word, people were saying they had heard about rulers being changed but for the first time the ruled were also changing places. Yet despite the last century’s heartbreaking images of forced expulsion – Greeks and Turks in 1923, ethnic Germans out of east-central Europe 1944-49, and India itself – the idea that neat ethnic and religious packaging by itself is a model for stability and peace, persists, even though there are very few examples of a ‘peaceful partition’. Montenegro is one of those rare exceptions, whereas the case of Kosovo contains not only a potential for armed conflict, but also the risk that Europe itself will fracture over the issue. That calamitous partitions are - usually - prescribed and imposed by outside powers sadly suggests an unwillingness or reluctance to learn from history’s mistakes; the looming UN imposed deadline for a negotiated settlement over Kosovo ignores experience of what happens when partition is forced too quickly.
A growing number of US politicians and commentators now support the partitioning of Iraq into three regions. As US government desperation grows in proportion to (unmistakably) increasing sectarian violence, partition looks increasingly attractive as an exit strategy. Although parallels between Iraq now and India in 1947 are inexact, one comparison stands out: Britain felt no obligation to prevent India from collapsing; its hasty retreat, unprepared for the dreadful consequences to follow, with soldiers in their barracks forbidden to protect Hindus, Moslems or Sikhs – amounted to moral dereliction. For America to impose partition or to suddenly leave Iraq would be the same. India after all was an authentic country before colonial occupation, while Iraq is an artificial colonial contrivance. The act of Invasion also carries responsibility.
The risks of ‘soft partition : The Brookings Institution is America’s oldest think tank and one of three regarded as having the most influence on Washington policy makers. A part of Brookings is the Saban Centre for Middle East Studies, set up with a $13 million donation from Haim Saban, an Israeli/American billionaire businessman. Last June two fellows from The Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies, Edward P Joseph and Michael O’Hanlon, published a 45 page paper for the Saban Centre with the title: ‘The Case for Soft Partition in Iraq’. The first paragraphs of the Executive Summary are worth quoting in full. (Italics are mine)
“The time may be approaching when the only hope for a more stable Iraq is a soft partition of the country. Soft partition would involve the Iraqis, with the assistance of the international community, dividing their country into three main regions. Each would assume primary responsibility for its own security and governance, as Iraqi Kurdistan already does. Creating such a structure could prove difficult and risky. However, when measured against the alternatives – continuing to police an ethno-sectarian war, or withdrawing and allowing the conflict to escalate – the risks of soft partition appear more acceptable. Indeed, soft partition in many ways simply responds to current realities on the ground, particularly since the February 2006 bombing of the Samarra mosque, a major Shi’ite shrine, dramatically escalated intersectarian violence. If the US troop surge, and the related effort to broker political accommodation through the existing coalition government of Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki fail, soft partition may be the only means of avoiding an intensification of the civil war and growing threat of regional confrontation. While most would regret the loss of a multi-ethnic, diverse Iraq, the country has become so violent and divided along ethno-sectarian lines that such a goal may no longer be achievable.
Soft partition would represent a substantial departure from the current approach of the Bush Administration and that proposed by the Iraq Study Group, both of which envision a unitary Iraq ruled largely from Baghdad. It would require new negotiations, the formation of a revised legal framework for the country, the creation of new institutions at the regional level, and the organized but voluntary movement of populations. For these reasons, we refer to it as a “Plan B”
for Iraq.”
The subject of this column is not the Bush Administration, but partition. However it is worth noting that this week ‘leading Brookings experts’ will examine the implications of the report prepared by General David Petraeus and Ambassador Ryan Crocker on the progress of President Bush’s ‘surge’ strategy. Kenneth Pollack, the Saban Centre’s research director together with Daniel Byman of Georgetown University recently organised a war game based on the question: What actions could the US plausibly take to control the unfolding civil and sectarian strife in Iraq? The scenarios ranged from the redeployment of US forces (‘surge’ strategy) through to complete withdrawal, and finally to soft partition. A basic assumption is that political reconciliation between Sunnis and Shi’ites under Nouri al-Maliki’s government is impossible. Probably the scenario of new elections and even the ‘removal’ of Al-Maliki were considered. Pollack and Byman were former political analysts with the CIA. Other participants included the Saban Centre’s director Martin Indyk, a former US Ambassador to Israel and Suzanne Maloney who between 2001-2004 was Middle East Advisor to the ExxonMobil Corporation.
“All we have left” : Evidence suggests that the Brookings Institution, a ‘non-partisan liberal’ think tank has the Bush Administration as its client. This month at least seven articles have appeared under Brooking’s auspices, ranging from a defence of General Petraeus (‘Petraeus doesn’t cook the books’, written by Michael O’Hanlon, co-author of ‘The Case for Soft Partition in Iraq’) to demands that the UN takes a role in salvaging Iraq. Placed in liberal magazines and newspapers these articles, together with other publications are a concerted effort by a ‘backroom administration’ to get America off the hook. The same neo-conservative intellectual drive which justified the American invasion of Iraq is now being employed to justify partition. The last sentence of the penultimate paragraph of the Conclusion to ‘The Case for Soft Partition in Iraq’ reads: “Leaving aside the unsavoury aspects of having the international community help relocate people based on their ethnicity or confession, soft partition is not an option to turn to lightly or happily. But it may soon be all we have left.”
Historians of the ‘Great Partition’ in 1947 also concur on another point: there was nothing about it that was inevitable; Hindus and Muslims alike desperately wanted independence from Britain, not ethnic nationhood. In Iraq Sunnis and Shi’ites want Americans above all to leave. Imperial hubris and intellectual arrogance drove the Bush government into destroying the British contrived artificial entity called Iraq. Partition is likely to repeat one of the most single destructive decisions of the 20th century. By urging early withdrawal, or by acquiescing in the delusion that partition is a solution – the American nation as a whole will be making the Iraqi people pay the price for the Bush Administration’s greatest single failure – the invasion of Iraq without a plan for the future. [Brian Self, Observercyprus]
Prabal arrest severe blow to ULFA By A Staff Reporter Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, Sept 19 – The commander of the 28 battalion of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), Prabal Neog, who was arrested in Tezpur on September 17, always remained in close touch with the commander-in-chief of the outfit Paresh Baruah and masterminded most of the operations of the ULFA in the upper Assam districts, highly placed police sources said. Sources said that during questioning by the police and the security forces, the arrested ULFA man admitted that he had masterminded the attacks on the Hindi-speaking people, particularly in the upper Assam districts. However, he said that he did not carry out the operations on his own and only carried out the orders of the ULFA C-in-C. However, what perplexed the police and security agencies is that he was not carrying any mobile or satellite phones with him and said during questioning that he was maintaining contacts from public call offices. Usually, the leaders of the ULFA always carry mobile or satellite phones with them and only a few months back, the security forces managed to recover a satellite phone used by dreaded militant Hira Sarania, who is responsible for most of the operations of the outfit in lower Assam and in Guwahati city.
Police refuted reports appearing in a section of the media that Prabal had in fact, surrendered and said that he was tracked for quite some time before being arrested. Police recovered a diary with a long list of phone numbers from the possession of the arrested militant and the numbers are now being checked. However, police refused to divulge the actual contents of the diary saying that it would hamper further investigation. Prabal refused to go into any detail on the issue of political connections of the outfit and told the police that this issue was looked into by the deputy commander of the 28 battalion Jiten Dutta. Police said that after repeated efforts of the ULFA to regain foothold in central Assam districts and in Karbi Anglong failed, Prabal was entrusted with the responsibility of reviving the 27 battalion and he was spotted in the hill district about a month before the recent mayhem, which gave rise to speculations that he was the mastermind behind the recent killings. Sources said that the attempts of the ULFA to gain foothold in Karbi Anglong and to regain its footholds in the central Assam districts were foiled because of shortage of trained cadres and the outfit was planning to bring in some trained cadres from the 28 battalion to revive the 27 battalion. Source revealed that according to information available, the 28 battalion of the ULFA, which has been entrusted with the responsibility of carrying out operations in the upper Assam districts, has at least 180 to 200 trained cadres and it is considered to be the strongest wing of the ULFA.
Police also said that Prabal Neog was on his way to Itanagar when he was nabbed and it is not yet known whether the ULFA has bases in the capital of Arunachal Pradesh. It is a fact that the ULFA has strong presence in the Tirap and Changlang districts of Arunachal and Prabal spent most of his time in some of those bases. Our Tezpur Correspondent adds: Prabal Neog’s arrest is a major blow to the ULFA and he told the police that he was looking for treatment of eye problem. The DIG, Northern range, SN Singh told newsmen that during questioning, Prabal confessed that the internal problems plagued the ULFA and he did not have any information about the 709 battalion of the outfit. Some of the family members of the ULFA members of 27 and 28 battalions have been shifted to Arunachal Pradesh and Nepal and the outfit used to pay regularly to them, Singh said.
ULFA close to Islamic ultras; US group Correspondent Assam Tribune
NEW DELHI, Sept 19 – Assam Government may not be in a great hurry to resume dialogue with outlawed ULFA, but a reputed US intelligence thinktank has reported that with the militant outfit increasingly hobnobbing with Islamic militant groups, Government of India cannot afford to ignore ULFA much longer. “Though ULFA’s militant activity is confined to India’s restive North-east, the group’s financial enterprise and strong links with Islamist militant groups have made it a threat that New Delhi will not be able to ignore much longer,” Stratfor said in its latest analytical report titled ‘India: ULFA abandons peace talks’.
“Though India has largely turned a blind eye to militant groups operating in its far-flung North-east, the growing Islamisation of the region, the deteriorating security situation in Bangladesh and these insurgents’ recent reach into the heart of India’s financial hub provide more than enough reason for New Delhi to start paying closer attention to its North Eastern border,” the report said. The report significantly linked ULFA with the recent Hyderabad blast. “The two prime suspects in that bombing belonged to Bangladesh-based Islamist militant group Harkat-ul-Jihad e-Islami, which is known to have a working relationship with ULFA and other North Eastern insurgent groups, and with Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence agency,” the report stated.
“ULFA regularly dances around the idea of peace talks and knows full well that New Delhi is not serious about rewarding its militant campaign with political concessions. “At the same time, ULFA prefers keeping up the militant front to maintain its financial network and its beneficial relationship with Pakistan’s intelligence agency that helps keep India’s hands tied. Thus, talk of negotiations does not really hold much weight,” Startfor opined.
The report analysed that with Indian Government facing ‘loads of political pressure’ over its civilian nuclear deal with the US and the entry of corporate retail firms into the country, ULFA in all likelihood saw this as an opportune time to pressure New Delhi into coming to the negotiating table. “The Indian Government is reluctant to continue talks, especially as the chief mediator for ULFA, Dr Mamoni Raisom Goswami, is in hospital after suffering a cerebral stroke,” the report stated. New Delhi would have to pay more attention to the ULFA as it has begun to outsource operations like suicide attacks from Islamic groups, Stratfor opined. “Stratfor has been closely monitoring the growing nexus between India’s North Eastern insurgent outfits and militant Islamist groups that regularly traverse India’s extremely porous border with Bangladesh.
“This is an area where ideology, religion and ethnicity hold little or no regard, as each militant group works with another to promote its cause. ULFA, in particular, has shown a growing propensity to work with Islamist militant groups in the area, and has even begun to outsource operations, including suicide attacks,” the report stated.
ULFA now left with just five leaders By IANS
Guwahati, Sep 20 (IANS) Cracks are beginning to appear in the organisational structure of the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) with the rebel group now left with just five top leaders to run the separatist campaign.
'The ULFA's core team leaders are either in jails or have surrendered. Today there are just five leaders in the field - chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa, commander-in-chief Paresh Baruah, deputy commander-in-chief Raju Baruah, foreign secretary Sasha Choudhury, and finance secretary-cum-general secretary in-charge Chitraban Hazarika,' said Assam police intelligence chief Khagen Sharma.
The ULFA, fighting for an independent homeland in Assam since 1979, has suffered a major setback in the last three days - on Monday, 45-year-old Prabal Neog, one of the group's topmost commanders leading the crack 28 battalion, was arrested during a routine highway check in Tezpur, about 180 km north of here. A day later, Lohit Duara, a sergeant major of the same unit, surrendered to the police in eastern Assam's Jorhat district. 'The arrest of Neog, the commander of the 28 battalion, was a massive blow and would surely weaken the ULFA's activities in eastern Assam. Neog was one of the best organisers of the outfit,' Sharma told IANS.
The other top leader Duara has reportedly told police interrogators after surrendering that there was growing 'disillusionment' among the ranks over the functioning of the outfit. 'Duara surrendered out of frustration and he was among the saner members within the group. He said the lack of interest for holding peace talks by the top leadership led to cracks within the group,' the intelligence chief said. The 28th battalion is ULFA's most potent fighting unit operating from bases in Myanmar as well as from within eastern Assam with the unit responsible for the massacre of nearly 150 Hindi-speaking migrant workers since last year.
'Now with the outfit suffering heavy reverses in recent days, there is no alternative left but to retaliate and carry out violent attacks to make their presence felt. We have already sent out an alert about possible strikes by the ULFA,' Sharma said. ULFA vice chairman Pradip Gogoi, founding member and ideologue Bhimakanta Buragohain, publicity chief Mithinga Daimary, assistant secretary Bolin Das and cultural secretary Pranati Deka are in different jails in Assam.
The outfit's general secretary Anup Chetia is under detention in Bangladesh after being arrested on Dec 21, 1997. According to various estimates, the ULFA now has some 900 to 1,200 cadres - most of them fresh recruits. 'Launching attacks using hired bombers and targeting civilians cannot be a yardstick for measuring the strength of any outfit. Today, ULFA has transformed itself into a terrorist group leading to disenchantment among the rank and file,' the police official said. The ULFA was blamed for a string of attacks in January that killed about 80 people, 61 of them Hindi-speaking migrant workers.
New Delhi launched a massive military offensive against the ULFA after the strikes, killing more than 65 rebels and arresting close to 650 more cadres since January. A fragile peace process between the central government and ULFA representatives collapsed in September last year with New Delhi accusing the rebel group of stepping up violence and extortion in Assam.
Ulfa rebel’s wife in net OUR BUREAU The Telegraph
Itanagar/Guwahati, Sept. 19: Close on the heels of the arrest of senior Ulfa leader Prabal Neog from Tezpur on Monday, Itanagar police arrested Ranu Das alias Gita Gogoi, wife of Myanmar-based Ulfa cadre and Neog’s bodyguard Dipen Das, along with her 14-month-old child, from Naharlagun last night. Papum Pare superintendent of police P. Hibu Tamang said following a tip-off from Assam police, several raids were conducted at Ulfa hideouts in Itanagar, Naharlagun and Ganga since yesterday. Police recovered several CDs and incriminating documents from a house rented by Purabi, wife of Prabal Neog, in Itanagar.
The lead to the arrest of Ranu Das was found in a document recovered from Purabi’s residence. Ranu was handed over to Assam police today. The police also recovered an inner-line permit from Ranu, which was issued on September 18, 2006. The officer said according to P. Champa, a 13-year-old maid of Purabi, Prabal Neog used to visit Arunachal Pradesh once every three months.
The deputy inspector-general of police (northern range), S.N. Singh, said the issue of Ulfa cadre procuring inner-line permits has been taken up with the Arunachal Pradesh government.
Prabal Neog has admitted during interrogation that the 28th Battalion, which he heads, had carried out the killing of Hindi-speaking people following instructions from Ulfa commander-in-chief Paresh Barua. Encounter: Personnel from the 19 Kumaon Regiment and Ulfa, led by self-styled corporal Lal Moran, were engaged in an encounter at Khalgaon under Pengeri police station in Tinsukia district this afternoon. No one was hurt in the encounter.
Local polls end up in infernal feud; houses torched at Sadar Hills By Our Staff Reporter Sangai Express
IMPHAL, Sep 19 : The demand to upgrade Sadar Hills to a full fledged revenue district and its resultant extension of opposing the holding of the Panchayat election at Sadar Hills resulted in an infernal development, with suspected Sadar Hills District Demand Committee members torching houses at Charhajare today evening.
The torched houses belong to a community which supported the move of the Government to hold the Panchayat election at Sadar Hills, pending its upgradation to a revenue district.
The SHDDC had opposed the Panchayat election on the ground that hill districts should come under the Autonomous District Council and not under the Panchayati Raj.
When contacted by The Sangai Express late in the evening today, Army spokesman Colonel Rajesh Mishra said that on immediate receipt of the infor- mation one column of the 14 Assam Rifles, one column from the AR post at Motbung and another column from Kangpokpi had rushed to the area to defuse the situation.
Our reporters who went there to get a first hand account of the incident, said that at least five pan dukans (Pan shop) located along the highway were found burnt while another 6/7 were found dismantled with the mob turning them upside down.
Fearing reprisals, all the local residents of Char-hajare have fled their homesteads.
At the time of filing this report till late into the evening, the CO of 14 Assam Rifles, Colonel Pratik Seth was present monitoring the situation.
A vehicle of the State Fire Service Department which had rushed there was also present till the time of filing this report.
A Fire Service team from Kangpokpi also rushed to the site to meet any eventualities.
The SP of Senapati police as well as the DIG Range III also rushed to the spot and they have decided to stay the night at the place of the incident.
Additional security personnel have been rushed to the spot.
Three Sugar Cane crushers were also consigned to the flames in the melee.
Even before the attack was launched security was provided to the residence of Kedarnath Sharma a Pradhan candidate since morning today.
Sharma’s saw mill was burnt earlier.
Security was provided after miscreants set on fire his saw mill as well as his Maruti van yesterday on the alleged ground that he had refused to withdraw his candidature.
As the attackers launched their offensive, policemen on duty fired several rounds in the air to disperse them.
Other than this in Sadar Hills area, supporters of Sadar Hills District Demand Committee burnt at a Jeep at Charhajare and miscreants ransacked three polling stations thus preventing voters from exercising their franchise.
The bandh supporters set aflame the Jeep bearing registration number MN1A-5978 at around 11 am at Charhajare along National Highway 39.
The Jeep has been gutted in the fire completely.
All the three polling stations for the Zilla Parishad and Gram Panchayat elections in Charhajare were also ransacked by the bandh supporters who destroyed the ballot boxes and the furniture, thus preventing the electorate from casting their votes.
The polling stations set up at CL Memorial Hindi School and Motbung Goulun School in Upper Charhajare were ransacked by an angry mob compelling the police to open fire several rounds. The polling station at Shiloi UJB School also met with similar fate.
Unidentified miscreants also tried to set on fire the house belonging to Pradhan candidate of Charhajare Kedarnath Sharma at around 11 am today. A Maruti Van and a saw mill belonging to Kedarnath had already been targeted by the miscreants three days earlier. Till the time of filing this report there is no report of any arrest , though security has been beefed up.
Repoll likely at two dozen polling stations, security men fall short, Widespread violence, booth capturing and fighting mark panchayat polls
By : A Staff Reporter Imphal Free Press
IMPHAL, Sept 19: Extensive violence marked the zilla parishad and panchayat elections held today, with numerous instances of booth capturing, destruction of polling material and fighting among rival workers reported in numerous places in the four valley districts.
In the Kanglatongbi gram panchayat area, where the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee is boycotting the panchayat elections and has imposed a 48-hour bandh, unidentified miscreants torched the home of a candidate in the early morning at Charhajar. Other incidents of arson were also reported in the evening, but the polling itself went off generally peacefully, though with relatively less voter turnout. The simultaneous conduct of elections for 61 zilla parishad seats, 165 pradhan posts and 2675 gram panchayat seats proved to be a difficult task for the state government with the manpower and security forces deployed turning out to be inadequate for the task. Reports said repolls are most likely in at least two dozen polling stations where there were reports of booth capturing, destruction of ballot boxes and ballot papers.
It may be mentioned, in all 2675 polling stations where the polls were held, only two unarmed police/home guard personnel were deployed. Trouble was reported at Top Dusera, Bashikhong, Kshetrigao, Keirao and Andro in Imphal East, Sagoltongba, Maklang, Heinoubok, Lamshang, Khamaran, Moidangpok, and Uchiwa, in Imphal West, and Oinam and Keinou in Bishnupur district. The most instances of poll violence however occurred in Thoubal district, with reports of violence at Thoubal Khekman, Sorah Tentha, Athokpam, Wangjing, Sugnu, Tangkham, Heirok,, Yairipok and Sangai Yumpham areas. As per available reports, 75% polling took place in Imphal west district, 81% in Imphal east, 80% in Thoubal, and 78% in Bishnupur district.
In the morning, at Uchiwa Makha primary school, ballot boxes were snatched by a group of voters and thrown into the Sekmaijin river, after they found their names were not in the voter list.
The incident occurred at polling station no 3/7/14-Uchiwa B when altogether 38 voters were not allowed to cast their votes since their names were included in 3/7/14-Uchiwa C in the wake of recent delimitation of polling station areas. The voters who claimed they were not informed of the change, snatched the ballot boxes and dumped them in the river. This resulted in suspension of polling. Destruction of ballot boxes also occurred at polling station no 10/2/6, Top Dusera, following confrontation among workers of two pradhan candidates. A similar incident was reported from 13/10/9 at Bashikhong, where supporters of two riveal candidates destroyed ballot papers. Booth capturing also reportedly occurred at Sagoltongba Recent higher secondary school, polling station no. 2/4/6 and Leinangtabi, polling station no 10/10/5.
Clashes among rival workers occurred at Sangaiyumpham at around 3:30 pm in which at least one was injured. At Yumlembam at least three persons were hurt in poll violence, while at Thoubal Moijing, five persons, including a candidate, one Mali Bibi, 40, of Moijing Awang Leikai were hurt in violence. Another incident of violence was reported at Tarelpokpi. Most of the injured were admitted to the RIMS hospital. In Kanglatongbi gram panchayat area, the home of a pradhan candidate, Kedarnath Nepali, was torched by suspected bandh supporters at Charhajar in the early morning. This follows the burning down of his saw mill as well as a Maruti van used by him for electioneering yesterday morning.
As per reports, a jeep used in the election was also set ablaze on the NH-39 at Motbung area.
Otherwise, however, polling in Kanglatombi, Loubru Leikha, Tulibari and Persai Santulapalari and the Kangchup area went off peacefully. Voter turn-out was however less, around 64% as per official reports. The polling in these areas, where the SHDDC had boycotted the elections and imposed a 48-bandh was conducted under tight security with the deployment of IRB and CRPF personnel. A late report received from concerned district returning officers of the four valley districts, said all ballot bodxes along with polling personnel and officials reached the concerned district headquarters and are being kept in the designated strong rooms.
A total of 251 candidates are in the fray for elections to 61 zilla parishad constituencies. Out of these a total of 120 (including candidates in the reserved seats for women) are women while the remaining 131 are men candidates. A total of 555 candidates are contesting from 165 seats for pradhan in the gram panchayats. Among them 225 are women candidates while 330 are men candidates. Two candidates, all women were declared elected uncontested on the scrutiny day.
A total of 3442 candidates are in the fray for the election of gram panchayat members. Of these 344 members have been elected un-contested, out of which elected 119 are women. Of the remaining 1426 are men candidates while 1210 are women.
ONGC in deal for new Myanmar blocks – sources Indo Burma News
September 19, 2007: (Reuters) State-run explorer Oil and Natural Gas Corp is likely to sign an agreement with Myanmar next week for the exploration of 3 offshore blocks, company and government sources said on Wednesday. A senior ONGC official, who could not be named, said the blocks off Myanmar's Arakan state had been offered on a nomination basis through negotiations to the Indian firm.
"It's a government to government deal. Money involved is marginal. We will be investing for seismic and exploration activities," the company official told Reuters. ONGC through its overseas investment arm ONGC Videsh will own 100 percent of the three blocks, he said. ONGC Videsh Managing Director R.S. Butola will this Sunday accompany India's oil minister, Murli Deora, on a trip to the southeast Asian nation. "The agreement signing ceremony (for the blocks) will take place on Monday," said an oil ministry official, who also could not be named. ONGC already has a 20 percent stake in two offshore blocks in Myanmar, while Indian gas transmission company GAIL (India) Ltd has a 10 percent stake in both. South Korea's Daewoo International Corp operates the two blocks with a 60 percent stake, while Korea Gas Corp owns the remaining 10 percent.
Military Rule and Democracy — How New Delhi should react to neighbourhood regimes (Opinion) Indo Burma News
September 20, 2007: (The Hindu Business) Non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries was a cardinal principle of Jawaharlal Nehru’s five principles of peaceful coexistence. But, after the end of the Cold War, the Western world, led by the United States, has been very selective about its demands for democracy across the world. Authoritarian rulers, ranging from Gen Pervez Musharraf in Pakistan to President Ilham Aliyev in Azerbaijan, have been treated with kid-gloves, while others — and notably the military rulers of Myanmar — have been made virtual punching bags for sermons and sanctions in the name of democracy. While military rule in Pakistan is acknowledged as a fact of life, what is often forgotten is that the countries to our east either have a one-party rule, like China, or have experienced frequent military coups.
Three countries, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Thailand, with whom we share land and maritime frontiers, play a crucial role in our Look-East policies. Thailand has periodically faced military coups with the latest takeover on September 20, 2006, when the then Prime Minister, Mr Thaksin Shinawatra, was overthrown.
Bangladesh has a turbulent history of military rule with a state of Emergency being declared on January 12, 2007 and Lt. General Moeen U. Ahmed backing a new Interim Government set up the next day. Military coups in Bangladesh are so endemic that Lt. Gen Ziaur Rehman faced 21 coup attempts in his five-year rule, before he was assassinated on the 22nd attempt!
India has wisely refrained from commenting on the military takeover in Thailand, given the stature of the universally respected monarch there. Even on Bangladesh, India’s comments have largely reflected genuine concern that in the political vacuum that now prevails, fundamentalist Parties such as the Jamat-ul-Islami and their affiliated jihadi organisations would fill the corridors of power. Ever since the military takeover in Myanmar in 1988 that country has been the target of Western anger. The ruling Junta believes, rightly or wrongly, that Aung San Suu Kyi and her supporters are being propped up primarily to promote British and American interests. After considerable deliberation, New Delhi’s policies towards Myanmar have been driven by two considerations — the need to co-operate in dealing with insurgencies along the border, and to balance China’s growing influence in Myanmar.
Sustained co-operation There has been sustained co-operation between the security agencies and armed forces of India and Myanmar on trans-border insurgency. The Myanmar Government has also been co-operative on issues of border management. And Myanmar has shown a readiness to co-operate with India in developing hydroelectric projects, communications links and in oil and gas exploration. India has already built a road connecting the border town of Moreh in Manipur to the railhead in Kalemyo, and plans are under way to commence a bus service from Moreh to Mandalay. Road and rail communications through Myanmar to Mae Sot, Thailand, and to Vietnam are also envisaged. There are plans to link the landlocked north-eastern States to the sea through Myanmar. But recent western policies of seeking to impose sanctions on Myanmar have unfortunately driven that country even closer into the Chinese embrace.
Split on Resolution Many independent observers have noted that comprehensive sanctions by the United States on Myanmar exports have had no political impact, but only rendered thousands of workers in the textile and garments sectors unemployed. Despite this, in September 2006, the US led efforts to include the situation in Myanmar on the agenda of the UN Security Council, in the face of Chinese and Russian reservations.
In January 2007, Russia and China vetoed an American-sponsored Resolution seeking to end repression and release political prisoners in Myanmar. While Belgium, France, the UK, Ghana, Italy, Peru and Slovakia backed the US, South Africa joined Russia and China to vote against, with Indonesia, Qatar and Congo abstaining. Chinese Ambassador Weng Guangya described the Resolution as interference in Myanmar’s internal affairs and Russia’s Vitaly Churkin said that such issues were better handled by the Human Rights Council than the Security Council. Myanmar’s Asean neighbours, however, are split on the entire issue. No consensus on the issue was possible at the Asean Summit in the Philippines in January 2007.
Implications for India The Chinese veto in the UN Security Council has had important economic and security implications for India. Yielding to Chinese pressures following its veto, the Myanmar Government decided that the gas produced in its offshore fields, in which the ONGC and GAIL have a 30 per cent stake, should be sold to China and not India.
New Delhi must take its share of blame for this development, because of its ill-advised proposal to build a pipeline through Bangladesh, which failed to take off, because of entirely predictable, but unacceptable Bangladeshi preconditions, which led to inordinate delay in our coming up with a sensible proposal for transportation of the gas. In the meantime, China also utilised its political leverage to get exploration rights for gas and oil in the sensitive Rakhine (Arakan) Province of Myanmar, adjacent to its borders with India. Moreover, an agreement has been reached for two major pipeline projects to carry gas and oil from Myanmar to the landlocked Chinese Province of Yunan. These projects will lead to the development of two strategically located ports in Myanmar — Sittwe and Kyaukpyu. We are gong to see, for the first time, a Chinese presence close to our land borders east of the Irrawady River and major port facilities on our eastern doorstep. It will be China rather than India which will be exploring the estimated reserves of 13.4-47.3 trillion cubic feet of gas in the Bay of Bengal.
China’s strategy of chaining a “string of pearls” to surround India is now becoming clear. Shortly after the visit of former Chinese Prime Minister, Mr Zhu Rongji, to Islamabad in 2001 Gen Musharraf told a Pakistani journalist at the Pakistan Institute of International Affairs that in the event of a conflict, or escalating tensions with India, Pakistan would not hesitate to provide naval facilities to China at the Gwadar port, located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf in Baluchistan, being built with Chinese assistance. (China has since agreed to provide Pakistan four naval frigates). China has also sought to develop port facilities in Hambantota in Sri Lanka and in the Maldives and Seychelles. A Chinese Admiral remarked sarcastically over a decade ago: “The Indian Ocean is not India’s Ocean”. China appears determined to build the requisite infrastructure to develop its naval presence surrounding India, to reinforce its sustained diplomacy to pre-empt Indian efforts to gain access to new sources of oil and gas.
China’s skilful diplomacy in Myanmar, which has resulted in the installation of radars in the Cocos Islands off the Andaman Coast, capable of monitoring Indian fleet movements and missile tests and its determination to develop Sittwe and Kyaukpyu are all a part of this strategy of containment of India. Complementing this strategy is a skillfully crafted use of its “soft power” to use “Trojan Horses” within India to advocate its cause and gloss over issues like China’s claims to Arunachal Pradesh, its nuclear and missile proliferation to Pakistan and its efforts to frustrate Indian diplomacy in Nepal by joining Pakistan to provide weapons to an embattled and unpopular monarch in the kingdom.
Do we have the unity, will and vision to meet this challenge? (The author is a former High Commissioner to Pakistan.)
Frans on 09.20.07 @ 04:20 PM CST [link]
