Nagalim.NL News

Saturday, December 31st

350 Coys of SF for polls SangaiExpress



350 Coys of SF for polls SangaiExpress

IMPHAL, Dec 30 : Alto-gether 350 companies of security forces including Central para military forces and State armed police would be used in the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly elections sche-duled to be held on January 28.

The Central paramilitary forces would start arriving from January 10.

A communique sent by the Ministry of Home Affairs to the State Government yesterday informed that 350 companies of Central paramilitary forces and State armed police would be used in the Manipur election.

Subsequently, the DGP has drawn up deployment plans.

Altogether 284 companies of Central paramilitary forces including BSF, CRPF, CISF, STBP and RPF would be used in the election.

Moreover, 66 companies of State armed police from Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Mizoram, Orissa, Tripura and Jharkhand would also be deployed during the elections.

200 companies of security forces would arrive at Imphal on January 10, 50 companies on January 15 and the remaining 100 companies would be inducted for election duty on January 22.

Meanwhile, the State Police Headquarters has drawn up deployment plans for the Central paramilitary forces who are arriving here on January 10.

As per the deployment plan, 40 companies of Central paramilitary forces may be deployed in Chura-chandpur district, 30 com- panies in Ukhrul district, 50 companies in Senapati, 30 companies in Tamenglong, 20 companies in Chandel, 50 companies in Imphal West, 45 companies in Imphal East, 55 companies in Thoubal and 35 companies in Bishnupur district.

Notably, Income Tax officials who have been deputed for expenditure monitoring work in connection with the Assembly elections have already arrived at Imphal and joined duty. General observer, expenditure observer and police observer may arrive here on January 4.
Naga Fellowshipnz
Naga Fellowship New Zealand ushers in 2012 here in New Zealand, one of the first nations to witness the new year and wishes all a happy new year. This year, 2012 by the grace of the living Jesus, marks the beginning of a permanent voice for Nagalim in the Australasian nations. Let this year be the beginning of amazing possibilities for the Naga tribes and Nagalim. God bless you and God keep you as one nation, one people, one ethos, indivisible, unbreakable and a united Nagalim. Kuknalim! -
Forced Labour Order Letter by Burmese Army to construct Kari Police station


NTIMES 31Dec: Sumi Nagas tell Centre to remove NSCN camps Sangaiexpress

Kohima, Dec 30 : Ex-pressing fear of a resurgence of factional violence by underground groups, the apex council of Sumi Nagas has urged the Centre to remove all designated camps of NSCN factions from Zunheboto district or ask the groups to adhere to ceasefire ground rules.

A letter to this effect was sent to the Union Home Minister, P Chidambaram by the Sumi Hoho after holding a silent procession protesting recent factional clashes here yesterday.

The letter claimed that the underground groups were not adhering to the ceasefire ground rules and the surveillance mechanism had failed resulting in intimidation, extortion and killings by their cadres.

The recent spurt in clashes between NSCN(K) led by SS Khaplang and GPRN/NSCN led by Khole and Kitovi resulted in the killing of two cadres in the district on the Christmas eve.

Additional armed police were deployed at Zunheboto and Suruhoto, the two places where tension prevailed following recent clashes and presence of camps of rival groups.

Although Nagaland witnessed virtual absence of clashes between rival groups for the past three years, the trouble began on December 16 at Dimapur when NSCN(K) tried to set up a sub-office of its ceasefire supervisory cell in the town which was strongly opposed by GPRN/NSCN.

On Wednesday, a civilian received bullet injuries when assailants opened fire and shot dead a cadre of GPRN/NSCN inside a mela ground at Dimapur, police said.

As people feared resurgence of factional clashes might spread beyond Dimapur, three passers-by were injured by stray bullets when an underground cadre fired at another in Kohima yesterday.

Expressing concern over the recent escalation of factional clashes, the apex tribal council Naga Hoho urged warring factions to stop fighting and spare civilian areas.

In a statement, Hoho General Secretary P Chuba Ozukum also urged the district administration and civic bodies to step up vigil.

The state government and the Angami Public Organization also appealed to shun the “culture of violence”.

The NSCN factions are currently in a peace pact with the Government of India.

NTIMES 31Dec: NPF readies for Manipur polls Objective is to bring balanced development: Shürhozelie Eastern Mirror Narain B Sagar

SENAPATI, DEC 30: With his party debuting in the Manipur State Assembly Elections 2012, Naga People’s Front President Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu today said the main objective of the party is to bring down the O Ibobi Singh-led Congress Government in order to bring about balanced development for minority tribes in the state.

Exhorting 55 out of the 56 odd aspiring candidates seeking NPF ticket for the ensuing January 28 Manipur General Election at Tahpou Naga Village under Senapati district of Manipur this afternoon, Shürhozelie said this is the first time for NPF to contest in the Manipur Legislative Assembly election and therefore ‘we are making history’.
Stating that NPF is the oldest regional political party in the entire NE Region, he said one has to feel pride in belonging to the party while also hoping that the aspiring candidates will make wise decision to see that NPF opens its account.
Dwelling on the reasons leading to introduction of NPF beyond Nagaland, he said the move was made with a purpose. He recalled that the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) has passed four resolutions since 1964 for the integration of all Naga inhabited areas, not only in Manipur but Assam, Arunachal and elsewhere. He, however, said for many years, even if NLA passed so many resolutions and declared the policy for integration nobody raised a voice of objection in the past, but it was only in 2002 that the Meities raised their voice in opposition. “They came out in a very strong way,” he said while maintaining that because of the opposition even the Government of India also became reluctant to discuss the issue of integration.
“I have been told in the ongoing peace process this integration issue has become the bone of contention. Naga delegates want integration but GoI said no,” he further said.
Therefore, he said in the face of such opposition NPF thought it should bring the Naga people together in another platform where nobody can raise any voice against us. “Ours is a regional political party and if we want to extend our activities in Manipur or Assam or elsewhere the Constitution of India cannot stop us,” he said. Fully aware of this provision, he said that NPF decided to introduce its party activities in Manipur. “We feel that by doing that even if we cannot come together under the same administrative head, we feel that we can have a common political platform, where we can work together,” he said.
In this regard, he said the NPF wants the Meitei friends to understand that the NPF has expanded its activities into Manipur state not to dislodged nor weaken or change the boundary but to work together more actively, cohesively and participate in the Manipur Legislative Assembly. “We are not going to divide or weaken them, but we want to participate more actively in the Assembly so that our presence is felt and voice is heard. And only through that voice balanced development can come about,” he asserted.
Stating that NPF has already appointed its office bearers in Arunahcal Pradesh also, he was hopeful that in the next state election of Arunachal, the party will be able to do well in the two Naga districts.
He further exhorted all aspiring candidate to be serious about the party principles and policies. “We know that integration is our birth right, and it is our fundamental right,” he said adding that Nagas belong to the same family and we are Nagas by blood and not by choice. Even if we do not come together, even if we are quarrelling among ourselves, we still remain Nagas and therefore if we don’t learn how to live and work together, we’ll have only ourselves to blame.
Stating that many of the aspiring candidates were ex-MLAs and Ministers, he said even if you could bring about so many developments in your own areas, there is still much more room for improvement. “If all of you can stand together and have one voice, then you can become a formidable force and in that case we hope Meiteis, since they are more advance then us as of now, they will understand and play the role of a big brother. Therefore, we have to see that democratically we exert our force/power so that we bring about balance development, he quipped.
The NPF supremo also maintained that in the past even if all this 20 A/Cs were represented in the Assembly, they were divided into different political parties and therefore they become associates only and there was no sense of ownership for those people, but this they have to come together to have the sense of ownership.
Keeping in mind the big number of aspiring candidates applying for NPF Party ticket, he wished that some of them withdraw their application but continue to support the only candidate who will be given the final ticket. Having too many candidates in the A/C is like creating compartments within themselves, and since NPF will be facing Congress and other political parties and if we create compartments, we are weakening ourselves, so some of you have to become king makers for the sake of the party and aspiring candidates should ponder upon it seriously, he said.
He also requested candidates not to hesitant in filing nomination as the ECI has to give some clearance and only after that NPF candidates will file nomination by 8 or 9 of January. He also requested those of candidates who do not get party ticket should support the official candidates getting the Party ticket so that they come back winning in the election.
Meanwhile, clarifying a query from the aspiring candidates, Dr. Shürhozelie said NPF will continue to maintain the good relationship with all the groups, including underground and overground but it will not accept the dictate from anybody while issuing the NPF Party ticket for Manipur elections.
Former NLA Speaker Z. Lohe exhorting the gathering on behalf of the NPF Core Committee for Manipur election said the first ever decision of NPF President Dr. Shürhozelie and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to expand the regional party to other States in 48 years of Nagaland Statehood is magnanimous.
He said the decision to expand was not because NPF is rich but because it has the confidence and that Naga people are rich in cohesion, understanding and solidarity.
He also cited that NPF is the right party to take up the cause of Naga people in Manipur as it posterity would curse the present Naga generation if they use the name of national organization or NGOs fighting for the cause of Naga people.
NPF Secretary General K. G. Kenye administered the pledge to the aspiring candidates to remain faithful to the Party and work for the winning prospects of the official candidate even if they are denied of the ticket to contest in the election. He also informed that gathering that he would be rushing down to Delhi to seek the permission from ECI to allow the NPF candidates to use the cock symbol in the ensuing election so that they would be able to file the nomination from January 8, 2012.
Host of NPF headquarter office bearers also attended the programme. Eastern Mirror Nagaland

‘No force can stop us from living together’ Our Correspondent | Eastern Mirror
SENAPATI, Naga People’s Front President Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu today stated that no force can stop Nagas from living together while calling upon the United Naga Council (UNC) to come out openly and extent its support toward the fight for the rights of the Naga people.

Addressing a group of tribal leaders from the Naga hill districts of Manipur at UNC Hall in Senapati this afternoon, the veteran regionalist said, “Nagas being a family want to live together as one, no force can stop us’. Stating that UNC should discontinue the orthodox idea of being a neutral body during the coming Manipur state elections, he said they should come out openly in support of the NPF candidates and ask its units also to extend the same.

Maintaining that the forthcoming election would be considered as a referendum by other parties, including the Manipur Government, he said it is the right opportunity for the Nagas to show whether we want to be integrated and live together as a family or continue to live divided in separate imaginary boundaries. “We belong to the same family and if we want to live together no force can stop us,” he reiterated.
He also appealed all the tribal Hohos, church organisations and other frontal organisations to actively support the NPF candidates in the forthcoming election so that they come out with flying colours.

Shürhozelie also asserted that it was not necessary to always talk about being suppressed by the Meiteis and challenged the Nagas in Manipur to work in such a way that they exert themselves as a force. Stating that this time they are contesting in only 14 constituencies, he however pointed out that the hill area has 20 seats and if all can come together and work together then 20 people in a 60 member house will become a formidable force. They can make their presence felt in the Assembly, their voice will be heard and that is all we want, the NPF president said.
NSCN (K) blames rival for current situation

Asks civil society to stop ‘unnecessary meddling’ Eastern Mirror

DIMAPUR, (EMN): While laying the blame for the fresh spurt of factional violence solely at the door of its rival group, the NSCN/GPRN (Khaplang) has also asked civil society to restrain itself from ‘unnecessary meddling’ in the hitherto peaceful existences of the designated camps.

In a release issued by its MIP, the outfit said on the issue of violation of ceasefire ground rules by NSCN cadres as alleged by various civil societies, law enforcing agencies, Indian paramilitary etc, ‘the ground realities needed to be thoroughly acquainted with’ while adding that the recent spurt in violence in several pockets of Nagaland has to do with non-observance of CFGR by rival Khehoi group.
Stating that the ‘genesis’ of the conflict and the consequent chain reaction must be laid bare before the Nagas to ponder over and to hold accountable those responsible, it maintained that the Khole-Kitovi group’s ‘unilateral abrogation of Covenant of Reconciliation’ was the flash point that led to ignition of the ongoing armed clashes, loss of precious lives and injuries to several innocent civilians. It mentioned the Dec 19 Naharbari incident as ‘catalyst’.

On the prevailing tension particularly in Zunheboto District, the NSCN (K) said it was a direct outcome of the ‘illegal militarization’ of civilian populated area of Amiphoto colony in Zunheboto town by the Khehoi group since the past five-six months. It pointed out that the said Amiphoto colony is purely a civilian inhabited sector and not a designated camp or officially approved location for occupation by any armed group. However, it alleged that the Khehoi camp was being provided with round the clock security blanket at the colony Assam Rifles, IRB and civil societies ever since deterioration of situation.

On the other hand, it claimed that the NSCN (K) and NSCN (IM) are not even permitted to station around the villages or town’s vicinity. On this, the outfit questioned the ‘Civil Societies, district administration, Para-military, the State Government and the GoI” under whose patronage or what arrangement the Khehoi group was being allowed to occupy the public colony for more than half a year.

It further maintained that the presence of more than 50 armed Khehoi cadres at Amiphoto was the cause of conflict and tension in Zunheboto. It, therefore, said the Khehoi cadres should be asked to immediately vacate Amiphoto and return to its designated camp to restore normalcy. “If not, both the NSCN’s (K and IM) have every right to maintain status-quo in Zunheboto town and the district as per the ceasefire agreement with GoI and the ‘COR’, it stated.
Asking the civil societies to also understand that the designated camps are exclusively pertaining to NSCN and GoI ceasefire arrangement, and that the necessity of such camps at certain convenient locations is purely to expedite peace and political process, the NSCN (K) asserted that the civil societies to ‘restrain itself from unnecessary meddling in the hitherto peaceful existences of the designated camps, merely due to illegal intrusion by Khehoi camp in the off-limit public areas’.

Clarifies on Kohima firing
With regard to the firing at Agri colony in Kohima on Dec 29, the NSCN (K) maintained that the incident was purely an ‘unprovoked drunken display of firepower on innocent bystanders out of desperation by Khehoi criminals and the NSCN cadre assaulted upon did not fire a single shot in retaliation’. It further said when its cadre escaped unhurt, the attackers comprising of Lt Nikhuvi, 2nd Lt Isak, Sgt maj Hotoshe resorted to indiscriminate firing all.

Asking the Nagas to judge for themselves ‘the actual aggressors and the genuine Naga national workers’, the NSCN (K) maintained that the Khehoi camp should publicly apologise and vacate Kohima once and for all so that public peace and security may not be threatened in future. EMN
Naga Reconciliation and Unity
An Open Statement to the Naga People

We, the signatory governments of this Open Statement declare to the Nagas and before God that we are committed to Naga Reconciliation and we remain firm in our pledge to cultivate understanding and work towards building a shared Naga Future. Our longing to fulfill the necessity for Naga reconciliation has been embodied in the “Naga Concordant” where our top leaders have agreed in principle to form one Naga National Government on the basis of our historical and political rights as a sovereign people.

The long drawn internal strife within the Naga movement has divided and polarized the Naga nation. This deplorable political condition was exploited by external forces with devastating effect. Nagas lost many capable and committed leaders. Not only did we inflict much hurt on each other, but our society suffered as a whole. It germinated much suspicion, bitterness and caused a vicious cycle of vengeance, which threatened our very existence as a nation. It was the darkest days in recent memory.

However, over the decades, numerous initiatives for reconciliation by Naga Churches and civil society enabled us to take slow and measured steps towards reaching a point where we were prepared to meet each other face to face. Finally, in 2008, with the formation of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation a decisive push towards reconciliation was made. FNR with its wealth of knowledge, experience and as a neutral body performed the role of an active facilitator and ably guided the reconciliation process to this point. Their timely intervention has by and large reduced violence between us. The signing of the Covenant of Reconciliation and subsequently the Naga Concordant are historic milestones in the Naga Reconciliation: A Journey of Common Hope.

There is now no turning back for us from this path of Naga Reconciliation. In the spirit of forgiveness we have agreed to let bygones be bygones and we are now prepared to understand each other and work for a shared Naga future. This does not mean there will not be any hurdles and difficulties before us. In fact the path to Naga Reconciliation is filled with many challenges. We believe that with the support and understanding of the people, we are certain to overcome all obstacles.

Today, the Naga people have the best opportunity to reconcile and march together as a nation towards our historical and political rights. None of us should remain silent in times such as this. Every Naga needs to constructively contribute and participate to make this Reconciliation process a living reality. The Naga nation needs each and every one of you. On our part we also admit that the behavior of our cadres have been contrary to the values of the Naga movement. We seek your forgiveness and we hope that for the healing of our nation, you will forgive us. Let us march together to the future.

At this juncture, we jointly raise three specific points for public understanding:

1. A number of individuals have been regularly expressing their views on the Naga Reconciliation process in the local media. We are troubled because their views and opinions are often factually incorrect and at times driven by self-preservation. The hypothesis they present are far from the reality and intent of the reconciliation process and therefore very misleading to the people. Such statements are detrimental for reconciliation. The Naga Reconciliation has come this far against much odds and it is our appeal that the people recognize the sensitivity of the process. The Naga politicians, bureaucrats, intellectuals, organizations and people are urged not to play divisive politics anymore. Rather let us work together for the common good of all.

2. The signatories are equally appalled by so called ‘Christmas Gift’ in the form of a “Naga Supra State,” which is supposedly proposed by the Government of India. We place on record that Nagas are not seeking or demanding any ‘gift’ from India. Nagas are only resisting against forces that are preventing us to exercise our historical and political rights. To clear any confusion or suspicion in the minds of the Naga people, we therefore jointly declare that any resolution to the Naga issue should be based on the historical and political rights of the Naga people. We will continue to reject and oppose any solution or package that is imposed upon the Naga people.

3. To this end, with full trust, we are committed to continue supporting the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) in its “Journey of common Hope.”


We take this opportunity to wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year. Let us unite together and work hard to make the Naga nation worthy of the blessings we have been endowed with.

Kuknalim!

Gen (Retd) VS Atem Mr. Zhopra Vero Mr. Azheto Chophy
Member Member Member
High Level Commission High Level Commission High Level Commission
NSCN/GPRN NNC/FGN GPRN/NSCN
Cong: Home Minister has failed to protect innocent civilians morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): While expressing its dismay over the “return of factional wars in the state” the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) today criticized the Home Minister Imkong L. Imchen for failing in “his political duty and responsibility to protect the live of the innocent civilians.” The NPCC insinuated that the home minister constantly considers all confrontations between the underground groups as ‘political in nature’ even though it may involve the security, lives and properties of the innocent citizens.
“As the Home Minister, where is the space for him to appeal or urge? He should act,” the NPCC said in a statement today. The NPCC expressed loss and anguish that Imchen had now turned out to be a “Home minister” who, every time factional clashes break out, blames the public for “non cooperation” rather than protecting them. “The Home Minister’s job demands man of wisdom and high intellectual caliber who can command any given situation decisively. The people of Nagaland don’t find these elements in Imkong L. Imchen. He is thoroughly unfit for the job. If he can’t deliver the goods, he should resign or the Chief Minister should drop him from his council of ministers before any more life is lost,” the Congress said.
The Congress said “It is understood that any confrontation between the Indian army and Naga armed cadres are political in nature because the GoI had declared and acknowledged that the Naga problem is a political problem. Imkong L. Imchen’s understanding is that, all factional clashes are also political in nature. This makes him hesitant to act. He can’t act because his hands are tied. He is simply helpless.”
The NPCC expressed dismay at the upsurge of factional wars in the state and condemned the incidents that took place in Dimapur, Zunheboto and Kohima during the past two weeks. “The incidents causing injury to the civilians, loss of lives and damage to private and public properties are unacceptable by the people of Nagaland. It also extends its condolences to the bereaved family members and wishes for early recovery of the injured,” NPCC stated.
The upheavals are testimony of the complete breakdown of the law and order machinery in Nagaland, the Congress said. “The hesitant Home Minister Shri. Imkong L. Imchen has miserably failed in his political duty and responsibility to protect the live of the innocent civilians. Every time factional fights take place, the Home Minister either blames the public for non-cooperation or sends out his appeal for maintaining peace. As the Home Minister, where is the space for him to appeal or urge? He should act. Governance is his responsibility,” the Congress reiterated.
“Gun-totting underground cadres are moving freely among civilians; this indicates complete lack of co-ordination between the various arms of Nagaland’s law enforcement agencies including the ceasefire-monitoring cell,” the NPCC reminded. “It also proved total failure in round the clock vigil and intelligence gathering. As the Home Minister, he is entirely responsible for the breakdown in the law and order situation. He can’t shy away from or shift his responsibility.”
NPF to field candidates in 11 Naga dominated constituencies Aspiring candidates swear to withdraw if denied ticket Hueiyen News Service
Imphal, Keeping the demand for an 'alternative arrangement' for the Nagas in the forefront, Naga People's Front (NPF), a Political Party based in Nagaland, is all set to field candidates in 11 Naga inhabited Assembly segments of Manipur.

According to a highly reliable source, as many as 56 aspiring candidates hailing from 11 Naga inhibited Assembly Constituencies have been lobbying for NPF tickets to contest in the elections to the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly scheduled on January 28, 2012 .

Out of the 56 aspiring candidates seeking NPF ticket, the largest number of ticket contenders are from Chandel Assembly Constituency.

Among them nine of them have already applied for the ticket.

The 11 Assembly Constituencies where the NPF is planning to field its candidates are Phungyar, Ukhrul and Chingai under Ukhrul district; Karong, Mao and Tadubi under Senapati district; Tamei, Tamenglong and Nungba under Tamenglong district and Chandel and Tengnoupal under Chandel district.

A meeting was organized by NPF Manipur State Unit at Naga Taphou Community Hall, Senapati Head Quarter today.

All the aspiring candidates lobbying for the NPF ticket and party leaders from Nagaland were present in the meeting during which details on ticket allotment was discussed.

The meeting was jointly presided over by Dr.Shurhozelie Liezietsu, President NPF and G Gaingam, President, NPF, Manipur State Unit.

The meeting unanimously resolved to field candidates in all 11 Naga inhabited Assembly Segments of Manipur.

The 56 aspiring candidates from 11 Naga inhibited Assembly Constituencies who are lobbying for NPF ticket reportedly swore to withdraw from contesting in the election in case the NPF tickets were denied to them.

Among the candidates lobbying for NPF ticket include MLA Awangbou Newmai; Kho John, former leader of UNC; Somi Keishing and some other Naga MLAs.

A member of NPF told Hueiyen Lanpao that there are proposals from some aspiring candidates for grant of party tickets for contesting the election from Saikul, Kangpokpi and Saitu, the three Assembly segments under Senapati district, where both Nagas and Kukis inhabit.

If the tickets were granted to these constituencies the number of constituencies where the NPF will field its candidates will increase to 14 and majority of the candidates will come out successful.

If not the single largest party, the NPF will come out as the second single largest party in the coming polls and the Nagas will be able to hold a big place in Manipur State Assembly, the NPF member expressed confidence.

The NPF member further revealed that almost all Naga organizations will be supporting the NPF candidates.

Even Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio is all set to start political campaigns in Manipur.

The NPF Member observed that NPF is the only regional party of the Nagas recognized by the Election Commission of India.

The primary aim of the NPF is to integrate the scattered Nagas as one and bring them together under one administrative unit.

The Nagaland State Assembly had also resolved to unite the Nagas in 1964 .

Dr.Shurhozelie Liezietsu, at the meeting held at Naga Taphou Community Hall, Senapati Head Quarter exhorted all the party men, ticket seekers and the public to strive for opening the first account of the party in Manipur and said NPF is an old political party that stands for the rights of the Nagas as well as the indigenous people of the Northeast.

He further said that so far the Nagaland State Assembly has passed resolution on Naga integration for four times since 1964 .

"NPF has not done any harm to other communities of Manipur when it talks about Naga integration because it is our birthright", he maintained.

Talents of the Naga youths have become dull due to lack of facilities and proper infrastructures in the hill areas of Manipur, Dr.Shurhozelie Liezietsu asserted, adding that if voted to power in the coming general election, the party will raise the voice of the Nagas in Manipur Legislative Assembly.

Z Lohe, Political Advisor to the Nagaland Chief Minister appealed to all party men not to misuse the name of any social organization while working for the party, and added that NPF believes in maintaining communal harmony and equal rights for the tribal people.

NPF Secretary General K.G.Kenye, while appealing to the people of the state, particularly the Nagas, to vote for NPF to realize the long cherished dream of the community, pointed out that there are around 700 different political parties registered with the Election Commission of India but NPF is the only party wherein the word 'Naga" is found.


Frans on 12.31.11 @ 07:17 PM CST [link]


Friday, December 30th

Adinno urges Naga people to maintain national unity morungexpress



Adinno urges Naga people to maintain national unity morungexpress

Dimapur, (MExN): President of the Naga National Council Adinno Phizo extends New Year wishes, urging to “maintain national unity and peace, regardless of the prevailing situation.” Illustrating the hopes of a New Year, a message from the London-based NNC leader received here today expressed delight that leaders could meet like a “family” with “no hidden agenda.” Adinno Phizo was referring to what she said is a meeting with Chief Minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio and his colleagues.
“In the latter part of 2011, I met some young Naga visitors representing civil society from Nagaland, and separately, Mr Neiphiu Rio and his colleagues and opposition party member ‘state’ politicians, respectively. Whenever our people met our departed leader, and now meeting with me, it was/ is always very much like family freely speaking to one another, no hidden agenda!” Phizo explained in her message.
“I believe our people, irrespective of political/individual opinions, are convinced of the imperative for maintenance of traditional harmony so that dark forces insidious culture never sully Naga society.”
Phizo then extended New Years wishes to all. “As the year 2011 draws to a close, and we look forward to the New Year, I appeal to our Naga people to maintain national unity and peace, regardless of the prevailing situation. I also, strongly urge regional leaders to abide by the Yehzabo (constitution) of Nagaland and take responsibility to rein in sectarian outfits from perpetrating war crimes against Naga people as agents of the enemy divide and rule policy,” Phizo’s message stated.
The NNC leader said the Naga people “who love their country don't particularly shout loyalty towards the Naga National Council (NNC) and the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) because like it or not, without the root and body no entity can give meaning to modern Naga nation state.” She added that “It couldn't have been simply coincidence that a new generation appears keen to rediscover their root in modern Nagaland heretofore far from a cohesive federation of independent Naga communities. Our people must never forget many thousands Naga patriots who sacrificed their lives in defending Nagaland independence and over 100,000 Naga civilians lost their lives at the hands of brutal Indian army.”
Phizo stated that “In a fast changing world, concerning peace and justice, nothing can justify the unremitting Indian occupation army militarised tyranny in Nagaland since 1954 and India trampling over the sovereignty of Nagaland.” This she said “plainly contradicts the widely reported Government of India (GoI) desire to find an honourable solution to the "vexed Naga problem". It also, clearly belies India's self-assertive progressive international image among democratic nations.”
There is only one honorable way out to find an amicable settlement of the protracted conflict with India, she explained. “The problem points to the GoI obsession to circumvent NNC and FGN. In the circumstances, as long as the Indian army occupy our country, the enemy evil designs to divide and rule won't go away. Unlike insurgencies in India, GoI fully understand that Nagaland never constituted an integral part of India.”
Meanwhile, she added, “whatever challenges lies ahead in the coming year 2012, the will of our indomitable people to be free is irreversible.”

Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organization resolves not to cooperate with GPRN/NSCN Nagaland Post
Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organization (ENPO) has resolved not to extend public co-operation to GPRN/NSCN (Khole-Kitovi) for violation of its December 18, 2007; November 13, 2009 and December 23, 2011 resolutions.

The decision was made at an emergency meeting of ENPO and Tribal Units on Thursday here in the aftermath of the killing of late Tsilongse Sangtam of Sangsomong village, near Kuthur village.

Kiphire Correspondent Adds: United Sangtam Likhum Pumji (USLP), United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC), Akehda Sangtamlarü Thsingmüjang and Joint forum of Kiphire District at a joint co-ordination emergency meeting on December 23 affirmed to stand by the ENPO resolution.

ENPO at its December 18, 2007 meeting held in Tuensang, had adopted a resolution that there should be no bloodshed, threat, intimidation or any form of violence with ENPO jurisdiction that included Naga territories under Myanmar. ENPO resolved that it would not extend any public co-operation to any faction/group for non-compliance of the above. ENPO also resolved to appeal to all Nagas with regard to its resolutions.

At the December 23 meeting, which also discussed the situation in Dimapur and Zunheboto where GPRN/NSCN and NSCN(K) were engaged in clashes, ENPO decided that any feedback or out come of the situation of Dimapur and Zunehboto shall not be reflected under the jurisdiction of Kiphire District, since it has been declared as “Peace Zone”
UNC assembly on January 2 OUR CORRESPONDENT The telegraph
Imphal, The United Naga Council (UNC) has convened an emergency federal assembly of the organisation on January 2 and urged all the Naga community in Manipur to hold a special prayer on New Year’s Day for early settlement of the Naga political issue.
P. Timothy, speaker of the UNC, said the meeting would be held at the district headquarters of Senapati to deliberate “urgent and important” matters.
The UNC asked all the district and indigenous community presidents to attend the programme.
S. Milan, publicity and information secretary of the UNC, told this correspondent that the assembly would discuss the “ongoing issues” of the organisation. However, he did not elaborate on the agenda.
Sources said the assembly was expected to discuss the Centre’s apathy towards solving the Naga political issue in the ongoing peace talks between the Centre and the NSCN (I-M).
The UNC is agitating to support the demand for an “alternative administrative arrangement” for the Nagas living in Manipur outside the purview of the Manipur government.
The Naga organisation imposed a “ban” on the construction of the railway line from Jiribam to Imphal via Tupul of Tamenglong district for two months from December 16 to protest against Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s statement on Manipur’s territorial integrity during a public rally inside Kangla Fort.
The Prime Minister had said there was no special arrangement for Nagas living outside Nagaland. The announcement came after the UNC met the Prime Minister in Imphal, seeking intervention of the Centre to its demand for an alternative administrative arrangement.
The rail line construction was suspended after the UNC ban. The Okram Ibobi Singh government deployed security forces to resume work, but it is yet to start.
The UNC is also opposing inclusion of Naga villages in Sadar Hills district, while carving it out of Senapati district.
The organisation imposed an economic blockade along Imphal-Dimapur and Imphal-Jiribam highways, the only supply lines from August 21 to November 28 against “bifurcation” of Naga areas.
The UNC will resume its hourlong public curfew daily between noon and 1pm from January 3. It suspended the curfew from December 22 to honour the spirit of Christmas.
The organisation said the curfew would continue to register people’s protest against “indifferent attitude of the Centre on the demand for alternative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur pending Indo-Naga final settlement”.
The assembly will discuss all these issues during the January 2 meeting.
The UNC also urged Nagas to pray for early settlement of the Naga issue and reconciliation of all Naga political groups during New Year’s Day service.
Car-lifters had links with army ‘robbers’ PULLOCK DUTTA The Telegraph


Jorhat, The army personnel from Dimapur who robbed the house of a Jorhat businessman last Tuesday had links with an inter-state gang of car-lifters who probably instigated the raid.
Jorhat superintendent of police Sanjukta Parasor told The Telegraph today that it was almost certain that a local car-lifter, Nirmal Gogoi, alias Lal, was part of the group which broke into the house of Poona Gogoi, a contractor with military engineering services, at Rowriah on the outskirts of Jorhat on December 21.
Nirmal hails from the Jamuguri near Rowriah.
“It was Nirmal who probably brought the group of army men from Nagaland to raid the house of Poona Gogoi. Things would come to light only after the arrest of Nirmal or the group of army personnel involved in the crime,” she said.
Investigation into the robbery case revealed that the heavily armed group, including a lady, were from the Rangapahar-based 3 Corps headquarters near Dimapur in Nagaland.
They came in two vehicles, tied up Poona Gogoi’s wife, two teenaged sons and daughter, locked them up inside a room and decamped with Rs 1.5 lakh in cash, other valuables, including three mobile phones and a .32 licensed pistol owned by the businessman, who was not at home at the time of the robbery.
The police got a hint of the army’s involvement through a phone that the gang had snatched from the house.
An army jawan, havildar Sandeep Thapa, has been making regular calls from the mobile phone to his home in Himachal Pradesh.
Poona Gogoi told The Telegraph today that there was no doubt that Nirmal and another car-lifter, Gunen Gogoi, was part of the team which looted his house.
“My children and wife have identified the two dacoits since they hail from this area and have seen them earlier,” Poona Gogoi said. He and the members of Nabajyoti Yuba Sangh, a local socio-cultural organisation of which he is the secretary, had asked Nirmal several times to leave Rowriah as he had brought a bad name to the locality.
“He had probably come to take revenge. Had I been at home that night, I would have been killed,” he said. Regarding the involvement of army personnel, Poona Gogoi said he had no clue in this regard, but his children and wife identified havildar Sandeep Thapa, whose photograph was shown on television last night, as one of the gang members.
“I am engaged with contractual jobs with MES and Air Force since 2003 but have never worked out of Jorhat district. I don’t know why an army team from Dimapur had come to raid my house,” he said. Poona Gogoi said the gang had asked for identity cards of his sons, who are college students. “The gang probably did not come solely to rob my house, otherwise why would they asked for my son’s identity cards?”
The Jorhat police have filed a petition before the sub-divisional judicial magistrate to issue warrants against the army personnel involved in the robbery. The SP said there was no option left but to file a petition before the court since there was no response from the army despite repeated attempts.
Christmas Message of the Yaruiwo, NSCN/GPRNIsak Chishi Swu Morungexpress
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!
The savior is born. The liberator has come. Glory to God!

On behalf of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim I send our Christmas greeting to all the people of Nagalim.
My dear Naga people, because of sin all creation lied in hopelessness and longed for salvation. Humanity fell short of the glory of God. To save humankind from the bondage of sin God sent the Saviour Jesus Christ here on earth.
My dear Naga people, God was to choose between destruction or Salvation. He chose Salvation. His plan of salvation embraces the Naga people too. We have emerged from darkness to light after we received the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
My dear Naga people, nothing is greater than His act of love of sending His only begotten Son as the Savior of the whole world and His creation. Saving humankind is His greatest work of love. Apart from Christ there is no Salvation. To value and accomplish the race entirely depends on us.
My dear Naga people, we fear not the adversaries but we realize that the seriousness of our own sins has been the greatest hurdle today towards an honorable solution to our issue. To be for Christ is the only right decision for us today. To struggle against the evil will lead the Naga people to strive for good. The hope for the future lies in obedience and total submission to Christ. He is the answer to our everlasting quest for freedom. Therefore Nagalim will be for Christ.
May the name of our Lord Jesus Christ be glorified in Naga Nation.
Wishing you all a merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.

Isak Chishi Swu
Yaruiwo Government of the
People’s Republic of Nagalim

Pray for ongoing Naga peace process: Pusa Nagaland Post
KOHIMA Former Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) president K V Pusa urged the Naga people to pray ceaselessly for the ongoing Naga peace process between the union government and the “Naga militants”.

Speaking at the mass Christmas celebration at Viswema village near Kohima, Pusa said peace was a pre-requisite for all round development in Nagaland and that efforts from all walks of life should be put together to usher in enduring peace.

He said peace has eluded Naga people for many years but now expectation of the people was high due to the ongoing peace process between the “Naga militants” and the centre.

He said to achieve a permanent peace everybody’s contribution was needed.
Reminding the people that Christ had come to this world to propagate peace and harmony among people, Pusa said Christmas reminded people that the values they share should far triumph over whatever differences there were among Naga people.

He said the day symbolized a yearning of people for peace and joy and urged people to follow the teachings of ‘Prince of Peace’ n their lives and work for harmony and unity in society.

Disturbed by sporadic violence and fragile peace in Naga society the Congress leader urged people to keep in mind Jesus’ message of love, compassion and forgiveness which was a message of universal and everlasting significance.

He also urged the people of Viswema to lead Nagas in fostering peace and unity and contribute for lasting peace in Naga society. Please pray for the ongoing peace process ceaselessly so that permanent peace would come to our land the congress leader said.

Thousands of people attended the mass celebrations hosted by Pusa at the village ground. People from all the churches-Baptist, Catholic, Christian Revival Church and Pentecostal along with their priests attended the celebrations. The churches and people of Viswema thanked the congress leader for hosting the celebrations and wished him a long life.

Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organization resolves not to cooperate with GPRN/NSCN Nagaland Post
TUENSANG/KIPHIRE Eastern Nagaland Peoples Organization (ENPO) has resolved not to extend public co-operation to GPRN/NSCN (Khole-Kitovi) for violation of its December 18, 2007; November 13, 2009 and December 23, 2011 resolutions.

The decision was made at an emergency meeting of ENPO and Tribal Units on Thursday here in the aftermath of the killing of late Tsilongse Sangtam of Sangsomong village, near Kuthur village.

Kiphire Correspondent Adds: United Sangtam Likhum Pumji (USLP), United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC), Akehda Sangtamlarü Thsingmüjang and Joint forum of Kiphire District at a joint co-ordination emergency meeting on December 23 affirmed to stand by the ENPO resolution.

ENPO at its December 18, 2007 meeting held in Tuensang, had adopted a resolution that there should be no bloodshed, threat, intimidation or any form of violence with ENPO jurisdiction that included Naga territories under Myanmar. ENPO resolved that it would not extend any public co-operation to any faction/group for non-compliance of the above. ENPO also resolved to appeal to all Nagas with regard to its resolutions.

At the December 23 meeting, which also discussed the situation in Dimapur and Zunheboto where GPRN/NSCN and NSCN(K) were engaged in clashes, ENPO decided that any feedback or out come of the situation of Dimapur and Zunehboto shall not be reflected under the jurisdiction of Kiphire District, since it has been declared as “Peace Zone”.
Bitter Wormwood Easterine Morungexpress
The struggle for independence from India by the Naga people, indigenous inhabitants of the Naga Hills, has been a story hidden for several decades. Cleverly concealed by censorship on newspaper reports, there was only one western journalist, a British war correspondent named Gavin Young (The Daily Telegraph) who managed to enter Nagaland illegally in the 1960s and report what he saw of the genocide and rape and torture of the Nagas by the Indian Army.
The IWGIA (International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs) 1986 report The Naga Nation and its Struggle against Genocide, recorded that as many as 100,000 Nagas were killed in fighting with India beginning from 1956. Naga Federal government statistics claim that villagers who fled their burned villages and died of starvation and disease bring the number closer to two hundred thousand from the 50s to the 60s. The main source of information for the IWGIA report was Naga historian Dr. Visier Sanyu.
The first killings occurred in 1948 when two Nagas were shot dead by the Indian army in Tuensang, followed by another two killings in 1950, and the attack on Khonoma village and Lungkhum village in 1953. In 1954, the numbers rose to 64 Nagas killed and at the beginning of 1955, 279 Nagas were recorded killed by the army. Between January 1955 and July 1957 the estimated damage stood at: 79,794 houses burnt, 26,550,000 mounds of paddy burnt and 9,60,000,000 rupees worth of goods destroyed (source: The Naga Chronicle p.148 and p.181).
The IWGIA report documents some of the tortures in April and May 1955 by the Assam Police Battalion, beginning with the burning of 200 granaries of Mokokchung village. This was accompanied by atrocities like beating a pregnant woman and forcing her to give birth in public, raping of the village women and killing of the menfolk. In September the harvest was destroyed by the same police battalion and five village women were raped, amongst whom were two minor girls. Both young students and adults were shot and killed or tortured to death by the battalion.
In 1956, the Indian army began taking prisoners and using them for target practice. Groupings of villagers and tortures of the villagers became routine by 1957. The stories of torture documented by both the IWGIA and The Naga Chronicle seem to surpass each other in the army's inhuman treatment of the Nagas: men were tied to poles and burned; they were buried alive; their genitals were given electric currents. Each instance of torture was more gruesome and horrible than the next. The report lists the tortures and repression of the Nagas by the Indian army as "i) execution in public; ii) mass raping; iii) deforming sex organs; iv) mutilating limbs and body; v) electric shocks; vi) puncturing eyes; vii) hanging people upside down; viii) putting people in smoke-filled rooms; ix) burning down of villlages; x) concentration camps; xi) forced starvation and labour." One of the stories of rape had as its intention the desecration of the village church of Yankeli where four minor girls were raped by the Maratha contingent on 11 July 1971. The church building was abandoned by the villagers after that incident.
Of the reports, one of the most pitiable incidents occurred in 1962. The village of Matikhru was attacked by the Indian army and all the women and children were chased out of the village. After that all the male adults were tortured and beheaded. This was followed by the burning of the village. The village holds an annual Remembrance day when they re-enact the killing of the 12 male members of the village.
The conflict which began as a peaceful resistance of Indian occupation escalated into a violent full-scale war after the death of Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhiji had supported the Naga right to remain independent of India and even declared that anyone who tried to force them into the Indian Union would have to deal with him first. Sadly the Mahatma was killed in that first rush after independence and Nehru, the first Prime Minister of free India, chose the path of military aggression to make the Nagas submit.
At the height of military oppression in 1956, the Naga Army was formed and its members traveled to China and East Pakistan to find arms to fight the Indian army. Subsequent groups that went to China in the mid-70s were exposed to Chinese Marxist ideology. Factional killings begun by breakaway groups erupted in the Naga National Council in this period, eroding the Naga cause through the years.
In 1980, the first factional group called themselves the National Socialist Council of Nagaland and used the slogan, "Nagaland for Christ." After some years, there was a split in the NSCN, and two factional groups appeared, the Isak Muivah and the Khaplang factions. The factions began killing off the leaders of the Naga National Council, and drug addicts and drug peddlers, as well as members of their rival groups on a large scale right through the 80s, 90s and up till 2008. In the continuous infighting amongst the Naga freedom fighters, Naga society was riven apart by extortion, and rapid brutalization.
Today, many young Nagas struggle with a confused identity. This confusion began after India launched its war of occupation and enacted the creation of Naga statehood in 1963. Statehood was an agreement between a small group of Nagas and the Delhi government. Under statehood, Indian citizenship was imposed on Nagas, but they were denied many of the rights of citizens of India under the Indian constitution. Laws like the Armed Forces Special Powers Act and the Disturbed areas act took away the fundamental rights of Nagas and continued to put them at the mercy of the armed forces.
The situation in the Indian metropolises is worrying. Students and workers from the Northeast continue to face a large percentage of racist attacks. The Times of India dated Oct 27, 2009 carried a long article entitled, "Girls from NE soft target in city." It listed various incidents including the rape and murder of a 6 year old girl from the North-east, the murder of a Naga girl by an IIT student and the beating up of Naga and a number of North-east people by locals. Sexual harassment and rape of Naga girls were initially denied redressal by the police in Indian cities but by 2009, the Ministry DonNER had decided to set "North-East Connect" to provide relief to beleaguered students (Assam Tribune, Oct 30, 2009).
The North East Support and Help Centre (NESHC), a very crucial helpline begun in September 2007, recorded that 86 percent of people from the Northeast had experienced racist attacks. Shortly after the murder of the Naga girl, the Times of India carried two more reports on Nov 7 and Nov 9, 2009 on the beating up of two Naga students and the molestation of a Naga girl. The bitterness and suspicion between the mainland Indians and Nagas in Indian cities easily triggers new conflicts contributing to the alienation.
In Nagaland, Christian groups and civil society groups such as the Naga Mothers Association, Naga Hoho, Naga Baptist Church Council, the Gaonbura and Dobashi association, Naga Students Federation and Naga Christian Fellowship have vainly tried time and again to bring the warring Naga groups to reconcile with each other. However, in 2009, all the peace efforts seemed to be making some headway. The State Police recorded a total of 12 factional killings as contrasted with a total of 300 in the previous years (source: Comparative Crime Statistics for the year 2006, 2007, 2008 up to 15th dec, 2009. Nagaland Police) give the source of the statistics.
With killings on the decline and the active efforts of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) group, there seemed to be a flickering light in the horizon. The Nagas were hopeful that the quest for lasting peace in these long-troubled, tear-sodden hills of home was in sight. The Reconciliation team is made up of apex tribal bodies and organizations and has been very active for the last 36 months of its life. Led by Dr Wati Aier, the FNR brought the NSCN IM and the NSCN K to sign a "Covenant of Reconciliation" declaration where both parties promised to pursue Naga reconciliation and forgiveness.
Though there have been a few hiccups, the forum is still maintaining course and found support from the international Baptist World Alliance which consists of 120 nations. The BWA which met in Kuala Lumpur in July 2011 passed a resolution supporting the Naga reconciliation process (report carried in The Morung Express July 9, 2011). The FNR's appeal to the Naga public makes the search for peace a community responsibility.
This book is not meant to be read as a history textbook. For the purpose of reading about the history of the Naga struggle, researchers should read comprehensive books on the topic for example, The Naga Chronicle, The Naga Saga, Nagaland File and Naga identities and The Naga resistance. This book is not about the leaders and heroes of the Naga struggle. It is about the ordinary people whose lives were completely overturned by the freedom struggle. Because the conflict is not more important than the people who are its victims.

NPF entry to Manipur is to defeat Ibobi: Dr. Shürho Nagaland Post

Naga People’s Front(NPF) president Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsü said the forthcoming assembly elections in Manipur in January 2012 would be a referendum on whether Nagas live united as a family.

Speaking at an interaction with various tribal hohos and United Naga Council(UNC) at the NPF Manipur unit office here today, Dr Shürhozelie,who is also Nagaland minister of Urban Development and Higher & Technical Education said no one could stop Nagas from living together and reminded that the forthcoming assembly election was an opportunity for Nagas in Manipur to decide.

He asserted that NPF was for good relationship with various communities, political parties and organsations both underground and overground but asserted that no one would be allowed to dictate terms upon Nagas. Dr Shürhozelie revealed that the main purpose of the NPF was to defeat incumbent Okram Ibobi Singh.

He urged all Naga organizations and church to support NPF candidates in the forthcoming polls.
He said NPF in Manipur has received applications from candidates for 14 assembly seats while there was no ticket aspirant from Kuki dominated areas. He however said NPF could make some seat adjustments with other political parties in Kuki dominated areas.

Earlier, speaking to 55 out of 56 NPF ticket aspirants at Taphou Naga village Senapati, the NPF president said the party would contest the polls in Manipur for the first time and expressed the hope that voters would make wise decision.

He said NPF was the oldest regional party in the region and the only one out of 700 recognised political parties which Nagas need to be proud of. Dr. Shürhozelie said the entry of NPF to Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh was in the light of the four resolutions passed by the Nagaland assembly on the issue of integration of Naga inhabited areas.

He said out of Manipur total area of 22,327 sq Km , the ratio of land area of Nagas vis-à-vis Meteis was 9:1 and which has sparked fears among the latter.

He said there were 20 assembly seats in hill areas of Manipur and if all tribals unite they could become a tremendous force he said. Dr Shürhozelie asked other communities in the Hill areas of Manipur to seriously think about it as tribals could be a formidable force to exert their rights over Meitei domination.

Altogether 55 out of the total 56 aspiring candidates including two women who had applied for NPF party ticket from 14 different assembly constituencies of Manipur attended today’s function. All aspiring candidates made a public pledge to remain loyal to the NPF party’s ideologies and support those who would eventually get party tickets

Frans on 12.30.11 @ 10:24 PM CST [link]


Wednesday, December 28th

Uitnodiging voor de groot formaat fotoboek presentatie van Naga Culture – Free against the odds


A Naga International Support Center, NISC www.nagalim.nl
A human rights organization

Amsterdam, 28 December 2011
De Nagas komen 11 januari 2012!

Uitnodiging voor de groot formaat fotoboek presentatie van

Naga Culture – Free against the odds

Reisboekhandel de Evenaar en het Naga International Support Center (NISC) nodigen u uit voor de presentatie van Naga Culture – Free against the odds, Naga Cultuur - Vrij tegen de verdrukking in, een groot formaat fotoboek, 30x30 cm over de Naga volken van Noord Oost India and Noord West Myanmar op 11 Januari vanaf 17.30

Reisboekhandel de Evenaar is gevestigd aan de Singel 348. Amsterdam

Cultuur is de drijvende kracht achter de identiteit van de -tot nog toe- vrijwel onbekende Nagas die, voor het behoud van hun cultuur, zo sterk is dat zij in staat blijken invasies te weerstaan.

De Nagas, een verzamelnaam voor meer dan 40 inheemse volken, weten dat zij deel uitmaken van deze wereld en recht hebben op zelfbeschikking. Afstammend van dezelfde voorouders presenteren zij zich nu gezamenlijk naar buiten.

In nauwe samenwerking met het Reisboekhandel de Evenaar lanceert het Naga International Support Center dit unieke boek over de Naga Cultuur op 11 Januari 2012.

Naga Culture – Free against the odds is een fotografische belevenis van 132 pagina’s, full color coffee table size, in het Engels, een co-productie Nagaland en Nederland

Op korte termijn verschijnt Between David and Goliath, een boek over de actuele vredesbesprekingen tussen de Naga Volken en de Indiase Overheid. U kunt intekenen op Out of Isolation, ook van Frans Welman, dat ingaat op de complexe achtergronden van het conflict India-Nagaland.

Kom en laat U verrassen!

Voor meer informatie kijk op www.nagalim.nl of mail nisc@nagalim.nl">nisc@nagalim.nl

Frans on 12.28.11 @ 04:36 PM CST [link]


Tuesday, December 27th

Centre fails to reach peace deal with NSCN MANOJ ANAND Age Correspondent



Centre fails to reach peace deal with NSCN MANOJ ANAND Age Correspondent

GUWAHATI The home ministry failed to meet the deadline committed to Issac-Muivah faction of National Socialist Council of Nagalim for signing a peace accord before the Christmas.
Disclosing that a verbal offer was given to NSCN (I-M) through interlocutor R.S. Pandey, authoritative security sources in the home ministry told this newspaper that offer was sent without having the approval of the Union Cabinet. The NSCN (I-M), which has hired top legal experts readily agreed to the proposal of the government interlocutor.
Informing that many in the home ministry were in dark about the proposal which may not offer legislative power but gives away executive, financial and to some extent taxation power to Nagaland in Naga dominated areas of the region, security sources said that it was also proposed that boundary dispute would be left as an issue to be settled in future.
Regretting that peace-negotiators instead of telling NSCN (I-M) that boundary of Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh cant be changed, security sources pointed out that Naga leadership has been told that states are not ready to compromise with their territorial integrity so issue should be left for settlement in future.
Confessing that home ministry was in a hurry to sign some kind of agreement with NSCN (I-M), security sources however feared that any such commitment undermining the opinion of the states would be counter-produc-tive.Pointing out that NSCN (I-M) leadership was pushing for signing the peace-accord proposed to them, security sources said that home ministry is now on back foot as Prime Minister has already assured the chief ministers of north-eastern states that centre would not allow Naga peace agreement to infringe upon the federal rights and territory of the states.
Security sources also admitted that home ministry was ignoring the opinion of many other security agencies which were pro-actively involved in the peace-talks at early stages. Security sources also claimed that union home minister P. Chidambram had approved the proposal before it was proposed to the Naga leadership.
NSCN(IM), Centre yet to resolve impasse Assam Tribune R Dutta Choudhury Guwahati, Highly placed official sources in New Delhi told The Assam Tribune that the Union Home Minister and the Centre’s interlocutor made an offer to the leaders of the NSCN without consulting the issue with other senior leaders of the Cabinet, but the Government is not in a position to formalize the offer made as it may create new trouble in the North East states. Sources said that the NSCN leaders have already written to the Government accepting the Home Minister’s offer with minor adjustments but the Government has not been able to take any decision. Though it was expected that a solution to the problems would come as a Christmas gift for the Naga people, now the solution will again be delayed.

Though sources refused to divulge the details of the offer given to the NSCN by the Home Minister, the offer included creation of an entity for the Naga people with executive and financial powers over the Naga inhabited areas in other states of the region. The Government already rejected the demand for creation of greater Nagalim with integration of the Naga inhabited areas in the other NE states.

But the trouble started after the NSCN accepted the offer of the Home Minister with minor adjustments as the Government of India is not in a position to give what was promised. Sources said that the Government has now realized that there would be bad implications in the neighbouring states and creation of an exclusive homeland for the Naga people would lead to controversies in other states of the country.
NSCN(IM), Centre yet to resolve impasse R Dutta Choudhury
GUWAHATI, Though the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (I-M) is pressing for an early settlement, the Central Government has not yet been able to take any decision on what is to be offered to the outfit for an early solution.
Meanwhile, the Union Home Minister, P Chidambaram has also found himself in a fix after making an informal offer to the leaders of the NSCN without discussing the issue with other senior members of the Cabinet.
Highly placed official sources in New Delhi told The Assam Tribune that the Union Home Minister and the Centre’s interlocutor made an offer to the leaders of the NSCN without consulting the issue with other senior leaders of the Cabinet, but the Government is not in a position to formalize the offer made as it may create new trouble in the North East states. Sources said that the NSCN leaders have already written to the Government accepting the Home Minister’s offer with minor adjustments but the Government has not been able to take any decision. Though it was expected that a solution to the problems would come as a Christmas gift for the Naga people, now the solution will again be delayed.
Though sources refused to divulge the details of the offer given to the NSCN by the Home Minister, the offer included creation of an entity for the Naga people with executive and financial powers over the Naga inhabited areas in other states of the region. The Government already rejected the demand for creation of greater Nagalim with integration of the Naga inhabited areas in the other NE states.
But the trouble started after the NSCN accepted the offer of the Home Minister with minor adjustments as the Government of India is not in a position to give what was promised. Sources said that the Government has now realized that there would be bad implications in the neighbouring states and creation of an exclusive homeland for the Naga people would lead to controversies in other states of the country.
Meanwhile, the NSCN has engaged internationally reputed legal experts to give the leaders of the outfit legal opinion for the talks with the Government. Sources said that one of the most prominent legal experts engaged by the outfit is Michael Van Walt Van of Prague, Anthony Regan of Australia and Kenyan national Yash Ghai, who now stays in Hong Kong. These legal experts charge heavy amounts as consultation fees but with a bid to ending the deadlock early, the leaders of the NSCN have taken the services of these experts.
Fresh violence in Nagaland Times of India
DIMAPUR: Amidst the Christmas spirit reigning supreme, a fresh factional clash between the NSCN (Khaplang) and the NSCN (Khole-Kitovi) in Zunheboto district's Hokiyi village on Thursday morning shattered the hopes of a peaceful festive season for the people of Nagaland.
Sources said tension built up in Hokiyi village on Wednesday night itself after armed cadres of the groups confronted with each other. However, the situation turned worse on Thursday early morning, when they resorted to heavy firing resulting in the death of one cadre.
Nagaland home minister Imkong L Imchen strongly criticized the incident, saying, "The incident at Naharbari on December 19 last and at Hokiyi village today have highly disturbed the pleasant and joyful Christmas season."
"It is unfortunate that some people are spoiling the peaceful atmosphere in the state," he said, while appealing to all conflicting groups to shun the path of violence and give peace a chance in Nagaland.
The home minister also hoped that the conflicting parties would realize that peace is both the pre-requisite and the ultimate goal of solution to the problems of the Naga people.
Ntimes
Is reconciliation and unity so important even at the cost of Naga sovereignty

Khole who is an illiterate must surely not be aware of what is appearing in the media every day. All that comes in the media is all construed and bereft of facts. An old man in his nineties must also be mentally imbalance which is why he has started taking all credits. Today he claims to have save Chairman S.S. Khaplang, the other day I came across a news article wherein he claimed to have save the life of Isak and Muivah. I feel pity for the old sick man who is completely under the control of Ketovi. Who is holding him as a pawn and using him left and right for his petty benefits.
Otherwise, it was Khole, who affectionately sports one camouflage jacket brought from China during the early days of Naga movement and he use to tell the Naga Army confidently that, he will never put-off his jacket until Naga people gets Independent. It was Khole who promised his Konyak people that, he will never step across the International border unless Naga gets independent. May I ask Khole on behalf of his people, where are his promises? Unfortunately he is no more our hero. He is now talking only about Nagaland state, he is enjoying a lavish lifestyle who, otherwise spent all his youthful days and almost all his life in the jungle of eastern Nagaland dreaming that, one day Naga would become independent and die as a national hero. It is sad that, he has forgotten the sacrifices made by his very own people the Konyaks, Pangmis,Lainongs, Khimyungngan, Sangtam, Phom, Yimchunger, Tangsang who died protecting him and his leadership. Sadly, all the martyrs of yesterday who sacrificed their life under the then army chief Konyak and his own sacrifices for his people and the Naga nation is now cooked and construed by some inexperienced and undergraduate boys in the name of MIP.
Let me also remind Mr. Khole that, both Khoiwang and Pohwang being Konyak and since all three of them comes from the same community, there was always an affinity towards each other and for that reason with the undivided NSCN(K). They are upholding the teachings and principles of none other than Khole who had always advice them not to abandon the Tangsang brothers of eastern Nagaland under any circumstances. They are the true leader of the Konyak people. Therefore, it is not Khoiwang or Pohwang rather it is Khole who has strayed away and is now a changed person and who has not only betrayed the Konyaks but the entire Eastern Nagas.
On reconciliation let me remind the Naga people that, it was chairman Khaplang who even before the Reconciliation process was started has strongly advocated for forgive and forget policy among the Naga groups. Although, it couldn’t be materialize, the fact that Khaplang was among the signatory of Covenant of Reconciliation is a known fact. And in fact, the reconciliation process could reach this far only because chairman Khaplang agreed to the reconciliation process during the undivided NSCN (K). Therefore, the commitment of Khaplang for peace and reconciliation is unquestionable. We withdrew to register our protest on the high-handedness of the NSCN (IM) who failed to abide by the resolution. Therefore, it is NSCN (IM) who are answerable to the general Naga people on their act of violation on the agreed resolution on reconciliation. Do Kitovi and Khole think that, they would be talking about reconciliation today had not Khaplang signed the covenant of reconciliation? Coming to the point of reconciliation and unity as a pre-requisite for a settlement with the GOI, I think every lay man knows it but, is reconciliation and unity so important even at the cost of Naga sovereignty? The point is Ketovi, a man minus wisdom is under the complete grip of the Indian agencies. He was instrumental in convincing Khole to weaken Khaplang and his demand for sovereignty. Indian agencies wanted to delink the Nagas of eastern Nagaland and western Nagaland and for that, Kitovi was used. A lot of promises were made to him and was also paid handsomely. Kitovi played a pivotal role to divide the NSCN in the interest of the Indian agencies. He is the chief betrayer of the Naga people, which the coming generation will always remember. On Wangtin and Mulatonu, I must say that, they are much above from the likes of Kitovi and his criminal gangs. They are in their senses and are upholding the popular demand of the Naga people for sovereignty.

P. Tikhak
Spokesperson,
NSCN/GPRN

An Appeal from the Forum for Naga Reconciliation

Dear fellow Nagas,
Greetings from the Forum for Naga Reconciliation!

The Forum for Naga Reconciliation wishes to express our deepest gratitude to all fellow Nagas where-ever you are living for the support your have extended to the Naga Reconciliation: A Journey of Common Hope. The Naga Reconciliation in the last 36 months has made significant progress through your solidarity and prayers.

Of late, the Naga Reconciliation process has slowed down and a stalemate has been reached. Nonetheless, the three signatories of the Covenant of Reconciliation – NSCN/GPRN, NNC/FGN and GPRN/NSCN remain fully committed to the reconciliation process. The Reconciliation process has not been easy. And while it is fair to say that the three groups have weathered many challenges, it must also be pointed out that the reconciliation process needs the active and expressed support, prayer and hope of the people.

At this point of the process, it is of absolute necessity for the top leaders of the three signatories to meet face to face without any further delay. The intent of the highest level reconciliation meeting is to explore together the possibilities of a new reconciled political relationship among the signatories of the Covenant of Reconciliation; and to develop a joint working mechanism to pursue the historical and political rights of the Nagas.

While the Naga people and the political groups recognize the urgency of the highest level reconciliation meeting, public intervention is required to further persuade such a meeting. In this respect, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation is writing to you to kindly take the initiative to express your support for this meeting by organizing a prayer vigil, candlelight march or any other creative expression in your region before March 15, 2011.

Such an outward expression will certainly encourage the Naga reconciliation process. We also encourage you to write a letter to the Naga leaders with the following points:
• Supporting the Naga Reconciliation process on the basis of the historical and political rights of the Nagas;
• Urging the signatories of the Covenant of Reconciliation to address all outstanding issues and differences in the spirit of reconciliation through non-violence, mutual respect, understanding and love; and
• Demand that the highest level reconciliation meeting take place without any further delay so that the reconciliation process can take decisive steps towards its logical end.

The Naga Reconciliation process needs your support and prayers.
With warn regards,

Rev. Dr. Wati Aier
Convenor
Forum for Naga Reconciliation
Notes from the Northeast: Naga dream still distant IST Agency: DNA Pradip Phanjoubam The writer is editor, Imphal Free Press l inbox@dnaindia.net">inbox@dnaindia.net
Mumbai | December is an auspicious festive month for most of Christian Northeast. In the Christian states of Nagaland, Mizoram, Meghalaya, and to a great extent Manipur, red ‘Star of David’ lanterns on numerous rooftops light up the cold evenings in the streets of Kohima, Aizawl, Shillong and Imphal, setting the mood for celebrations and soul cleansing, and much reflections on the year that was. In trouble torn Nagaland and Manipur, however, the celebratory mood is subdued.
Hanging in the backdrop is the 11-year itch of the unsettled peace negotiation underway between the underground Naga group, NSCN(IM) and the Indian government. Ceasefire between the two entities began in 1997, and peace negotiations followed but the talks are still in dreadful stalemate, though each side continues to claim approaching a breakthrough and then blame each other for it not happening.
The reasons are not far to seek. One, the Naga insurgent movement is badly fragmented, with factional fights consuming much of the energy and public patience. A reconciliatory move commendably brought some of these factions together this year, but not every issue is settled and internal strife and sporadic bloody mayhems still mark the scenario. But the second reason should be much more frustrating for those pursuing a happy reconciliation to a problem that is as old as the Indian state. It speaks of a looming shadow of doubt of a possibility of the Naga dream if it is not moderated by an acceptance of modern realities.
Equally, at this moment, this moderation and the compromise called for seems too much for the Naga underground leaders to accept. The Naga leaders’ foremost goal is the creation of a greater Naga homeland that they have christened ‘Nagalim’ by merging territories of other states neighbouring Nagaland (and Myanmar) that they believe traditionally belonged to the Nagas. Once this is done, the degree of autonomy ‘Nagalim’ is to enjoy within the Indian Union is to be negotiated.
However, the shadow falls at the very outset on this very notion of territory. This could not have been spelled out louder and clearer than in the tussle over the creation of a new administrative district called SADAR hills (Special Area Demarcated as Autonomous Region) in Manipur. This new district is Kuki tribal dominated and is to be carved out of the Naga dominated Senapati district. The Kukis want it and the Nagas think the idea itself is an aggression on the Nagas. Friction between the two over the matter led to a 121-day blockade of Manipur recently.
The issue is too entangled to present an easy solution. The principal GoI negotiator, a retired bureaucrat, RS Pandey, did give it a shot with a recommendation he purportedly made, as was exposed by a Guwahati-based English daily. His proposal of a ‘Supra State’ status for the Nagas created quite a flutter.
Although the intent to bring to a closure the Naga problem is admirable the pertinent question is has the model taken care of existing realities, some of which can cause extreme strife in the Northeast’s ethnic cauldron? What exactly was the Supra State meant to be, if this proposal exists? Home minister P Chidambaram has since denied any knowledge of the proposal.
Even if his statement amounts playing his cards close to the chest, it does still indicate he too thinks the proposal is problematic.
The ‘Supra State’ in this context in all probability is a non-territorial solution of the nature so many intellectuals, including BK Roy Burman of the Centre for Study of Developing Societies, have advocated in reference to the Northeast’s many ethnic problems, and in particular the Nagas. The model conjures up the Sami parliament in the Scandinavian countries. The Samis are formerly nomadic indigenous reindeer herders living in Scandinavia and the Russian Federation before the region came to be dissected by political boundaries. They now find themselves living in different countries, though their traditional world never had any conception of such national boundaries, precisely because nation consciousness dawned on them late. An arrangement has now been made so that they can call themselves one people and nation but with no territory earmarked for their ‘nation.’
The NSCN(IM) leadership and their supporters everywhere have been maintaining a deafening silence on the proposal. Perhaps it was unilateral, put up by the negotiation interlocutor and not one on which there was a consensus amongst the negotiating parties. For indeed, if the proposal is modelled on the Sami Parliament, the NSCN(IM) general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah had in the past rejected it and it is unlikely he would have had a change of heart now.
Even if Muivah agreed, two considerations would have been deterrents. One, if ‘Nagalim’ is not to be, the solution would leave a major section of the NSCN(IM)’s top leadership and cadres out of the core of the solution, as they belong to Manipur and not Nagaland. Two, any solution that does not address the question of sovereignty, even if notionally, would have to be after intense negotiations with the Naga public first, especially in the core Naga territory of the former Naga hills of Assam (now Nagaland), who have had to undergo tremendous hardships and losses for over half a century precisely because of their dream for Naga sovereignty. While one hopes a solution to the Naga problem comes about soon, as of now, it is difficult to see such blueprints. The reported ‘Supra State’ definitely does not seem to offer one.
A touch of difference WFS NORTH-EAST
In Nagaland, just like in many other parts of India’s Northeast, the Christmas-y feeling sets in as soon as December announces its arrival.

So, no matter where you go, here, in Dimapur — Nagaland’s biggest town — the star of Christmas appears everywhere, and in all sizes. Stars range from the simple to the fancy, and shine from atop churches, people’s front yards and, of course, in the shopping arcades.
Nagaland being a Christian dominated state — 90 per cent of the Naga population is Christian — Christmas happens to be the biggest festival of the year. While the celebrations are mostly traditional, there are a few customs and practices that are unique to this region.

Food, an important part of any festival, is one such defining aspect. Alovi Aye, a civil servant, who hails Nagaland, puts it this way, “Unlike other places, in some of the Northeast states — including Nagaland — the Christmas feast is hosted by the church. So while there may be families who have their own Christmas lunch at home, it’s mostly community feasting we have here.”

But there is a great deal of variation, too, considering the fact that there are 16 officially recognised tribes in Nagaland and each has its own church. “Every tribe has its distinct feature. For instance, its food habits. Obviously then, the Christmas feast will have at least a couple of food items that are specific to a tribe in a particular community feast,” reveals Asen Jamir, a college student based in Dimapur.

Aye provides some examples of festive fare, “Axoni, or fermented soyabean, is an integral part of the feast of the Sumi tribe. Gahlo, which is like a rice porridge with vegetables, and Moudi, a dish made of beef, pork and Mithun — the state animal that is a domesticated free-range bovine species — without water, is a speciality of the Angami tribe.” The Lotha tribe loves its pork with bamboo shoot and the Ao tribe specialises in Anishi, a preparation of yam leaves, she adds.

Meat is an integral part of the spread, considering the over-hunting of the Mithun (Bos frontalis) though measures have been taken to protect it. This has, of course, resulted in the Mithun slowly making its way out from festival menus. Aye believes that this is “a good thing” given the need to protect this species.

But conservation needs apart, Shiloh Lotha, an entrepreneur, who runs her own boutique in Dimapur, says that she eagerly awaits the feast every Christmas and loves the spirit of community it signifies, “This festival is all about love and brotherhood, and the community feasts that we have reinforces this. The village women get together days before the actual celebration, pounding the rice, cutting the vegetables and preparing the meat for the feast.”

According to Lotha, most of the local churches organise the feast themselves, as they have the requisite funds for it. But sometimes they also accept donations. “Whatever it is, it’s an occasion to bond with each other, especially the kids who go out of the state these days for their education and come home for Christmas. This tradition brings us all closer,” she observes.
As in Nagaland, Christmas is celebrated with a lot of hooplah and merriment in Mizoram — another Northeast state that has an almost an 87 per cent Christian population. Here too celebrations centre around the community feasts, with the hoary practice of eating boiled rice, meat and vegetables in wild plantain leaves still practiced in many villages.
But Marshal David, who owns a music shop in Aizwal, Mizoram’s capital, points out that one doesn’t need to wait until December 25 to be soaked in the Christmas spirit. “Come December 1, and no matter where you go, the yuletide spirit is in the air. The holiday mood having set in, people are in good cheer and shopping their hearts out. And, of course, you hear Christmas songs every now and then,” she says.

And just like without the food there are no Christmas celebrations, the right mood is only set with the right kind of music. ‘Krismas lenkhawm’, or Christmas songs by Mizo composers like Rokunga, Patea, Damhauhva and others, as well as carols in English are sung by guitar strumming carol groups, which go from house to house and get a warm welcome everywhere.
In Aizawl, street corners and road intersections are done up in colourful decorations with cribs depicting the birth of Christ, snow men, life-sized Santa Claus dolls, reindeers and even sleighs are up for sale in the shops.

Meghalaya, the third of the Christian-dominant state of the Northeast — with 70 per cent of the population of this faith — also leaves no stone unturned in its celebrations. Georgina David, a young doctor who works in a missionary hospital in Shillong, says that she cannot recall another instance when the whole town gets together to celebrate a festival with so much enthusiasm, just like one big family. “I am from Delhi and have been in Shillong for the past one year, working in this hospital. Even before December, weeks before actually, I was asked the same question by the staff and all I knew was that I was going to be here for Christmas.

And when I said yes, there was such an exuberant response! I didn’t quite understand why, until December came and the whole town changed gear. Beautiful decorations were put up everywhere; shops were open until a little late for enthusiastic shoppers; and offices were running on minimal staff because everyone was off for the holidays!” laughs David. She adds, “In the hospital, too, there is a change in mood. The flow of patients dwindles and the staff move into holiday mode.”

Since music is big in Meghalaya there are, not surprisingly, music concerts every evening for at least a week until Christmas. And one shouldn’t be surprised to see random people break into a four-part harmony at the drop of a hat in a busy market! According to David, the success of the Shillong Chamber Choir simply underlines the fact that people here love their music. “Around Christmas that love seems to soar. There are choir practices everywhere, in which young girls and boys, dressed to the ‘T’, let their voices rise and drop like true professionals…it’s a scene to behold!” she remarks. Shillong’s Cathedral Church, one of the oldest institutions of its kind in the Northeast, has thousands of people attending the midnight mass.

In short, if you are looking for a magical Christmas — with a delicious, musical twist — then you may consider heading to India’s Northeast.
Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation reaffirms ‘peace zone’ declaration Nagaland Post
DIMAPUR, Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) said it had sat for an emergency meeting at Tuensang Dec.23, 2011 with tribal leaders, NSCN (K), GPRN/NSCN (Khole-Kitovi) and NSCN (I-M), and the house unanimously decided to reaffirm and declare ENPO jurisdiction as “peace zone.”

According to ENPO vice president Sashi Naga and press secretary A.Mosa Konyak the organisation has “once again” reaffirmed its Dec 18., 2007 resolution, which was reaffirmed Nov.13, 2010 at Kiphire in the presence of ENNWA/ENNWO and FGN (accordist and non-accordist).
“Therefore, whoever over rule the resolution, the ENPO will be compelled to decide its own course of action,” the signatories said.
57 insurgents surrender in Manipur ANI
Imphal, Imphal, Dec 26 (ANI): Fifty-seven insurgents, belonging to various militant outfits surrendered at the Inspector General Assam Rifles (IGAR) Headquarters in Imphal recently.
The boys who had strayed on the wrong path have realized that their life was being ruined and decided to give a new dimension to their life as they laid down their arms.

The surrendered militants hailed from various groups including United National Liberation Front, People's United Liberation Front, Kangleipak Communist Party, Peoples Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak, People's Revolutionary army, People' Liberation Army, Pakan Reunification Army, Kuki National Liberation Front, Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup and National Socialist Council of Nagalim.
Mohammad Khan, a surrendered terrorist told the reporters that he was not happy in the militant group and wanted to live a peaceful life with family.
"Earlier I was not happy because of our activities, but from now on I want to live peacefully and happily with my family. And that is the reason I have given up arms and came back," said Khan.

Manipur Chief Minister Ibobi Singh, on the occasion, said he was hopeful that the boys and girls who have gone wrong will one day definitely realize their mistake and turn away from it.
"This is not a problem of yester years; it has been going on for a very long time. One day I think people of Manipur will definitely realize and those of our brothers and sisters who have gone wrong will definitely realize and this problem will sorted out one day and this is my belief," said Singh.
More than 250 insurgents have surrendered in Manipur in 2011 alone.
Both the security forces and the government have been receptive to the insurgents' decision to lay down arms and are extending all possible support to rehabilitate these cadres.
The family members of the surrendered cadres were also present to provide them moral support.
"You see the families have come and we have approached to request their boys to come to the mainstream of the society. And they have turned up in large numbers and in future more and more number of people will be coming and joining the mainstream," said Major General U K Major, IGAR (South).
Northeast has for long been a restive region with several militant groups fighting for freedom and autonomy against the government.
Both sides have now realized that solution can be reached through dialogue and discussion turning a new page in the region's history by giving peace a chance. (ANI)


Frans on 12.27.11 @ 04:19 PM CST [link]


Thursday, December 22nd

NSCN (K) Only Organization for Final Solution Northeast Today



NSCN (K) Only Organization for Final Solution Northeast Today

NSCN (K) has claimed it was the “only institution” which could bring about “a final solution” to the “Indo-Naga-Burma political issue” under the “visionary leadership” of its chairman S.S.Khaplang.
In an emailed statement received here Wednesday, the NSCN (K) spokesperson P.Tikhak said “persons like Kitovi and Khole must look at their feet,” saying they must realize “the fact that they are yet to fit in the shoes” of Khaplang. According to Tikhak, they (Kitovi and Khole) must know that Khaplang was their “mentor” and people know them only because of Khaplang.
“In other words, both of them do not have any identity without Khaplang,” the NSCN (K) spokesperson said.
While maintaining that he was not “surprised” to see at the “immature and communal” statement coming from the “Kehoi group,” Tikhak said it was “evidently clear” that their write-ups were not directed against Khaplang but it was “more on appeasing their Indian masters by dividing the Nagas” on the lines of the “forced international boundary.”
GPRN/NSCN has strongly emphasized that those who were not for peace “would not find peace” in Nagaland and asserted that public leaders must not indulge in “destabilizing the nation”. Commenting on the process of Naga reconciliation, a statement from GPRN/NSCN MIP gave details of how “fighting among Naga brothers” post-Shillong Accord, 1975 began the exhibition of “immaturity and senselessness” that cost precious lives of many including “prominent Naga men and women”.
GPRN/NSCN has asserted that the importance of political groups to realize that “fighting among the Nagas will not enrich Naga freedom struggle”. It said that due appreciation must be conveyed to Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) led by Rev. Wati Aier for organizing the reconciliation meet in Chiangmai where Isak Chishi Swu, Singnya and S.S Khaplang signed a covenant in 2008 declaring “cessation of hostilities”.
The MIP stated that GPRN/NSCN was committed to the covenant but S.S Khaplang began to direct “home authorities with contradictory orders on the question of Naga Reconciliation”. He avoided the highest level meeting on September 18, 2010 but “home authorities” endorsed gen. secretary N. Kitovi Zhimomi “to save the embarrassment” for GPRN/NSCN since S.S Khaplang was the signatory, reminded the statement.
Stating that chairman ‘gen. (retd)’ Khole Konyak and general secretary N Kitovi Zhimomi made their intentions clear to the Naga people after the exit of S.S Khaplang from GPRN/NSCN, the MIP emphasized that “Reconciliation and Unity” among the Nagas was “pre-requisite” to any political settlement with the Government of India.
The statement further said that to proceed forward, the highest level meeting among Naga political parties was convened in September 2010 and August 2011 and GPRN/NSCN was a party to it.
GPRN/NSCN has now asked if S.S Khaplang and “his boys have moral authority” to talk about Naga reconciliation process when they had “repeatedly issued press statements discarding” the process. GPRN/SNCN said that Wangtin and Mulatonu did not understand “the pros and cons about struggle for independence” and asserted that their “immaturity” should not cause further trouble.
The MIP said that chairman ‘gen. (retd)’ Khole Konyak had “a military background” but all through “his exemplary service”, he has been more of “a peace broker” between “warring Naga brothers”.
The impeachment and expulsion of S.S Khaplang from GPRN/NSCN was in the interest of the “Naga Nation” because “no one is above the nation”, declared the MIP.
It also reminded that S.S Khaplang was alive today because ‘gen.’ Khole saved him “when former ‘kilonser’ Hanong was about to kill him”.
GPRN/SNCN stated that there were former NGO leaders in Konyak region who are “actively propagating” against
Khole Konyak and GPRN/NSCN with “preposterous claims”. “Character assassination of such a respected Naga leader is an affront to Naga nation”, declared the MIP.
According to the MIP statement, the “slight confusion” in Konyak Region was “entirely the work of certain elements” such as Powang Konyak and Khoiwang Konyak who “in connivance” with S.S Khaplang called Khango Konyak at Mon town in the month of May 2011 and declared him as Khaplang’s ‘vice president’.
It has alleged that they were “responsible” for the attack on “C-in-C’s Camp” in June 2011 and said that “image of KU and ENPO” has been tarnished by “anti-Naga policies of these men”.
On the question of statehood for ENPO, Khole told Powang that he did not object but simply pointed out that at the moment “Naga Unity” was the most important issue. The MIP added that this statement was issued in response to the Wentyu village meeting in Konyak region which found space in the local dailies.
As per the decision of “National Security Council”, GPRN/NSCN has ordered “civil and military establishments” to direct their “staff” to reach Khehoi designated camp on or before December 22, 2011. GPRN/NSCN through MIP said those “on duty” are directed to promptly inform the ‘chief secretary’ on the nature of duty. Failure to report to the Camp within “stipulated day” shall invite stringent disciplinary measure, said MIP.
Naga Students Fetration asksgovernmentt to act on Chanpang oil spill Nagaland Post

KOHIMA, Restating its principled stand that matters pertaining to exploration of oil and natural gas in Naga inhabited areas be “acceptable, beneficial and honourable”, NSF apprised the state convenor Cabinet Sub-Committee on Land & Natural Resources (CSCL & NR) on the oil spillage from abandoned oil rigs at Changpang and demanded that its concerns be redressed immediately.

A statement issued by NSF president Kelhouneizo and general secretary N. Ejanthung Ngullie pointed out that villagers at Changpang were faced with numerous hardships and miseries due to massive oil spillages from oil wells abandoned since 1994 by the ONGC.

The signatories accused the state government of violation of human rights as per the constitution of India and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR, 1948) as it knew the impact caused by the massive oil spillages.

NSF said the incessant spillage from the improperly abandoned oil rigs caused not only serious environmental hazards but also endangered the very livelihood of the local people since the oil cause soil and water pollution and thereby adversely affecting agriculture.
The signatories pointed out that a delegation of the NSF visited the affected communities on September 16, 2011 and learnt that the authority failed to take any steps to mitigate the people’s misery despite several appeals and representations made in this regard.

Stating that the NSF was convinced that the genuine sufferings of the people deserved to be immediately redressed, the signatories while extending support and cooperation with the government said it was constrained to point out the following grievances to be redressed on priority. These included: (1)immediate containment of oil spillage and implementation of safety measures,(2)provision of accessible and motorable road.(3)supply of electricity,(4)provision of drinking water facility,(5)creation of Primary Health Centre (PHC) and (6) rehabilitation measures.

NSF demanded that the convenor CSCL & NR provide a “time-bound written assurance” on its above demands failing which it would be compelled to take its own course of action to ensure that grievances of the affected communities were effectively addressed.
It also seriously viewed with alleged “delay tactics” of the CSCL&NR and cautioned the latter that in the event of any disaster erupting from the abandoned oil rigs leading to loss of life and property and destruction of natural resources, the state government would be held solely responsible.
A response to I am not proud to be Naga Hitoho Sumi Morungexpress
Another pleasant-short-lived-winter-day robbed from me due to disturbance, not from the politico-territorial-strategic move by NSCN (K) that has caused much hullabaloo, but from an article titled I am not proud to be Naga (Dated 20-12-2011) The main purpose of the article is nothing but to draw attention and get the one’s name on the paper (or even electronically-blog) as is quite apparent from the introduction and the conclusion. A mediocre self obsessed blabbering on various issues which the writer himself has not studied extensively and misunderstood precariously.
Dear so-named Puanthanh Ganmei I did not curse you verbally as I read your article instead I laughed so hard my brothers taught I was reading some hilarious joke, and it is, as a matter of fact a joke, in a bizarre way though. I am trying my best to empathize yet your passionless anger has baffled me. First thing first, you know you do not have to tell the world a “millionth time” that you are not proud to be a Naga. You do not even have to identify yourself as a Naga. Having said that there are few clarifications in the form of comment I would like you to clarify.
I wonder if you are a PhD in psychology or for that even psychoanalysis, if so time to change your profession/discipline. Do not get me wrong but your conviction of Nagas “indiscipline” nature and subsequent analysis and analogy is quite amusing. Your examination on the idea of “hypocritical” (here let me ignore the larger point of your oblivious generalization) is very narrow and shows your misplaced sense of righteousness. I do not know what your issue is with people migrating to “West” but again your cause-effect analysis, just like your “Naga psyche to not-wearing-helmet” is mindboggling.
When you state that Nagalim is “an increasingly intolerant nation” with very little concern for “other” is it because you were/are not given a special treatment? Is your conclusion based on your interaction with naïve people and their uncritical discussions that usually end in blaming Indians for Nagas problems? And who are you to assume and assert that the identity as a Naga comes second or first or last? What does it matter to you? Have you done any research on its impact on the larger socio-political issues that concerns Nagas?
I am tempted but let me not comment on your enlightenment on poverty and ecological issues. I cannot believe I am even mentioning this. You know you should also brush up your knowledge (at least basics) on education, economics, growth, and development before you claim “fact(s)” as solution for Nagas or for that matter any nation or society. Oh and by the way I would like to know if any individual or organization is forcing you to chant and tell the world a millionth times “I am proud to be Naga”.
In conclusion I take the liberty to give you a piece of advice. Please do not change your attitude by simply believing random “wisdom and reasons” and “sing along” (have some self respect and confidence), instead try to be more critical with an in depth understanding of issues such as identity, development, politics, economics, and culture. This way you will get more attention and contribute towards a progressive deliberation when you state that you are “not proud to be Naga”.
Manipur: The Myth of the Blockade Sreenivasan Jain, NDTV
Before we set off from Delhi to report Manipur's 100 day long economic blockade, we thought we would be telling the story of a massive crisis: a shortage of essentials, soaring prices, a government - state and Centre - that is paralysed. But as we discovered the ground realties are far more complex, with rising levels of scepticism - even direct accusations: how deep is the shortage? Is it genuine or manufactured? Are security concerns tying the hands of the state or are there political gains from the blockade? Are their monetary gains, to put it bluntly, corruption? Over the next 30 minutes - the anatomy of a bewildering siege, which has called into question the role of all players - Centre, state and the ethnic groups that have laid partial siege to the state.
Imphal: First a primer of Manipur's regions, tribes, highways and blockades.
The current blockade is a dispute over Manipur's Senapati district. The northern part of it is dominated by the Nagas.
The southern part known as the Sadar Hills is dominated by the Kuki tribe.

In August the Kukis' blocked Manipur's 2 arterial routes - National Highway 39 which connects Imphal to Nagaland and NH 53 which connects Imphal to Assam. This was over a long pending demand that the Sadar Hills be given formal status as a revenue district.

In protest, the Nagas who inhabit the northern part of Senapati district began their blockade further up on Highway 39. They say that historically Sadar Hills was a Naga area, from which they have been forced out years ago and any decision on its status needs their go ahead. After almost 3 months, the government partially agreed to the Kuki demand and the Kukis withdrew their blockade on both highways.

This has made the Nagas only more determined in their blockade of NH 39 which is the main supply line into the Imphal valley, the most densely populated region of Manipur.
The long queues outside petrol pumps today is the most acute impact of that siege. Some have been waiting since the night before while others since early morning. With the opening up of highway 53 the supplies and the prices of almost everything else - rice, sugar, vegetables - even medical supplies has stabilised.
Rice: Rs. 15 per kg
Sugar: Rs. 40 per kg
Potato: Rs. 30 per kg
In fact the roads are choked, hotels are full. At the Classic Hotel in Imphal, the manager says, "At the moment the hotel is full. We've been running full for the past several days."

And Manipur's cultural calendar has kicked off with packed crowds at a dance festival.

If there is a genuine shortage, it is of diesel - down by almost 50%. But most passenger traffic in Imphal valley runs on petrol. Diesel run vehicles, like buses, trucks and taxis cross the state boundaries, where they are able to refill their tanks. But it is petrol shortage which remains the strongest and most confusing experience of the blockade.
After a cold, long night in the petrol queue, the slips are handed out at daybreak. The line inches forward excruciatingly slowly.

At the pump, fuel is severely rationed - only Rs. 500 of fuel per car and Rs. 200 for scooters and bikes.

Wait for 10 hours and get 10 maybe 20 litres of petrol. One angry resident says, "The Government of Manipur is responsible as well as the people of the Hill areas."

Another says, "The Government is very bad. I don't have any words."

By afternoon the pump, and others like it, will shut down because they have been given only a fourth of their capacity.

MT Singh, an employee at the pump tells us that the total capacity of the pump is 24 kl while they were only giving out 8kl, which was what the State government was releasing to the pumps. And it won't open for another 3 days.

Ask the minister in charge of civil supplies and he, like everyone in the government will tell you they have no choice but to ration. Minister for IFCD, Youth Affairs and Sports, Biren Singh, says, "Atleast 150kl, has to be in the store for emergency purposes. So after reserving that, how many days it can work, we are calculating."

But when it comes to petrol, at the depot of the Indian Oil Corporation which supplies almost 80% of Manipur's fuel needs, there is a different version.

In normal times IOC supplies about 2200 kilolitres of petrol (1 kilolitre = 1000 litres)That figure has remarkably remained steady right through the worst months of the blockade, even spiking upwards briefly in the middle. IOC Petrol supply figures -

August: 2217 KL

September: 2400 KL

October: 2039 KL

Priobhash Dey, General Manager of NE Integrated State Office, Indian Oil, says that technically there is no shortage of petrol, "Despite many odds we have managed. I must say our people are working over-time. They have no holidays, every Sunday they are working for us, even at night."

The government seemed unable to explain this anomaly. Biren Singh says, "That's the point. There was no petrol shortage but we also get confused seeing the queues."

The Chief Minister, Ibobi Singh too is unable to give a satisfactory reply when asked about the need for rationing petrol when there is no shortage. Blaming the IOC he says, "They are only calculating the monthly supply, not daily. These are wrong figures."

When pushed, officials say two other oil companies that supply petrol to Manipur - NRL and BPCL have virtually stopped their supplies in the blockade, but they were supplying only about 20% of the state's needs even in normal times.

When pushed even further the government says they are simply being overcautious given the unpredictable nature of blockades - but at the same time, the severe rationing is aggravating two phenomena. One, the psychological sense of a blockade and two, Manipur's booming black market in fuel.

A woman in the petrol queue tells us, "I have been buying in black at around Rs. 200 per litre." Most people in the line admitted to having bought petrol in the black market at triple the market rate.
The government agrees that there is a black market but claims it's a minor phenomenon.

Biren Singh says, "You can't see the black market on the road like earlier times because the government is keeping everything under control."

This is easily belied in any number of ways, the most obvious - massive traffic snarls in Imphal, not possible in times of severe rationing without large scale black marketing.

At the lower end, it begins with women on the streets, selling bottles of petrol for more than double the price, though they are unclear about their suppliers. One such woman says, "A truck comes with barrels of petrol and 3-4 of us get together to buy so it becomes a little cheaper."

Larger orders - means at first, getting a friend to make a call to a black marketer posing as a buyer. (Over telephone)

Q:"I heard I can get petrol from you."

Black marketer: "Do you want diesel or petrol? Diesel is not there, you can get petrol. I am selling petrol for Rs. 150. If you want lots I can give it to you for Rs. 130."

The landmark given by the black marketer to us is ironical - a checkpost in an Imphal neighborhood where he says he is well known.

Q: "Where should we come?"

Black marketer: "You can come near the toll tax and ask for James."

We follow the directions to the checkpost. From there James leads us to his store nearby, that ostensibly sells lubricant. He shows off the petrol like a winemaker, to prove it is better than the quality at the petrol pumps.

Q: "It looks like fruit juice. Is it of different quality? Do you mix chemicals?"
James: "No they are of different quality. We just mix them and we get this colour. It is okay to use and quality is good."

He says the petrol comes from the neighbouring state of Mizoram, from black marketers who drive across the border, fill up jerry cans and drums and drive back.
Ten minutes later, we walk out with ten litres of overpriced, black market petrol.

Despite claims of official crackdown, getting to a black marketer took no great leap of investigative journalism. In Manipur, the illegal sale of fuel is so widespread and so easy to access that it is almost not a black market.

Does the illegal fuel in fact come from Mizoram? Or are their other, sources of illegal fuel? One resident in the petrol queue says, "We have heard that the petrol pump owners and the government are involved."

There is no conclusive proof of official involvement but enough to provoke intense public suspicion.

In the time of the blockade, the oil agencies no longer decide distribution. Instead it is taken over by the state government. The OSD who decides 'who gets how much' explained to us that a sizeable chunk is set aside for government departments; the largest being railways and the police.

RK Binoy, the OSD incharge of the fuel rationing says, "For the railway service they said that there is a daily requirement of 24kl something, but we cannot give them that daily so they are given 12 kl."

During an earlier bandh last year, a fire that began in the housing quarters of the battalion complex of the Manipur Rifles, the Manipur police's elite commando force, raged for hours. The state civil supplies minister accused the force of illegally hoarding fuel in their residential quarters. If any proof was needed of the scale of fuel stored, 30 houses inside the police complex were gutted in the blaze.

GK Pillai, former Home Secretary says, "Artificial scarcity is being built up because you have the stocks."

But the allegations are no longer restricted to street perception. GK Pillai, whose as had a long association with the North East lends weight to his voice, even in retirement, virtually accused the state government of corruption.

He says, "So just outside the petrol pump it is available and at other places which means it's not a problem of quantity. It's just a fact that you create an artificial scarcity. I think that because the blackmarketing is very rampant, otherwise you would not have supplies outside. I don't think they have conducted a single raid to unearth people who are stocking the essential commodities. And the very fact that, that hasn't been done means that there is connivance at the very top."

The Chief Minister predictably denies these charges, "That is completely wrong and baseless. If there are any cases like that we will take action, we will definitely take action."

On one hand, charges of artificial scarcity, but on the other, the inability to act against the bandh has led to as we shall see, a deeper charge of political opportunism. To investigate this means understanding the complex clash and play of Manipur's ethnic groups, and that means leaving Imphal for a northward journey on the troubled Highway 39.

Less than an hour outside Imphal and we are in the Sadar Hills, the territory of the Kuki tribe. Burnt trucks along the way, a reminder of when their blockade for district status was being violently enforced.

A demand now partly granted, in this MoU, of October, which says that the Sadar Hills will become a separate district and the town of Kangpokpi, the district capital. So this stretch of the highway is for the moment, clear.

Ngamkhohao Haokip, President of the Sadarhills Districthood Demand Committee says, "Our demand is not land, our demand is administration and development as citizens of Manipur and citizens of India."

But in an hour after that we are in Naga territory and just short of the town of Senapati, we come across the reality of the siege that has cut off Manipur's main supply line. A blockade enforced by 4 women and 3 boys. As per their self made rules only passengers with personal belongings are allowed A bag of petrol smuggled under clothes, is caught as a prize catch. Also offloaded are blankets, jerrycans of lubricants and potatoes.

.
Their smaller number or gender or reluctance to talk to us, doesn't take away from their determination. Women have always been at the forefront of struggles in the North East and this one is no different.
They point us to the town of Senapati to talk to the leaders behind the movement. The signs for Nagalim or a greater Naga homeland, mocks the authority of the Indian state.
In a small office, we meet the leadership of the United Naga Council (UNC), the umbrella body of Manipur's Naga tribes.
S.Milan, Information and Publicity Secretary of the UNC says, "According to earlier MoUs, in short for any upgradation in respect of Sadarhills, the Naga people would be consulted. So without consulting the Naga people, our stand is nothing doing. These were signed in 1981, 1992, 1996 and 1998."

Paul Leo, former President, UNC says, "Our stand is very clear, we have nothing to do with the state of Manipur because Nagas in Manipur last year on 1st of July by convening a public convention have taken a formal decision to severe ties with the government of Manipur and demand for alternative arrangement outside Manipur."

Chief Secretary of Manipur, DS Poonia says, "It is only UNC that chooses not to come to Imphal for attending meetings with the organisational committee. We had the 6th sitting today, all kinds of people are coming in and giving us whatever they want to say but they refuse to come."
Just outside Senapati town is a petrol pump, where we saw petrol and diesel being sold without any rationing; a striking example of life on the other side of the blockade.

So while those who live in Imphal are cut off from many goods and services to which they are used to. We saw and met people at a petrol pump where people had been queuing for 12 hours to get just 10 litres of petrol while in Senapati those restrictions do not exist. Now that is what gets people upset, not against the government but those responsible for the blockade, becoming a clash of communities. It becomes Meitis versus Nagas, Nagas versus Kukis.

Kumo Sha, the President of All Nagas Students' Association, Manipur says, "As it is here also. We also feel the pain of the common people suffering. I also suffer. Just like he mentioned it is the government's doing."

As a mark of their seriousness, they tell us about a still burning truck that tried to take a side road into the Valley. If any further evidence of how far the writ of the Indian state has receded is needed, experience Senapati's main marketplace at noon. Three boys, barely in their teens enforce what the UNC calls a public curfew for one hour. A daily ritual that has been in action at least a month before the blockade.


There is a police checkpost nearby and the Army's Assam Rifles are not far away from this area which comes under Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).
None of that seemed to matter on the ground. Hepuni, Inspector and OC of Senapati Police says, "We are doing our duty but if you force them there might be clashes and misunderstandings."
If these hardline positions make a political solution remote, shouldn't the government be more assertive?

Pradip Phanjoubam, Editor of Imphal Free Press says, "Atleast without taking sides, it should have opened up the highway, used all its force to open up the highway because it is illegal to disrupt the movement on the highways which is what the Supreme Court has said so that could have been used."

After all, convoys are coming in through NH 53, a journey 3 times longer with full protection. The Chief Minister yet again seemed helpless. Excerpts from the interview:

Ibobi Singh: We have already opened the National Highway 53, now it is called National Highway 37.

Sreenivasan Jain: I am talking of NH 39.

Ibobi Singh: There is no problem on NH 53 on the Imphal-Jiribaum road.

Sreenivasan Jain: But what is the problem on NH 39?

Ibobi Singh: On 53 there is no problem at all.

Sreenivasan Jain: Then what is the problem with NH 39, why is it so difficult?

Ibobi Singh: There is some weak bridge. Before repairing that weak bridge it was completely normal.

Sreenivasan Jain: I am asking about the NH 39 though. The one which is coming from Nagaland, why not put the security forces and open that up?

Ibobi Singh: We will review it. Tomorrow we will have our state government meeting, we will review this situation."

Central forces that protect the NH 53 convoys say they are ready to play the same role on NH 39 but need the political go ahead. DIGP(Manipur Range), CRPF, MS Raghava says, "We have been doing it, escorting these trucks for quite sometime now. There has never been any incident in our presence."

If those behind the blockade have taken such intractable positions, why is the State still unable to act? Is it because as some allege, there is political opportunism or is it as the State claims, this is now a dispute beyond its borders?

Assembly elections in Manipur are just a few months away and government sources openly admit that it would be naïve to assume that it is not weighing the political dimensions of the blockade, of the ethnically dominant community here in the Imphal valley experiencing a sense of siege by the tribal communities of the Hills.

Morning prayers at the Govindaji Krishna temple in Imphal which is the most sacred shrine for the Meitei Hindu's of the Imphal Valley.

The Meitei's are almost entirely concentrated in the Imphal Valley. While the hill districts are made up of the Nagas, Kukis and other tribes, the valley despite being small in size (only 8% of the state's land area) is heavily populated. Meitei's influence 40 out of 60 assembly seats. The street sentiment in Imphal is so far guarded, but even in a bandh weary state the mood could turn communal.

One angry young man on the street says, "We are tired. This will surely become anger and when that reaches its peak, when patience will become uncontrollable then there might be serious repercussions for the tribes. Because the tribes are doing the blockade and the main reason for this queue is the blockade."

Some allege that the chief minister, who is a Meitei, is prolonging the siege to fuel the insecurity of the Meitei's.

Pillai says, "I think the state government, to put it very bluntly, is not interested in ensuring that the blockade is lifted and the situation becomes normal. It is difficult to say what the benefit of it is for them but I would hazard a guess that the elections in Manipur coming in February next year, the feeling that the Meitis' are victimized, being harassed by other communities perhaps would pay a political dividend to the government."

The Chief Minister counters this, "No no, it is totally wrong. We are in Manipur and everyone lives here happily. There are no communal differences and misunderstandings. What is our benefit in this election? We do not like such things."

In fact the state government has a grouse with the Centre, which is holding talks with the NSCN - the leading Naga militant group for their demand for a separate homeland.

That envisages carving a territory out of at least 3 north eastern states including Manipur.
While the Centre has rejected that demand, some wonder whether that's one reason why New Delhi has not intervened in the current blockade.

Biren Singh says, "The central forces should be used. CRPF, Army BSF. Let us forget about the Army as it is for defence but atleast the para millitary forces."
And while the politics of blockades may yield political gains for each of the players, is it creating lasting polarisations between Manipur's ethnic groups For visiting journalists looking for that concluding moment of public unity, there could be no better place than at a tribute concert for the rock legend Neil Young which was held in a hotel in blockade weary Imphal.
A young woman says, "We love each other. I think it is only a figment of imagination and some political manifestations are there. That's it. We Manipuris are one actually."

An event like this doesn't take the political leadership off the hook nor does it solve the many intractable problems of Manipur.
But yes, however, clichéd or banal, it is that moment of redemption worth ending on.

Read more at: http://www.ndtv.com/article/india/manipur-the-myth-of-the-blockade-159749&cp
Kukis Losing Lands to India, Burma, B’desh and Manipur. Northeast Today
Kuki Liberation Organisation (KLO) along with its armed wing Kuki Liberation Army (KLA) celebrated the 12th ‘Reformation Day’ on December 17 at its Gamnom Camp with RGOK/KRA chairman M David Hangsing and KLO-KLA president L Jacob Kuki gracing the occasion as the chief guest and president respectively.
The celebration was also joined by representatives of Kuki Inpi, KSO and various other NGOs. Addressing the gathering, KLO/KLA general secretary L Timothy Kuki said lack of unity and committed leaders had been the main factor for the downfall of the Kukis.
Recounting that along with the fall of the british empire several nations regained independence but such sovereign status eluded the Kuki people due to absence of sincere leaders and unity, said the secretary and cited lack of unity as the main factor for the erstwhile sovereign Kukis consequently losing their lands to India, Burma, Bangladesh and Manipur.
After India gained independence gifting away of Kabow Valley to Burma by the first Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru in 1952 reduced the Kukis to a minority in their own land, maintained Timothy adding that despite efforts of some visionary Kuki leaders to protect their own lands by forming Kuki Liberation Organisation at a convention held in 1988 at Taphou village, aspiration of the Kuki people is yet to materialise.
He further stated that in the aftermath of the violent clash between the Kukis and Nagas in the early 1990s, a meeting hosted by the village chief of Molnom on November 20, 1994 resulted in the revival of the KLO along with forming its armed wing KLA, which had 150 cadres in the formative period under the command of TL Kuki.
However, the Organisation disintegrated consequently leading to reformation of KLO in 1999, conveyed Timothy.
clarifying that KLO/KLA has no intention to form a new nation of the Kukis or grab the land of others, he affirmed that aim and objectives of KLO/KLA is to protect land and properties of the Kuki people along with promoting peace in the region. Timothy also appealed to like-minded organisations for a concerted campaign to restore emotional and territorial unity of the Kukis.
Govt. Should Bring out White Paper on Supra State Body: UCM, AMUCO
December 22, 2011 admin No comments
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The United Committee Manipur and the AMUCO, in a joint statement issued today, said the state government should bring out a white paper on the matter of Supra state body.
Stating the people of Manipur are being kept in the dark on the issue, the UCM and AMUCO demanded that the ongoing winter session of the Manipur Legislative Assembly should reaffirm the decision that territorial integrity of Manipur will be kept intact and there cannot be formation of a Supra state body.
The joint statement also said that an official document regarding the matter should be forwarded to the central government and a white paper is needed to be brought out soon.
It also said the central government has been trying to disintegrate Manipur by plying the politics of hatred amongst the different communities residing in the state ever since Manipur merged to the Indian union in 1949.
Kind hearts or a dead giveaway? Tim Costello
Every little bit helps in a needy world, but surely we could do better.
IN THE mountainous state of Nagaland, in far north-eastern India, they have a unique tradition. It is called the Feast of Merit. To host a Feast of Merit, one must invite the whole village to a feast and that feast continues until all your assets have been liquidated, your livestock, your grains, everything.
Then you start again with nothing. In Nagaland, those who host the Feast of Merit are given a beautiful gold coat and hold the highest position of honour in the village. When I visited Nagaland in 2004, I was asked if Australia also had a similar tradition. I replied: ''I am pretty sure we don't.''
This rare story of giving may seem a world away from our lives in Australia, and it does leave me wondering: could we do more?
That very question was posed to the billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates this week, during his stay in Australia. The answer was a resounding yes.
The Microsoft founder called on the federal government to delay next year's return to surplus and increase its overseas aid budget instead.
His comments no doubt raised some eyebrows, but it's worth considering.
Australia plans to increase aid from 0.35 per cent of gross national income to 0.5 per cent by 2015-16. It is a wonderful step in the right direction, but still modest when compared with other Western nations. Britain, for example, plans to hit 0.7 per cent of GNI by 2013, despite struggling through a recession and vulnerabity to the current euro crisis. Mr Gates also spoke about philanthropy on an individual scale, particularly in relation to the world's wealthiest citizens.
He believes a trend is emerging outside of the US, including in Australia, where billionaires are showing a stronger interest in philanthropy. I dearly hope Mr Gates is right, but unfortunately the stats are yet to support his theory.
Australia does have a proud tradition of philanthropy. Yet for such a wealthy nation, we could do better. Our incomes are rising. In 2010 Australia ranked 7th in the world for GDP per capita. OECD figures show that the incomes of the richest 10 per cent of Australian households grew faster than their global counterparts. Western Australia, in particular, is at an unprecedented point in history, sitting at the centre of a resources boom, perfectly placed in the Asian region during the Asian century.
But despite this increasing wealth, among the top 5 per cent of income earners in Australia, 40 per cent do not claim any tax deductions for charitable giving at all.
Among those earning between $100,000 and $500,000, the average donation is 45¢ for every $100 of income - not all that much higher than the average of 33¢ for the whole population.
Those earning over $1 million a year give a more significant 2 per cent of their income, but how does that figure compare with the richest citizens of other countries? Last year, Bill Gates and his fellow billionaire Warren Buffett called on the world's richest people to donate half their wealth to charity.
Since then, more than 60 individuals and families have made a pledge.
Buffett himself has pledged to donate 99 per cent of his wealth to philanthropic foundations in his lifetime or at his death.
When I think about how the culture of giving in Australia compares with the US, one glaring difference jumps out at me.
I think most Australians see philanthropy as a private declaration, something that we do quietly and don't wish to brag about. This is an honourable position, but I wonder how far it really gets us? My hope is to see philanthropy publicly celebrated in the way Bill Gates and Warren Buffett have done to such effect. Not only do they donate, they also champion their cause, which in turn draws much-needed attention to the issue and inspires others.
We should remember that philanthropy is not just a matter of sacrificing income.
Generous philanthropy, well considered and well managed, not only creates opportunity for others, but lays the foundation for a culture and ethos of responsibility and strong community.
Right now, more Australians are better placed to practice philanthropy than ever before. Who will show the leadership that's needed to make it happen?
Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/business/kind-hearts-or-a-dead-giveaway-20111222-1p74y.html#ixzz1hHdkfzza

GPRN/NSCN will not allow Khaplang’s office in Dimapur MIP, GPRN/NSCN
A sensible Naga leader will think twice before sending armed men into Dimapur or into any Naga area on the eve of Christmas and New Year. Agreed, S.S Khaplang, after impeachment and expulsion from the party and government, through his many spokespersons, has withdrawn from Naga Reconciliation process yet, fully aware that the joyous festive season was at its harmonious best, who ordered 30-40 fully armed men had to be rushed to Naharbari? Singing carols and distributing Christmas gifts is obviously not their policy. Reintroducing violence during the festive season is a primary example of a leaderless gang.
GPRN/NSCN, under the leadership of President Gen. (Retd) Khole Konyak and Ato Kilonser N Kitovi Zhimomi, reminds the Ministry of Home Affairs, GOI that Naga people have phased out S.S Khaplang and therefore few ambitious individuals shouting Khaplang’s name in Nagaland have no affinity with the common objective of the Naga people. Whether MHA grants permission or not, GPRN/NSCN shall not allow the impeached and expelled former president’s remnant boys to open a sub office in Dimapur. They have every right to go to Burmese occupied Naga territory and assist their leader Khaplang in any activity he is involved in. In Nagaland the people have rejected S.S Khaplang and therefore any sub-office in the name of Khaplang is illegal. GPRN/NSCN is aware that those in Nagaland have little or no communication with Khaplang. Whether GOI bows down to expelled leader’s few callous boys and expose citizens of Dimapur to uncontrolled crime and danger or send them off to where they belong will be clear in the coming days. The 30th June 2011 bomb blast at Ambuja cement store at 3rd mile is still fresh in the mind of the people and K gang is responsible for it.
GPRN/NSCN informs all GBs, Chairmen and colony councils in and around Dimapur to reject GOI’s permission for Khaplang group’s sub-office. The land belongs to the people and the people have the final say. No authority on earth can force the Naga people to go against their will.
Let the Naga people be reminded that S.S Khaplang was impeached and expelled unopposed by the GPRN/NSCN Tatar Hoho on 7th June 2011 and he has wisely confined his activities in Burmese occupied Naga territory. The prime reasons being his anti-constitutional actions, ordering home authorities not to attend Highest Level talk on 18th Sept. 2010, his nexus with Anti-Naga forces, his involvement in Burmese election and finally his withdrawal from Naga Reconciliation Process. Those who signed Khaplang’s impeachment includes Kughalu Mulatonu, Niki Sumi, Hokato Vusshe, who along with Wangtin Naga and some few misguided elements are, presently, attempting to spill blood in Nagaland in the name of Khaplang.
Instead of carols and ringing bells, it was the gunfire that surprised the inhabitants of Naharbari on the morning and evening of 19th Dec. 2011. GPRN/NSCN regrets the inconvenience caused to the general public for the sporadic firing. Naga Army was forced to confront and evict armed criminals from Naharbari for the safety and security of the general public. GPRN/NSCN appeals for co-operation from all sections of people as it prepares to defend the will and desire of the Naga people against brute elements attempting to enforce violence in Nagaland. It seeks physical, moral and spiritual support from all peace loving Nagas.

MIP, GPRN/NSCN


Frans on 12.22.11 @ 07:51 PM CST [link]


Wednesday, December 21st

Those Who Seek Bloodshed Must Leave Nagaland: GPRN/NSCN (Khehoi) MIP, GPRN/NSCN



Those Who Seek Bloodshed Must Leave Nagaland: GPRN/NSCN (Khehoi) MIP, GPRN/NSCN

Fighting among the Naga brothers began after the infamous Shillong Accord of 1975. Thus began the exhibition of immaturity and senselessness that cost precious innocent lives including many prominent Naga men and women.
For over twenty years the effort to create conducive atmosphere among the Nagas was met with many obstacles. It is important for all political groups to realise that fighting among the Nagas will not enrich Naga freedom struggle.
Due appreciation must be conveyed to Forum for Naga Reconciliation led by Rev. Dr. Wati Aier for organising the Reconciliation meet in Chiangmai where Isak Chishi Swu, Singnya and S.S Khaplang signed the Covenant in 2008, declaring cessation of hostilities among the Nagas. GPRN/NSCN committed itself to the Covenant but in the years following it, despite the great effort to reason with him, S.S Khaplang began to direct home authorities with contradictory orders on the question of Naga Reconciliation. He avoided the Highest Level Meeting on 18th Sept. 2010 but home authorities endorsed Gen. Secretary N. Kitovi Zhimomi to save the embarrassment for the GPRN/NSCN since S.S Khaplang was the Signatory.
Today after the exit of S.S Khaplang from GPRN/NSCN, Chairman Gen. (Retd) Khole Konyak and General Secretary N Kitovi Zhimomi have made their intention clear to the Naga people; that Reconciliation and Unity among the Nagas is pre-requisite to any political settlement with the GOI. Towards this end the Highest Level Meeting among Naga political parties have been convened in Sept. 2010 and August 2011 and GPRN/NSCN is a party to it. Do S.S Khaplang and his boys have moral authority to talk about Naga Reconciliation Process when they have repeatedly issued press statements discarding Naga Reconciliation process? As for Wangtin and Mulatonu, they do not understand the pros and cons about struggle for independence. Freedom movement began before they were born. Their immaturity should not cause further trouble in Nagaland.
Chairman Gen. (Retd) Khole Konyak has a military background but all through his exemplary service to the Naga Nation, he has been more of a peace broker, a mediator between the warring Naga brothers. Many top leaders of other political groups admit to this fact. The impeachment and expulsion of S.S Khaplang from GPRN/NSCN was in the interest of the Naga Nation because no one is above the nation. It is a fact that S.S Khaplang is alive today because Gen. Khole saved him when former Kilonser Hanong was about to kill him.
There are certain former NGO leaders, particularly in Konyak Region, who are actively propagating against Chairman Gen. Khole Konyak and GPRN/NSCN with preposterous claims. Character assassination of such a respected Naga leader is an affront to Naga nation. Konyak Nagas perfectly understands who Chairman Gen. (Retd) Khole is. The slight confusion in Konyak Region is entirely the work of certain elements such as Mr. Powang Konyak and Mr. Khoiwang Konyak who, in connivance with S.S Khaplang called Khango Konyak at Mon town in the month of May 2011 and organised a feast declaring Khango Konyak as Khaplang’s Vice President. They are also responsible for the attack on C-in-C’s Camp in the month of June 2011. The image of KU and ENPO has been tarnished and devalued by anti-Naga policies of these men. On the question of statehood for ENPO people, Chairman Gen. (Retd) Khole told Powang and co. that he did not object but simply pointed out that at the present juncture, Naga Unity was the most important issue facing all Nagas. What interpretation is Powang giving to the innocent Konyak people?
Public leaders must not indulge in destabilizing the nation. Those propagating lies to the Konyaks shall be answerable to the people. Those people who are not for peace will not find peace in Nagaland or anywhere. This statement is issued in response to the Wentyu Village Meeting in Konyak Region which was carried in the local dailies.

PRESS STATEMENT Naga
Dated Tahamzam, 18th December, 2011 United Naga Council

The United Naga Council(UNC) is issuing this public statement in response to the reported recommendation of the communal Government of Manipur (GoM) to the Government of India(GoI) for banning of the UNC.

Through use of brute dominant force and legitimately established sanctions engineered by the communal GoM over the years, it has become impossible for the Nagas to protect our right to life, land, identity, time honoured institutions, customary practices and values and to live with dignity and honour as a people.

The issue is about the sharp social divide on communal lines created by years and years of suppression, oppression and exploitation by the communal GoM. The only option is the peaceful parting of ways and good neighbourliness.

This democratic and legitimate peoples’ movement is being sought to be banned by the communal GoM. We reproduce below a few instances of blatant abuse of power, nexus with extremist groups, criminal conducts, communalism and utter failure in governance of the GoM and bring it to the public domain as to why the GoM should not be banned instead -

01. The Naga aspiration for Integration under one political roof is not anti-national or unconstitutional or illegal as was pronounced in 1972 during the merger of the AICC and the United Naga Integration Council. Yet the GoM has vehemently objected to it with fanatical fervor.
02. The criminals spearheaded by the AMUCO, who burnt the Indian National Flag, Constitution of India, the State Assembly Hall(the temple of Democracy), the official quarters of Naga MLAs and attempted to vandalise the Raj Bhavan in protest against the extension of the Indo-Naga ceasefire beyond territorial limit in 2001 have all been all set free by the GoM by setting up the C. Upendra Commission and legalizing the crime.
03. The GoM opposed the entry of the Naga leader Th. Muivah to his Native place on law and order grounds and created law and order situation at Mao Gate that resulted in the killing of 2 students and wounding of more than hundred peaceful protestors on the 6th May, 2010. The extremely excessive force used by the State forces was approved instead of initiating punitive measures.
04. After O. Ibobi welcomed the plebiscite proposal by the banned UNLF on Sovereignty of Manipur, massive sensitization campaign on the plebiscite was carried in the 4 Imphal valley district with the support of the GoM and under the aegis of the UCM and the Meira Paibis. The Manipur Legislative Assembly deliberated on the 16th March 2011 on how the proposal of a banned organisation can be welcomed by a Chief Minister elected under the Indian constitution.
05. The GoM has been deafeningly silent when valley based civil organisations incited the public to bloodshed and violence should the Manipur Land Reform and Land Revenue Act, 1960 and Manipur State Land Use Board, 1991 be not extended to the hill/tribal areas.
06. The President of Manipur Working Journalists Union, Mr. Mobi Singh was arrested for being a collaborator of the KCP but the said Union was not banned.
07. The United Committee Manipur(UCM) President Mr. Sapamcha Dilip was implicated with one valley underground group but the GoM has done nothing to ban the UCM.
08. Mr. Mangi Singh, Vice President of Manipur Peoples’ Party(MPP) was arrested under NSA for his connection with valley extremists, but GoM has not initiated any action to ban the MPP.
09. MEELAL, a strident communal organisation burned down the state library at Imphal demanding imposition of Meiteilon(Manipuri) language on the tribal students but was left scot free without being banned.
10. Illegal arms were seized from the official quarter at Babupara of sitting MLA, Mr. Bijoy Koijam but he was not arrested.
11. The case of Th. Shyam Kumar, MLA of the Manipur Peoples’ Party, the then Deputy Speaker, Manipur Legislative Assembly who was arrested and detained in Tihar Jail, Delhi for close association with the valley based extremist group reflects the degree of nexus between the Meitei politicians and the valley extremist groups. MPP was not banned.
12. Mr. Amu Meitei, who was an active member of a valley extremist group and masquerading as the PA to Y. Irabot, Minister Industries of GoM was arrested from the Minister’s residence. No legal action was taken against the Minister concern.
13. The case of donation of Rupees one crore fifty lakhs by O. Ibobi to the PLA, a valley based extremists Group, when Gen. JJ. Singh was the Chief of Army Staff is still fresh in the memory of the public and no action has been initiated in this regard.
14. The details of Ibobi’s close nexus with the valley extremist groups and his wild abuse of power had been furnished to the AICC High Command in detail by Gaikhangam, President MPCCI and Surchandra, MLA, Spokesperson of the then dissident group of the Manipur Congress Party when they were camping in Delhi. However Ibobi continues in office with the blessing of his party High Command.
15. Strong opposition of the GoM to the visit of Mr. Neiphiu Rio, a democratically elected Chief Minister for the launching of Manipur unit of the Naga Peoples’ Front and creating a war like situation which was resolved only by the intervention of the Ministry of Home Affairs, GoI, speaks volume of the communal politics of the GoM.
16. Ibobi’s communal government has the distinction of having K. Ranjit Singh, Minister, Works who shot the Advocate General of the State; and N. Biren Singh, Minister, FCS and Spokesperson of the SPF, GoM whose son used his licence gun and shot dead an innocent student.
17. While Ibobi is unable to check the extortion of 29% at Imphal from all development work funds of the hills under his very nose, he wants to suppress the democratic movement of the Naga people in pursuit of their rights.
It is therefore being posed before the world why Ibobi’s communal Government, which has earned notoriety for misgovernance, communalism and abuse of power is being allowed to use the State as his own private fiefdom. The Government of India has the fundamental responsibility of ensuring that the constitution of India prevails throughout the country and intervene with imposition of Presidential Rule in the totally failed state of Manipur.

The GoM is now mobilising a section of the legal fraternity to obtain court strictures against the Naga frontal organisations to suppress the people’s movement to secure the due rights of citizens under a democratic polity. We shall however confront all the wild and communal attempts in the most befitting manner. We call upon all Nagas to be on guard and to be vigilant against any repressive measure of the GoM till our aspirations are secured.

Publicity Wing United Naga Council

Overseas Naga Association: Some Pertinent Reflections
Written by: Susan Waten, HAWA, Dimapur. (susanwaten@gmail.com">susanwaten@gmail.com)
The first ever Overseas Naga Association (ONA) conference was held at Orchid Hotel, Kohima, from 6th to 8th December, coinciding with the Hornbill Festival. The small and scattered diaspora that we have all over the world, some 35 to 40 of them came specifically to attend this conference. The Government of Nagaland did provide an aid of rupees one lakh to tide over some of their expenses, though it was strongly felt that the interaction between Nagas living abroad and in the homeland should in fact be institutionalized and concretized from henceforth.
I was fortunate to have attended some of the key sessions and to have been plunged into a sea of meaningful dialogue with people holding diverse perspectives on life. As a friend of ONA, I too genuinely sought to find a connecting link between Nagas abroad and those living in Nagaland. No, it was not simply “intellectual talk” per say, but rather it was crucial interaction that addressed the very core of every Naga caught in the push-n-pull of tradition and modernity. On the one hand, we had Himato Zhimomi, (Indian Foreign Service, the present Commissioner & Secretary, Art & Culture, and Tourism, Nagaland Government) who spoke of progressive socio-political and economic change. And on the other hand, we had Easterine Kire (Writer & Publisher based in Norway) who resisted any “money talk” and spoke of going into the villages in order to put back value into our traditional art practices.
Machutmi Shishak (Economic Officer, US Embassy in Burma, First Secretary (Economic), US Department of State) put forth an “open ended question” as to how Nagas may come back with a wealth of experience and expertise from overseas and invest it back home. He spoke of productive investment, whether of a social or financial nature, to be poured back home. He took the example of his father, Tuisem Shishak, who lived 15 years abroad and established Patkai Christian College in Dimapur. He said, “Regardless of who you are, where you come from, you have a role to play. We have to see ourselves as people God has a purpose for.”
Himato Zhimomi brought to our notice the economic boom in China, where the Chinese living abroad invested heavily in their home country. He thus asked, “Can we be part of the investment that we require here in Nagaland? Is it possible to get some of the investment back in our society?” Sure enough, turning his back on a very senior position in Paris, he came to Nagaland to serve his people and initiate them towards betterment and positive change. Two retired medical practitioners living in the UK, Dr. Tssikhen Kithan and Dr. Longsho Lotha expressed the desire to spend half the year in Nagaland in order to promote health care through mobile medical road shows. They felt the need to educate our people on relevant health issues and to propagate a healthier mind-set and life-style of the people.
My good friend from school, Marina Murray Schilling, a traditional craft entrepreneur from Australia (handcraftedwithheart@gmal.com">handcraftedwithheart@gmal.com), showed keen interest in reviving the slowly vanishing traditional arts and handicrafts. Agreeing with Himato Zhimomi that we need global entrepreneurs to market our products, she added, “Our businesses should not be for profit only, or at the expense of innocent villagers. We should do everything with integrity.”
A concern shared by Temsuyanger, the London based artist centered on “tourism” in Nagaland. Looking ahead 20 years from now, he feared a “tsunami effect” that unbridled tourism may have, especially with regard to rural areas. He maintained, “Does Nagaland have any tourist-friendly infra-structure? No! But why do tourists still come here? It’s to see our culture, the way we live in our villages. Our tradition and culture is unique. Yet if we push tourism too rampantly into our villages, we will soon see the effects of social evils that will land us in dirty waters.” Thus speaking about “responsible tourism,” he said that we must not forget our past and where we come from; we need awareness and open intelligent dialogue as Nagas are leaping in terms of time.
Prior to the historic gathering of the ONA members for the conference, most of them were clueless as to where they actually stood in regard to Nagaland. This conference gave them an emotive direction toward concretizing the relationship between Nagas abroad and at home, and the specific areas that they felt competent to invest in. A need was also felt that they should engage with people in a more concrete manner through the government machinery. Credit goes to Dr. Visier Sanyu (ONA President & Refugee Coordinator, Act for Peace, Melbourne, Australia), Dr. Paul Pimomo (ONA General Secretary & Professor of English, Central Washington University, USA) and other significant ONA members who worked relentlessly to make this conference a reality, and a very enriching one at that.
My People: Tradition and resilience among the Naga Cultural Survival Tuisem Ngakang

My people, the Nagas, have a continuing high regard for the past, and throughout our life we are taught by example and observation that it is through the knowledge gained over time that our people have managed to survive.
We Naga are taught that all things stem from and continue to be tied to the past, and that it must continue to be respected and preserved. In our land, it is necessary to hand down from generation to generation the knowledge and the skills to ensure survival.
The customs, beliefs, values, and opinions of Naga society were handed down from their ancestors to posterity by word of mouth or by practice since the earliest times, until the advent of British colonization in northeast India and its stress on literacy and the written word 150 years ago changed the trend. Before this so-called “civilizing” contact, we Nagas had lived our lives and had maintained our traditions in our own way. We made things and had acquired property; believed, loved, hated, fought, wandered, and wondered; and we learned many things by our own experimental existence. Our dreams, fears, and hopes had existed since the most primitive days when our lives began.
From birth, children are taught through stories and legends about survival, endurance, and respect for nature and all mankind. Toys and playthings are fashioned for them, including tools and traditional dress, so that they may learn early about the roles they will assume. Girls are provided with packing parkas and carry their dolls on their back as they will carry their children in the future. They also are taught the traditional styles and methods for sewing and designing clothing. Boys are dealt with from an early age as budding warriors, and are introduced to traditional games, group play, and exercises to learn alertness, improvisation, and endurance.
Children in my culture quickly come to understand that time-honored skills and attitudes can never be relegated solely to the past, that they ensure a way of life and survival in the present and for the future. Children spend a great amount of time listening to the elders as they recount tales of their past, and sing individual songs called haolaa. These songs usually speak of events that occurred in the past and detail their reaction to them. Their ties to the past have essentially been passed down verbally through legends, anecdotes, and songs.
I am part of something that time has not erased. As a Naga, I have learned first-hand that the knowledge handed down by my people on survival in our land is not to be disregarded, and failure to practice and uphold this wisdom can only result in tragedy or disharmony for an individual or a group.
We Naga have a strong sense of self: of who we are, and why we are as we are. Through our legends we speak of our close ties with the spiritual world, and of our reverence for and understanding of wildlife. Stories handed down through time depict our interrelationship with the animal world, and tell of animals and humans exchanging roles, acquiring supernatural powers, and teaching and providing for one another. Our artwork also reflects these relationships, as do rituals that show respect for and acceptance of this oneness and harmony, which is displayed in our carvings and shawls.
All these, and more, are an eloquent testament to the way of life of a people. They represent the spirit, attitude, wisdom, and life-style which the Nagas have lived, have believed, and have passed on from generation to generation for many centuries. They are the product of our experience rooted at a particular time in the life of the society. This built-up wealth of Naga oral tradition has lived, is living, and will live in the folklore of the people. It is enshrined in the memories and hearts of the people. These tradition-bearers have kept alive the totality of our society, the unique system of our beliefs, the pristine virtues of our humanity, and the rich cultural heritage found in the folk tales, myths, legends, proverbs, superstitions, songs, and recitations of our ancestors, which have come down from the remote past of our history.
When the Westerners came to our land, they did not understand many of our Naga values and practices; their civilizations were different from our own. The tendency was to laugh at those things that looked surprising from the standpoint of those who made themselves judges. These were labeled “primitive” and “uncivilized,” because they did not conform to “civilized” standards.
Early missionaries, who considered our folklore primitive, without depth or sophistication, missed the point completely. Although there may be some common-sense beliefs and superstitions in the Indigenous communities, it must be noted that these have existed side by side with some humanity’s most profound philosophies, as well as some of its deepest truths.
Our elders tell us that we are the earliest inhabitants of this land. We are also aware of the tales and stories associated with the earliest contact with non-Nagas, in the form of wanderers, traders, missionaries, geographers, administrators. Our older people speak of their parents meeting the earliest visitors and sharing our food and shelter with them. There are many sites in our territory that tell of the heroic deeds of our forefathers and speak about our past, but these have limited historical interest to the Nagas, as they have simply accepted the sites’ existence as part of their lives. But our attitude should change, as outsiders are intruding. A new awareness of these sites should be seen as the key to preserving the past. As the population grows, our people should become increasingly concerned about the threat to the environment.
Archaeologists recently did some work on our land. It is good that we are digging out our past, but it is also necessary for the Nagas to share in that understanding and knowledge of the past. We will need to spend more time and attention to the strong concerns we have regarding removing artifacts to distant museums, where we question whether we shall ever get an opportunity to view them again and use them to educate our own children.
To know that we belong to us, we need to actively do our part to preserve our environment, wildlife, and historical sites while they are still relatively intact. We should learn how valuable they are and care for them for ourselves and our children. Spending our time in taking care of these invaluable resources is one way to look at our own way of life.
Standing here in my own land, with friendly birds and lovely animals, I am aware that their ancestors probably watched mine in the same manner in this same place hundreds of years ago. Here on this land, nothing has changed through time. I—Naga—and the land and the animals are still here. This is my past, and this has become a special place. Even though I am young, I, too, am the past as much as I am the future!
Tuisem Ngakang is a researcher who is currently working on recording the music of Tangkhul Nagas while waiting to defend his PhD thesis. He is particularly interested in music, dance, and conflict resolution among the Naga.
Ceasefires are not enough
The head of the Euro-Burma Office, Mr Harn Yawnghwe, on his role in last month’s negotiations on the Thai-Myanmar border, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s role in peacebuilding and the need to achieve a ‘political solution’ with ethnic groups
By Shwe Yinn Mar Oo
Volume 31, No. 605
December 12 - 18, 2011

Harn Yawnghwe (centre) and Minister for Railways U Aung Min (right) at ceasefire negotiations conducted on November 19-20.
Pic: Supplied
What role have you played in the peace negotiations that have taken place to date?
I was asked by Railways Minister U Aung Min to help set up meetings for him with the Shan State Army-South, Karen National Union, Karenni National Progressive Party, Chin National Front and Kachin Independence Organisation on the Thai-Myanmar border. I did and I participated in all the meetings on November 19 as a facilitator. That was the extent of my involvement. I am not involved in any of the subsequent meetings or negotiations taking place between the government and the KIO or the SSA-S.
We’ve heard that subsequent negotiations have started between the government and KIO in Shweli. What can we expect from the negotiations, which are led by high-ranking Union Solidarity and Development Party members?
I was not involved in the meeting between the KIO and the government in Shweli. But such a meeting should have taken place long ago. It is not right that the conflict should have been allowed to escalate to the extent it has, causing the population to suffer. Government troops are trying to secure a road in an area that both sides acknowledge is KIO territory.
What advantages are there to conducting the talks on Chinese territory?
If the talks take place in government-held territory, the KIO could technically be at a disadvantage. The same is true for the government if they take place in KIO territory. Taking place in China – a neutral venue – gives both sides the same advantage. It is a matter of building trust and confidence in the preliminary stages of negotiations.
If Daw Aung San Suu Kyi becomes a member of parliament or even a member of the government, what effect will this have on the peace process?
It will depend on how the government wants to handle the peace process. If, as some people suspect, it only wants ceasefires, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi’s presence in the parliament or government will make no difference. But if the government really wants permanent peace her presence could speed up the process.
She has already said that she is ready to assist in whatever role she can. How do you think she can help?
One of the reasons the government’s peace offer is not being welcomed by the various ethnic groups is the fact that they do not believe the government really wants to resolve the problem through political dialogue. For example, the KIO agreed to a ceasefire in 1994 because the military government said that they can have a political dialogue when there is a new elected government. Therefore, the KIO participated in the National Convention and supported the holding of elections in 2010. As a member of parliament or the government, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi might be able to question why this is happening. If she can ensure that the government handles the peace process properly, confidence in the process can be restored. The negotiations can then move ahead.
Are you optimistic that she can help build trust between the government and ethnic groups?
The ethnic nationalities trust her because she is the daughter of General Aung San. He related to the ethnic leaders as equals. He listened to what they wanted and sincerely tried to find a political solution that everybody could be happy with. The concept of the nation they agreed to was a Union of Burma where the Bamar, Shan, Kachin, Chin and other ethnic nationalities would, as co-founders, equally share the burden of nation-building. Unfortunately, General Aung San’s successors did not share his vision. The Bamar instead replaced the British and took on the role of big brother, diminishing the role of the ethnic nationalities. It later became worse with the military believing that they were the only ones who should be responsible for the welfare of the nation. She definitely can help rebuild trust but to have a permanent peace in the country, we need nationwide discussions on what we want the Union of Myanmar to look like in the future. Today, the ethnic states do not want to separate from the union. But if there is no justice and no way to resolve disagreements in peacefully through political discussions, then the conflicts will continue.
Critics say the government has made progress in political reform but little improvement in the way it deals with ethnic armed organisations. What’s your opinion?
The ethnic armed organisations exist because there was no way for ethnic nationalities to peacefully express their disagreement. Asking the armed groups to just stop fighting and engage in making money will not solve the problem. They are not fighting because they want to make money. They feel that the role of the ethnic nationalities in the history of Myanmar has not been recognised.
‘Dimasa’s rich culture needed to be preserved’ Nagaland post





A two-day biennial general meeting of Dimasa Lairidim Mel (DLM) 2011 was held on December 19-20 under the chairmanship of its president, Najendra Nunisa.

The function was graced by Alemtemshi Jamir, IAS, additional chief secretary and development commissioner Nagaland and Kalijoy Sengyung, education EM, Dima Hasao district, Assam, as the chief guest and the guest of honour respectively. Speaking at the function, the chief guest stated that Dimasas have rich history and culture which needed to be preserved and promoted. He also informed the members that there were over 300 linguistic groups in N.E India, the highest in Asia, and one of the reason why there were so many communal problems. He also stressed the need for human resource development in education, health care and livelihood, and further informed that the number of Chinese people learning English language was 5 times more than the population of England. To this he said it was important that DLM have link with English launguage.

Speaking as the guest of honour, Kalijoy Sengyung stressed on the need to preserve and promote Dimasa literature.
He was optimistic that Dimasa language would certainly develop one day, and requested all the DLM district committees to strengthen DLM central executive committee in achieving its target.

The chief guest also donated `1, 00, 000 towards the fund of the organizers, `10, 000 each to the two cultural troops and `5, 000 to the reception party.

Other dignitaries who spoke at the occasion were president, Karbi Sahitya Sabha, Karbi Anglong. Dr. Motilal Nunisa ex- president DLM and director health and family welfare, government of Assam, S.K Khemprai, president, Kachari Tribal Council Nagaland.

Earlier on his presidential address, Najendra Nunisa highlighted the future plan of DLM for the development of Dimasa language and culture. The general secretary DLM central executive committee presented the report and also read out the resolution adopted at the meeting.

India’s North East Region in 2011 – Declining Violence & Distant Peace Assam Times
2012 is far near. Former Deputy Director in the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) Dr. Bibhu Prasad Routray writes his analytic piece about North East India in the period of 2011.

By- Bibhu Prasad Routray | Date- December 21, 2011
2011 was the year of consolidation of the absence of violence-phenomenon that has dawned in India’s Northeast for the past few years. Most parts of this rebellious region have reported declining trends in armed violence. Many of the mature insurgency movements, which appeared to be intractable for a long time, have run out of steam. Cooperation from neighbouring Bangladesh has managed to achieve what the decades-long military, development and political initiatives by the Indian government could not. And yet, the goal of establishing durable peace in the region, looks some distance away. This year end assessment is an attempt to survey the ongoing peace processes in the region in terms of their proximity to final solutions.
The Success that was
On the basis of the available figures on militancy/insurgency related incidents and fatalities, Northeast looks a much different region from what it was in 2008 and 2009. The significant improvements registered in 2010 have been further consolidated. Violent incidents have declined, so are the fatalities among the civilians. Fatalities among the security forces increased, mostly due few of the major ambushes such as the 14 March 2011 ambush in Assam’s Kokrajhar district that killed eight Border Security Force (BSF) personnel, the 15 April ambush by the Naga rebels in Manipur that killed six police personnel and the 31 October ambush by the Garo rebels in Meghalaya that killed four policemen.
Security Situation in the Northeast
Year No of Incidents No. of Security Forces Killed No. of Civilians Killed
2008 1561 46 466
2009 1297 42 264
2010 773 20 94
2011 (upto 31 October) 512 32 61
Source: Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India
However, if declining fatalities tell a story of promise, the existing abilities among the insurgents foretell a narrative of continuing challenges. Moreover, it is also problematic to consider peace processes as an end in themselves. Without a final agreement, peace processes resemble only stop gap arrangements. And a cursory look at the continuing peace processes in the Northeast are indicative of the failure in this regard.
The Success that wasn’t
Peace process with ULFA: The MHA’s Annual Report 2010-11 speaks of Suspension of Operations (SoO) Agreements with a number of outfits in the Northeast. The year 2011 added one more outfit to the list. The pro-talk faction of the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA)- consisting of top leaders of the outfit who were arrested in Dhaka and subsequently handed over to India and some of the ULFA commanders who had come overground previously- submitted its charter of demands to New Delhi in August. The first round talks took place in October, marking the beginning of what is suspected to be an extended process to solve the insurgency.
In spite of the hullabaloo the development generated, there are serious doubts about the efficacy of the process. To begin with, it is a process of negotiation with a group of mostly arrested ULFA cadres, for whom engagement in peace process is the only way of staying out of the prison. Secondly, the government has very little to offer to the ULFA’s pro-talk faction in terms of independence or autonomy to Assam. Unless the pro-talk ULFA faction gives up the sovereignty demand and settles for some watered down provisions for the protection of cultural and economic rights of the indigenous people of Assam, the negotiation process would be an exercise in futility.
Peace processes do provide the insurgents an opportunity to remain in the limelight and garner several benefits. For the Government, negotiations are tactics of engaging and wearing out the insurgents. However, at the same time, without proper implementation of the ground rules, over-grounding of the insurgents can have serious security implications. Nagaland has been an example of this trend, where overground insurgents continue to run parallel government. Similarly, the revelations made by the Police during the 19-20 December 2011 Conference of the Directors General (DGP) and Inspectors General of Police (IGP) in Guwahati also foretell a similar problem for Assam, in terms of accentuating the Maoist extremist threat to the Northeast.
Where as the region has been on the radar of the Communist Party of India (CPI-Maoist) for quite sometime and the outfit is known to have established linkages with outfits of Manipur, the ULFA in recent times has emerged as a potential collaborator for the Maoists. Assam Police now claims that some of the overground ULFA cadres are now doubling up as Maoist cadres in the state. Police departments in the region have little exposure to the Maoist activities. This loophole, unless plugged, can provide ample opportunity for the Maoists to fill the vacuum created by the neutralisation of the outfits.
The other challenge to the recent peace in Assam comes from ULFA’s military commander Paresh Baruah, who remains opposed to the peace process. With the beginning of the peace process between the Government and the ULFA’s pro-talk faction, Baruah stands isolated. However, to dismiss him as redundant would be a mistake. History has taught us that an outfit with handful cadres and arms can create havoc in the region. Baruah has both. In addition, he has the experience of building an armed movement from the scratch and more importantly, the good wishes of those who aren’t particularly thrilled with the peace process in Assam.
Naga Peace Process: Progress appears to have been achieved in the Naga peace talks. First indication of the convergence of views between New Delhi and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) was provided in July 2011 when both parties made a joint announcement stating that they have narrowed down differences and are trying to come to a settlement in the shortest possible time. Six months later, on 18 December the NSCN-IM General Secretary said, “We have almost come to a meeting point.” However, fact remains that the solution of the Naga issue on NSCN-IM’s terms can be a harbinger of serious problems in neighbouring states especially in Manipur and New Delhi avoid risking such a scenario.
Media reports in recent times have harped on New Delhi creating a Supra State offering maximum autonomy to Nagaland under provisions of the Indian Constitution. The actual points of agreement remain pure guess work for the moment. On 14 December the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) replied in negative in response to a question in the upper house of the Indian Parliament, “Whether Government has any proposal in any form that would enable people to enjoy certain special powers relating to the traditional and social customs of the Nagas in the State of Northeast Region in the context of the solution of NSCN-IM demands?.” Similarly, on 3 December Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh had declared in Imphal “the Central government is committed to the territorial integrity of Manipur”. The NSCN-IM criticised the statement as unfortunate and a u-turn to the commitment of seeking the Indo-Naga solution outside the box. Understandably, the Naga rebel leadership isn’t in a position to accept an arrangement that does not recognise the right of the Naga people to live under a single administrative unit.
By all means, the Naga conflict is not any closer to solution.
Peace in Manipur: A lot of hope had been pinned on long-term peace in Manipur following the 2010 arrest of R K Meghen, Chief of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF). Meghen’s arrest was a setback to armed militancy in Manipur. However, on the other level, the expectations that Meghen can be made agreeable to start a process of dialogue with the government have not fructified. Meghen, who equates peace processes with surrender, hasn’t shown any signs of following the example set by ULFA Chairman Mr. Rajkhowa and company. His obstinacy, in the long run, may prove to be an encouragement not just for the surviving UNLF leaders and cadres, but also to the rest of the extremists whose belief in the revolution is not yet shaken. Violence has drastically declined in Manipur. However, as the 30 November explosion in Imphal demonstrated, outfits do retain nuisance capacities.
Prognosis
The future of peace in the Northeast would remain linked to New Delhi’s intelligent use of the tools of negotiation as well as force in 2012. The overall reduction in insurgent violence provides it the opportunity to take some bold and generous initiatives. The key question is whether a pro-active approach would replace the policy of procrastination?
About the Author: Dr. Bibhu Prasad Routray, a former Deputy Director in the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS), Government of India is currently a Visiting Research Fellow with the South Asia programme of the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. He can be contacted at bibhuroutray@gmail.com">bibhuroutray@gmail.com and on Twitter @BibhuRoutray.
Apply same yardstick for backward tribes: ZSUN morungexpress
Kohima, (MexN): The Zeliang Students’ Union Nagaland (ZSUN) has drawn attention to the recent advertisement of the School Education Department published on 10 December.
While appreciating the magnanimity of the central and the state government for creating thousands of posts for primary and graduate teachers in Nagaland, in a representation, the ZSUN stated, it is observed from the 1st paragraph of the advertisement that the remaining requisite educational qualification for primary teacher is given 10+2/PU passed with 45% marks and above from any recognized university, however, it said, the para 7 of the advertisement had given the relaxation on educational qualification to the candidate belonging to the Districts of Mon, Tuensang, Kiphire and Longleng, 10+2/PU with 40 % and above are qualified to apply for the post of under graduate teacher.
Appended by ZSUN President Iteichu and Finance Secretary Diragong Cerai they expressed their opinion that the step must have been taken by the government due to the backwardness of the tribes in the stated districts, yet it is unfortunate that the same yardstick and consideration was not accorded to the Zeliang (backward tribe) candidate from Peren district who is equally backward.
The representation note said that the government should frame uniform policy for the whole of the state with the same yardstick for the people in the same category of cases and in this particular case, the educational qualification of 10+2/PU with 40% and above as qualified to apply for the post of under graduate teacher for all backward tribes in Nagaland. “This shortsightedness on the part of the department is regretted and is considered as injustice”, it added. As such, the department is earnestly requested to correct its uniformly for the state of Nagaland and in the interest of justice by consideration relaxation to the Zeliang candidate to qualify for application to the post of primary teacher with educational qualification of 10+2/PU with 40% and above.
Furthermore, it said the ZSUN will appreciate if the number of post for the primary as well as the graduate teachers for Peren districts can be specified.


Frans on 12.21.11 @ 11:02 PM CST [link]


De Nagas komen! 11 januari 2012


A Naga International Support Center, NISC www.nagalim.nl
A human rights organization

Uitnodiging

Amsterdam, 20 December 2011

De Nagas komen! 11 januari 2012

Naga Cultuur - Vrij tegen de verdrukking in

Reisboekhandel de Evenaar en het Naga International Support Center (NISC) nodigen u uit voor de presentatie van Naga Culture – Free against the odds, Naga Cultuur - Vrij tegen de verdrukking in, een groot formaat fotoboek, 30x30 cm over de Naga volken van Noord Oost India and Noord West Myanmar

Cultuur is de drijvende kracht achter de identiteit van de -tot nog toe- vrijwel onbekende Nagas die, voor het behoud van hun cultuur, zo sterk is dat zij in staat blijken invasies te weerstaan.

De Nagas, een verzamelnaam voor meer dan 40 inheemse volken, weten dat zij deel uitmaken van deze wereld en recht hebben op zelfbeschikking. Afstammend van dezelfde voorouders presenteren zij zich nu gezamenlijk naar buiten.

In nauwe samenwerking met het Reisboekhandel de Evenaar lanceert het Naga International Support Center dit unieke boek over de Naga Cultuur op 11 Januari 2012.

Naga Culture – Free against the odds is een fotografische belevenis van 132 pagina’s, full color coffee table size, in het Engels, een co-productie Nagaland en Nederland

Op korte termijn verschijnt Between David and Goliath, een boek over de actuele vredesbesprekingen tussen de Naga Volken en de Indiase Overheid. U kunt intekenen op Out of Isolation, ook van Frans Welman, dat ingaat op de complexe achtergronden van het conflict India-Nagaland.

Kom en laat U verrassen!

Voor meer informatie kijk op www.nagalim.nl of mail nisc@nagalim.nl">nisc@nagalim.nl


Frans on 12.21.11 @ 10:34 PM CST [link]


Sunday, December 18th

Indo-Naga talks on verge of settlement: Th Muivah Imti Leeti Longchar



Indo-Naga talks on verge of settlement: Th Muivah Imti Leeti Longchar

DIMAPUR: NSCN-IM general secretary Th Muivah, who arrived Dimapur Saturday, made a significant disclosure while indicating that the dialogue with the Government of India (GoI) on the decades-old protracted Indo-Naga issue is on the verge of reaching a meeting point for an honourable settlement acceptable to all.

“We have almost come to a meeting point…you know, their (GoI) position is clear to us, ours is also equally clear to them,” Muivah said during a five-minute interaction with the media here at Dimapur Airport upon his arrival.
However, the NSCN-IM general secretary sought to make it clear that the ball remains in the court of the Government of India.
“They have to take the initiative and we are waiting for that,” Muivah stated, providing an indicator that both parties have finally come to a certain level of agreement for settlement of the Naga issue.
Earlier this week, on December 13, Muivah and NSCN-IM chairman Isak Chishi Swu had met Union Home Minister P Chidambaram and interlocutor RS Pandey in New Delhi to discuss on the ongoing peace process. After the meeting, Muivah had told reporters that ‘things have become much clearer now.’
During the month of July, the NSCN-IM and the GoI had made a similar joint announcement stating that they have narrowed down differences and are trying to come to a settlement in the shortest time possible.
When queried on media reports of the GoI offering maximum autonomy to Nagaland under provisions of the Indian Constitution or the so called Supra State status which has created quite a furore in neighbouring states, the NSCN-IM general secretary denied the existence of such a proposal while maintaining that the ‘report is only what the press people are saying’ and not from the Centre.
“Not from Government of India. Why, because we know. They (GoI) are also trying their best despite their difficulties, and even then they are trying to work through. We (NSCN-IM) are also trying on our side,” he responded.
On being asked to comment on the United Naga Council demand for an alternative arrangement outside the government of Manipur, Muivah merely termed it as a ‘side issue.’
“Our issue is our rights and integration. All the Nagas must lived together,” he said.
When asked if there was any particular reason for him coming to Dimapur, he replied, “Naga laga homeland ase, Naga manu ase, moi kile nahibo?” (This is Naga people’s homeland; I am a Naga, so why shouldn’t I come?).
NSCN-IM chairman Isak Chishi Swu had reached Dimapur earlier on December 15. The leader, who is reported to have been ailing for some time, was seen being wheeled out in a wheelchair on arrival at Dimapur Airport.

Talks moving in right direction: NSCN(I-M) R Dutta Choudhury Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, Dec 11 – Talks between the Government of India and National Socialist Council of Nagalim (I-M) are going on at the positive spirit and right direction, asserted senior leader of the outfit, R H Raising.
Talking to The Assam Tribune, Raising, who is also the Kilo Kilonser (Home Minister) of the Government of People’s Republic of Nagalim of the NSCN, said that the process of talks were in the right track, but he refused to divulge what the Government of India has offered the outfit.
Raising admitted that it is too early to say as to when a formal accord would be signed between the Government and the NSCN. He said that the NSCN was doing its “level best” to find early and amicable solution to the conflicts and the ball is now in the court of the Government of India.
Commenting on the allegations that the NSCN was intruding into the territories of other states, claimed that they did not intrude into other’s territories. The others are in fact intruding into the territories of the Naga people. There is no reason for others to comment on the Indo-Naga talks, he asserted.
The NSCN leader said that the process of rehabilitation of the cadres of the outfit would start after restoration of peace. He pointed out that signing of a cease-fire agreement does not mean restoration of permanent peace. Cease-fire agreement is only a part of the process to restore peace, he added.
Raising refused to comment on whether the NSCN(K) would also start the process of talks. He said that the NSCN (K) is a breakaway faction which did not represent the hopes and aspirations of the Naga people. He asserted that the NSCN (I-M) is an organization based on principles, which represents the aspirations of the Naga people.
The NSCN leader said that they would be ready to extend helping hand to any militant outfit which comes forward to solve their problems through negotiations. He said that the NSCN believes in solution of any problem through negotiation. However, he said that talk with any militant group should be held on mutual respect and recognition of the rights.
It may be mentioned here that confusing media reports on the progress of talks with the NSCN created confusion in the minds of the people of the region as it was reported in a section of the media that the Centre offered creation of a “supra state”. But Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, during his recent visit to Manipur, clarified that there is no proposal to create “supra state”.
An urgent appeal to our Naga brothers in India: The Cry of the suffering Nagas in Myanmar A. Makury Morungexpress

Delhi and Naypyidaw had very recently countersigned the agreement on constructing a very huge hydroelectric dam in the Chindwin River viz. Tamanthi Dam whose actual site is at Tazone-Lawayyan around 35 km away from Homalin town (Eastern Nagaland or Myanmar Occupied Nagalim), Sagiang Division. For this project Delhi is mainly involved financially and technologically, whose feasibility report was given by Switzerland’s Colenco Power Engineering, Ltd. This Hydroelectric dam is expected to produce 1, 200 MW, of which 80% will be sent to Delhi and the remaining 20% will be used in Monywa Copper Mine, Sagaing Division.
Since, the time the two governments began to commence the work in early 2007, more than 2,400 villagers from Tazone and laywayyan villages had already been displaced in coercion without a proper compensation or without any compensation from the junta government. It is estimated that the water reservoir of the dam will cover more than 1400 sq km and more than 45,000 people will be permanently displaced.
But this report seems inadequate because Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) which was commissioned to look out itself complained that the team was not given sufficient time and access to survey by the junta government. So we, surveying it from the ground level, can be sure that around 100,000 people including Non-Nagas will be affected because the flood reservoir will reach up to Minsein of Khamti Township (even Khamti town itself is uncertain as measured by the experts).
The people who live along the banks of the Chindwin River, Nanteleik/Tizu/Sati River and Nawin River are 90% agrarians. The water reservoir also will reach up to Yannwe plain on the bank of the Nanteleik/Tizu/Sati River, the first tributary of the Chindwin River and Kantkodaw Naga village and Monkailin a Kuki village on the bank of Nawin River, the second tributary. Then, this statistics gives a rough view that tens of thousand acres of the agricultural land (80% agricultural land of the Nagas) will be submerged completely.
Relocation of the displaced people is also completely unfair. For instance, a man in Maungkhan village who constructed the house by spending 150 lakh Kyats (almost 10 lakh Rupees in present currency exchange rate) was informed only 15 lakh Kyats in return from the junta government. In New Tamanthi (Naga village), a Naga farmer who has 15 acres of paddy field in Set Nga Kwin was informed 150,000 Kyats in total where as the present market rate is 5 to 8 lakhs per acre. Those dislocated villages and people are not given a proper site. The junta said, all the dislocated people have to do “Kotu Kota,” which literally means “self-support” or better “self-struggle.”
The villages which are not affected by the flood reservoir are also ordered to share their properties, land, and source of income to those displaced people. Additionally, there are some more severe corollaries such as health problems, lack of education, unemployment, social problems and environmental issues viz. loss of bio-diversity and flora and fauna, soil pollution, deforestation, etc. Many of the natural resources like gold mine, teak forests and some other precious stuff will be sucked
by the Non-Nagas like Burmese, Indians and Chinese. It is a deliberate Human Rights violation, a kind of genocide committed against the innocent people and an open insult to the land owners (the Nagas) as this agreement is sorted out without the consent of the Nagas and people there.
The leaders in Eastern Nagaland (Myanmar Occupied Nagalim) are picked-ups and mouthpiece of the junta and they keep mum and even stay in line with the junta as though nothing is going wrong, which in reality is deadly! The Thein Sein government is blowing the trumpet of democracy in Naypyidaw but the actual ground proves their claim to be a lie STILL and the double standard of the junta is so clearly seen. To mention more, the junta government is still practicing Human Rights violation, religious exploitation, structural violence and force labor on the Nagas in Eastern Nagaland.
Therefore, it is our humble request to our brothers (DAN, NPMHR, NBCC, NSCNs, Senior Citizens, Naga Hoho, NSF and many other Naga organizations) in India to reach out to us in every possible way and to uphold us by raising voice against Delhi to stop helping of the junta in materializing this heinous project and to let review the LOOK EAST POLICY of Delhi. Thank you and God bless you all. Kuknalim!

A. Makury
Senior Researcher, MNLD, Thailand

The Ten Commandments of Armed Forces Special Powers Act

1. You shall have no other ‘god’ under AFSPA except ‘military rulers’.

2. You shall not make for yourself a strong civilian Government that would repeal AFSPA from the land.

3. You shall not take the name of AFSPA in vain, for AFSPA will not hold anyone guiltless who takes its name in vain.

4. Remember Curfew days to keep it holy. On these days, you shall not venture out from your residence for AFSPA’s hallowed ‘angel’ (bullet) may punish you.

5. Honour your Army Generals and Captains that your days may be long in the land, which you have inherited from your fore-parents.

6. You shall not kill Indian armies even though they kill your people and rape your sisters.

7. You shall not commit even a slightest mistake before AFSPA for that could cost your life.

8. You shall not raise your voice in media about atrocity committed by Indian armed forces.

9. You shall not file case in court against human rights violation by Indian armed forces.

10. You shall not covet your neighboring States’ civilian Governments, development and security.

AFSPA is producing many insurgent groups in Northeast and JK. When AFSPA was imposed in Manipur in the early 1980s, there were only two active insurgent groups operating in Manipur. Today, after 30 years of its imposition, the provocative act of AFSPA has given birth to nearly 40 insurgent groups. There are 6,70,000 military forces in JK just to fight against 600 odd militants. The number of military forces could be more in NEI. Under heavy militarisation, common people are struggling for survival and dignity. The Central Government will never ever impose this inhumane Act in other States of India except in NEI and JK. If AFSPA is not racism, then what is it? AFSPA simply says ‘you are savaged people.’

In other words, ‘you are too ignorant to decide for your life’. Hence, to make us ‘civilize’ and good people, armies keep an eye on all our movements and activities. They interrogate and frisk us. They torture us for silly matters. They bang into our house late at night to check what we are doing. Ridiculous!!! We are forced to live according to what the Indian armed forces think best for us. This is the reason why many people have joined insurgent movements. If there is respect, peace and development in the State then who will like to risk their life in jungle leaving behind loved and dear ones, suck by leeches, bite by snakes, torture by wintry cold and summer storms.

Our Ministers and Defence Minister at the Centre often says that the ‘ground reality’ is not suitable for revoking AFSPA. However, the fact is that this unfavourable ‘ground reality’ is created by this Act. Once this draconian Act is revoked and the aspirations of common people properly understood and addressed, will there be peace in the State.

AFSPA means ‘military rule’. Many people from mainland India criticise military rule in Myanmar but hardly speak out against the harsh military rule under AFSPA in India. AFSPA, instead of helping people’s Government, undermines it in its entirety. So often, the State Government became a tool of AFSPA protecting armies at the cost of civilians. The power of Chief Minister and Cabinet Ministers is curtailed to a ‘toothless tiger’ by AFSPA. The helplessness of Chief Minister is seeing in the imprisonment of Irom Sharmila Chanu for more than 11 years.

AFSPA clearly signifies that there are no qualified local politicians (educated people) to maintain ‘law and order’ in the State. Or if at all there are, then New Delhi undermines the capability of our leaders. Deeper analysis shows that our States are under the control of and run by ‘outsiders’ who are army generals, captains and so on. We are under captivity. We have no freedom. Our life is in the hand of armies. When Indian army officers staunchly oppose any move to repeal this Act, it is quite understandable. Under AFSPA, they are the ‘big boss’ or ‘god’ who controls everything. When a Chief Minister has no power to control over a mere army captain, one ought to feel shame.

Our politicians should feel embarrassed the most. Is it necessary to spend time and energy electing our representatives when they have no power to give us freedom, development and security? Is it not better if a Governor rules us directly so that there is better administration and development in the State? As State’s election draws near, people of Manipur must set an example for others by voting brave men and women into Assembly seat who would dare challenge to revoke AFSPA from the State. It’s high time to have a sensible Government that will protect the life of and give security to each individual—for in essence the Government exists for the wellbeing of its citizens and not its citizens for the Government.

For the sake of peace in the land, security of its citizens and holistic development, AFSPA must go. The sooner, the better.

Courtesy: ZK Pahrii Pou

Rediff.com » News » 'No supra-state offer for Nagas by Centre'
'No supra-state offer for Nagas by Centre' rediff
The controversy surrounding the formation of a supra-state for the Nagas is sweeping northeast India [ Images ]. According to a Guwahati-based newspaper report, New Delhi [ Images ] has decided to grant supra-state status to Nagaland following a hush-hush settlement of the long pending Naga struggle perpetrated by one of the deadliest insurgent groups in the region -- National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah).
Rediff.com's Surajit Talukdar got in touch with author Frans Welman, secretary of the Amsterdam-based Naga International Support Centre, who is considered to be close to the leadership of the NSCN (I-M). Here are excerpts from the exclusive e-mail interview:
Is the supra-state offer to NSCN (I-M) by Delhi true?
It is not true.
What is the NSCN (I-M)'s opinion regarding the supra-state body offer?
I heard from insiders in the NSCN (I-M) that nothing like this (supra-state body offer) has been discussed with the Indian government. In fact, I saw a denial statement from them on that too.
But there is a possibility that within the Government of India, this supra-state thing has been leaked.
What is the Nagaland government's view on the supra-state issue?
The Nagaland government has never discussed this issue.
What are the opinions of other Naga political organisations? What is the NISC's take on this issue?
As far as I know, majority of the Naga political organisations are against the supra-state offer as it means living under the Constitution of India. The Naga people believe in their right to self-determination. Since 1953, they have been fighting to go beyond the purview of the Indian Constitution. The NISC supports the Naga people's wishes.
What is the Khaplang faction of the NSCN's stand on the NSCN (I-M) peace process?
The Khaplang group is thinning out after the recent departure of some of its loyalists. His group is much smaller now. But Khaplang also wants sovereignty. His group is now observing a ceasefire with Delhi.
Is the NSCN (I-M) garnering support for their demand in other parts of the world?
I have just released a photo book on Naga culture as well as a book on the peace talks. I hope that these will be tools to help the Nagas in Europe and elsewhere to know the human rights aspects of the Indo-Naga conflict, which could possibly put the Indian government on the defensive.
Do you think the common people in Nagaland are behind the NSCN (I-M)?
Many commoners criticise the NSCN (I-M). No organisation is perfect, after all. Some people are becoming rich and corruption is increasing in Nagaland, leaving lots of Nagas envious.
Have you recently met NSCN (I-M) leaders Thuingaleng Muivah or Isak Chisi Swu? Can you say something about the meeting?
Before their departure to India a few months ago for peace talks, I met Isak Chisi Swu in Bangkok and before that Thuingaleng Muivah in the Netherlands. They are both hopeful that India might be able to gracefully come to a mutual conclusion.
In your view, what is the future of the Naga struggle?
India has all the facilities and can wait till the old guard dies out. But considering the expected uprising of the Meiteis of Manipur and the arrest of Anthony Shimray who worked under orders of Naga leaders, the stand of the Government of India cannot be trusted. If there is no support from the international community, then it looks like this struggle will slowly fizzle out, only flaring up at times.
Is the NSCN (I-M) still supporting other terror groups in northeast India?
Not at the moment.
Surajit Talukdar


Frans on 12.18.11 @ 11:29 PM CST [link]


Friday, December 16th

On the 1st Overseas Naga Association Conference 2011 Susan Waten Morungexpress




On the 1st Overseas Naga Association Conference 2011 Susan Waten Morungexpress

The first ever Overseas Naga Association (ONA) conference was held at Orchid Hotel, Kohima, from 6th to 8th December, coinciding with the Hornbill Festival. The small and scattered diaspora that we have all over the world, some 35 to 40 of them came specifically to attend this conference. The Government of Nagaland did provide an aid of rupees one lakh to tide over some of their expenses, though it was strongly felt that the interaction between Nagas living abroad and in the homeland should in fact be institutionalized and concretized from henceforth.
I was fortunate to have attended some of the key sessions and to have been plunged into a sea of meaningful dialogue with people holding diverse perspectives on life. As a friend of ONA, I too genuinely sought to find a connecting link between Nagas abroad and those living in Nagaland. No, it was not simply “intellectual talk” per say, but rather it was crucial interaction that addressed the very core of every Naga caught in the push-n-pull of tradition and modernity. On the one hand, we had Himato Zhimomi, (Indian Foreign Service, the present Commissioner & Secretary, Art & Culture, and Tourism, Nagaland Government) who spoke of progressive socio-political and economic change. And on the other hand, we had Easterine Kire (Writer & Publisher based in Norway) who resisted any “money talk” and spoke of going into the villages in order to put back value into our traditional art practices.
Machutmi Shishak (Economic Officer, US Embassy in Burma, First Secretary (Economic), US Department of State) put forth an “open ended question” as to how Nagas may come back with a wealth of experience and expertise from overseas and invest it back home. He spoke of productive investment, whether of a social or financial nature, to be poured back home. He took the example of his father, Tuisem Shishak, who lived 15 years abroad and established Patkai Christian College in Dimapur. He said, “Regardless of who you are, where you come from, you have a role to play. We have to see ourselves as people God has a purpose for.”
Himato Zhimomi brought to our notice the economic boom in China, where the Chinese living abroad invested heavily in their home country. He thus asked, “Can we be part of the investment that we require here in Nagaland? Is it possible to get some of the investment back in our society?” Sure enough, turning his back on a very senior position in Paris, he came to Nagaland to serve his people and initiate them towards betterment and positive change. Two retired medical practitioners living in the UK, Dr. Tssikhen Kithan and Dr. Longsho Lotha expressed the desire to spend half the year in Nagaland in order to promote health care through mobile medical road shows. They felt the need to educate our people on relevant health issues and to propagate a healthier mind-set and life-style of the people.
My good friend from school, Marina Murray Schilling, a traditional craft entrepreneur from Australia (handcraftedwithheart@gmal.com">handcraftedwithheart@gmal.com), showed keen interest in reviving the slowly vanishing traditional arts and handicrafts. Agreeing with Himato Zhimomi that we need global entrepreneurs to market our products, she added, “Our businesses should not be for profit only, or at the expense of innocent villagers. We should do everything with integrity.”
A concern shared by Temsuyanger, the London based artist centered on “tourism” in Nagaland. Looking ahead 20 years from now, he feared a “tsunami effect” that unbridled tourism may have, especially with regard to rural areas. He maintained, “Does Nagaland have any tourist-friendly infra-structure? No! But why do tourists still come here? It’s to see our culture, the way we live in our villages. Our tradition and culture is unique. Yet if we push tourism too rampantly into our villages, we will soon see the effects of social evils that will land us in dirty waters.” Thus speaking about “responsible tourism,” he said that we must not forget our past and where we come from; we need awareness and open intelligent dialogue as Nagas are leaping in terms of time.
Prior to the historic gathering of the ONA members for the conference, most of them were clueless as to where they actually stood in regard to Nagaland. This conference gave them an emotive direction toward concretizing the relationship between Nagas abroad and at home, and the specific areas that they felt competent to invest in. A need was also felt that they should engage with people in a more concrete manner through the government machinery. Credit goes to Dr. Visier Sanyu (ONA President & Refugee Coordinator, Act for Peace, Melbourne, Australia), Dr. Paul Pimomo (ONA General Secretary & Professor of English, Central Washington University, USA) and other significant ONA members who worked relentlessly to make this conference a reality, and a very enriching one at that.

Susan Waten - HAWA, Dimapur (susanwaten@gmail.com">susanwaten@gmail.com)
A Story From Nagaland
by Barbara Crossette • December 11, 2011 • Asia, Human Rights • 0 Comments
It is a very long trip to the Indian Northeast, a singular region connected to the rest of the country by a mere strip of land that skirts Bangladesh. Few foreigners go to the area or get to know its ethnically distinct people. So for Athili Sapriina, a local human-rights advocate, it was also a long journey from his base in Nagaland, one of the seven Northeastern states, to Columbia University. The road led through the United Nations.
Sapriina, a leader of the Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights, has spent the fall semester at the Institute for the Study of Human Rights at Columbia. As one of 14 participants in the institute’s Human Rights Advocates Program this year, he attended classes and workshops teaching skills from public speaking and fund-raising to stress management. In between, he also met with human-rights organizations based in New York and Washington.
Many outsiders are aware of the separatist movements in the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir because of Pakistan’s involvement in helping to fuel what was at heart an ethnic and cultural campaign for the autonomy of a formerly independent princely state. The ethnic politics of the Indian Northeast are more complicated, with a myriad of armed and unarmed movements in the area. But generally their struggles are as old as that of the Kashmiris on the other side of India. They share the sense of being under occupation by the Indian military and a central government far away in New Delhi.
Naga Voices Are Heard
What they have lacked is access to an international audience and world opinion to make their cases. A UN forum and help from private supporters is gradually changing that, aided by communications networks they can be trained to use effectively. The Nagas are now in the loop.

A Naga woman in Chingmei village in India dressed with typical adornments for a native festival. WALTER CALLENS/FLICKR
“Nagas were never part of India,” Sapriina said in an interview, so secession is not what they want. For them, the issue is that Nagas inhabit a wider region than the Indian state of Nagaland, so they want to unite their communities in a homeland in the section where India, China and Burma meet.
“Nagas are saying there is no way to peace if the Nagas are not integrated physically,” Sapriina said, echoing the pleas of numerous other ethnic communities around the world divided by colonialism or the creation of modern nation-states.
India has been adamant, since the end of British rule in 1947, that a Greater Nagaland will never happen. The current Indian prime minister, Manmohan Singh, said that unequivocally again this month on a visit to the restive region, after Nagas in the neighboring state of Manipur mounted a series of economic blockades to protest not only Indian policies but also the incursion over decades of another ethnic group. A recent paper of the Institute of Conflict Management, an Indian think tank in New Delhi, called it an “ethnic turf war.”
Inroads Through the UN
Sapriina and the Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights have never taken part in violent rebellion, though other Nagas have, he said. The human-rights campaign has always been one based on Gandhian civil disobedience, he said.
It was through its links to regional and international human-rights groups – Sapriina was a founder of the Asia Pacific Indigenous Youth Network — that he made several journeys to New York, culminating at Columbia. In Nagaland, where many local people are Christians, Catholic and Protestant, human-rights advocates have also won support from the Baptist World Alliance and other groups.

Athili Sapriina, a human-rights advocate for the Naga people in India.
When a Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues was created at the UN in 2002, it offered Sapriina the chance to meet many other activists from around the world. He could also engage with the UN special rapporteur on indigenous issues and officials in the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.
The forum is now an advisory body to the Economic and Social Council, where Sapriina is a delegate from Tribal Link, a nongovernmental organization in New York, founded in 1993 by Pamela Kraft, which provides a global communications network for indigenous people. Tribal Link also supports the attendance of indigenous people at UN events and offers capacity-building courses in cooperation with the Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues.
Sapriina says he is returning to Nagaland, where he has a wife and a 2-year old daughter, with a commitment to developing an effective media campaign.
“Today I feel the urgent need of engaging the local media,” he said in a recent paper he wrote describing the Naga cause. “I feel there is nothing more important than an objective media, which helps promote open dialogue to address even the most difficult problems between nations and peoples.”
He also goes home with an invaluable book of contacts and many new friends.
Tags: Institute for the Study of Human Rights, Naga people, Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, Tribal Link
About Barbara Crossette
Barbara Crossette is the United Nations correspondent for The Nation. She was the UN bureau chief for The New York Times from 1994 to 2001 and earlier its chief correspondent in Southeast Asia and South Asia. She is the author of "So Close to Heaven: The Vanishing Buddhist Kingdoms of the Himalayas," "The Great Hill Stations of Asia" and a Foreign Policy Association study, "India: Old Civilizations in a New World." Crossette won the George Polk award for her coverage in India of the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi in 1991 and the 2010 Shorenstein Prize for her writing on Asia. She is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations and a trustee of the Carnegie Council on Ethics in Foreign Affairs.
Centre seeks alternate highway to Manipur
NEW DELHI, Dec 14: Concerned over the recent 100-day economic blockade in Manipur, the Union Home Ministry has sought urgent strengthening of a highway which could be used as an alternative route to the State in case a similar strike takes place in future.

Minister for Development of North Eastern Region Paban Singh Ghato-war said Union Home Ministry has asked for urgent strengthening of NH-37 between Imphal and Badarpur in Assam to blunt capabilities of militant groups to stop supply of essential commodities to Manipur.

“It has been informed by the Ministry of Home Affairs that NH 2 is prone to frequent bandhs and economic blockades. There- fore, urgent strengthening of NH 37 between Imphal and Badarpur, as an alternative Highway has become essential,” he told Lok Sabha, replying to a question.

The United Naga Council had lifted its 100-day economic blockade of the national highways on November 28.

The blockade had caused severe hardships to people of the State and resulted in skyrocketing prices of essential commodities as the supply chain was blocked.

The UNC had launched the blockade on August 21 to protest against signing of an agreement between State Government and Sadar Hills District Demand Committee (SHDDC) under which the Govt agreed to grant Kuki majority Sadar Hills in Naga majority Senapati district the status of a full-fledged revenue district.

About transport infrastructure projects in the region, Ghatowar said the government was working on several projects to upgrade road, rail and aerial connectivity to the region. Sangai


Naga customary laws come under scrutiny
Our Correspondent | EMN

KOHIMA, DEC 14: The general perception about Naga women enjoying equal status with men and being much better off than the women in the rest of the country seems to be a misleading notion as the reality of the status of women in the State remains grim with Naga Women having no right to inheritance, land, property and no access to land resources.

The Naga customary laws were a question of intense debate and discussion at the seminar held here today even as emphasis was thrown on representation of women in decision making.

Rosemary Dzüvichü, Advisor to Naga Mothers’ Association, while thoroughly deliberating on ‘Laws and Policies in furthering women’s empowerment in Nagaland & 33% Women Reservation Struggles and Challenges’ strongly maintained that successive governments in the State have been unfriendly to women empowerment. Over 40 years of statehood and there has been no woman in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, wherein she indicated that unless we have a woman sitting at the government level, promotion of woman will be futile.

She also said Article 317 (A) has been the biggest stumbling block in empowering women, although she stated that the Article which guarantees protection of Naga rights, our land and resources is good. She felt that when it comes to discriminatory customary practices, it has been made a law here.

Dzüvichü further observed that the very fact that Naga women do not have access to land and property means that even when it comes to the agri sector, economy or industry, the banking scene in Nagaland is very unfriendly as women cannot mortgage for lack of property. Also, she pointed out that due to the unwritten customary laws we have had varied interpretations and with village judiciary comprising only of men, it is very difficult for women to get sincere judgment. In this regard, she made mention of the rape case in Mokokchung.

She also pointed to the several loopholes in the many policies for women empowerment which prevent women from enjoying the benefits while specifically referring to the Village Development Board which is seen as a lifeline of development funds and clearly states that 1/4th will constitute women and accordingly 1/4th of funds will go to women. However, while there are success stories where some VDBs have really done well, she said in majority of the VDBs, including prominent villages, women representation is only on paper where they do not have any idea of the annual grants.

Stating that the government of Nagaland has envisaged a number of programmes in line with the national policy for empowering women, she however asserted that the government needs to seriously assess and see how much promotion of women is actually taking place. Citing several instances of women being deprived of their rights with issues related to health, education, economy, or protection of women, she lamented that even though NRHM and HIV/AIDS concerns seem to be in place, there is rampant corruption with unbalanced distribution of PHCs, also seen in the lack of labour rooms, non-existence of incubators, etc. She also referred to case of preferential payment for institutional delivery wherein a mother who delivered a baby boy was paid Rs 500 while the other with a girl child was given Rs 300 on the same day.

She maintained that the whole owner of failure in empowering women is the successive state governments, but also held that changes are taking place and strongly asserted that empowerment of women is possible only with the cooperation of the government.

Meanwhile, with the court’s favour on 33% Reservation for Women in civic bodies, she disclosed that they are in the last stages of identifying potential, educated and good women candidates to contest in the elections scheduled for early next year. However, with HSLC examination coming up in February, it was learnt that they were requested to postpone it to April. In this regard, the Joint Action Committee has accepted the proposal and accordingly, 30th April, 2012 has been set as the final date for completion of elections in all the municipalities.

In her keynote address, Member Planning Commission Dr Syeda Hameed said though Naga women are seen to be among the strongest and most empowered in the country, when it is looked at sector by sector, the reality is different. She categorically stated that the biggest shock is the performance in the health sector while referring to the various instances of health issues pointed out by the NMA Advisor earlier.
However, she said the seminar on women representation in decision making is a timely effort while stating that anything substantial from the meeting would be included in the 12th five year plan from 2012 to 2017.

As a member of the Commission looking after issues of women and children, health, handloom and handicraft sector, etc, she informed that she was here to get a bird’s eye view of everything. “Your importance is not any the less. The Prime Minister himself is concerned, and I have come with his mandate…a good opportunity to listen and gather all the impressions,” she stated.

In the meantime, she commended the North East Network, which has established its identity in Chizami under Phek district, and lauded their ability, interest and involvement.
She further acknowledged the struggle of the Naga women in order to get reservation despite it being their right while observing that the issue of women in decision making has been very tough all over the country. She added that should realise that this is equally their issue since agriculture, households, etc, are issues that concern both man and woman.

Members present included Dr Anita Agnihotri, National Commission for Women, New Delhi, Chairperson for Nagaland State Women Commission, Sano Vamuzo, Abeni, SWC, Monalisa Changkija, Editor & Publisher of Nagaland Page, and representatives from various Tribal Women Organisations including Youth Net. EMN


The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) in collaboration with the Administrative Training Institute (ATI) Nagaland will be undertaking a project on Right to Information (RTI) on government recruitments and appointments made during the last two years.

The main objective of the project is to ensure transparency in government recruitments and appointments in various government departments, a press communiqué issued by NSF president Kelhouneizo Yhome informed.
It was further informed that the government departments will be asked two specific queries - appointments made in the last 2 years at various levels in government departments and the mode of recruitment, whether through the aegis of NPSC or through proper interviews. The NSF will also seek information on the incumbency list of the government employees at various levels including vacant posts. The date of birth of the incumbents will also be sought. On this, the NSF asserted that using of computerised database it is possible to project the vacancies arising out of retirements on monthly, yearly basis or for any period of time.

The NSF has urged all government departments to cooperate and coordinate with the Federation so as to instil transparency and fairness in recruitments and appointments in government departments. The Federation sought to make it clear that it is serious about the project and will not hesitate to initiate its own course of action if any Department failed to oblige with the matter. EMN


RESOLUTIONS OF THE JOINT MEETING OF THE UNC, TRIBE PRESIDENTS, REGIONAL PRESIDENTS AND FRONTAL ORGANISATIONS WITH THE REPRESENTATIVES OF POLITICAL PARTIES HELD AT TAHAMZAM(SENAPATI) ON THE 15TH DECEMBER, 2011.

The above meeting was convened by the United Naga Council with a view to strengthen the people’s movement for alternative arrangement, pending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue, by securing the participation and ownership of every Naga. The meeting was attended the BJP, MSCP, MPTC, NPF and PDA. We are for forwarding herewith the resolutions adopted therein for favour of kind publication/coverage in your esteemed daily/channel.

With warm regards

Publicity Wing
United Naga Council
THE NAGA IN BURMA
The Naga in Burma are found mainly in the Sagaing Division of Burma, which borders Chin State in the south, Shan State in the east, Kachin State in the north and Manipur, Arunachal, Nagaland and Manipur states of India in the west. There are 23 Naga tribes in Burma. They are:
1. Anal
2. Cheru
3. Chirr
4. Dikhiri
5. Heimi/Tangsa/Pangmi
6. Kengu
7. Khiumnungan
8. Konyak
9. Lamkang
10. Lainung
11. Makury/Makory
12. Mayon
13. Namshik
14. Nocte
15. Pakang
16. Para
17. Phellungri
18. Phom
19. Rangpan
20. Saplo
21. Shangpuri
22. Tangkhul
23. Yimchunger
The Nagas in Burma live in 229 villages in Sagaing Division and in Kachin State with a population estimated to be around 500,000. In Sagaing division, they inhabit seven Townships and Tanai Township in Kachin State.
1 Layshi Sagaing Division Tangkhul, Makury, Para, Yimchunger, and Kikhiri.
2 Khanti Sagaing Division Kengu, Chirr, Konyak, Khiumnungan, Lainung, Tangkhul etc.
3 Homlin Sagaing Division Tangkhul, Makury, Nimshik, Lamkang etc
4 Lahe Sagaing Division Konyak, Khiumnungan, Lainung, Phom, Saplo,
5 Nanyung Sagaing Division Heimi, Pangmi, Rangpan, Cheru, and Pakang.
6 Tamu Sagaing Division Tangkhul, Anal, Lamkang
7 Khampat Sagaing Division Pongoo*, Paingu*
8 Tanai Kachin State Heimi, Konyak, Khaklak, Tangan
* Over a period of time, these two tribes have now assimilated with the larger dominating Shan group.
** Over a period of time, these two tribes have now assimilated with the larger dominating Kachin group.
Source: Naga Youth Organization, Burma
Lahe town in Burma - Photo by Mark AJ. -Lahe town in Burma
Media Bias – Still holding impact By- Subhasys Das Times of Assam

It is indeed strange the Media houses of Assam can be so forgetful and ignorant at times. When the newspaper reported the news about the notorious Lebu, accused of extorting money in Arabinda Rajkhowa’s shadow, no emphasis was given to the most important facts. First of all who this Lebu was, – he is the same person, once a key man of Paresh Baruah and a co-coordinator between the ULFA and Government of Bangladesh till he was arrested in 1997 in Mumbai along with Dr. Brajen Gogoi and ULFA Cultural Secretary Pranati Deka. The identity itself was completely ignored and missleaded. Nowhere it was mentioned that this Lebu’s real name is Phanidhar Medhi. Indeed the media had no information about the Lebu, assuming the surrendered one from Nagaon the reports were publicized. By creating hype around a no-issue, the newspaper successfully allowed everyone to involve in a petty debate. Not only was this a waste of time and energy, it also allowed public attention to divert from major issues to petty issues, in fact reportedly a false one as claimed by Arabinda Rajkhowa later.
Similarly, the newspapers made immense cry over the alleged SUPRA state model the NSCN was reported to have achieved from the central Government for creation and domination of a greater Nagalim. However the same media and media personnel are found never to raise any word for or against the demands of so many statehoods either out of Assam or from neighboring states. As media is the major driver of public attention and opinion, any stand should be genuine, yet it is not be found in our media of Assam.
What is Manipur's future rediff.com | Sumit Bhattacharya
For someone not used to living with insurgency, Manipur is a different world. Everything you take for granted -- like electricity, Internet, ATMs, cell network -- needs a recheck.
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"India is looking east from Delhi and Calcutta," says Irengbam Arun, editor of the Manipuri daily Ireibak. "While they should be looking east, west, north, south by standing in the northeast. It's the big industrialist in Delhi or Calcutta that is looking east. They look upon the northeast simply is a transit point."

The problem is also of legitimacy, Babloo Loitongbam points out. In 2006, Dr Singh assured the people of the northeast that his government would replace the Armed Forces Special Powers Act with a 'more humane law'. Five years later, when he visited Manipur on December 3, he made no mention of the AFSPA at all.

"A former governor told me that the hill leaders did not want it (ADCs) and the people were demanding it," says Pradeep Phanjoubam, editor of the Imphal Free Press. "When the ADC elections were held the Nagas suddenly stood up (against it). So I think that protest was a proxy protest by the (outlawed) NSCN-IM (Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagaland Isaac-Muivah faction) which doesn't want to dilute its claims for a Greater Nagalim.

"A few years ago, some people from (South) Korea came here," he explains. "And they said it's very much like Korea 30 years ago. Although the non-government sector (employees) are still very poor, that work culture is there. If there is a larger policy to nurture them they can really grow. And they will be the saviours, not the government sector. The government sector is already saturated."
Of social and political science – The epic failure of Naga politician Eno. Imti John

One can easily judge a tree by its fruits. The fruit of the Naga Political Tree is alarmingly becoming injurious to the growth of Nagaland, and the very trunk of it is nearing collapse. Is it that the wrong seeds are being sowed in the right soil and vice versa? The political games being played by our leaders today have entangled themselves in a web of dishonesty and unscrupulous dealings, further making themselves captives of their own devices.
Money and gun power is the leadership of today. The question is, how or who will pull Nagaland out from this predicament? Is the problem created by the top to bottom political elements?
The creator God took the man (Adam) and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and take care of it and live off the land through his laborious pursuits (Genesis 2:15, O.T). The man worked the garden and reaped the fruits but was weak enough to easily let the evil intrude the paradise of his existence which ultimately made him accountable to God and thus he had to face the wrath as a consequence of not fulfilling his responsibilities.
Such is the situation prevailing in our land today. Nagaland is simmering and crawling under the growing politics of sub-standard, uncommitted, undedicated politicians. Whom to blame? Pointing fingers and blame shifting will never solve the problem. Heartfelt and genuine politics should emerge and equip the value-based educated men & women to cope adequately with life, with what lies ahead of him/her so as to create the leader in the adventure of life for all round-political, social, spiritual and economic upliftment.
Time and generation urges for an updated dimension of political streamlining to redeem Nagaland from the suicidal politics of politicians. It is really disappointing that this kind of politics has been forcibly developed and the real and the true politics of redemption is lacking. Vested interests alongside wolf-in –sheep clothing politics does more harm than good in the long run.
In Nagaland, there are political groups/parties and leaders without followers or supporters in reality and yet political powers are multiplying. The multiple Naga National Nomenclatures are also changing day and night. Nowhere in the world, except in Nagaland, could any group of people declare itself as the governing authority, or Government, truly these seems to be a brand of uniqueness of the Nagas.
The saddest truth of today’s politics is the presence of Anti-Nagaland forces. Every right thinking citizen should realize that we have given too much time and money to the formation of factions, Hohos, parties and committees, unions and too little time to their ends, achievements and values. The Naga politicians are in a way very successful in their personal goals, enjoying the public chair without any vestige of achievements for their land.
The Naga politicians are excessively brave and shameless to amass and launder public wealth without bothering about the consequences of their deeds today for tomorrow. They act and live as if they are going to live forever in this uncertain and short lived world. On the other side, the bureaucrats are also timidly and habitually following the money power addicted and Gonda-like leaders and too reluctant to withdraw their support towards such extremely corrupted leaders, withholding from speaking out the truth for their children’s future.
Dear fellow Nagas, let us love one another not by policies but by action. Let us try to do something for helping out a Naga. At the same time let us also cease wasting our precious lives and time for such a non-achievable goals. Let us be wise and be watchful because the days are full of wickedness, deceit, treachery and unwise addiction to worldliness. True Nationalism and patriotism are not for sale nor can it be purchased. Our motherland (Nagaland) is crying for repentance of her people from this sinful existence.
The blood of Abel cried out for vengeance. Cain had no concrete reason to murder his brother nor did Joseph’s brothers to sell their brother to stranger. Leaders who are stained with their own people’s blood will never win the battle nor become leaders in the true sense of leadership. They can only create conspiracies and be known as conspirators till the end of their lives which defeats the very purpose of them being elected to be the leaders with a conscience. The money-loving and pleasure-seeking leaders will make their land into Sodom & Gomorrah.
We know that Cain murdered his brother Abel out of jealousy. If a man belonging to a faction/party is killed and another man belonging to another faction or party derives satisfaction from such killings, he becomes a partner in murder. God commanded us to compete in good works, refraining from bad deeds. Nagas could maintain non-violence with the aggressor/invaders but so mistakenly use violence causing loss, enmity, barriers amongst our own people and community.
The discouraging fact of our Naga society is that the leaders are in wants of crores whereas the common people are in need of a rupee. What chasmic divide between the leaders and the followers as well as “the haves and have not” that burns Nagaland in reality. As a most basic patriotic approach and essential need of the hour, let us all try to forgive and forget the negative part of what we have done and move forward, converging on the table of “Brotherhood” and in obedience to God, let us hold the banner of “Nagaland for Christ” to let our Nagaland be a harbinger for goodness for India and for the rest of the world.
It is my sincere hope that these words spoken find resonance with my fellow Nagas.

THE UNFLINCHING COMMITMENT OF THE YOUTH OF NAGALAND

1. Don’t ever try to go beyond limits even if you have money and ruling power. Because there is always a limit for everything under heaven.

2. Nagaland is Naga’s land. Nagas of Nagaland shall in no way wage war against neighboring states on annexation or encroachment of land

3. Youth of Nagaland will sacrifice and die for the sake of peace and brotherhood among different communities of the world.

4. Naga youth will not kill anybody but will give life for justice’s sake.

5. “Justice redeems” is the Nagas’ message to the world.

6. Youth of Nagaland will sacrifice and Volunteer for the establishment of a Unique and Righteous Government on Naga Soil.

7. Youth of Nagaland shall uphold the :HOLY BIBLE” as the greatest Book in the world as well as the “Book of Life”.

8. Naga youth will uphold the tenet of: “If you do not work, you should not eat> And do not go after money but let the money come after you”.

9. One day Nagas will make India, a part of Nagaland as well as Nagaland a “Cornerstone of India”

10. Naga youth will steadfastly uphold the “Integrity of India”

SOME ANSWERABLE QUESTIONS:

1. Can anyone capture or bring the whole of Nagas living in different countries or states under a particular/dictatorial political party?

2 Under whose dictate or policy – Greater Nagalim or Supra- State is proposed?

3 Under whose mandate, or when Nagaland changed into Nagalim?

4 Under whose plan or policy “Nagaland People’s Front” has manipulated into (1) Naga People’s Front of Manipur (2) Naga People’s Front of Arunachal and (3) Naga People’s Front of Assam? Then why not Naga People’s Front of Mynmar?

5 Can the common people/public of Nagaland continue to live under the treats/command of existing multi-Govts, like (i) NSCN/GPRN (ii) NNC Federal Govt of Nagaland (iii) State Govt. of Nagaland (India) (iv) Naga National Govt.(NNG)?

6 Which of the two Independence Day will be permanent and real Independence Day for the Nagas? 14th or 15th August, 1947?

7 Will Nagas of Nagaland accept Socialism rather than Democracy?

8 Which one Nagas will give importance to? Nagaland for Christ OR Nagaland, a Land of Festivals?

Eno. Imti John Founder Director: Reformation Front of Nagaland
Youth Life Moulding Center Based: Dimapur, Nagaland
Garo organizations elated to be part of Naga society

DIMAPUR,
:



The Garo Students Union (GSU) Tura along with Nagaland zone visited the just concluded Hornbill Festival at Kisama, Kohima on December 7.

The team visited the Garo ‘Nokpante’ (Morung) put up during the Hornbill Festival at Kisama and were elated to have been a part of the “great Naga society”

In this regard, the Nagaland Garo Tribal Council (NGTC), Garo Mothers’ Association (GMA) and Garo Student Union Nagaland Zone (GSUNZ) have expressed gratitude to chief minister Neiphiu Rio for allotment of site and also for personal donation towards the construction of ‘Nokpante’.

The Garo organizations also appreciated chief minister of Meghalaya, Dr. Mukul Sangma and union minister of state for rural development, Agatha K. Sangma for financial and material support, Doshehe Y Sema, minister of power and election, government of Nagaland, GSU central executive committee, Dokakhu Arts and Cultural Association, Tura Meghalaya, Gokul Marak of Dubagaon village for constructing of the ‘Nokpante’.


‘Misinterpreted customary laws subjugated Naga women’ morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): The misinterpretation of customary laws and translation of it at whim are one of the chief reasons Naga women have been brought to subordination in modern times, discussions during a recent seminar in Kohima widely agrees.
The seminar was organized by the North East Network (NEN) and held at Hotel Orchid in Kohima. The seminar was themed “Women’s Representation in decision making process in Nagaland” was sponsored by the National Commission for Women.
Advisor to the Naga Mother’s Association Rosemary Dzuvichu presented an overarching framework of the reservation issue and how the struggle was won after many hardships and impediments. She had argued that the perception that Naga women are more empowered compared to women of mainstream India is a myth and has acted as a shield in preventing attention being drawn to their problems. They do not own property rights, hold no stake in land and are marginalized in the decision making process. Women’s health and education are in bad shape and government schemes like the Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) are inadequate in dealing with the peculiar nature of women’s problems. Most often, severe crimes like rape are trivialized by resorting to customary laws. Thus, it is very important that Naga women wake up from their slumber and demand equality with men.
Member of Planning Commission Dr. Syeda Hameed, was vocal in highlighting that every issue is peculiar and has its own requirements which must be addressed differently. Gender equality is no exception and requires a collaborative effort from both men and women. Men must not think that the reservation issue is a women’s issue and does not concern them, she said. She also stressed that Nagaland has not had one woman legislator in so many years. Since it is customary laws that are at stake, the issue is contentious and must be handled with utmost sensitivity.
Monalisa Changkija, Editor and Publisher of Nagaland Page, argued that it is misinterpretation of customary laws that has acted as a key instrument in the subordination of women in modern times. Although Panchayati Raj Institutions under the 73rd Amendment are not implemented in Nagaland, in their place, the Nagaland State Assembly has enacted several Nagaland Village Empowering Laws such as the Nagaland Village Councils Act, 1978, The Nagaland Village Councils Rules, 1979, The Village Development Boards Model Rules, 1980, the Nagaland Communitization of Public Institutions and Services Act, 2002, etc., for the purpose of administrations and development and these laws and rules do not specify the exclusion of women from village councils. She also highlighted that all village councils under these Village Empowering Laws are co-opted as integral part of the state’s governance and are funded by the Government hence women cannot be excluded from actively participating in these village councils. Traditional village councils do not receive government funding.
Lawyer and Human rights activist Vrinda Grover opined that it is a daunting task to comprehend the complexities of the contradiction between customary and constitutional laws. According to Article 13 of the Indian Constitution, anything inconsistent with the fundamental rights will not be applicable like customary laws. However, under Article 371(A), Nagaland’s customary laws cannot be challenged. Thus, Naga women get entrapped in a vicious circle of patriarchal interests and law becomes a cog in the wheel.
Dr. Monisha Behal, chairperson of the network, stressing that in order to successfully implement the 33% reservation of women in Nagaland, it is very important for the media, civil society and government to “come together.” She also said that the time is ripe for Naga women to bring about positive social change.
While the day was marked by heated discussions and pertinent questions were raised by many participants, it was recognized that women are both the biggest support as well as the biggest obstacle in their development. It is thus necessary to unite Naga women across borders and move on from this position. We must remember that nothing has ever come free for women and nor will it ever. So the battle has just begun.


Frans on 12.16.11 @ 07:51 PM CST [link]


Sunday, December 11th

Naga Concordant signatories render public service with unity of purpose A Staff Reporter EMN



Naga Concordant signatories render public service with unity of purpose A Staff Reporter | EMN

DIMAPUR, DEC 10: All credit to around 75 cadres/members of the three Naga underground groups namely NSCN/GPRN (IM), NSCN/GPRN (G Kitovi group) and NNC/FGN led by the FNR, the dusty and discolored concrete railing of the Hong Kong market flyover Saturday after noon looked speckled clean with fresh paints.

As part of the obligation from the signatories of Naga Concordant to render public service, cadres of the three signatory groups early morning strained their backs and necks and slush around with brushes to prove that despite their past enmities, they can still come together and be brothers as before.

Mingling together like they had just woken up from the same bed, cadres of the three groups clean painted the flyover’s concrete railing in an ‘expression of unity in purpose’ on Saturday which also coincided with the International Human Rights Day.
“This is such a happy moment for me, and I want such kind of unity to go on forever,” member of the NSCN/GPRN (Kitovi group) PSO Ato Kilonser Boto Zhimomi articulated on the occasion.

“We were fighting together, then killing each other and now we are coming together… these are precious moments, which I just can’t express, an emotive Zhimomi uttered. He was also thankful to the FNR on initiating this journey of reconciliation.

A member of the NSCN-IM also felt that such kind of exercise is indeed encouraging and it does bond the cadres of the warring groups to brotherhood and unity.
Another young cadre humming away Joseph M Scriven poetry song “What a friend we have in Jesus’ when asked on the joint exercise seemed more engrossed with the song and the brush and paint. “I have not been doing this kind of exercise for a long time and it’s good…” he muttered happily dappling away with the brush.

FNR Convener Rev Dr Wati Aier, who was equally active with the paint at the flyover said the joint exercise of painting the flyover comes as a gesture of good will towards the public from the three signatories of the Naga Concordant and to come together and clean up Dimapur town in their own capacities.

The coming of the different underground groups together in rendering public service is also a beginning of what was there before taking place-unity, Rev Wati maintained. The FNR also hoped that other underground group (s) which was not present today will come forward. The students of Oriental Theological Seminary (OTS) were also present today in painting the flyover. The joint public service started early 7 am right after a short prayer service at Town Baptist Church. EMN

Institutionalised violence threat to Nagas’ N. Jagoi | EMN

DIMAPUR,: Talking of human rights violation, suppression, exploitation, aggression, etc by external forces alone in the process of Naga struggle for political rights? No there is also violence and violation within the Nagas structure.

This was stated by Dr Wati Aier, convener Forum for Naga Reconciliation on the occasion of the 63rd International Human Rights Day which was observed in Nagaland today organized by the Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) under the theme – ‘Social Media and Human Rights in local media’ at Ataki Conference Hall, Khermahal, Dimapur.

Dr Wati opined that institutionalized violence is very much in prevalence and becoming a serious threat in the Naga context. By institutionalized violence, Dr Wati referred to the Naga political groups.
“There is institutionalized violence within our own structure. We are struggling for political rights but we are neglecting Human Rights in our own home,” Wati stated in his speech which, he termed it a ‘disjointed speech’.

He also said, the hohos, the church, student bodies, mother associations are the social media and called upon them recommit to the cause. “We allow discrimination on tribal lines. We are also forgetting equality, women, disability, etc. Whatever form of human rights violation is discrimination. NPMHR must fight against these violence with a concerted afford,” Wati said.

He also insisted on the need to teach human rights lessons to the cadres of Naga groups or include in syllabus in schools and colleges.

How NPMHR was born
Highlighting on how NPMHR came into being in 1978, Dr PS Lorin, the 1st convener of NPMHR challenged the present team to carry on the issues with concerted effort and with more commitments. NPMHR was formed in 1978 in Jawahalal Nehru University, Delhi when the rights of the civilians were suppressed under the mask of emergency with military power, he explained.

Today’s programme was chaired by convener, NPMHR Nagaland Chapter, Aloto Atoho. Solidarity messages were delivered by Naga Mothers’ Association president Abieu Meru, United Naga Council president, Adani, Nagaland Teachers’ Association president Rosemary Duvizu and Naga Students’ Federation.

Rev Sakhrie pronounced the invocation; Dr Gina Shangkham, secretary general, NPMHR delivered the opening address while former secretary general NPMHR, Neingulo Krome pronounced the word of thanks. EMN

Education in Human Rights advised for Naga groups EMN

A leader of the Naga pacifist organization, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation, has challenged Naga civil society and citizens’ stakeholders to the task, necessity and importance of imparting ‘education’ in Human Rights to the functionaries of the Naga political groups. It is suggested that ‘training’ in Human Rights may be imparted to functionaries “perhaps at least up to the (rank of) Captain or Lieutenant” of the Naga political groups, said Convener of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation, Rev. Dr. Wati Aier today.
Dr. Aier told participants at a Human Rights day program in Dimapur today December 10 that Naga citizens normally talk of Human Rights ‘as if its out there somewhere’ but citizens’ basic Human Rights – Right to Life, Right to Freedom of Speech and Expression, Right to Work and Dignity of Labor and Income for instance – are being violated in the Nagas’ very own backyards.
Dr. Aier – honored recently for peace-making work – was addressing an International Human Rights Day/63rd Anniversary of the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights observance in Dimapur. Under the theme ‘Social Media and Human Rights in the Local Context,’ the Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) commemorated the occasion with Dr. Aier as the keynote speaker.
Dr. Aier said institutionalized and systematic perpetration of violence, discrimination and subjugation is the most widespread form of violence. “I have come across this form of institutional violence even in our context,” the leader of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation said, while not referring to any organization in particular. “When we talk of institutionalized violence, let us not think it is out there somewhere. We must also think about the Naga political groups,” he said in apparent reference to the growing public discontent at excesses committed by members of the “Naga political groups” in the recent times.
“We are badly in need of education on Human Rights. Human Rights training to the underground groups up to (the rank of) perhaps Captain or Lieutenant can be imparted; The NPMHR can work on this. Perhaps you can advocate this issue?” he queried the civil society leaders attending the event.
Dr. Aier, also Principal of Oriental Theological Seminary in Dimapur, said ‘this issue must be the agenda of civil society like the NPMHR. We must speak more often on Human Rights violation issues.’ He informed that the issue was also broached in the various interactions associated with the ongoing efforts the ‘Naga reconciliation process to reconcile the Naga armed organizations.
Urging that the issue in question must be in the agenda of the NPMHR now, Dr. Aier said the role of “social media” is imperative – liaising and working in tandem with other civil groups, church and people.
“This is where the social media comes in need. Whatever the form of violation maybe, it is still a discrimination and violation itself; you have been social activists for long; but as Human Rights groups, are we using his channel?” Dr. Aier queried. “I would like to encourage the NPMHR to regroup, find a little finesse and be a little bit intentional on such issues,” he said.
In attendance in the event were also top leaders from Naga frontals such as the Naga Mothers’ Association, Naga Students’ Federation and Nagaland University Teachers’ Association. Civil society leaders delivered speeches of solidarity. Among the speakers, Dr. PS Lorin, founding-member of the NPMHR, reminisced on the birth of the organization in Delhi, in 1978.
Prominent social activist Rosemary Dzuvichu also spoke urging the leaders to prescribe and contextualize the denial of rights to women within the ambit of Human Rights. She said Human Rights “in local context” is not only contextualized by political descriptions. ‘If we are talking of Human Rights in our local context, then women are being discriminated,’ she reminded the gathering. She citied an instance, that of the Watsu Mungdang – apex organization of Ao Naga women – which was suspended recently. She said one cannot talk of rights when basic Human Rights are being suppressed. “This is also institutional discrimination when basic rights are being suppressed by a more imposing authority,” she said. MExN

For people in Imphal, Manipur is a failure Gaurav Sharma IANS
Imphal: Ibungochoubi Ningthoukhongjam, 49, owns five mobile phones, not because he is a gadget freak but to ensure he does not lose contact during an emergency, as one cannot count on the erratic telecommunication network in the Manipuri capital plagued by months of civil unrest and supply blockages.
"Carrying five mobile phones is cumbersome. The extremely poor mobile connection forces a person like me to keep them. When the diesel supply won't reach the gensets in mobile towers, how can you expect uninterrupted communication? This State is a failure," Ningthoukhongjam told a visiting IANS correspondent.

There are many like Ningthoukhongjam, who are languishing in Manipur which is riddled with decade-old ethnic clashes, insurgency, sporadic economic blockades and the clamped under the much hated Armed Forces Special Powers Act.

The recent 121-day economic blockade, brought about by a dispute between the Nagas and the Kuki tribes over the creation of a new administrative district, literally brought the entire state to its knees by pushing prices of essential commodities sky-high. The blockade led to severe shortage of essentials, petroleum products and cooking gas cylinders, besides medicines and machines, causing untold misery to Manipur residents.

Even on normal days, life in Imphal comes to a standstill after 5 pm. All you can see on the deserted roads are stray dogs and police vehicles.

Shops too down shutters after 5 pm in this city of around 250,000 people. Venturing out alone, without any plausible reason, may be foolhardy as you or your vehicle may draw unnecessary attention of the armed forces, who dot the roads, and who can ask you to produce your identity cards.

However, with their gritty determination, people have come to terms with life here. They don't bemoan the bandhs, curfews, economic blockades or other travails of life in verdant and panoramic Manipur, home to some 2.7 million people.

"We don't complain any more as there is nothing much you can do as the State government is sleeping and the Centre does not care. Movement for secession is bound to rear its head as Manipur has been forgotten by the Government of India," a local told IANS, refusing to be named.

The students from upper middle class families go to other parts of the country to pursue higher education. "Anyone who wants to pursue good education cannot do so in Manipur as, due to the numerous bandhs, education gets disrupted," said Nintagmba, who is studying in Delhi.

The prevalence of drug use is very high in this State bordering Myanmar, from where opium and other narcotics are smuggled here. Many youngsters and middle-aged people in the State are in the grip of substance abuse.

"Seeing the present state of affairs in Manipur, it does not seem that the situation will improve even after 10 years. You cannot expect a miracle when nothing has changed over the decades," said 44-year-old Imphal resident Rakesh. Assam Tribune

A Response to the UNC’s “Alternative Arrangement outside the Government of Manipur, pending solution of the Indo-Naga Issue” Lt. Colonel Z. D. Akho Morungexpress
The United Naga Council (UNC) is the apex body of the Nagas of Manipur, therefore, it has every responsibility to lead and fight for the rights of the Nagas of Manipur in consultation with other apex bodies like the NWUM, ANSAM and its constituent unit members. VI Schedule, Empowerment of ADC Act, Alternative Arrangement or any other issues that are for the interest of their people, the UNC can take up and fight for, after considering what is best for the Nagas of Manipur for the time being i.e, before the settlement of the Indo-Myanmar-Naga Issue.
Therefore, at the moment, the UNC is vehemently fighting for an ‘Alternative Arrangement’ outside the government of Manipur, from the government of India, a demand which is very much within the Indian constitution, and also purely for the Nagas of Manipur. But very recently the UNC has come up with the slogan “Alternative Arrangement outside the government of Manipur, pending solution of the Indo-Naga Issue”, where the sacred Cause of “Nagaland for Christ” is messed up with their demand for ‘Alternative Arrangement’. Before that too, in a statement of the UNC published in the Sangai Express & Morung Express on 15th July, 2010, they cited page 12 of the Manipur constitution to justify their demand to secede from Manipur state, that provide for the “…right of any section of the Hill People to secede at the end of the five year period, should conditions within the constitution not be satisfactory”. The 13th Clause of the 16th Point Agreement of 1960 and the United Naga Integration Council (UNIC) signed an MoU with the All India Congress Committee (AICC) and the Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) in the year 1972 were cited to justify their demand for Naga Integration.
My dear leaders, those articles, constitution, Mou or documents have nothing to do with the historical and political rights of the Nagas. Don’t you know that on account of such sell-out agreements or documents, Nagas were divided into Nagas and pro-India Nagas and killing amongst the Nagas was started where thousands of Nagas had lost their lives. You fight your demand basing on such so called rights and called your demand as pending solution of the Indo-Naga Issue. That is too much my dear leaders of UNC. Will it not be appropriate to call your demand as pending solution of the 12 page of Manipur constitution because in it, the right to secede from Manipur state was mentioned and so fighting with that rights, ‘Alternative Arrangement’ is attainable (if what the UNC claimed to have in the page 12 of Manipur constitution was true). The demand for Alternative Arrangement is not even a pending solution of the 13 Clause of the 16th Point Agreement of 1960 or the MoU signed between the UNIC and AICC, MPPC of 1972, for the two agreements mentioned the rights of the Nagas to be integrated all their areas into a single administrative unit that is far greater than the demand of the ‘Alternative Arrangement’ which is only for the Nagas of Manipur. Yes, UNC is right for citing the 13th Clause of 16th Point Agreement of 1960 and the MoU of the AICC, MPCC and UNIC of 1972 as the legitimate rights of their demand for Integration of all Naga areas into a single administrative unit within the Indian constitution, only it is wrong if they say, it is the pending solution of the Indo-Naga issue. And if anybody likes any type of solution like the ‘Supra state Body’, it is possible through the 3rd Clause of Shillong Accord of 1975. The 3rd Clause stated as: “It was agreed that the representatives of the underground organizations should have reasonable time to formulate other issues for discussion for final settlement” So, final settlement is pending and anything what we desire within the Indian constitution can be negotiated through this 3rd clause. Therefore, a solution like the type of ‘Supra state Body’ is the fulfillment of the 3rd Clause of Shillong Accord of 1975.
What I meant here is not against the UNC’s demand nor for their demand (if they did not mess up the sacred cause of “Nagaland for Christ” with their demand) because it is none of my business to involve in a business that is within the India constitution. I just think, what the UNC struggles for, are all for the upliftment and betterment of the people, a necessity for the time being to lessen the burdens and sufferings of the people especially the commoners, before the fulfillment of God’s purpose for “Nagaland for Christ” is arrived. But, it is not right if they say; the demand for a particular area development as the pending solution of the Indo-Naga Issue. There are the Zeliangrong’s demand for “Union Territory”, the ENPO’s “Frontier Nagaland”, the ATSUM’s demand for “Union Territory” and the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) demand for Ukhrul as the “Summer Capital of Manipur”. But none of them say, that theirs is the pending solution of the Indo-Naga Issue because it is not right for any region of Naga people, whether East or West, North or South to take advantage and bargain for their own selfish interest out of the Indo-Myanmar-Naga Issue.
Yes, it is a fact that the Nagas of Manipur suffered a step-motherly treatment from the Manipur government, the majority Meiteis. The Nagas of Manipur would have been fortunate if they were included in the state of Nagaland when it was formed because at that time if the NPC leaders were serious and wanted, it could had been done without much problem. But as unfortunate as they were, they now lagged far behind the Naga brethren of Nagaland state, and also they are today looked as ‘outsiders’ by their own fellow brethren of Nagaland state (not by all). (Except the Nagas of Manipur have one advantage over the others i.e. as they are in dominant of the present biggest Naga underground group, they have the might to accumulate wealth through unjust means, and somehow with those wealth they (the UG men) manage to keep their life standard almost on par with the Meiteis and the Nagas of Nagaland state).
Therefore, today, many Nagas of Manipur think that, neither can they trust anymore the Manipur government, the majority Meiteis nor can they expect much from the state of Nagaland. So, with such thoughts in mind, forgetting that such are only a temporary situation, they are desperate to go for any type of solution bargaining for their own taking the name of the Naga Issue with the Government of India, caring neither for the rights of the Nagas nor the price the Nagas had sacrificed for. They are after only a solution for Naga issue what is possible. First the slogan was ‘Solution not Elections’. At that time, many Nagas thought that, a solution means ‘Naga Independence’. When the leaders realized that they could not negotiate a solution outside the Indian constitution, they demanded again ‘Integration of all Naga areas’ with the slogan ‘No Integration, No Solution’. Now, the leaders as well as many Nagas begun to realize that at the present situation (with only one faction), Naga Integration is not possible. So, there is no more ‘Integration Rally’ in any part of Nagaland except the noises of ‘Alternative Arrangement’ in Manipur by the Nagas of Manipur.
Therefore, now, ‘Alternative Arrangement’ is what many Nagas hope for a possible solution for the Nagas. But still I have doubt for you because there are many Naga villages under the dominance of other communities of Manipur though all of those villages and their land belong to us. For example: the Sadar Hills area, the Nagas under Churachandpur district, Bishnupur district, Jiribam sub-division and other places. What if other communities of Manipur stiffly oppose those Naga areas to be included into the map of your ‘Alternative Arrangement’, and if it becomes impossible, will you again opt for a smaller possible solution leaving those Naga areas to the rule of other communities. You may mark my above words, if you are possible to achieve your ‘Alternative Arrangement’ outside the government of Manipur, and do not leave even a single Naga village living in our own Naga land to the rule of other communities. I am not challenging you my dear leaders but as I, myself am a Naga National Worker I have concern for my people where you will lead them to, because you won’t bother for the rights of the Nagas, you are only after a solution.
By comparing the Meiteis and other advanced Naga tribes, let us not curse ourselves. Let us be thankful to the Almighty God for what we are today. Simply jealous and trying to become equal with other advanced tribes alone is not right. Making loud noises in our own place and demanding our own share in the name of Indo-Naga issue is a shame. The important thing is, let us have concern for our Naga brethren who are more backward than us, work to uplift them before we try to become equal with the most advanced tribes. Let us travel far and near to the four corners of Nagaland and take our political stand. Let us reach to the Nagas of Eastern Naga tribes in the present country of Myanmar, to the Nagas in the states of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam and share our political vision with them.
Let me share with you an example: That, nonetheless, the prevailing not so pleasant relationship between us and our neighbors is out of the result of the unnecessarily created misunderstanding and will be just temporary, but then, the recent statement of Mr. Ibobi Singh Chief Minister of Manipur that “there are neither Naga nor Kuki in Manipur state but only Manipuris”, and the statement of the Assam government spokesman and Minister Hemanta Biswa Sama that “there are only some Zeme Nagas in North Cachar Hills district who were only encroachers”, are somewhat a challenge to us. The NSCN IM and UNC promptly reacted and in their separate press statements condemned the statement of Mr. Ibobi Singh and other languages of various political parties of Manipur when they spoke up with threatening words against the Nagas while reacting to the so called ‘Supra state Body”.
But then, both the NSCN IM and the UNC failed to condemn the statement of the Assam government and defend our brethren Zeme’s cause. It might be as they were too preoccupied with the alternative arrangement issue, and so it was not intentionally done, I believe it. Even then, this is what I have been worrying and saying where will you lead our people to. May not be intentional but it was a sign of having less concern for the other Naga area especially the backward areas or a proof that the much talk about the ongoing peace-talks or the demand to solve the so called pending solution is not being aware by all Naga areas, if not at present the Naga issue is being taken up separately for some particular areas only.
We can do or go for anything what is best for the Nagas, whether phase-wise or whatever it is, if it is in consultation with all areas of Naga people and for the interest of the whole Naga Nation. But, what if you go to the Nagas of Assam, to the Nagas of Arunachal Pradesh and to the Nagas of Eastern Naga tribes in Myanmar and ask what they understand about the latest Naga issue (the so called pending solution) being taken up in our area, and if they answer in the negative. Today, if we ask to the leaders of some major tribes like the Angami, Sumi, Konyak etc. about the detail of the points put forward by the NSCN IM in the ongoing peace-talks with the GoI, will they be able to tell you? I don’t believe. The Naga masses: some expect Naga integration, some expect alternative arrangement i.e. a separate state for the Nagas of Manipur, some even expect full Naga sovereignty and some work to harvest together the economic packages. Which one is right and what is Naga’s right? People are being misled and made confused in this way; even then this is what you think right and are adamant.
We had learnt from the history or have seeing enough of that are happening around the world, where a single party or a group of people were allowed to establish their rule in any place were all proved disastrous for the people. In such a type of establishment, suppression, oppression, killings, division and hatred will go on unending until those dictatorship rulers were overthrown and justice is done. Let no party, group or tribe from among the Nagas become too ambitious and mischievous and try such despotic rule on the Nagas. The best for the Nagas is to take the example of the America war of Independence, where thirteen colonies of America met and took decision together, fought together and won their Independence. Let no some leaders whether underground or overground take decision and impose their decision on the Nagas, we have to first free ourselves from such dangers at all cost. Let all Naga tribes take decision together what is best for the Nagas. Decide now, therefore, which is better for us. Shall we choose “unity first” for the love of the Nagas or shall we again be stubborn and stick to “Solution first” and ruin ourselves.
My suggestion: First we must work to bring all Nagas together in a way where all Nagas can fight together to achieve our common goal. So that the victory is of all the Nagas, for all the Nagas and by all the Nagas – that should be the formula and the foundation for the building of our Naga Nation.

Lt. Colonel Z. D. Akho, Naga Army


Frans on 12.11.11 @ 08:51 PM CST [link]


Prime Minister of India puts bomb under 14 year old Peace talks between India and Nagaland NISC


A Naga International Support Center, NISC www.nagalim.nl
A human rights organization

Press Release
Amsterdam, 12 December 2011

Prime Minister of India puts bomb under 14 year old Peace talks between India and Nagaland

It is known that the Government of India acknowledged the ‘unique History and situation of the Naga Peoples which means the Naga Peoples neither when under the British nor before their colonial time had had any relation with the peoples of India; not economically, socially, culturally, linguistically nor religiously.

The Government of India also knows that the Nagas, though living in tribes and separated through mountains and valleys, are one in spirit where it concerns their nation. India has a long history with the Nagas where this tenacious spirit is concerned. India knows that Nagas do not give up their right to self determination, but fight for it with determination. So, when in the state of Manipur on December 4, 2011, what moved Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to guarantee the integrity of the state of Manipur where he knew that this was deadly against the reunification of Naga areas?

The Naga areas are known to have been separated by the international border between Myanmar and India and again by small parts of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam but a larger part of Manipur. Together with Nagaland State the Sagaing District of Myanmar these four states together are the nation Nagaland.

This is not the first time that India talks peace on the negotiating table while undermining these talks for peace elsewhere. How can the Indian leaders be trusted? How can the Indian population trust its leaders who do not make its policies public but continues to wage war and spends tremendous amounts of public money to subjugate peoples who have every right to pursue their right to the internationally acclaimed right to self determination?

The Naga International Support Center calls on the Government of India to

- defuse the bomb which has been placed to undermine the peace talks
- to solve the long standing conflict by talking genuinely and with sincerity
- to befriend the Nagas and other Indigenous Peoples so a future relationship between the two nations can be intimate and fruitful, yet independent
- to make its policies on the Northeast in general and on the Indo-Naga conflict in particular public, so democratic accountability to the public will take root
- to publish both human losses of the Armed Forces of India as well as the human losses inflicted on the Nagas
- to release all political prisoners who have not committed terrorist crimes but fought for the right to self determination
Consequently too the Naga International Support Center appeals to the Indian media: journalists, editors, TV producers, filmmakers, writers to do a little research on the cost of the Indo-Naga war related to approximately 60 years with an average of 200.000 men and women still stationed in Naga areas, to asses the daily operations like cost of camps and their maintenance, transport, fuel, equipment, weapons.
The Naga International Support center invites you all to publish what might come to a staggering but unaccounted for amount of public funds and what might be an unbelievable number of casualties and loss of human life.

For more information www.nagalim.nl or mail to nisc@nagalim.nl">nisc@nagalim.nl

Frans on 12.11.11 @ 08:50 PM CST [link]


Saturday, December 10th

Nagaland Congress contradicts Naga wish : Somi Keishing Hueiyen News Service / Newmai News Network



Nagaland Congress contradicts Naga wish : Somi Keishing Hueiyen News Service / Newmai News Network

Imphal, Somi Keishing, spokesman of Naga People's Front (NPF) Manipur unit on Thursday stated that the statement made by former finance minister of Nagaland and AICC member K.Therie that appeared in local dailies of Northeast states, particularly in Nagaland was a different concept of politics which completely contradicts the wishes of the Naga communities.

Seven lakh population of Nagas in Manipur feel that Nagaland Chief minister Neiphiu Rio has occupied a very important place in the history of Naga people for rendering a helping hand in the State of Nagaland and other countries to instill idea of recognizing the oneness of the Nagas, the NPF Manipur State unit spokesperson Somi Keishing told reporters at Tangkhul avenue here today.

.KTherie must have understood that NPF is a political party registered with the Election commission of India (ECI) that has every right to spread or expand the party to every nook and corner of the country, Keishing maintained.

Further, the extension of NPF to other States like Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh is not aimed at disturbing the communal harmony of that States but it intends to strengthen the political set up, he added.

He said sitting either in the opposition or the ruling party is not the real priority but the main duty of elected members is to voice the concern and interest of the people he or she represents.

The political aspirations and desire of the Naga people to unite under a single administrative unit and determination of their future by themselves are permissible under the very Constitution of India, Somi stressed.

"Development is not the only important issue but a system is required under which all the tribal communities can raise the voice of their grievances," Keishing said.

Mr.Therei may not be aware of the system and the reality of the State affairs of Manipur, Keishing said, while adding that comparing Neiphiu Rio with Mohammad-Bin- Tuglogh is a joke which the people can never understand.
NPF pledges to work for Naga integration The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network
Imphal, December 08 2011: The Naga People's Front, Manipur State unit fumed that the Congress-led Secular Progressive Front (SPF) Government has been opposing against its consolidation in the State, reiterating that the political party would meticulously work for the unity and integration of the Nagas. The NPF Ukhrul district division organized a one-day "Interface Meeting" of the district yesterday in which the party's leaders from Nagaland and Manipur took part.

At the meeting, Z Lohe, political advisor to Chief minister of Nagaland TN, Mannen, IAS retired Additional Chief Secretary, Nagaland and advisor NPF, Timikha Koza, advisor, Legal Cell NPF, Zaku Tsukru, vice president NPF and G.Gaingam, president NPF Manipur State unit deliberated on the Naga political issue and reason for expanding the NPF in Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh.

Addressing the gathering which was participated by 2,500 people, Z Lohe said the NPF is not being imposed in Manipur but it s the right of the party to work with the Naga people in Manipur, adding the party is not a private company advertising its products in the State.

He also alleged the State Government of suppressing all the constitutional and even inherent rights of the Naga people and added that all the rights to ownership of land in the hill areas are being threatened by the Government of Manipur.

NPF Manipur co-convenor in-charge, Zaku categorically stated that the political party has come to Manipur with good intention to work with the people of the State and insisted that the party would work for peaceful co-existence with other communities but without forgetting the unity and integration of the whole Nagas.

G Gaingam while speaking on the occasion said the Government of Manipur has become the "greatest threat" to the Nagas in Manipur.

The NPF is trying its best to help solve the Naga political issue, a cherished goal of the Nagas, he further said.

NPF and the Nagas are not enemy of the Manipur Government and only time would prove that the Nagas are not enemies of the Meiteis but good neighbours, Timikha said.

"Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and other NPF leaders could not be prevented from entering Manipur as we were peaceful and democratic" .

"The party would continue to maintain peace with all, including the Manipur Government", Mannen asserted.

Meanwhile, Somi Keishing, spokesman of Naga People's Front (NPF) Manipur unit on Thursday stated that the statement made by former Finance Minister of Nagaland and AICC member K Therie that appeared in local dailies of Northeast states, particularly in Nagaland was a different concept of politics which completely contradicts the wishes of the Naga communities.

Seven lakh population of Nagas in Manipur feel that Nagaland Chief minister Neiphiu Rio has occupied a very important place in the history of Naga people for rendering a helping hand in the State of Nagaland and other countries to instill idea of recognizing the oneness of the Nagas, the NPF Manipur State unit spokesperson Somi Keishing told reporters at Tangkhul avenue here today.

K Therie must have understood that NPF is a political party registered with the Election Commission of India (ECI) that has every right to spread or expand the party to every nook and corner of the country, Keishing maintained.

The further extension of NPF to other States like Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh does not aim to disturb the communal harmony of that States but it intends to strengthen the political set up, he maintained.

He said sitting either in the opposition or the ruling party is not the real priority but the main duty of elected members is to voice the concern and interest of the people he or she has represented.

The political aspirations and desire of the Naga people to unite under a single administrative unit and determination of their future by themselves are permissible under the very Constitution of India, Somi stressed.

"Development is not the only important issue but a system is required under which all the tribal communities can raise the voice of their grievances," Keishing said.

Mr.Therei may not be aware of the system and the reality of the State affairs of Manipur, Keishing said, while adding that comparing Neiphiu Rio with Mohammad-Bin-Tuglogh is a incomprehensible joke which the people can never understand.
GoI lacks political will: UNC Imposes ban on work at Jiribam-Tupul Trans Asian Railway line, oil exploration at Tamenglong NTIMES

DIMAPUR, (EMN): Expressing strong disappointment over the statement of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in Imphal on December 3, the United Naga Council (UNC) today announced the imposition of a ban on all construction works on the Jiribam-Tupul Trans Asian Railway line for a period of two months to protest the GoI’s lack of political to address the issues of the Nagas in Manipur.

Further, stating that attempts are being made to tap and take away their natural resources instead of according priority to settlement of issues that are already registered and recognised, the frontal Naga body said the exploration for petroleum & oil being taken up by public sector undertakings/private companies in Tamenglong District would also be banned till further notice. The bans will be affected from December 16, a statement issued by the UNC informed.

The Prime Minister, in his address at the public meeting in Imphal, had stated that the Central Government was committed to the territorial integrity of Manipur.
The UNC said the PM’s statement at this juncture has created confusion in the minds of the Naga public while pointing to the ongoing Indo-Naga dialogue as well as the tripartite talk of the Government of India (GoI), Government of Manipur (GoM) and the UNC on the demand for an alternative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur outside the GoM pending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue.

The UNC said it was unable to discern sincerity in the PM’s statement and further questioned whether the Indo-Naga issue has been subjected to the electoral politics of a mere state under the Union of India, even when the unique history and situation of the Nagas has been recognised by the GoI in the course of the 14 long years of the peace process. Also, the Prime Minister had committed to an out of the box solution, it reminded.
It, moreover, said in their meetings with the Union Home Minister on Nov 2 and the Prime Minister on Dec 3 both had expressed that the tripartite talk process should be continued. These assurances have been made when the Nagas in Manipur have already gone into protest from October 19 against subjecting the tripartite process to the convenience and interest of the GoM, it said. However, it regretted that rather than taking initiative to bring the process back on track, the Prime Minister’s statement has come as a dampner.
Stating that the issue is about the sharp social divide in Manipur on communal lines on which the Prime Minister himself had expressed his concern in public, as well as the rights of the Nagas and tribals over their land, the UNC announced the bans in protest against what it called the lack of political will on the part if the GoI in addressing the Naga concerns.
It has also requested the public to extend cooperation towards the observation of the daily 1-hour public curfew from 12 pm to 1 am, except Sundays, to constantly register that the demand for alternative arrangement is not being addressed. Eastern Mirror
ULFA warns against security operations Staff Reporter Assam Tribune
GUWAHATI, Dec 8 – The hard line faction of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) has threatened to target “Indian citizens” living in Assam. However, security sources said that the militant outfit is not in a position to inflict major damage anywhere in the State.
In a release here, Arunodoi Dohotiya, the publicity in charge of the hard line faction of the ULFA, said that the “Indian forces” , particularly the personnel of the Cobra Commando force, are committing atrocities on innocent people in upper Assam, particularly in the district of Tinsukia.

The ULFA said that the outfit would not tolerate such atrocities on innocent people and if such acts are not stopped immediately, the “Indian citizens” living in Assam would have to face the consequences.

Meanwhile, security sources said that the personnel of the Cobra Force of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) are working with the district police forces and the forces have managed to inflict heavy damage to the ULFA in Tinsukia district in recent days. This must have prompted the ULFA to issue the statement, sources pointed out.

On the activities of the ULFA, sources said that a group of members of the outfit recently managed to enter India from the bases in Myanmar. According to information available with the security agencies, at least 40 members of the outfit are moving around in Tirap and Changlang districts of Arunachal Pradesh as well as in Majuli and Sadiya.

Sources admitted that the ULFA does not have shortage of weapons and explosives but the outfit does no have adequate number of trained manpower. In the past, the ULFA engaged “outsourced” persons to lob grenades and such a move cannot be ruled out in near future.

The ULFA hard line faction has also launched an extortion drive and the outfit would definitely try some acts of violence to make its presence felt, sources added. Assam Tribune

Athong MakuryDelhi and Naypyitaw had recently countersigned the agreement for the Hydro project, which is going to be constructed in the Chindwin River at Tazone-Laywayyan above Homalin town. The people who live at the site are 90% agrarians and the Nagas especially will be affected more severely than other. Myanmar is blowing a trumpet of democracy where as the people on the real ground are suffering tooth and nail still. Their claim proves to be void and a lie STILL. Hence, if any one in this group has access to the world media, please mention this issue and help the Nagas of M.O.N. God bless and Kuknalim!!!

Dear Friends, may I kindly put this in our platform. Kindly, have a look and share it.

Delhi and Naypyitaw had recently countersigned the agreement for the Hydro project, which is going to be constructed in the Chindwin River at Tazone-Laywayyan above Homalin town (Eastern Nagaland, Myanmar). The people who live at the site are 90% agrarians and the Nagas especially will be affected more severely than other. Myanmar is blowing a trumpet of democracy where as the people on the real ground are suffering tooth and nail still. Their claim proves to be void and a lie STILL. Hence, if any one in this group has access to the world media, please mention this issue and help the Nagas of M.O.N. (Myanmar Occupied Nagaland). God bless and Kuknalim!!!

Naga talks endorsed Eastern Mirror Nagaland

DIMAPUR, (EMN): The Tatar Hoho Winter Session, held on December 9 at Council Headquarters, has fully endorsed the Collective Leadership to carry on the ongoing Indo-Naga political dialogue in right earnest. This was informed in a press note issued by the MIP NSCN/GPRN.

10 Dec: Public service by Naga groups. Eastern Mirror Nagaland

DIMAPUR, DEC 9 (EMN): On the occasion of the International Human Rights Day on December 10, the signatories of the Naga Concordant - NSCN/GPRN, NNC/FGN and GPRN/NSCN - will be jointly rendering public service. The cadres from the three groups will be painting the Hong Kong market flyover, the FNR informed in a press note, adding that the symbolic expression of unity in purpose will begin from 7 am. The public service will be carried out in the presence of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation

MPP belittles Naga People’s Front. Sangai Express

Imphal, Manipur People’s Party (MPP) MLA RK Anand Friday said the newly floated political party, Naga People’s Party (NPF) is a “political umbrella” aiming and struggling for Naga integration in the State.

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of inauguration of a local community hall at Langthabal, Naoriya Pakhanglakpa Constituency MLA RK. Anand said that peace parleys between NSCN-IM and the Government of India are still continuing that sometimes the peace process poses a “big threat” to Manipur, and the people of the State are not freed from threats caused by the talks.

The recently surfaced issue of “Supra-State Body” which has created a strained state in Manipur is now relatively calm following assurance given by the Prime Minister during his recent visit to the State, Anand said.

Prime Minister Dr. Manmohon Singh on his visit to Manipur on Dec 3 had clearly stated that there would be no compromise on the State territorial integrity which alleviated distress of the people, the MLA added.

Anand also strongly urged the political parties in the State to take care while fielding candidates where NPF candidates are contesting in the upcoming polls to the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly to be strong enough to defeat the party.
Two months ban on rail line work from Dec 16 by UNC. UNC takes strong exception against PM's statement on State's territory status Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal: Coming out hard against the recent statement of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh that the Centre is committed to the territorial integrity of Manipur, the United Naga Council (UNC) has banned all works on the Jiribam-Tupul rail line for two months with effect from December 16 .

As the first step towards Nagalim, the UNC is campaigning for an alternative administrative arrangement for the Nagas by severing all ties with the State Government.

The ban on rail work decision comes on the heel of the suspension of the 120 days economic blockade on Imphal-Dimapur and Imphal-Silchar routes ten days back.

The lifelines were cut off to protest the State Government's alleged attempt to bifurcate Naga-dominated areas to create new districts and also in pursuit of the Alternative Arrangement demand.

During a public meeting on December 3, the Prime Minister had said the Centre was committed to the territorial integrity of Manipur.

While the Indo-Naga dialogue is underway at the higher level and a democratic process of tripartite talk of Centre, State Government and the UNC on the demand for an Alternative Arrangement for the Nagas, pending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue is also on, the PM's statement "at this juncture has created confusion in the minds of the Naga public," the UNC said in a statement.

"We are not quite able to discern sincerity in the statement under question and are prompted to question whether the Indo-Naga issue has been subjected to the electoral politics of a mere State under the Union of India, even when the unique history and situation of the Nagas has been recognized by the Centre in the course of the 14 long years of the peace process and also when the PM had committed to an out of the box solution," the statement added.

The Prime Minister during a meeting with the UNC at Raj Bhawan on December 3 had expressed that the tripartite talk should continue, said UNC and added that the Union Home Minister had also on November 2 at Senapati said the same thing.

"Therefore, in protest against the lack of political will of the Centre to address the Naga issues, we are compelled to impose a ban on all construction works on the Jiribam-Tupul Trans Asian Railway line for a period of two months with effect from December 16," the statement said.

The UNC further said the exploration for petroleum and oil being taken up by public sectors undertakings/private companies in Tamenglong District would also be banned till further notice with effect from December 16 .

In his address, the PM had said that work on the 125-Km railway line from Jiribam via Tupul was under progress and is likely to be completed by March 2016, with the Jiribam-Tupul portion finalised by March 2014 .

The UNC has sought the cooperation of all the private companies /public sector undertakings engaged in the railway project and requested them to desist from any construction works during the specified period.

Further, "instead of according priority to settling issues that are already registered and recognized, attempts are being made to tap and take away our natural resources," charged the UNC .


Frans on 12.10.11 @ 04:57 PM CST [link]


Wednesday, December 7th

PM’s Imphal statement a U-turn: NSCN/GPRN Says it may adversely affect Indo-Naga talks NTIMES



PM’s Imphal statement a U-turn: NSCN/GPRN Says it may adversely affect Indo-Naga talks NTIMES

DIMAPUR, (EMN): The Joint Council meeting of the Steering Committee Executive Members and the Cabinet of the NSCN/GPRN have taken strong exception to the statement

of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on Dec 3 at Imphal where he committed to the ‘untenable status quo of the so-called territorial integrity of Manipur and other North Eastern states’.
This was informed in a press communiqué issued by the NSCN/GPRN Kilo Kilonser Rh Raising and co-convenor, Steering Committee Q. Tuccu, which further said the statement is serious cause for concern as it may adversely affect the ongoing Indo-Naga peace process.
Stating that the entire Nagas are shocked, it said the PM’s statement is being viewed as a U-turn to the commitment of seeking the Indo-Naga solution outside the box and to walk the extra mile to seek an honourable political solution in the shortest possible time. “His statement contradicts the ‘recognition of the unique history and situation of the Nagas’ by the Government of India,” it said, adding that, historically speaking, Nagas have their distinct culture and territory under the administrative jurisdictions of the respective Chiefs/Kings of the Villages from time immemorial and that Nagas were not a part of the Manipur Durbar (Assembly). It further pointed out that under the colonial policies of British India and India, the land of the Nagas were divided into many pieces and placed in different administrative units in total suppression of the inherent rights of the Nagas.
In protest against such diabolic divide and rule policy, Nagas have been resisting in many forms till date and they will do that till the end, it asserted.
The NSCN/GPRN, moreover, reminded that at the invitation of the Government of India to resolve the 7 (seven) decades old conflict between the Indians and the Nagas, the two entities have been talking across the table for the last 14 (fourteen) years seeking solution through political means. It said Nagas are patient and deeply committed to solving the decades-old problem through negotiation based on mutual respect and recognition of our inherent historical rights and we will always be faithful to this commitment. However, it maintained that the statement of the Prime Minister of India is a serious cause for concern as it may adversely affect the ongoing Indo-Naga peace process. EMN

Manipur NPF reiterates for ‘logical solution’ NTIMES

Imphal,The Manipur unit of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) reiterates “fullest commitment” to the Prime Minister in strengthening and expediting the ongoing political dialogue between the ‘NSCN-IM and the Government of India’ and paving way to arriving at a ‘logical conclusion.’

According to a note from the unit, integration of all Naga contiguous areas “under one political roof” to live together as one people is the “birthright” of the Nagas all over and has been their demand for the past more than 60 years. The NPF unit submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister during his visit to Manipur on December 3. The political party expressed unhappiness ‘over many hurdles created one after another by neighbors’ more so by the valley-based civil organizations in Imphal ‘on road map to peace.’

There is stiff opposition when it comes to the ceasefire agreement between the Government of India and NSCN-IM, the NPF unit complained. Blaming the present Secular Progressive front (SPF) government of Manipur, the unit said the “majority community-dominated Cabinet” of the State government had conducted elections to the Autonomous District Council (ADC) in the hill districts in 2011 by handpicking some candidates. It was rejected and declared that the ADC office cannot function in the four Naga districts.

The NPF party also mentioned that various memorandum of understanding signed between the government of Manipur and the Nagas represented by the Naga Students’ Federation, United Naga Council and All Naga Students’ Association at various times in the past concerning the creation of Sadar Hills district. The present Manipur Cabinet decided to go ahead with its formation without taking into consideration the confidence of the main stakeholders, the party said.

Further, the unit said, the talk of “Supra-state body” being offered to the Nagas by the Government of India, which appeared in certain section of the media, “has instantly led to hue and cry from all quarters in the Imphal valley against the proposal, a thing yet to be either authenticated or confirmed or accepted.”

In the memorandum, it also criticized the Manipur government on stating that out of the total SPA funds allocated to the state, 28 per cent is allotted to the hill districts while 72 per cent is allocated to the valley. 39 per cent is earmarked for the Hill districts and 61 per cent is set aside for the valley, the NPF claimed. The state government ‘seems to ignore need-based development,’ the NPF unit added. NNN/MExN
Vetolu Dawhuo crowned Miss Nagaland 2011 Emilo Khuvung Morung
Kohima | December 6: Stunning and innocent looking Vetolü Dawhuo from Phek district has been crowned Miss Nagaland 2011 at the prestigious Miss Nagaland Beauty pageant organised by Beauty & Aesthetics Society of Nagaland in coinciding with the Hornbill festival, here this evening at the State Academy Hall. Winning the coveted title amidst thunderous applause from a capacity crowd and fans, she pocketed a cash prize of Rs 50,000 along with complimentary gift hampers. Imnuksungla Jamir and Wankam Konyak were adjusted as first and second runner up respectively who were also awarded with a cash prize of Rs. 30,000 and Rs. 20,000 and a gift hamper.


Responding to a query “In a modern society, mostly husband and wife are daily bread earners thereby who matters the most in earning, husband or wife and why?”, Vetolü responded saying that both the husband and wife shares the same responsibility thereby whoever earns more does not matter for her. 20 years old Dawhuo, stands 161.4 cms and weighs 47 kgs. Her hobbies include designing and social service. Wishing to be a designer, she voted her ‘mother’ as her greatest influence. Dawhuo will now be the brand ambassador for Saakshar Bharat (Adult Education) in Nagaland.


Miss Nagaland 2011, Vetolü Dawhuo flanked by first and second runner up, Imnuksungla Jamir and Wankam Konyak during the Miss Nagaland beauty pageant held at Kohima.
The show comprised of three rounds - modern ethnic wear, designer and formal round. In the modern ethnic wear round, the contestants showcased the beautiful, vibrant and colourful Naga attires of different tribes. In the designer wear round, the contestants sashayed down the stage in outfits designed by Rhosou Rhi and friends. In the formal round, the contestants wore gowns designed by their own respective designers.
The fifteen contestants were then whittled-down to five—Kimiyetoli Tsüqü, Imnuksungla Jamir, Alis Jamir, Wankam Konyak and Vetolü Dawhuo for the final category question and answer. Ayn Longkumer, designer, showcased her designs for the fashion sequence. Among the many artistes who performed at the show included Tsapila Anar, Kokliba (Naga Orpheus Hunt 2011 finalists), a dance sequence by the Elementz, and a special performance by Abby Rose Nakro (USA).

SUB TITLES WINNERS

Miss Perfect ‘10’- Nyembo Konyak
Mary Kay Miss Beautiful Skin- Noibenkupling P. Nyam
Miss Congeniality - Noibenkupling P. Nyam
Miss photogenic- Kejenkala T. Longchar
Eastern Mirror Reader’s Choice Award- Sentirenla Ozk

Nagaland Press & Social Media morungexpress

Recently an editorial in this column mentioned about media as an instrument of public accountability and how those in the media must be first accountable itself. The press in Nagaland has performed exceedingly well as far as its role of Information Education Communication (IEC) goes. But we have fared poorly when it comes to speaking out the truth. It’s true that the media has become too much identified with the system. We are failing in our role as a free press…to get to the bottom of the story…to point out wrongs…to make our government accountable for their acts of omission…We cannot continue to be a soft media only republishing press statements from those in power or the countless public relation exercise of this and that union, group, political parties etc. So coming back to the role of the media, we must carry the “voice of protest” and be the medium to spotlight social evils, policy failures or the wrongs in our system. How can we be more effective as media practitioners? One area we need to improve upon is in our reporting. Are we merely satisfied to take dictation from others…don’t we as journalists’ have a mind of our own…in fact the best way for the media to be an instrument for public accountability is to probe and ask—if needed even tough uncomfortable—questions to those in authority…and we should not be afraid to report the truth.
Also the media here is not making the best use of the Right to Information Act (RTI). In the RTI Act there are endless possibilities for the media to demand accountability from those holding public office. We don’t seem to have the inclination or the time to do serious reporting. Here we need to bring to the fore the new phenomenon of what we call the social media. In fact the uprising in the Arab world and the fall of regimes in Egypt, Libya etc. this has been attributed to what is being dubbed as the ‘Facebook Revolution’. We need to ponder over what the role of the mainstream media has been in all this recent events taking place around the world. Some may disagree with this column but you know what…this whole new awakening taking place through social media is partly as a result of the mainstream media’s failure. Remember? we were supposed to be the ‘voice of protest’, to carry the voice of the people, to act as the watchdog against injustice, to be the voice for the voiceless. It would seem that the mainstream media has been co-opted into the system that perpetuates the status-quo. The people coming out into the streets, the new found expression of protests in the social media is the frustration against the present state of affairs including the failure of the fourth estate.
And because we are failing to play our part, the media is facing a crisis of legitimacy. The sense we get is that people are starting to lose faith in us. The local media must be awake to this reality. All will agree that a strong and vibrant media is an asset for society, for politics and for democracy. There is an equal danger in allowing too much space for people’s power. Freedom of protest or expression should not be used as a license. We don’t want complete disorder and anarchy. And that is why the media must reoccupy its place and give the space to promote dialogue and reason while at the same time being an instrument for accountability, correction and peaceful change.

Assam’s new force to stop other states from encroaching Rediff.com
Guwahati, December 6 (Rediff.com): Though late, Assam has decided to roll up its sleeves and take measures to protect its borders from rising encroachment by the neighbouring states. The Border Area Development Department has given thrust on the setting up a Border Protection Force, which will exclusively guard the inter-state borders of Assam.
Highly-placed official sources told rediff.com that the BPF would be set up to protect Assam’s inter-state borders from continuous encroachment by the neighbouring states and the issue had been brought to the notice of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.
The proposed BPF will man Assam’s inter-state borders, prevent skirmishes along the borders and deal with the encroachers.
According to recent official figures, a combined area of 85,446.42 hectares of Assam was encroached upon by Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya and Mizoram. The break-up: Nagaland-66, 151 hectares, Arunachal Pradesh-11, 519.76 hectares, Meghalaya-5,789.66 hectares and Mizoram-1,986 hectares. Of the 5,927 hectares area in the Geleki reserve forest in Upper Assam’s Sivasagar district, around 4,000 hectares were encroached upon by Nagaland, official figures stated.
Border Area Development Department sources said that the encroachment problem in the border areas of Assam, which is more serious along the Nagaland border, is mostly encouraged by the National Socialist Council of Nagalim.
“Most of these Naga encroachers are very aggressive and it is sure that these people have the backing of the Naga insurgent groups. This is a serious matter,” official sources said. Well-trained members would be recruited in the proposed BPF, official sources said. “Through this new security unit, we can also give employment to a large number of unemployed youth in the state,” sources added.
To develop the inter-state border areas in Assam, the Border Area Development Department has placed Rs 1000 crore supplementary demand to the state government, which would be mainly for development of roads, culverts, electricity supply, border outposts, schools and others in the inter-state border areas.
“Border encroachment problem is severe in Assam due to lack of development measures initiated by Dispur along its inter-State border,” official sources added.
Rescuing Tribal India: The Nagaland Model – Analysis IPCS By Firdaus Ahmed
An army brigade has been deployed for its jungle warfare training to Chhattisgarh for the second round. Reportedly it is located closer to the forested area than the brigade that had trained there earlier. With another such deployment, troops would edge closer to the Maoist ‘liberated zone’ as by then there would be enough troops familiar with the terrain and the challenge. The decision to give a free rein to them to ‘liberate’ the tribals held ‘hostage’ by Maoists in the forests can be easily taken.
From the preliminary moves underway it is apparent that the option is open, subject to the army’s readiness. Though the army is not in favour since its engagement in Kashmir continues, leaving no troops to spare. The army deployment for training purposes is an internal variant of ‘coercive diplomacy’ – it is to goad the Maoists on to the table.
India
In the interim the window for talks is closing. The Maoists interlocutor, Azad, was shot last year. The new state government in Kolkata has resumed operations successfully in claiming the Maoist leader, Kishenji, after a short ceasefire. Fresh thinking on breaking the status quo is called for. Operations to open up ‘no go’ areas do not seem imminent. The paramilitary is doing a reasonable job of keeping the areas needed for extraction of minerals open, but at a non-trivial cost in lives. The companies accessing difficult areas are arriving at an arrangement with the Maoists. Maoists have been contained in their hold outs. The only ones suffering are the already marginalized tribal communities within and in the adjacent region.
In the meanwhile, the government has extended its tried and tested policy of dole to the region, empowering its administrators already burdened with the usual development load with another 25 crore Rupees per district. This may well end up with contractors, who will pay out some to the Maoists as protection money. Glacial operations are set to be indefinitely extended. This is good enough for security managers perhaps; but not so for tribal communities. They have been squeezed between Maoists and the state supported SPOs. The Supreme Court judgment on the SPOs has been undercut by the Chhattisgarh state enacting a law institutionalizing their employment.
Then, can the tribal communities be saved? The military option, in case mere military posturing fails, has precedent. The clearing of the Lakhipather reserve forests off the ULFA in late 1990 and Operation Sarp Vinash in Surankot in Poonch district are examples, which involved the army setting up a firm base and then moving in. In both cases the quarry had fled by the time the army closed the cordon. For Maoists to flee into neighbouring areas within time in case of military operations is possible. This will leave the resident village communities open to the attention of the SPOs, Koya Commondos etc, inevitably part of the vanguard of the operation. In case the Moaists are indeed trapped, with the military learning lessons from earlier operations, their plight will be worse. Pre-empting operations would also benefit the state and the military since jungle operations are known to consume troops and time, witness the operations of the IPKF in late eighties.
An idea is to apply the ‘Nagaland model’ to conflict resolution in Central India. In Nagaland the ceasefire is into its fourteenth year, even as talks continue. Loosely applied regulations enable the armed groups to coexist with the security forces. A parallel government of the no-longer-underground is in place that ‘taxes’ people. The good part is that the two sides are not shooting at each other. The resulting peace has proved addictive and chances of reversion to internal conflict are receding. The talks have been buoyed lately by ideas such as a ‘non-territorial’ or ‘supra state’ solution to the major holdup, Nagalim.
Maoists stand to make gains in legitimacy, visibility and power. This may tempt them down the democratic route. This is worth conceding for the state in exchange for protecting Indian citizens: their life and liberties and restoring a dignified life to the people. The state’s policies will get better implemented, with areas opened for development. The major gain, as in Nagaland, would be in backtracking being precluded by either side. It would make them lose out strategically in terms of losing support among the people, who would prefer that peace acquire roots. Peace would then be self-sustaining.
Over the past three years, there has been a lot of ‘talk about talks’. The problems of this strategy are that with a dwindling leadership, the insurgent groups break up. While easier to tackle, bringing the violence to end becomes problematic. The stated intent of the Home Minister needs translation into action. The Nagaland model exists. The promise of development will be easier to deliver. The elimination of the top Maoist leader, Kishenji, provides an opportunity for acting from a position of strength. Seizing it would certainly spare India’s tribal communities becoming a site for yet another unending counter-insurgency.
Firdaus Ahmed
Freelancer
email: firdyahmed@yahoo.com">firdyahmed@yahoo.com
About the author:
IPCS
IPCS (Institute for Peace and Conflict Studies) conducts independent research on conventional and non-conventional security issues in the region and shares its findings with policy makers and the public. It provides a forum for discussion with the strategic community on strategic issues and strives to explore alternatives. Moreover, it works towards building capacity among young scholars for greater refinement of their analyses of South Asian security.
Fashion industry making waves in Nagaland ANI
Kohima, Dec 6 (ANI): The youth in Nagaland have always kept abreast with the latest fashion trends and the last few years have witnessed this trend consciousness transform into a serious and popular career option.
Recently, the Nagaland Government launched the Nagaland Designers Association to provide designers with a platform to promote traditional weaves and to generate employment for local artisans.
"There are so many talented youth in Nagaland. The launch of the Nagaland Designers Association has provided a good opportunity for models as well designers. I think this is very good that this will surely make their (model, designers) dreams come true," said Nesie Meruno, a Naga model.
Seventeen designers showcased their collections at the event, whose main theme was "Going Glocal-Emanating the indigenous".
There were four rounds of ramp shows in which models showcased casuals, formals, and dresses made from sericulture and other products.undreds of visitors thronged the venue to encourage the young designers and models.
The association urged the government to provide them the much needed support.
"There is a small platform for us to showcase our talent. Many of us are not privileged enough to go outside and show our skills to other people because of many constraints like money and others. So many designers are struggling to make it to the national level or make them recognized," said Kavili Kiba, Vice President, Nagaland Designers Association.
Nagaland today has many talented youth in the fashion arena.
Some eminent designers and models from the state include Atsu Sekhose and Alemla Jamir who have made a mark at the national level. (ANI)


Frans on 12.07.11 @ 11:03 PM CST [link]


Monday, December 5th

Slow NSCN-IM talks ‘notable setback’: MHA Nagalim times



Slow NSCN-IM talks ‘notable setback’: MHA Nagalim times

GUWAHATI, Dec 3:A ministry of home affairs (MHA) report has listed the slow progress in talks with the NSCN(IM), and persistence of violence in Manipur and the Bodo issue as ‘notable setbacks’ in the last three years from December 2008.

The MHA report released by home secretary RK Singh on Thursday enumerates the following points as ‘notable setbacks’: “Manipur remains affected by violence and blockades; the Bodo issue remains alive despite establishment of the Bodoland Territorial Council and talks with the NDFB (Progressive) are yet to start; and talks with the NSCN(IM) are making slow progress.”

The MHA listing the slow progress of talks with the NSCN(IM) as a ‘notable setback’ comes weeks after reports of the NSCN (IM) talks coming to an end and an agreement to be signed granting Nagaland a special status that would give the state the right to set up administrative units in Naga-inhabited areas of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. The three states raised protests against this reported move by the Centre.

On the other hand, the ‘notable pending matters’ listed by the ministry include amendments to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (Afspa); revised action plan to deal with emerging challenges from Left wing extremists; action plan for Tirap and Changlang districts of Arunachal Pradesh; policy on dealing with insurgent groups taking shelter in Myanmar.

A bill to redefine ‘rape’ and ‘sexual assault’ has also been listed as one of the notable pending matters. On the northeast section, the report says there has been “significant decline in violence in the northeastern states” and this has been possible due to the arrest of top leaders of Ulfa, NDFB (Ranjan Daimary), DHD (J), UNLF and NLFT. The other reasons for the decline of violence pointed out by the report include: “surrender of 412 cadres of the KLNLF and 114 cadres of the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) (MC) of Manipur; tripartite agreement of understanding signed with the KCP (MC) (Lalumba faction) on August 6, 2010; first suspension of operation (SoO) agreement signed with Ulfa in September, 2011; memorandum of settlement signed with the UPDS on November 25, 2011.”

The report adds that besides NSCN (IM), NDFB (Pro-talk), DHD (J), DHD (Nunisa), ANVC and KLNLF, talks are also underway with NDFB (Ranjan Daimary) while “agreements likely to be reached with the DHD (J) and DHD (N) soon.”

The report applauds the Centre’s interlocutor for Assam and Meghalaya and former IB chief PC Haldar for “successfully concluding the talks with ANVC in Meghalaya, UPDS, DHD(J) and DHD(N) in Assam.” Sangai Express

Top Ulfa leader, Indian journo held in Myanmar NTIMES
A top Ulfa functionary and an Indian journalist were arrested by the Myanmar Army on Saturday. Home Secretary RK Singh has confirmed about the arrest of the two people to the media.

The top Ulfa functionary arrested is not Paresh Barua but the so called Lt Col Jibon Moran. He was the finance secretary of Ulfa. The journalist arrested by the Myanmar army Rajiv Bhattacharjee was working in newly started Guwahati newspaper called Seven Sisters Post.
Rajiv Bhattacharjee had recently posted on Facebook and Twitter that he was going to interview Ulfa leader Paresh Barua in November first week in the Myanmar jungles. Since then the Myanmar media is agog with news that Paresh Barua has been arrested.

It seems that journalist Rajiv Bhattacharjee was either arrested while he was on route to interview Paresh Barua or he was meeting Jibon Moran.
According to intelligence inputs Paresh Barua operates between Chengdu province in China and Kachin state in Myanmar. Hindustan Times

PM negates Supra State body report, remains mum on AFSPA promise NTIMES
IMPHAL, Addressing a mammoth public gathering at Kangla this afternoon, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh categorically stated that there was no proposal for any Supra State body under consideration of the Government of India.

He also declared that the Central Government is committed to the territorial integrity of Manipur which he described as a very important part of the Union of India.

He described Manipur as a land of breathtaking natural beauty with rich cultural heritage, and long and glorious tradition of peace and harmony among different communities of the State.

Highlighting the potential for tourism industry in the State, he stated that the salubrious climate, varied flora and fauna, enchanting dance and music would make Manipur a delightful tourist spot.

The Prime Minister also congratulated sports persons of the State for their excellence in sports competitions. He noted that Manipur was at the top of all other States in the last National Games despite being smaller than most other States in terms of both territory and population. He stated that the UPA Government has been endeavouring incessantly to bring rapid progress in Manipur and other Northeastern States and also to ensure that the State get opportunities for their talents and abilities to flourish.

Stating that the UPA Government has been working closely with the Government of Manipur for the last five years, Dr Manmohan informed the gathering that the devolution under the 13th Finance Commission to Manipur for 2010-2015 is expected to be about Rs 13,600 crores which is more than double the amount sanctioned for 2005-2010.
The plan outlay of Manipur for the current fiscal is Rs 3210 crores which is triple times larger than the plan outlay of 2005-06.
Responding to Chief Minister O Ibobi’s proposal for a special package of Rs 6000 crores, the Prime Minister assured that the special needs and concerns of Manipur would be duly taken care of.

Underscoring the need for peace and tranquillity in Manipur for prosperity and concentration on development, the Prime Minister welcomed all efforts to restore peace and harmony in Manipur where different communities are and were living together in peace for centuries.

Observing that the projects he announced during his visit to the State in 2004 and 2006 have been completed, the Prime Minister exuded that the New Secretariat complex which is an- other component of the Capital Project would be completed by March 2014.

He stated that the new auditorium of the Manipur Film Development Corporation which was inaugurated today would help in promo-ting Manipuri film industry.

Emphasising on the crucial importance of setting up good infrastructure for economic development of Manipur, the Prime Minister informed that the Airports Authority of India has drawn up a plan to upgrade Tulihal Airport to the level of an international airport. The Jiribam-Tupul-Imphal railway work is under progress and is expected to be completed by March 2016. Jiribam-Tupul section is expected to be completed by March 2014. Doubleaning of Maram-Peren road would be completed by March 2012. Development work of NH 53 is expected to be completed by December 2013.

The State Government’s proposal for construction of the Old Cachar Road project has also been improved by the Centre in principle, Dr Manmohan stated.

Again responding to the State Government’s request for Central assistance for improvement of road connectivity in hill areas of Manipur, the Prime Minister asked the State Government to prepare detailed proposals so that the same can be suitably considered.

The project for augmentation of water supply to Imphal city by drawing raw water from Thoubal Dam is being actively considered for funding by the Japan International Corporation Agency.

Declaring that oil depot would be constructed at Malom, the Prime Minister stated that it would work as road-fed depot till the work of railway line up to Imphal is completed.

Capacity of the Sekmai LPG bottling plant would be doubled from 600 metric tonnes to 1200 metric tonnes. He exuded that this would help in maintaining regular supply of petrol, diesel, kerosene and LPG to the people of Manipur. Talking about the power scenario, the Prime Minister stated that environmental clearance for Tipaimukh Hydro Electric project has been granted while forest clearance is under process.

Stating that a project for expansion and upgradation of power transmission, sub-transmission and distribution networks has been put forward to the World Bank, the Prime Minister asked concerned Central Government Ministries to purse the matter actively with the World Bank.

The Central Government has also decided to set up Kasturba Gandhi residential schools in all nine districts of Manipur.

The proposal for upgradation of RIMS has been approved and work is likely to begin from the current month while the similar proposal for upgradation of JNIMS is under consideration, Dr Manmohan stated.

Noting that Union Home Minister P Chidambaram inaugurated a 50-bed hospital at Senapati on November 2, the Prime Minister asserted that construction of similar hospitals in four other hill districts would be completed within 2013.

These hospitals would address a long felt need for better medical care in the tribal hill areas. With regard to the State Government’s request for increased Central assistance to support of modernization of the State Police, the Prime Minister asked the Ministry of Home Affairs to provide Rs 50 crore annually for this purpose in the 12th Plan period.

The proposal for introduction of an international bus service between Imphal and Mandalay would be taken up with the Government of Myanmar as a part of the Look East Policy.

“We need to build an enabling environment so that the tremendous development potential of the State is fully realized. All this can happen only when there is peace and harmony in the State”, Dr Manmohan stated.

He also urged the people of Manipur to shun violence and articulate their demands through Constitutional means. He noted that the violent incidents have declined considerably in Manipur in the last few years.

Congratulating the State Government for the bold step to hold elections to the six tribal Autonomous District Councils, Manmohan urged the State Government to ensure adequate devolution of funds to the ADCs and help them build their capacity for execution of various development programmes as well as to allow them function from their respective headquarters.

Noting that the recent road blockades imposed by some groups caused immense hardships to the common people of Manipur, the Prime Minister maintained that the Central Government did extend all possible support to the State Government for meeting the crisis and making essential commodities available to the people. Categorically stating that there are no winners in such disruptive activities, he called upon all deliberate on the efficacy of such acts.

“Despite their diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, the people of Manipur have lived peacefully in the past and it should be our collective endeavour to see that this legacy is carried forward”, the Prime Minister exhorted.

Earlier, AICC chief Sonia Gandhi applauded exploits by the Manipur sportspersons in bringing international laurel to the country.

She reasserted the Centre's commitment to extend all possible in restoring peace in the State and urged the people's cooperation to both the Central and State Government in their endeavour to ensure all-round development of Manipur. Sangaiexpress

No ‘supra-state body’ proposal: PM NTIMES| EMN
Sobhapati Samom
IMPHAL, DEC 3: Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, in a damage control visit to trouble torn Manipur along with United Progressive Alliance (UPA) chairperson Sonia Gandhi and four Union Ministers, today pronounced that centre has no proposal for any ‘supra state’ in the region.

“I can assure you that there’s no such proposal (of supra state)”, Dr Mamohan Singh said while reacting to Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi’s query based on media report that centre is considering granting a supra state body status to Nagas in North East to enable them to preserve their culture, identity and customary laws.
Dr Singh, who was here to inaugurate four major government offices, addressed a public rally at the historic Kangla Fort in Imphal on a cloudy afternoon and also assured that the central government is committed to safeguard the “territorial integrity” of Manipur.
Stating that Manipur is a state with a lot of potential and promise, the visiting leader hoped that Manipur will emerge as one of the best states of the country. "Our government at the centre in partnership with the state government will do everything possible to make this happen," he said.
On the state’s further proposal of Rs 6000 crores bail out package after implementing 6th pay to its employees and devolution of powers in autonomous district councils in hills, the Prime Minister assured that “the need and concern of Manipur will be duly taken care of.” He also informed that the devolution under the 13th finance commission from the centre to the state for the period of 2010-2015 is expected to be about Rs 13,600 crore which is more than double the amount given in the period of 2005-2010. Manipur’s plan outlay for the current year is Rs 3210 crore which is more than 3 times the plan outlay in 2005-06, he added.
The Prime Minister also announced many developmental projects for the state during his 40 minute speech which included execution of 1500 MW Tipaimukh hydro electric project. The environmental clearance for the project has been granted and forest clearance is under progress, he informed.
Sharing his sentiments over the recently concluded 100 days blockade, he said it is incumbent upon all of us to deliberate over the efficacy of such acts. “To my mind, there are no winners in such disruptive activities, there are only losers”, he said, adding, “It is my hope that we will not see a repeat of such actions in the future.”
UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi also echoed similar sentiments in her address.
However, though both expressed concern over the blockades, they did not mention anything specific on the related issues of contention. They also did not make any statement on the demand for repeal of AFSPA in the state.
Accompanied by Union Ministers Salman Khurseed, Paban Singh Ghatowar, V Narayanasamy, Vincent Pala and AICC secretary Luizinho Faleiro, the PM earlier inaugurated the City Convention Centre, Manipur Film Development Corporation Centre, Assembly Complex, High Court Building and Inter-State Bus Terminus, all located in and around Imphal city, besides unveiling foundation stone of a National Institute of Technology.
The visit took place amid boycott calls and 14-hour general strike from dawn to dusk which severely affected normal life in the state. Eastern Mirror, Nagaland

Nagas warn of fresh action as PM visits Manipur Nagalim Times

IMPHAL, DEC 3 (IANS): The United Naga Council, which recently lifted the over 100-day economic blockade of Manipur, Saturday warned of fresh action if their land is "bifurcated". The threat comes when Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, accompanied by Congress president Sonia Gandhi, is on a day's visit here.

"The Nagas in Manipur will not accept any excuse and will do something about it if the government tries to bifurcate the land which belongs to Nagas," a UNC leader told IANS on phone on condition of anonymity.

A powerful bomb exploded in the Manipur's capital of Imphal Wednesday just 50 metres from the newly constructed City Convention Centre which Manmohan Singh is scheduled to inaugurate.

"What we are demanding is that our traditional land be respected and let us live where we belong. Nagas can live with any community but you cannot give our land to someone else," said the leader.
He alleged that authorities are interested in conceding the demands of Kukis, who are demanding a separate district.

"The policymakers are trying to create a homeland for Kukis but the land belongs to Nagas, not to Kukis," the leader said in an assertive tone.
The state went through a gruelling economic blockade which was launched by the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee (SHDDC) Aug 1 for conversion of the Kuki tribal majority Sadar Hills area into a full-fledged district.

The Kukis lifted the blockade on two highways -- Imphal-Dimapur-Guwahati (NH39) and Imphal-Jiribam-Silchar (NH53) -- on the 92nd day after the state government agreed to their demand for creating a district, a move opposed by the Nagas, who resorted to a counter blockade.

The UNC lifted its blockade temporarily Nov 28 ahead of the prime minister's visit.
The three-month long blockades led to severe shortage of essentials, including fuel, cooking gas cylinders and medicines. Eastern Mirror, Nagaland

MPP youth stage nude protest; strike paralyses life in Manipur NTIMES

In a bizarre act, members of the Manipur People Party (MPP) youth front Saturday greeted Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi staging a naked protest while the two leaders were on their way to Kangla Fort to address a public meeting.

MPP youth front staged the naked protest alleging Center’s failure to give a written statement regarding the reported creation of “supra-state body” for the Nagas in three states of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. MPP youths who came out from its office at Statehood Square amidst the tight security, took off their clothes shouting slogans-- “Long live Manipur,” “Go back Indian insincere leaders,” “We stand for territorial integrity of Manipur”.

MPP Youth Front general secretary, Maniton Singh said the protest was not anti-Indian but against the insincerity of the Congress leaders towards the people of the state.

“We have been requesting the UPA leaders at the Centre to make a clarification of the reported proposal for creating supra state body by way of submitting memoranda to the Prime Minister, Home Minister and UPA chairperson. But, none of them so far gave a positive reply,” he said.

Meanwhile, normal life across valley area was severely paralyzed due to the general strike called by the rebels in Manipur to boycott the VIPs visit.
Coordination Committee (CorCom) of KCP, KYKL, PREPAK, PREPAK (Pro), RPF, UNLF and UPPK had earlier called for a 36 hour general strike to protest the VIPs visit. However, the strike was limited to 14 hours which concluded Saturday 6 p.m.

In this photo:
Members of the Manipur People Party (MPP) youth front Saturday greeted Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi staging a naked protest while the two leaders were on their way to Kangla Fort to address a public meeting. Source: Nagaland Post
Hornbill Festival Lifts Nagaland Tourism Priya Aggarwal Travel News|
Enthusiasm surrounding the Hornbill festival has managed to lift Nagaland tourism. this year's Hornbill festival of Nagaland has attracted both foreign and domestic tourists to the state.

More than 269 foreign tourists visited the first 2 days of the festival while 2,226 domestic tourists for the ongoing festival. Secretary of Tourism expressed satisfaction at the tourist figures for the first 2 days.

However Secretary of Tourism expressed need of more tourism related infrastructure in the state like accomodation. While state has added more accomodation this year, its still not enough to help the growth of tourism.

Hornbill Festival is one of the events identified by the Tourism Ministry of India to boost arrivals to the North East. Recently government announced Rs. 200 crore package to develop tourism in the North East.

Hornbill is a 7 day festival that will include several attractions for the tourists like, Konyak fire eating, Naga King Chily eating, national rock contest, international motor rally and WW-II vintage car rally.


Frans on 12.05.11 @ 09:26 PM CST [link]


HORNBILL FESTIVAL: As hot as it gets; as fat as pork mania NTIMES



HORNBILL FESTIVAL: As hot as it gets; as fat as pork mania NTIMES

Breaking the 2010 record, Nyulazhi Pojar from the Pochury tribe who ate 15 red hot Naga King Chilli won the 2nd Naga King Chilli eating contest held at Kisama, Sunday.

Pojar ate 15 Naga Chillies (Naga Mircha) in a record time of 20 seconds. While Namluai consumed 14.80% pieces and Keduhoto Lohe who took 14 chillies won the second and third position.

Altogether 23 participants took part in the competition including foreign tourists.
Meanwhile, in the special category an Israeli tourist, Yakhim surprised the audience by consuming 11 Naga King Chilies to bag the championship among the tourists who volunteered to compete.

Pork Mania
The other attraction of the Hornbill Festival Day-4 was at the ‘Fat Mania’ Pork Eating Contest where Kekhriesetuo Kiso bagged the first position by consuming a record of one kilogram of Pork fat in one minute.

The second and third place was bagged by Yhunsilo Lorin who consumed 550 grams and H. Bokoi 500 grams. Altogether 15 participants including two women took part in the contest.

In both the competitions, the winners walked home with Rs.15,000 (1st place), Rs.10,000 (2nd) and Rs. 5000 (3rd) respectively.

The prizes were handed over by the guest of honour, Union minister of DoNER and Parliamentary Affairs, Paban Singh Ghatowar.

It maybe mentioned that Nagaland government got the original patent rights for the Naga King Chilli and has also been registered as the proprietor of the chilli with the Government of India, according to the Geographical Indication Registry (GIR) recently.

The “Certificate of Registration of Geographical Indication” was awarded on December 2, 2008 to the Government of Nagaland, represented by secretary, Horticulture and Agriculture, where the department has been registered as proprietor of the Naga Mircha falling in Class 31 Chilli with effect from August 22, 2007 under Registration No.109.
GIR certificate was awarded under section 16(1) or of authorized user under section (17) (3) (e) of the Geographical Indication of goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999.


ULFA acquiring high-tech weapons R Dutta Choudhury NTIMES
GUWAHATI, Dec 4 – The hard line faction of the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) does not have any shortage of weapons, but the outfit lacks adequate number of well trained cadres to plan and carry out operations. Moreover, the cadre strength of the outfit is also increasing with recruitment of new cadres.
Highly placed security sources told The Assam Tribune that according to information available with the security agencies, total number of weapons with the outfit at present would be at least 3:1 , that is three weapons against one cadre. Of course, most of the weapons are kept in the bases of the outfit in Myanmar.

Sources said that the hard line faction of the ULFA recently procured different sophisticated weapons including Lethod guns, which can be used to fire grenades to a long distance and AK 81 rifles. The outfit also has a number of remote controlled explosive devices.

A few months back, the hard line faction of the ULFA managed to procure at least 1500 sophisticated weapons and according to reports, the outfit gave away almost half of the weapons to other militant outfits including Manipur based group PLA. But it is not known whether the outfit received any money in return of the weapons.

On the whereabouts of Paresh Baruah, sources said that as per information available, Baruah spends most of his time in Myanmar-China border areas. However, he frequently crosses over to China to make phone calls. But he rarely visits the main camps of the ULFA in Myanmar, which are located nearer to the border with India, sources added.

The total cadre strength of the hard line faction of the ULFA has been estimated by the security agencies to be to the tune of around 300 as the outfit recently recruited around 150 cadres from different places of Upper Assam and they have been sent to Myanmar for training. However, sources said that the outfit now does not have many trained cadres to carry out successful operations and that is why the recent offensive of the outfit were foiled easily by security forces.

Sources said that the ULFA has been taking the help of PLA to carry out operations and though in the months of June and July, two teams of ULFA and PLA were sent for launching operations in Assam, they failed to carry out their assigned tasks. Intelligence reports indicate that the ULFA and PLA are again planning joint operations in Assam.

The ULFA now does not have any camp in Bangladesh, but a few members of the outfit are still staying in the hideouts in that country. Senior ULFA member Drishti Rajkhowa sometimes visits Bangladesh and sometimes stays in Garo Hills in the hideouts of the GNLA and he managed to recruit at least 20 new cadres in recent days. Assam Tribune

290 CCTVs to be installed in Guwahait city Staff Reporter NTIMES:
GUWAHATI, Dec 4 – Almost three years after the serial blasts rocked the State claiming over 90 lives and leaving several hundreds injured, the installation process of the close circuit television cameras has finally started today.
The DN Dutta Commission constituted to enquire into the lapses, if any, leading to the 2008 serial blasts, had recommended the installation of CCTV cameras in certain locations, especially the busy areas of Guwahati city in 2009 itself.

As per the plan, as many as 290 CCTVs will be installed in 91 strategic locations of the capital city in a phased manner. In the first phase, areas including Ganeshguri, Dispur, Ulubari and Panbazar will be covered.

The installation process, according to sources, would be completed within the next six months. Level 1, a German based company has been entrusted with the installation job.Assam Tribune
NTIMES 5Dec: UNC concerned over slow Indo-Naga talks

Imphal, Dec 4: The United Naga Council (UNC) in a memorandum to Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has expressed its concern over the slow process of Indo-Naga peace talk.

The UNC said it was much concern that even af-ter fourteen long years of cease-fire and negotiation, an acceptable settlement to the Indo-Naga issue has not been brought about nor any concrete steps been taken towards it. It urges the Government of India to take expeditious concrete steps towards settlement of the Indo-Naga issue.

“It may also kindly be recalled that our memo-randum on the captioned subject was submitted to your good office through the Hon’ble Union Home Minister on the 14th of September, 2010 at Delhi. As you are aware, acting on the said memorandum, the Hon’ble Home Minister had initiated the democratic process of dialogue throu-gh the tripartite talk of the GoI, the Government of Manipur (GoM) and the United Naga Council (UNC) and there has already been 3 rounds of talks. Unfor-tunately, the tripartite talks, apart from being subjected to the convenience of the GoM, have by design been limited to the technicality of centre and state juris-diction / prerogatives and highlighting the develop-ment initiatives of the Go- vernment of Manipur for the tribals areas in the State of Manipur, when the ground reality harshly spe-ak otherwise. The process has not taken up the core issue of demand for alterna-tive arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur, outside the Government of Manipur pending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue as it should,” the UNC memo-randum said.

The sharp social divide on communal lines which your good self had noted with concern in the 40th conference of DGPs on August 26, 2010 which was created by unmistakable facts of years and years of suppression, subjugation and hegemonic domination of the Nagas and tribals by “the communal Govern-ment of Manipur backed by the dominant community” is the core issue on which we base our demand for an alternative arrangement, the Naga body alleged.

According to the UNC, records and statistics of ad-ministrative nature have been poured over the table to dilute the core issue of social divide and the impo-ssible conditions in which Nagas exist under the “co-mmunal Government of Ma- nipur”, unable to live with dignity and honour and ha-ve their land, traditional ins- titutions, culture and way of life protected.

The structure of domi-nation put into place over the years and the structural violence of suppression and exploitation of the Na-gas and the tribals in Mani- pur by the communal GoM is the issue. Through legitimately established sanctions, the rights of the Nagas and the tribals in Manipur are being surely and irredeemably taken away.

“Our position is based on our rights which are basic and fundamental to dignity, honour and respect of our identity. Our genuine demands for an alternative political and administrative arrangement is being obje-cted to because of interest of the dominant and com-munal Government of Mani- pur,” the UNC said.

The Naga also draws the attention to the grave pote-ntial for communal confron- tations and violence which could flare up at the sli-ghtest provocations, inten- tional or perceived as such by any community. “It is our contention that if the GoI is serious and sincere in ensuring that the Nagas and tribals in Manipur should live with dignity and honour; with respect for their dignity and their rights to land; their traditional institutions, culture and way of life honoured and not as second class citizens; it is indeed time for intervention of the GoI. Should the GoI plead helplessness citing the technicality of centre state relationship, then it con-demns the Nagas and the tribals to continued depri-vation and suppression and GoI becomes the knowing and willing abettor of the injustices meted out against us,” it added.

The UNC then affirmed that the only options beyond what it had already explored and also the democratic process of tripartite talk initiated by the Union Home Minister, and which has been left in a limbo, is the immediate intervention of the go-vernment of India to avoid any catastrophic conse-quences.

“We, therefore solicit again your personal ini-tiative to intervene with an alternative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur at the earliest,” the Naga body fervently requested the Prime Minister. Sangai Express

Gaikhangam sees third term in office for Cong NTIMES

IMPHAL, MPCC president Gaikhangam has stated that a Congress-led Government would be formed for the third conse-cutive term in Manipur after the 10th Manipur Legis-lative Assembly elections.

The party working in the interest of the people would be certainly elected to power and yesterday’s event at Kangla has brightened the Congress party’s prospect all the more, Gaikhangam claimed.

Speaking to media persons at Congress Bhavan here this afternoon, Gaikha-ngam conveyed gratitude to all the people who came out to welcome Prime Minister Sonia Gandhi and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi amidst bandhs and general strikes called by different groups.

With the consistent support and assistance from the Central Government, the State Government has successfully executed several projects which were never envisioned in the past.

People’s appreciation of the Congress-led Government was reflected clearly in the huge gathering that welcomed Dr Manmohan Singh and Sonia Gandhi at Kangla which was unprecedented, Gaikhangam stated.

Claiming that Central Government has been impressed with the performance of the SPF Government, the MPCC president informed that the State Government would put forward many more projects before the Central Government. He also appealed to all groups to cooperate together while implementing development projects irrespective of diverse political affiliations or ideological differences.

Pointing that the Prime Minister himself had clarified on the Supra State body report after the Union Home Minister had rejected the same report as baseless, the MPCC president asserted that the people need not worry any more.

There is no change to the Congress party’s stand which is in power both at the Centre and the State to safeguard the integrity of Manipur. He further informed that MPCC would request both Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and AICC president Sonia Gandhi to visit Manipur once more, this time for election campaigning. Gaikhangam confided that their request would be responded positively. Sangai Express

‘Nagas not seeking any gift from India’ Naga groups reaffirm pledge for reconciliation NTIMES

DIMAPUR, DEC 4 (EMN): The signatory groups of the Naga Concordant – NSCN/GPRN, NNC/FGN and GPRN/NSCN – today reiterated their commitment to Naga Reconciliation while stating that they remain firm in their pledge to cultivate understanding and work towards building a shared Naga Future. Also, with reference to the purported proposal of a Supra State body Christmas gift for the Nagas, the signatories have placed on record that Nagas are not seeking or demanding any ‘gift’ from India.

In an ‘Open statement to the Naga People’, members of the High Level Commission comprising of the three groups, Gen (Retd) VS Atem, Zhopra Vero and Azheto Chophy, raised three specific points for public understanding.

Stating that a number of individuals have been regularly expressing their views on the Naga Reconciliation process in the local media, the open statement said the signatories are troubled because the views and opinions are often factually incorrect and at times driven by self-preservation. The hypothesis they present are far from the reality and intent of the reconciliation process and therefore very misleading to the people, it said, adding that such statements are detrimental for reconciliation. Pointing out that the Naga Reconciliation has come this far against much odds, the groups appealed the people to recognise the sensitivity of the process.
“The Naga politicians, bureaucrats, intellectuals, organisations and people are urged not to play divisive politics anymore. Rather let us work together for the common good of all,” they appealed.

Secondly, the signatories said they are equally appalled by the so-called ‘Christmas Gift’ in the form of a “Naga Supra State,” which is supposedly proposed by the Government of India. It sought to place on record that Nagas are not seeking or demanding any ‘gift’ from India. Asserting that Nagas are only resisting against forces that are preventing us to exercise our historical and political rights, the open statement further sought to clear any confusion or suspicion in the minds of the Naga people by jointly declaring that any resolution to the Naga issue should be based on the historical and political rights of the Naga people. We will continue to reject and oppose any solution or package that is imposed upon the Naga people, it affirmed.
To this end, the signatories committed to continue supporting the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) in its ‘Journey of common Hope’.

The statement further said there is now no turning back from this path of Naga Reconciliation. It pointed out that, in the spirit of forgiveness, the concerned groups have agreed to let bygones be bygones and are now prepared to understand each other and work for a shared Naga future. However, it also underlined that this does not mean there will not be any hurdles and difficulties, adding that in fact the path to Naga Reconciliation is filled with many challenges. But it voiced believe that with the support and understanding of the people, all obstacles can be overcome.

Stating that the Naga people today have the best opportunity to reconcile and march together as a nation towards our historical and political rights, it also called on every Naga to constructively contribute and participate to make this Reconciliation process a living reality. Moreover, admitting that the behaviour of their cadres have been contrary to the values of the Naga movement, the groups also sought forgiveness and hoped that it would be forthcoming for the healing of our nation.
Wishing the people a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, it urged all to come together and work hard to make the Naga nation worthy of the blessings we have been endowed with. Eastern Mirror

UNC presses PM for alternative arrangement NTIMES, (EMN):

DIMAPUR Drawing his attention to the grave potential for communal confrontations and violence which could flare up at the slightest provocation, intentional or perceived as such by any community, the UNC has sought personal initiative of the Prime Minister in finding an alternative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur at the earliest.

In a memorandum to the PM who was on a day-long visit to Manipur yesterday, the UNC contended that if the GoI is serious and sincere in ensuring that the Nagas and tribals in Manipur should live with dignity and honour, with respect for their dignity and their rights to land, their traditional institutions, culture and way of life honoured and not as second class citizens, it is indeed time for intervention of the GoI.
“The only options beyond what we have already explored and also the democratic process of tripartite talk initiated by the Hon’ble Union Home Minister, and which has been left in a limbo, is the immediate intervention of the GoI to avoid any catastrophic onsequences,” the memorandum signed by UNC president L Adani and general secretary Gaidon Kamei said.
“Should the GoI plead helplessness citing the technicality of centre state relationship, then it condemns the Nagas and the tribals to continued deprivation and suppression and GoI becomes the knowing and willing abettor of the injustices meted out against us,” it stated.
The tripartite talk has not taken up the core issue of demand for alternative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur outside the Government of Manipur pending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue as it should, it stated.
The UNC further urged the PM to take expeditious concrete steps towards settlement of the Indo-Naga issue. Eastern Mirror, Nagaland

GOVERNMENT OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF NAGALIM
Ministry of Information & Publicity

Press Release 5th Dec.2011
The statement of Manipur State Chief Minister O. Ibobi Singh that there are neither Nagas nor Kukis in Manipur state but only Manipuris in an insult to the Hills people and such statement can only come out from a person with the most abominable mindset of slave owner.

Historically speaking, O. Ibobi is right anyway, because the so called- Manipur territory is confined to the Imphal valley only and governed by their Maharaja while all the Hill territories outside the Imphal valley were governed by the respective village chiefs/Kings. While the Maharaja of the Manipur (Meitei) had signed the ‘Instrument of Accession on’ on 15th Oct. 1949 and became part of Union of India, the Nagas refused to join the Union of India. Since then, Nagas have been resisting Indian aggression.

Nagas respect the rights of the Meiteis (Manipuris) and extend their fullest support. However Meiteis have all along been opposing the issue of the Nagas. They should learn to mind their own business. if there is any issue between the Meiteis and the Nagas, we are prepared to resolved it amicably.

Issued by
MIP.
India-Myanmar: a half-built gateway By Bertil Lintner

This is the second article in a four-part series.
Tomorrow: US-Myanmar: Engagement as nuclear pre-emption

IMPHAL, Manipur - When a group of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) ambassadors last year traveled the road from Imphal, in eastern India, to Moreh on the Myanmar border, the trip was officially arranged to show the diplomats India's emerging land bridge to Southeast Asia. Although the envoys enthused about the land link's trade possibilities, it was hard to determine how genuinely impressed they were after hours of bumping along on the 100-kilometer, pot-holed, windy road.

Yet the torturous road reaching to Myanmar is a vital link in India's business-driven "Look East" policy, a gambit aimed at expanding the South Asian country's trade, investment and influence to the east. For that policy to succeed, however, New Delhi needs not only to upgrade the way leading to its border, but also the highways to and from Assam in northeastern India, the country's geographical gateway to Southeast Asia. Roads and infrastructure on the Myanmar side are comparatively even more decrepit.

Before Indian policymakers can build a proper highway connecting the country through Myanmar and to mainland Southeast Asia, a lasting solution must be found to the ethnic insurgencies and other security problems in its northeastern hinterlands. Local ethnic insurgents frequently collect "taxes" on trucks and other vehicles plying not only the road to Moreh, but also on most major highways in Manipur, one of northeast India's seven states.

To India's chagrin, many of those rebels - ethnic Nagas, Manipuris and Kukis - maintain sanctuaries in remote areas on the Myanmar side of the border, beyond the reach of Indian security forces. These rebel forces are also known to have obtained weapons from various clandestine sources on the Sino-Myanmar border. Some of these weapons originate in China while others are made in secret gun factories in areas in northeastern Myanmar not controlled by the central government at Naypyidaw.

Despite these difficulties and the pitiful condition of the Moreh road, trade between India and Myanmar is booming. Before 1988, apart from smuggling activities, there was scant commercial activity along the two countries' shared border. Bilateral trade more than doubled between 2005 and 2010, expanding from US$557 million to $1.2 billion. Myanmar ships mainly agricultural goods and natural resources, while India exports chiefly machinery, industrial equipment, pharmaceuticals and consumer goods. India-Myanmar trade is beginning to rival that of the booming cross-border trade between China and Myanmar, which has been brisk for almost two decades.

At the same time, it is clear that India is still lagging far behind China when it comes to accessing Myanmar's markets and mineral resources. In 2010, trade between Myanmar and China amounted to at least $3 billion, with some economic analysts putting the figure as high as $4 billion. Some of that trade passes through Myanmar to India, witnessed in the flood of Chinese-made goods in India's northeastern region. The Paona International Market in Imphal, popularly referred to as the "Moreh market" or "Myanmar market", is flush with Chinese-produced electronics, clothes, bags, household utensils and other cheap manufactures.

Pragmatic policy shift
Immediately after the 1988 pro-democracy uprising in Myanmar, India sympathized with the Aung San Suu Kyi-led opposition. Rajiv Gandhi, India's prime minister at the time, came out in open support of the movement, and New Delhi implemented policies that gave shelter to Myanmar refugees and allowed dissidents to operate freely from Indian territory. This, of course, was not for entirely altruistic reasons: the policy was viewed widely as India's way of countering China's influence in Myanmar.

India began to re-evaluate that strategy around 1993, out of concern that its policies had achieved little except to push Myanmar closer to Beijing. Even then it was obvious to policymakers that the Suu Kyi-led opposition would not assume power anytime soon. The result was a dramatic shift in policy aimed at patching up relations with Myanmar's ruling generals. In turn, Myanmar signaled to India to take greater interest in improving bilateral relations to lessen its heavy dependence on China.

India's interests in Myanmar are obvious. Apart from serving as a link to lucrative markets and trading partners in Southeast Asia, New Delhi wants to ensure that northeastern insurgents are deprived of sanctuaries and supply lines through its eastern neighbor - and to keep Chinese influence there at bay. India's rapidly expanding economy also needs energy, and New Delhi has shown strong interest in importing more oil and gas from Myanmar.

India also has plans to build a 1,200 megawatt hydroelectric power station on the Chindwin River, across from India's northeastern region, and is involved in several other infrastructure projects inside Myanmar, including major road construction projects. In short, India is busy opening its west-east corridor through Myanmar to protect its own economic as well as strategic interests.

To open the way, India has taken a number of initiatives to rid its rebellious states in the northeast - Assam, Nagaland and Manipur - of insurgents and establish permanent peace in the region. That task was made easier when Sheikh Hasina's pro-Indian Awami League government took over in Bangladesh in December 2008. Her predecessor, Khaleda Zia and the Bangladesh National Party, provided sanctuaries for insurgents who moved about freely in the capital Dhaka and the port city of Chittagong, where Indian rebel groups had received many illicit shipments of arms.

In late November 2009, Bangladesh arrested United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa and its deputy commander-in-chief Raju Barua along with eight other Assamese militants and handed them over to India. In September 2010, Rajkumar Meghen, better known as Sana Yaima, the leader of Manipur's United National Liberation Front, was arrested in Dhaka and bundled off to India. At about the same time, the main arms procurer of the Naga rebels and a frequent visitor to China, Anthony Shimray, was arrested at Kathmandu airport in Nepal and ended up in Indian custody.

While these arrests have been significant from a strategic perspective, India knows that simply detaining ethnic insurgent leaders won't be enough to achieve peace in the restive region. There are also widespread grievances among the local population that will need to be addressed before there is lasting peace and stability along India's Myanmar frontier.

New Delhi's Myanmar policy and its anti-China aspect are even clearer in the Indian Ocean. China now imports most of its oil and gas from Central Asia and the Middle East and made it clear several years ago that it intended to build a pipeline through Myanmar to avoid the clogged and potentially volatile Strait of Malacca bottleneck for its fuel transhipments.

For this purpose, and to import natural gas from the fields in the sea south of Myanmar, Beijing and Naypyidaw signed an agreement in March 2009 to also build a natural gas pipeline extending across Myanmar to China's southwestern Yunnan province. Those projects are well underway: piles of pipes can now be seen at the Jiegao border crossing between China and Myanmar, and at various sites along the highway to Kunming, Yunnan's capital.

Building such a conduit for crucial energy supplies in a foreign country would be risky without substantial political influence and an extensive signals intelligence network in the Indian Ocean sea lanes where the fuel is transported. China has large stores of both through its ties to Myanmar.

India has not taken lightly the prospect of another major player in a maritime area that it considers its own lake. This concern provides a new aspect to the age-old strategic rivalry between India and China - and another reason for India to counter China's influence over Myanmar.

New great game
Not surprisingly, the US's Barack Obama administration has expressed its support for India's "Look East" policy. On November 23, US deputy national security advisor for strategic communication Ben Rhodes said: "The President very much welcomes India's Look East approach. We believe that just as the United States, as a Pacific Ocean power, is going to be deeply engaged in the future of East Asia, so should India as an Indian Ocean power and as an Asian nation."

In January, a US naval ship visited India's Andaman Islands to conduct search and rescue operations, shipwreck salvaging and naval vessel repair exercises with their Indian counterparts. The commander of the US vessel, Derek Peterson, "lauded the cooperation" of the Indian Navy and said he was impressed with its capabilities.

That strategic exchange followed on a March 2010 visit by the USS Patriot at Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The news site of the Commander of the US 7th Fleet reported from that US naval visit that "Patriot Sailors will train with the Indian Navy; special emphasis will be put on damage-control and mine countermeasures training."

The official report also quoted Douglas Woods, one of the ship's officers, saying: "First day we pull in we got a flag football game with the Indian navy and a soccer game with the Indian navy. We also have cricket lessons for all personnel that want to go out and participate in. Indian navy personnel will provide the lessons."

Indian naval officers interviewed in Port Blair by this correspondent in January said there was nothing more to the US naval visit than basic joint training exercises. But it is hard to imagine that routine exercises were the main purpose of the US naval visits. Myanmar - and even more so China - likely watched the US-Indian naval cooperation with some trepidation.

Both Myanmar and China know that India's military has upgraded its presence on the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in a bid to meet new challenges in the maritime region and to safeguard its own interests in Southeast Asia and the Malacca Strait. To be sure, there were more important issues of concern for India and the US than diving for sunken ships and teaching American sailors how to play cricket.

That said, the more recent anti-Chinese stance taken by Myanmar's new government should be music to the ears of India's security planners. India rolled out the red carpet for Myanmar President Thein Sein when he arrived in New Delhi on a three-day state visit on October 14, adding to speculation that Myanmar aims to reduce its heavy dependence on China and make more room for India. In a joint statement, Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh welcomed Thein Sein's "ongoing efforts at political, economic and social reform."

In the 19th century, Arthur Conolly, an intelligence officer of the British colonial army, coined the expression "the Great Game" to describe the strategic rivalry between the then British and Russian Empires for supremacy in Central Asia. More than any other objective in the competition, the Russians sought access to the Indian Ocean.

Another "Great Game" involving India, China and the US is now playing out in Asia on the eastern fringes of the Indian subcontinent. But before the regional balance of power tilts away from China and towards India, the potholes on the road to Moreh will have to be smoothed out. Only then can China's grip on Myanmar be challenged and India able to link up more directly and strategically with Southeast Asia.

Bertil Lintner is a former correspondent with the Far Eastern Economic Review and author of several books on Burma/Myanmar, including the forthcoming Great Game East: India, China and the Struggle for Asia's Most Volatile Frontier. He is currently a writer with Asia-Pacific Media Services.

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

Frans on 12.05.11 @ 09:19 PM CST [link]


Saturday, December 3rd

Slain PM, ailing king & jittery general - How a bullet and a China buzz entwined Delhi and Thimphu in drama-a-day plot SOBHANA K The Telegraph



Slain PM, ailing king & jittery general - How a bullet and a China buzz entwined Delhi and Thimphu in drama-a-day plot SOBHANA K The Telegraph


The Thimphu palace: Where Indian choppers kept landing and where the deputy commander-in-chief of the Bhutan army was summoned and arrested
New Delhi, On April 5, 1964, Jigmie Dorji, then Bhutanese Prime Minister, was in a pleasant mood. The new Indian envoy, then known as the political officer, had just left after a meeting with him and Dorji had no inkling of danger as he sat in a guesthouse, chatting with family and friends.
The loud bang came just as he was lighting a cigarette.
Had the lighter exploded? As the stupefied gathering gazed at the blood oozing out of Dorji’s body, it took them some time to notice the blood-soaked bullet on the table. By then, whoever had fired the shot from the window had jumped off the verandah and disappeared. Dorji died within hours. The bullet had bored into his body from the right side, just below the ribs, and come out below the lungs on the left.
It was the beginning of a series of dramatic events involving the Bhutan palace, a political family and a military chief, with India playing a key adviser’s role and at one point contemplating parachuting troops into the kingdom. If carried out, the move could have invited retaliation from China, whom many suspected to have a role in the assassination. For decades, though, accounts of the events lay tucked inside the ministry of external affairs’ files, which were recently declassified and transferred to the National Archives.
Two Indians who watched the events from close and sometimes took part in them were political officer Avtaar Singh and the first ever commander of the Indian forces in Bhutan, Brigadier B.N. Upadhyay. The alleged assassin, Zambay, was arrested three days after the murder. He apparently confessed that Bhutan’s deputy commander-in-chief, Brigadier Namgyal Bahadur, had ordered him to kill the Prime Minister.
While all of this was going on, the then King, Jigme Dorji Wangchuck, was away in Switzerland, being treated for a chronic heart ailment. The 36-year-old king did not know that Zambay had named Brigadier Bahadur. He sent a telegram from Switzerland saying that in his absence, the country’s administration should be handled by the assassinated Prime Minister’s younger brother, Lhendup Dorji, and the brigadier. On April 9, the king arrived in Calcutta and two days later, flew to Thimphu. Brigadier Bahadur, unaware that he had been named in Dorji’s murder, waited at the helipad to welcome the king home.
“Late in the morning, two helicopters came at a very high level, flew over the Thimphu helipad and went on towards the palace. Sometime later, one helicopter came back and landed at the helipad,” political officer Avtaar Singh wrote in a dispatch to the external affairs ministry on May 5.
The man who stepped out of the chopper was former political officer Apa Pant, probably sent by New Delhi because of his experience. “Shri Apa Pant... came out of the helicopter and very secretly told the commissioner of Thimphu that (the) king had landed at the palace,” wrote Avtaar, who was in Bhutan for the first time.
He continued: “In (a) station wagon, Apa Pant told the political officer (Avtaar himself) that the assassin Zambay had accused the deputy commander-in-chief and 14 others as well as Yankie, the king’s mistress, of Jigmie Dorji’s assassination.”
Records of Zambay’s written confession, though, do not corroborate the last bit about Yankie. The next day, an Indian helicopter brought Lhendup Dorji to the palace from somewhere in Bhutan. He left after a closed-door meeting.
By now, Brigadier Bahadur, still in the dark about Zambay’s arrest, was getting nervous. He asked Brigadier Upadhyay about the helicopter that had ferried Lhendup in, but the Indian officer was unable to provide any information. “This aroused further suspicions in the mind of Namgyal Bahadur,” Avtaar wrote. The political officer learnt that Lhendup had advised the king to send forces from the palace and reinforcements from Namseling, the Dorjis’ native place, the following day to arrest Brigadier Bahadur.
“This seemed completely stupid to the political officer and Brigadier Upadhyay, because there were only 200 men in the Palace Guards and about 50 men at Namseling compared to a fighting force of over 1,000 in the Thimphu garrison,” Avtaar wrote in his dispatch.
Then Indian foreign secretary Y.D. Gundevia, in his “Notes on Bhutan” written on May 2 that year, backed this viewpoint. “If the garrison had been really provoked by this young, hot-headed and immature Lhendup Dorji, the Dorjis might well have been wiped off the history of Bhutan for ever,” Gundevia noted.
Brigadier Upadhyay rushed to see the king and suggested an alternative. The king agreed.
“Brigadier Upadhyay advised him to call all the officers and other ranks to the parade ground for ‘a talk by His Majesty’ and told him that when the officers and other ranks go there, he himself, with his Indian officers and other ranks, would arrange to take over the armoury and ammunition dump,” Avtaar wrote. When Brigadier Upadhyay returned, he was accosted by Brigadier Bahadur about his visit to the king. The Indian “gave him a plausible account of a courtesy call”. The climax came on April 13.
“On the crucial April 13 morning, according to plan, the king sent for... Namgyal Bahadur. (Brigadier Bahadur) told Upadhyay that he had no transport. The brigadier gave him his own jeep and sent him to the palace. Brigadier Upadhyay was casually dressed in civilian clothes that morning,” Gundevia wrote.
A total of 39 army officers, including Brigadier Bahadur, were arrested and paraded in front of the ranks with their hands tied at the back. A blackout on the airwaves, under the king’s orders, meant the news could not reach India. New Delhi feared the worst.
“On April 13, when we were, quite unexpectedly, pushed into this, we seemed to be taking contrary decisions,” Gundevia wrote.
“To begin with, it was felt that we could parachute a battalion into Thimphu, which would be supported by more troops transported by road from Hashimara. We had debated that if we were forced to do this, this might provoke the Chinese into crossing the Bhutan border from Chumbi valley.”
Brigadier Bahadur was executed by a firing squad on May 17. One of the key accused, Bachu Wangdi, died on May 8 after, according to the Bhutan authorities, making a complete confession on April 26 and attempting suicide the following day. Zambay was executed by a firing squad on July 4.
Open and shut case? Gundevia didn’t think so. The suggested motives for Brigadier Bahadur — from his fears about Dorji sidelining the military old guard to a dispute over army trucks — perhaps didn’t sound adequate.
“But what was the motive for the murder? We will perhaps never know the whole truth,” Gundevia wrote.
“The Dorjis of Namseling, or rather Lhendup Dorji personally, is trying to make out that the king’s stepmother and his half brother and also the king’s Tibetan mistress Yankie were behind the assassination because they were jealous of the power of the Dorjis. The king is reluctant to accept this.”
Almost thinking aloud, he continued: “The only thing definitely known is that the late Prime Minister and the Dorji family at Namseling were against the king’s stepmother and half brother. Jigmie had also annoyed the Tibetan woman, Yankie, over her unauthorised use of some trucks. The mistress is said to have been planted on the king by the stepmother, which was looked upon as an anti-Dorji move since the Queen, Kesang La, is a Dorji, Jigmie’s sister.”
A few groups in Bhutan tried to peddle the theory that the Chinese were involved. What fuelled these rumours were the suspicions of Yankie’s involvement.
Yankie was a Tibetan but her family had migrated to Bhutan a few generations earlier. The Statesman of Calcutta carried a report under the byline of Desmond Doig that year, claiming the Chinese had a hand in the assassination.
Referring to the report, the Bhutanese court that convicted Brigadier Bahadur noted: “There is no evidence at all that any foreign power was in any way involved.... The full and the entire responsibility for this plot belongs to these accused and only to them.”
Many Indian diplomats too maintain that the Chinese were not involved.
“It was a complicated case, but it had nothing to do with the Chinese. It was an internal matter of Bhutan,” Dilip Mehta, a former ambassador to Bhutan, told The Telegraph
Nagaland Governor calls for resolving differences Correspondent Assam tribune
DIMAPUR, Dec 2 – Calling for firm commitment to resolve all differences and join hands for economic development, Nagaland Governor Nikhil Kumar said that with the Nagas’ strong community institutions and the spirit of working together, he saw “hope for the future.”
“I am sure, with the dedication and the good wishes of everyone, we will be able to overcome all obstacles and create a vibrant, economically strong Nagaland that the founding fathers of our State had dreamt of,” he stated while greeting the people of the State on the occasion of the Statehood Day on Thursday.
While paying rich tributes to the pioneers of the State, Kumar wished the people peace, development and prosperity. He also appreciated the efforts of law-enforcing agencies, security forces, non-governmental organisations, tribal Hohos, civil society organisations, church bodies and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation and stated that it is because of their commendable efforts that the State is enjoying a peaceful atmosphere today.
The ongoing dialogue between the Government of India and the NSCN-IM has raised expectations of some accord being reached sooner or later, he stated.
However, the Governor also pointed to the increasing incidents of crime which, he said, are a cause for concern. He observed that civil society organisations in Dimapur had recently highlighted this concern and expressed determination to fight the trend. In this regard, Kumar said that the State Government is also very concerned and has resolved to firmly deal with extortion and other anti-social activities in Dimapur and elsewhere in the State. “This is a right decision because it is important that there is peace in the State if we want to have development and progress,” he said.
On development and economic growth, the Governor pointed out that funds are needed for this. However, while the Government is pursuing the State’s requirement of funds with the Centre and Planning Commission, he stressed that “we have to focus on our own assets and create an environment conducive to investment.” And here, he said, “our most valuable asset is our youth.”
Extending heartiest Statehood Day greetings, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said that the State has, in the last 48 years, steadily traversed over a vast canvas of progress and development. However, during the last eight years of the DAN Government, the pace of progress has been accelerated to a level unseen in the past, he stated, while pointing to the agriculture and allied sector, empowerment of women and youth, addressing the problems of underdevelopment in the backward districts, promotion of sports and youth activities, inculcating the spirit of entrepreneurship amongst the youth and many other areas of socio-economic advancement.
“We have covered unprecedented grounds in these past eight years of the DAN ministry,” the Chief Minister said.
Further underlining that peace and development go hand in hand, Rio said that his Government has tried its best to unite all the Naga groups so as to facilitate the achievement of a durable and lasting peace in the land. He voiced happiness that there has been significant improvement in the law-and-order situation in the last 14 years of ceasefire, particularly during the last three years.
“These were all made possible by the unstinted support of the people at large, the civil society, the Hohos and the churches,” he said.
The call of the native Deccan chronicle A participants of the Hornbill Rock Contest 2006
On the rugged hills, crossed by many gushing rivers, the sub tropical rainforests add to the mystery.
It’s not just the history, it’s the stories, the folklore, the sacredness and genuinity of the existing 16 tribes — and when they all meet — the distant sound of drums gives dancers a head start and of course, something else comes to life — one that’s deeply ingrained in Naga people — Music!
“You can visit any family in Nagaland and you’ll notice a persistent trend. In most families of four, all are into some sort of music. The kids could be playing an instrument and folks will be singers. That’s how much we Naga people love music,” says Neingulie Nakhro, the event director of the Hornbill Rock Contest.
The seven day rock festival and contest begins in December, “And this time it’s a lot bigger. We’re even moving out from the older venue to accommodate more music lovers. We’ve had more than 120 entries from India and 19 from the state. We’ve kept a total slot of 20 for India and four for the state,” explains Nakhro, who enjoys playing the guitar and loves his job thoroughly.
Day one is all about authentic and traditional Naga music. “We’ll have musicians and artistes from the state perform through the day. Day two is dedicated to country and Blues. Day three is called Choral Panorama — Nagaland being predominately occupied by Christians, we want to usher Christmas by dedicating an entire day to choirs,” says Nakhro.
And then begins the rock contest, “We’ve had our panel of judges and members, also a few from the Nagaland Music Task Force, who’ve picked this year’s participants. Day six will also see a few bands from Nagaland, including OFF and Ecstasy perform.
Talking about the music industry, he says, “People still fear taking up music as a career in the state. Over the years, the government has been supportive. There are many commercial events being organised lately. A lot of efforts is being put into encouraging individual artistes to perform at commercial venues across India. This move has made it possible for artistes to actually consider music as a serious career option.”
Bengaluru band Slain emerged as a winner last year, “There is a tight competition this year too. To the residents, — These seven days are all about passion, freedom and celebration of life and of course, music — something they all hold very dear!
NTIMES 1Dec. Nagas, Kukis stick to their demands; hold rallies

Two simultaneous protests were carried out by Nagas and Kukis in Manipur Wednesday.
In Senapati district, around 5000 Nagas took part in the rally under the aegis of United Naga Council (UNC), who stuck their demand for an “Alternative Arrangement” while on the other hand around 3000 Kukis under the aegis of Kuki State Demand Committee (KSDC) organized rallies at Moreh and Churachandpur district reaffirming its demand for a separate Kuki state in Manipur.

“The Meitei Raja had never ruled the Nagas of Manipur. We cannot live together when you took away everything that are in our plate, therefore, the wishes of the Nagas of Manipur for an Alternative Arrangement outside GOM should be honoured,” said Committee for Alternative Arrangement (CFAA) chairman, Sword Vashum, during his public address.

The UNC rally was attended by different Naga frontal bodies including Poumai Naga Union, Mao Union, Tangkhul Naga Long, Maram Union, Thangal Union, Naga Peoples Organisation, Senapati District Women Union, Senapati District Students Association, Naga Women Union, Mao Council and ANSAM.

In his public address UNC general secretary Gaidon Kamei said that “the colonialist wanted and tried many times to crush the Nagas in different ways and means without a success and therefore, many houses burnt down, women dishonoured, crops destroyed, many tortured maimed and killed but the spirit of the Nagas could not be crushed.”

UNC president L. Adani read out the declaration of the rally and clarified that economic blockade had been lifted due to assurances given by Union Home Minister P Chidambaram to the UNC in Delhi on November 22.

Further, he asserted that all Naga tribes and frontal organizations should be “in readiness to resume agitation programme in intensified measure should the same be warranted by reneged actions of the GOM notwithstanding the above assurances of the GoI.”

Meanwhile, speakers at the KSDC rally lamented that Manipur government has betrayed the Kukis by denying creation of Sadar Hills district, tribal protection under the sixth schedule and eighth schedule.

Alleging disparity in development, leaders of the KSDC said that Kuki inhabited areas was neglected in taking up developmental works and by denying proportionate representation.

KSDC said it firmly believes that a separate state for the Kukis would provide them a political identity and a constitutionally-documented institutional space and protection within the territorial boundary of India.

KSDC further said in order to guarantee the Constitutional provisions of equality, freedom, liberty and opportunity to the Kukis, it is imperative that they should govern their own affairs in their traditional lands, as a separate state of the Indian Union. KSDC urged the Centre to expedite political dialogue with Kuki undergrounds with a view to establish lasting peace. NPN

Forced Labour for Naga festival Nagayouth Burma

The Burmese Military government has informed to all the Layshi township villages units that there will be work - construct road, tourist tent, festival hall etc for the Naga Traditional New Year Festival at Layshi town before Christmas (which is going to be hold on 12th to 15th Jan 2012)

Under the name of social work without any payment or rewards in return, Naga villagers themselves have to bring their own equipments, food, medicines etc the authorities do not provide any assistance to the forced laborers.

French diplomat advises Nagaland to capitalize on cultural assets Our Correspondent


From right, Rozelle Mero, Chapter Chair- Yi, Managing Director, The People Channel Republique Francaise, Consulat General of France, Kolkata, Jean-Louis Rysto and Anjita Roychaudhury press attaché to Consulat General of France, during the interactive session at the heritage, Kohima, Nagaland.

Kohima | November 29 : Consul General of France Jean-Louis Rysto today said Nagaland has a rich culture which indeed is a huge asset for the Naga people. Consul General Jean-Louis Rysto and Press Attaché to Consulate General of France Anjita Roychaudhury are on official visit in Kohima. They are here to collect reports, exploring the North Eastern states and anticipating a trade relation that can build better relation and maintain rapport with the Government of France.
Young Indians of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), India’s premier business association, organized an interactive session with students’ organizations, non-governmental organizations and others at The Heritage this evening.
Although the visit to Nagaland is their first, the Consul General of France and the Press Attaché, are not new to India’s North Eastern states and aware of the potential the state possesses. Jean-Louis Rysto said the north eastern states are rich in mineral oils, hydro electricity and agriculture.
After watching folk performances from a group, the Tetse-o Sisters, the Consul General urged all not to ‘lose their culture’ but rather build relation through cultural exchange. He maintained that the promotion of a State should come in the form of an effort and the media should be more aggressive pushing forward. Press Attaché Anjita said the Naga people have a ‘bigger scope’, taking advantage of their knowledge and strength in English to bridge the gap with the world.
During the interactive session, the Consul General said tourism is a two-way entry where risk has to be taken care of and urged the State to attract ‘with what we have and to make it special what is in the state.’ Tour operators can play a vital role as each state has its own beauty that has to be presented regionally, he said. There is a need to capitalize on the huge interest people have in Nagaland and her people and to bring up the capabilities of the state’s potential, Rysto said.
The duo is also scheduled to meet the Governor of Nagaland and the Chief Secretary of Nagaland tomorrow from where they will travel to Manipur and Mizoram.
It may be mentioned that Young Indians (Yi) was formed in the year 2002, with an objective of creating a platform for young Indians to realize the dream of a developed nation. Yi has over 1288 direct members in 25 city chapters. Yi has 160 members in 3 corporate chapters and engages another 12,000 members through its district chapter, Farmer Nets and Student Nets.

Clinton challenges Myanmar to expand reforms



YANGON, DEC 1 (AP): U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on Thursday challenged the leaders of Myanmar to continue and expand upon recent reforms, calling for the release of all political prisoners, an end to violent campaigns against ethnic minorities and a breaking of military ties with North Korea. “We believe that any political prisoner anywhere should be released,” Clinton told reporters during the first visit to this long-isolated nation by the top U.S. diplomat in more than 50 years. “One political prisoner is one too many in our view.”
Clinton made her comments ahead of a meeting with the most famous political prisoner of all, opposition leader and Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, who was released last year after two decades of on-and-off imprisonment and has said she will run in upcoming elections.
Meeting earlier with President Thein Sein and other senior government officials in the capital of Naypyidaw, Clinton offered a small package of rewards for steps it had already taken but made clear that more must be done.
“I came to assess whether the time is right for a new chapter in our shared history,” she said, adding that the U.S. was ready to further improve relations with the civilian government in the Southeast Asian nation — also known as Burma — but only if it stays on the path of democratization.
In a series of modest first steps, she announced that Washington would allow Myanmar’s participation in a U.S.-backed grouping of Mekong River countries; no longer block enhanced cooperation between the country and the International Monetary Fund; and support intensified U.N. health, microfinance and counternarcotics programs.
A senior U.S. official said Thein Sein had outlined his government’s plans for reform in a 45-minute presentation in which he acknowledged that Myanmar lacked a recent tradition of democracy and openness. He asked for U.S. help in making the transition from military to full civilian rule, according to the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity to describe the private diplomatic exchange.
Clinton replied that she was visiting because the U.S. was “encouraged by the steps that you and your government have taken to provide for your people.”
Yet, she also made clear that those steps must be consolidated and enlarged if the U.S. is to consider easing near-blanket economic sanctions that block almost all American commercial transactions with Myanmar. “While measures already taken may be unprecedented and certainly welcome, they are just a beginning,” she told reporters.
“We’re not at the point yet where we can consider lifting sanctions that we have in place because of our ongoing concerns about policies that have to be reversed,” Clinton said. “But any steps that the government takes will be carefully considered and will be matched.”
She called for the release of political prisoners and an end to brutal ethnic violence that has ravaged the nation for decades. She also warned the country’s leadership to break suspected illicit military, nuclear and ballistic missile cooperation with North Korea that may violate U.N. sanctions. “Better relations with the United States will only be possible if the entire government respects the international consensus against the spread of nuclear weapons ... and we support the government’s stated intention to sever military ties with North Korea,” she said.
In his presentation, Thein Sein vowed that Myanmar would uphold its U.N. obligations with respect to North Korea, according to the senior U.S. official. He also told Clinton that Myanmar was actively considering signing a new agreement with the U.N. nuclear watchdog that would allow unfettered inspections of atomic sites in the country, the official said.
Clinton rejected the idea that the U.S. outreach to Myanmar was partially motivated by the growing influence of China. “We are not viewing this in light of any competition with China,” she said. “We are viewing it as an opportunity for us to re-engage here.”
“We welcome positive constructive relations between China and her neighbors. We think that is in China’s interest as well as in the neighborhood’s interest,” she said.
Recalling Obama’s mention of “flickers of progress” in Myanmar when he announced that Clinton would visit the country, Clinton urged the leadership not to allow them to “be stamped out.”
“It will be up to the leaders and the people to fan flickers of progress into flames of freedom that light the path toward a better future,” she said. “That — and nothing less — is what it will take for us to turn a solitary visit into a lasting partnership.”
Before dinner with Suu Kyi, Clinton was touring the Shwedagon Pagoda, a 2,500-year-old Buddhist temple.
Despite the historic nature of Clinton’s visit, enthusiasm has been muted within Myanmar.
Chan Tun, a 91-year-old veteran politician and a retired ambassador to China, said: “This is a very critical visit because U.S. will understand Myanmar better through engagement. U.S. engagement will also help Myanmar’s dependence on China.”


Frans on 12.03.11 @ 11:59 PM CST [link]


Thursday, December 1st

Burmese Military Junta banned Naga festival Nagayouth Burma


Burmese Military Junta banned Naga festival Nagayouth Burma

Burmese Military Junta banned every Naga unit’s tribes’ traditional festival and saying that every tribe should be allowed to hold only the Naga Traditional New Year Festival organized by Naga Cultural Centre Committee (NCCC) which is under the direct control by the military and all the NCCC leaders chosen by the Naga people were dismissed and replaced them with military handpicked candidates and the NCCC constitution was also redrafted under the supervision of Burmese military. Naga in Burma people have pointed out that the junta’s are impair the development of the cultural activity of the Naga people. A senior Burmese Army officer will be heading the Acting Naga Traditional New Year Festival from January 12th to 15th, the biggest Naga festival.

The Junta intends to extend its power by controlling Naga Traditional New Year Festival which will eventually destroy the culture. It will lead to more hatred between the dictatorship and the people. Burmese junta is manipulating not only politics but also culture, religious and literature.

If Burmese junta wants to promote the culture of ethnic people then they should provide freedom of holding cultural festivals and allow use of their own literature. People should be free to celebrate their culture by themselves without interference from the government. The regime should encourage holding festivals like Naga Traditional New Year Festival which is important for maintaining the tradition of the people.

Please visit for more information www.nyo.com

Short history of Naga Cultural Centre Committee (NCCC)

After the military coup in 1962, the military banned the formation of any new political groups or organisations. The Naga people felt the need, however, to come together to build better relationships among the different tribes and also to preserve Naga culture. A platform under the banner of Naga Cultural Centre Committee (NCCC) was formed in 1972 under the leadership of V. Baghung of New Somra Village, U Kailung from Lainung Village and other 10 Naga elders.
The Committee functions with the Central Executive Committee members representing the Naga townships, sub-townships and other areas where the Naga people live. The members are democratically elected by the Naga people.

During the 1990 election, there were five candidates representing the five townships. However only two, V. Teipoh representing Layshi constituency and U Kailung from Lahe constituency, were elected, while the other three were disqualified as they did not get enough votes to be declared successful.

When the National Convention was convened in 1993 the Naga expected that V. Teipoh and U Kailung would represent them. However, the Burmese Military Junta handpicked individuals and sent them to participate in the National Convention in 1994, instead of the elected MPs.
The military accused the elected MPs of having connections with underground groups and they were expelled from mainstream politics. Further, the MPs were warned against moving beyond the vicinity of their villages. The Naga representatives chosen by the military are also involved in propagating the ideologies and policies of the military junta to the Naga people at every opportunity such as at festivals, in churches, etc.

This was strongly opposed by NCCC, and, as a response to this opposition, the military dismissed some of the most influential Naga leaders and replaced them with handpicked candidates.
The NCCC continued to function with two types of membership – one democratically chosen by the people and the other handpicked by the military.
When the NCCC submitted a memorandum on the inalienable and indivisible right of the Nagas to their ancestral homeland on 1 November 2004, all the founding members and the committee.
Members were expelled at gunpoint and a new committee which obliged the Junta’s demands was elected for the National Convention. The same thing occurred in every town and village council.

The NCCC constitution was also redrafted under the supervision of Burmese military. The following is the NCCC’s new constitution draft by the Burmese military 5:

1. All Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) members should register and have united Burma national identity card;
2. To be a member of the Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) one can either be a
Buddhist or a Christian or from any other religion;
3. The Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) members should not be involved in any
political party;
4. All the Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) members should strictly follow the Burmese Government Rules and Order (Constitution);
5. Any of the Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) members who have a criminal record
and violate the Burmese Constitution in words, actions or otherwise will be expelled;
6. Neither individual nor group of the Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) should neither interfere nor mix with other ethnic nationalities, politics or otherwise;
7. As opposed to the previous norm, anyone with a mixed heritage (wherein one of the
parents is not a Naga) can be a member of the Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC);
8. The Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) members should follow the Rules
and Regulation of the Central Committee which the National Government has
given;
9. The Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) members who are against the National
Government rules and regulation can have their membership revoked;
10. The Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) sub-committee should participate in the Naga Cultural Centre Committee general election;
11. All the Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) aims and objective should be planned and worked out according to the Central Committee’s policy;
12. All the Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) policy decision should be accepted only through the Central Committee;
13. All the Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) members should carry out their own given duties (health, education, cultural etc) and cannot mix with others political parties;
14. All the Naga Cultural Central Committee (NCCC) members should have mutual
understanding of one another;

The numbers of Central executive members has also changed. Currently, there are 23 members, however earlier there were more than 36 members6.

1 Khanti (Headquarter) 9
2 Homlin 2
3 Nanyung 2
4 Lahe 2
5 Layshi 2
6 Din Oo Lwin 1
7 Myitkyina 1
8 Tanai 1
9 Tamu 1
10 Mandalay 1
11 Yangon 1

Nagaland enters 48 years of statehood morungexpress
Dimapur, (MExN): Extending greetings on the 48th year of statehood, Governor Nikhil Kumar has wished the people of Nagaland peace, development and prosperity. In his address on the eve of Nagaland Statehood Day, the Governor paid tribute to the leaders who worked sincerely and untiringly towards the creation of the State. He said it was a landmark achievement at that time. “It gives our valiant people their own identity. I am sure all of you will join me in acknowledging our debt of gratitude to their vision, foresight and their missionary zeal to secure the well being of our people through the founding of our State,” the Governor said in his message. Commenting on the peaceful atmosphere prevailing in the State today, the Governor appreciated the efforts of law enforcing agencies, security forces, non-governmental organizations, the tribal Hohos, the civil society organizations, the Church bodies and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation for their commendable efforts in peace building. He said that the on-going dialogue between the Government of India and NSCN-IM has raised expectations of some accord being reached sooner or later.
Governor wishes peace, prosperity and development
However, the Governor expressed concern about the increased incidents of crime. He said that the government is very concerned and has resolved to firmly deal with extortions and other anti-social activities in Dimapur and elsewhere in the State.
He said that it is the right decision because if there is to be development and progress, it is important there is peace in the State.
He added that the government is determined to achieve this objective; while people should also ensure that they live together in harmony; that there is unity cutting across tribes and communities and rise above narrow sectarian interests to take a view that is beneficial for the society.
The Governor said further that the need for development and economic growth is felt by all. He said that the State need funds for this and while it is pursuing requirement of funds with Government of India and the Planning Commission, the people have to focus on their own assets and create an environment conducive to investment. He declared that the most valuable asset is the youth.
The Governor also emphasized on the need to implement the Right to Education Act and ensure optimum utilisation of funds meant for Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan. He said that State needs to exploit the tremendous tourism and investment potential that it has. He said that by organizing mega events like the ‘Hornbill Festival,’ the State should be able to attract more tourists to the state. He said that the state has rich mineral resources and favourable climate for development of horticulture and floriculture. There is also immense potential for plantation crops like tea, coffee and rubber on the vast tracts of hill slopes. “To exploit all these natural resources to our advantage, we need to strengthen our Infrastructure facilities, especially roads, bridges and power supply,” the Governor said.
The Governor said that all this requires a firm commitment to resolve all differences and join hands for economic development. He said that with strong community institutions and the spirit of working together, he sees hope for the future. “I am sure, with the dedication and the good wishes of everyone, we will be able to overcome all obstacles and create a vibrant, economically strong Nagaland that founding fathers of our State had dreamt of.” Nagaland was created as the 16th State of the Indian Union on December 1, 1963.

Pace of dev under DAN regime accelerated: Rio

Dimapur, November 30 (MExN): While extending greeting to the people of Nagaland on the eve of 48th Statehood Day, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio while stating that Nagas have gradually and steadily traversed over a vast canvas of progress and development in the State claimed in the last eight years of “DAN Government” rule, “pace of progress has been accelerated to a level unseen in the past”. He said that the DAN government has covered unprecedented grounds in the Agri & allied sector; in empowering women and youth; in addressing problems of underdevelopment in the backward districts; in promotion of sports and youth activities; in inculcating the spirit of entrepreneurship amongst the youth, and in many other areas of socio-economic advancement.
The Chief Minister further added that during these last few years, sustained efforts have been made for the empowerment of the farmers and the youth by observing the “Year of the Farmer;” “Year of Youth Empowerment;” “Year of Capacity Building” and the “Year of Entrepreneurship,” etc. He said that the government is determined to increase food productivity to achieve the vision of “Food for All” by the year 2020. Towards this objective, he said, the government has been organizing the North-East Agri Expo at Dimapur, besides distributing power tillers, tractors and Agri tools to the farmers.
Rio also said that during the last 48 years, the State has witnessed vast improvements in the physical and social infrastructure in the State like increase in road length; improved and better reach of electricity to the villages: higher literacy rate; better health care to all the people, etc. He said that the DAN government’s commitment to the development of rural and backward regions of the State has resulted in the creation of the Department of Development of Under Developed Areas. He also said that the creation of three new districts in the backward regions of the State, and opening of many new administrative headquarters in the rural areas have brought governance to the doorsteps of the people.
Dwelling on peace and development in the state, the Chief Minister said that the Government has tried its best to unite all the Naga groups so as to facilitate the achievement of a durable and lasting peace in our land. Rio said he is happy to state that there has been significant improvement in the law and order situation during the last 14 years of ceasefire, particularly during the last three years. He acknowledged the efforts of the citizens, civil societies, e Hohos and the Churches. He also gave special appreciation to the Forum of Naga Reconciliation in bringing together the Naga Nationalist groups on the platform of reconciliation and unity. He further appealed to all Naga groups to continue to strive for reconciliation and unity which will pave the way for a lasting and final solution of the six decade old Naga Political issue.
The Chief Minister stated that Statehood was a momentous and historic day that the aspiration of the Nagas for a distinct political identity was recognized by the Government of India by creating a full-fledged Nagaland State within the Union of India. Rio said in his message that statehood has given the Nagas the opportunity of moving forward according to their ingenuity and uniqueness. He also said that a special provision under Article 371-A of the Constitution of India was incorporated to guarantee protection of our religion, culture and traditions, as well as our land and its resources.
The Chief Minister also extended very warm invitation and welcome to all the people of Nagaland, as well as our guests from other parts of India and abroad, to come and enjoy the eleventh edition of the Hornbill Festival 2011, which is now popularly known as the “Festival of Festivals”. He also took the opportunity to wish everyone a Blessed Merry Christmas and a peaceful and Prosperous New Year 2012.
Laos Northeast India Business Forum held morungexpress

2nd Laos Northeast India Bussiness Forum delegates led by Dr Kikco Chanthaboury, Permanent Secretary, Minister of Planning and Investment, Laos PDR who are in Nagaland to witness the Hornbill Festival calling on the Chief Minister at his residence on Wednesday, November 30. (DIPR Photo)

Kohima, November 30 (MExN): Minister of Planning and Coordination T.R. Zeliang, addressing the one day 2nd meeting of Laos Northeast India Business Forum held at Hotel Vivor on November 30, 2011 said that with the fast emerging global market economy the “remote and unexplored North East”, which is the gateway of the mainland India to East Asian Countries is becoming more and more crucial and important strategically and logistically.
T.R. Zeliang highlighted the potentials of Nagaland state in various sector before the Laos delegation and said that “though North East India may be seen as remote since the region is yet to be explored fully, it is a crucial economic and cultural link between India and South East Asia in the context of India’s Look East Policy.”
One historic event that has proven the strategic importance of the NE region is the battle of Kohima which changed the tide of World War-II, which was not a chanced encounter but a battle to control strategic Moreh-Imphal-Kohima road which is the gateway of India to South East Asian countries, T.R. Zeliang said.
T.R. Zeliang also highlighted some of the potentials investment sector like the horticulture, floriculture, Naga crafts and its rich but unexplored mineral resources. He also said that significant policy like interventions like the government of India North East industrial & Investment Policy and state own Industrial Policy, Tourism Policy, Bamboo policy and policy for Organic cultivation offers an alluring packages incentives for those interested entrepreneurs who are willing to invest in the state.
Minister also stated that business interaction between Nagaland and Laos PDR started way back in 2008, which was boosted with the meeting of HSMM group and Nagaland Bio Resource Mission in 2009. This was followed by the visit of state chief minister along with state officials to Lao capital Vientiane. “I perceive this gradual development as a sign of greater cooperation, partnership and friendship”, T.R. Zeliang added.
Laos PDR is a country of 6.8 Million populations and is bounded Burma, China, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia and is main power supplier to its neighboring countries like Thailand and China and accelerating economy with demands in metals. Lao is a member of APTA, ASEAN, EAS and has applied for WTO.
Laos PDR delegation was led by Kikeo Chanthaboury, Permanent secretary of Planning, Lao PDR. Eric Sisombat, President National Chamber of Commerce also spoke on the occasion. Print and electronic media from Laos also formed the delegation.
Weeklong Hornbill festival from today Morungexpress
Kohima| November 30 : The weeklong Hornbill festival of Nagaland will start from December 1 at the picturesque Naga Heritage village Kisama, about 10 kms away from Kohima. The inaugural programme will start from 10:00 AM onwards with Nagaland’s Governor Nikhil Kumar as the chief host and Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as host. The inaugural function will witness traditional welcome by Angami Nagas (Viswema village), traditional blessing by tribal guest Yansathung Jami, Yanmhon Old village, Wokha.
The weeklong festival will witness a mélange of the rich cultural displays of Nagas under one roof besides it will be marked by traditional arts, traditional Naga Morungs exhibition, arts and crafts, food stalls, herbal medicine stalls, flower shows and sales, cultural medley - songs and dances, fashion shows, beauty contest, traditional archery, Naga wrestling, indigenous games, Hornbill international motor rally, kids carnival, musical concert, Naga chilli eating competition, Hornbill National Rock Contest, greased bamboo pole climbing, top spinning, pork fat eating contest and many more.
The Hornbill festival is named after the Hornbill, the globally respected bird and which is displayed in folklore in most of the state’s tribes.

Traffic regulations for ‘night bazaar’

Dimapur, November 30 (MExN): The Dy. SP (T) and PRO, Kohima, Melite Kapfo informs the general public that in view of the “Night Bazaar” at Kohima town starting from December 1, the following traffic regulation shall be enforced- “No entry” shall be imposed along NH-61 between ‘Y’ Junction and Razhü Point from 3 pm onwards. The stretch from ‘Y’ Junction to Razhü Point shall be “no parking zone”. Defaulting vehicles shall be towed away by the traffic police. Further, all down vehicles proceeding towards Razjü Point shall take the route from ‘Y’ Junction via Southern Gate of Local Ground and exit from Northern Gate. Cooperation is sought from the public for better implementation of the above traffic regulation.

ATM at Kisama

Kohima, November 30 (MExN): The State Bank of India will open ATM at The Naga Heritage Village, Kisama on December 1 at 9:00 AM.

DAY ONE HIGHLIGHTS
•Flower show cum sale of fruits & vegetables at Hortiscape: 9 AM
•Exhibition- cum- sale of handloom & handicrafts products inauguration: 9:30 AM
•Inaugural of Hornbill Festival: 10:00 AM
•Unity in culture: A cultural exposition

EVENING HIGHLIGHTS
•Launch of Hornbill Music Festival: Showcasing achieving musicians of Nagaland
during the year 2011: 4:30 PM at Indira Gandhi Stadium
•Night Bazar

No escort for top govt officials during Hornbill

Dimapur, November 30 (MExN): In order to minimize traffic congestion in Kohima and also to “impress upon the visiting dignitaries as well as tourists that the law and order security situation is peaceful and that there are no security hazards,” the State government today issued an order preventing the use of security, pilot and security allotted to all top government officials inside the town during the Hornbill festival. However, officers travelling outside of Kohima are free to take their escorts and pilots if deemed necessary. A statement issued by Chief Secretary Lalthara stated that the police will be providing sufficient security.
Further, having received confirmation from within the country and abroad that a number of VIPs, guests, tourists, etc, would be arriving at Kohima for the Hornbill Festival, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has requested the officials to take only the official vehicle (single) without the police escort (s) and take only one security personnel (bodyguard) or only the PSO as the case may be.
The Chief Minister stated that the steps have been taken considering the improved law and order situation prevailing in the State as reviewed in the security coordination meeting held on November 28, 2011. The Chief Minister has also requested all to cooperate in the large interest of the citizens of Kohima and smooth conduct of the Hornbill Festival.
NSCN gets new ‘army chief’ Indian Express
Into its 13th year of peaceful negotiations with the Government of India, the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (IM) on Wednesday appointed Phunting Shimrang as the new chief of its army following the retirement of incumbent “Lieutenant General” Ng Markson.
“Major General Phunting Shimrang, who is also a co-convenor of the joint Ceasefire Monitoring Group comprising representatives from both sides, has been named chief of the Naga Army,” a press release by the outfit said.
Markson, who, according to the press release, served for 37 years rising from “a mere private soldier to the top position of Naga Army”, has been appointed “Chairman of the Military Council” — which is in the rank of Cabinet in the Government of People’s Republic of Nagalim headed by Thuingaleng Muivah.
While the NSCN(IM) has been engaged in peace talks for thirteen years now, it was only in July this year that both sides claimed that their “differences have narrowed.”
Nagalim: Economic Blockade In Manipur Lifted Morung Express


The 121-day economic blockade in Manipur is temporarily and conditionally lifted by the UNC.
The indefinite economic blockade in Manipur that entered its 121st day Monday has been temporarily withdrawn, said a leader of the United Naga Council (UNC) spearheading the agitation. “We have decided to temporarily lift the blockade on the two national highways from 6 am Tuesday,” UNC president Loli Adani told a public meeting at the Naga-dominated Tamenglong district of Manipur.

According to the UNC, it had decided to lift the economic blockade on three conditions viz, the assurance from Union Home Minister P Chidambaram to the Naga body on the Sadar Hills issue; the various appeals from the church and civil organisations to lift the blockade; and also taking into account the suffering of the people because of the impact of economic blockade.

Meanwhile, United Naga Council Information Secretary S Milan informed Newmai News Network that Union Home Minister P Chidambaram who met the UNC delegation in New Delhi on November 22 had assured verbally that the government of Manipur would not be allowed to take any unilateral decision on the Sadar Hills issue. This verbal assurance was followed by a written assurance from the Ministry of Home Affairs that came to the UNC on November 24.

S Milan however said the ongoing one hour public curfew that has been ongoing in Naga areas of Manipur from 12 noon will continue until further notice. The UNC leader then asked all the Naga tribe organisations and the Naga public to remain alert to face any eventuality in case the government of Manipur takes any unilateral decision on the Sadar Hills issue.

The decision to lift the blockade comes ahead of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s daylong visit to Manipur Dec 3 where he is scheduled to launch and inaugurate several development projects. The prime minister is also expected to address a public meeting.

The UNC’s decision is seen as an olive branch with the Naga leadership hoping to get an audience with the prime minister to air their grievances.

To recall, the Sadar Hills District Demand Committee (SHDDC) had imposed an indefinite economic blockade along the national highways leading to Manipur from August 1. The SHDDC has been demanding a full fledged district status for Sadar Hills. To this the Nagas under the aegis of the United Naga Council protested saying no ‘Naga areas’ be bifurcated to create the Sadar Hills district. The Kuki dominated Sadar Hills is situated in the Naga dominated Senapati district in Manipur.
The SHDDC lifted the agitation from November 1 after having signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the government of Manipur on October 31 agreeing that the Sadar Hills be granted district status by November itself. With only two days to lapse on the MoU, the SHDDC met the Chief Minister in Imphal today over the signing of the memorandum of understanding. SHDDC Chief Ngamkhohao Haokip informed NNN that they would meet the government representative again after the Prime Minister’s visit to Manipur on November 3.

It may be mentioned that over 60 vehicles including private and public had been burnt down by both the SHDDC and UNC volunteers during the agitation. The state has been facing price rise and scarcity of petroleum products due to the blockade.
Blocklade-hit Manipuris find solace in cultural fest By Gaurav Sharma, IANS,
Imphal : Affected by the more than 100 days of gruelling economic blockade and ethnic clashes, people here are trying to find some solace in the ongoing 10-day Manipur Sangai Festival that kicked off last week.
With the beginning of the festival Nov 21 here, a sense of euphoria has descended upon the people, who can be seen crowding food stalls, dancing to local pop songs, and shopping for assorted goods that range from jewellery to handicrafts.
"This cultural festival has brought some respite to us as this economic blockade has really affected our life in each and every aspect," 30-year-old Imphal resident Thekpal told IANS.
Organised by the state's tourism department, the festival strives to showcase and promote the art and culture, indigenous sports as well as the scenic natural beauty of Manipur.
"It has brought joy to the people in the state who are sandwiched between the ethnic clash between Kukis and Nagas that has resulted in this economic blockade," said 24-year-old college-goer Suresh.
The festival boasts of more than 100 food stalls and around 400 handicraft outlets.
"Clashes, strikes, blockades will remain here, and because of this perennial problem, we can't enjoy our life here," he added.
Manipur is reeling under the economic blockade since Aug 1. Kuki tribals, affiliated to the Sadar Hills Districthood Demand Committee (SHDDC), blockaded national highways 53 and 39 to demand that a Kuki majority district be carved out of a larger district claimed by the Naga people as part of the "Greater Nagalim".
The Nagas responded to the SHDDC move with a blockade of their own, and are reluctant to give an inch of land to the Kukis.
The blockade has led to an acute shortage of essential commodities. Petrol is being sold for Rs.250 per litre and cooking gas cylinder for Rs.1,700.
"This festival is like an oasis in the desert which has given much needed succour to the entertainment starved people," tourism department's deputy director Shyam Sunder told IANS.
"Whether it is Nagas or Kukis, they are performing with their respective troupes on one stage. It brings all the tribes together," he added.
However, he says, the blockade has affected the popularity of the festival to some extent.
"We expect people from other states to visit this festival but due to road blockades, they will not come. Those who can afford flights can come and enjoy here," said Sunder.
Sangai is an annual festival which was started in 2010 and received good response from the people in the state. It generated a revenue of Rs.3 crore for the state.
(Gaurav Sharma can be contacted at gaurav.s@ians.in">s@ians.in)




Frans on 12.01.11 @ 07:27 PM CST [link]




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