Assam – Page 5 – Manipur News

100,000 hit by floods in Assam, many sheltered in relief camps

Over 100,000 people have been affected by floods in seven districts of the northeastern state of Assam in the last few days, an official said yesterday. A total of 112,307 people in 213 villages of Lakhimpur, Nagaon, Golaghat, Morigaon, Biswanath, Barpeta and Jorhat districts were marooned by floods till late Friday, the Assam State Disaster […]

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‘Naken Thaa Amadi Yeningtha’ released

A book entitled ‘Naken Thaa Amadi Yeningtha’ written by Okram Leisembana has been published during a function special function held of Manipuri Sahitya Parishad (MSPA), Assam on May 22. The function was presided by president of MSPA, Thingom Benuba Singh; Social Activist, Saikhom Kamlakanta and writer T Sanamacha as presidium member. During the function which […]

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2016/05/naken-thaa-amadi-yeningtha-released/

Assam raises cry to protect indigenous people

Guwahati, May 23 : A day after Sonowal promised to seal the Bangla border in two years and complete the National Register of Citizens (NRC), a prominent organization fighting against infiltration demanded special measures to prevent indigenous people f…

The post Assam raises cry to protect indigenous people appeared first on The Sangai Express.

Read more / Original news source: http://www.thesangaiexpress.com/assam-raises-cry-protect-indigenous-people/

What the framework of the accord would be? – B. Angousana Sharma

The term Framework of an Accord has logic of understanding with a proposal inciting to do with an intention of second party and acceptance of the existing Body; which need

The term Framework of an Accord has logic of understanding with a proposal inciting to do with an intention of second party and acceptance of the existing Body; which need to implement the theory to practical. To the same course of act of NSCN (IM) and Government of India’s (GOI) Accord underwent, though unlikely to the people of the three states of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh has been silent for three months. But the act of speculating result of the concealed thunder would be worse as the extravaganza of recruitnient of forces lauded in Nagaland. Rather it will not be healthy administration in the NDA Government.

The exposure of the intention of the Central Government by promoting Community Regimental Force (CRF) in the name of a particular community had to have second or third thoughts before commencement of the Accord and implementation, for that, the representation of the three states which neighbouring to the Nagaland should have been involved and should also have taken into confidence of the neighbouring states.

Hence, the norm to establish a CRF shall not finalise by a two party decision. Rather, the United Nations sanction and parliamentary debate over the enhancement of CRM would be necessary. Also, the Force should establish in the interest of the Nation, not in favour of a particular community. If necessary, Para-Military Force could be considered to establish in the Nation with mixed communities presentations, as 99 and 100 Bn. BSF of Nagaland was brought to participation.

Otherwise. such unconstitutional decision would be taken serious by Meitei Nationalist Party of India. Because, to-upgrade Naga Forces and threatening Meitei community in the Implial valley with the intention to discriminate communities in Manipur with the division on of hills and valley is taking serious in Manipur.

Therefore, to follow the constitutional as well as international norms of laws for forming up of a Community Force should be announced for implementation of such act would be coming into force.

On the other, it is also necessary to consider upon Manipur, the geographically isolated state of India, where lots of disturbances prevailed due to uncomfortable communication, while crossing over the hills, where also, necessary to upgrade the local force to the Regiment in Manipur. The Forces of MR were existed since the time of Royal Kingdom of Manipur. But, today, MNP appeal to upgrade Manipur Rifles to the Manipur Regiment.

Hence, Manipur is more vulnerable than the other states of India. Therefore, if it been discussed, rather sanction been made to upgrade Naga Regiment Force, there should not hesitate to upgrade MR to Manipur Regiment.

Hence, to deal with the diplomatic cult in India Manipur should be No.1 as Manipur fought the wars with Burma, China and Japan to protect Manipur, as hell as India, at that time there was no force input to fight the wars from the other parts of India. Keeping into consideration of the integrity of the border territories of the East, the Government of India may consider to include Manipur wherever, whenever any convention would necessary to institute in connection with involvement of territorial integrity so that the people of Manipur may feel ownness. Otherwise, by neglecting Manipur may cause a civil war like the war of 1903 and 1939, which of the act may result to immense destruction. For which, both of the Government either of state or of centre shall be held responsible. But, the loss of lives and loss of properties of the nation may occur.

Exclusive Interview with NEPO V.P. Swadesh Sarkar: ILPS opposed by people of Barak valley, Tripura and other parts of Assam

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH VICE PRESIDENT, N.E.P.O (NORTH EAST PEOPLE ORGANIZATION) By – Momon Thoudam The Vice President Swadesh Sarkar of N.E.P.O (northeast people organization) in his interview has expressed that

Vice President Swadesh Sarkar of N.E.P.O (northeast people organization)

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH VICE PRESIDENT, N.E.P.O (NORTH EAST PEOPLE ORGANIZATION)

By – Momon Thoudam

The Vice President Swadesh Sarkar of N.E.P.O (northeast people organization) in his interview has expressed that they have started their agitation after getting certain instances of harassment on non- manipuri people in Imphal valley during ILPS demand campaign, they got those from people fleeing Imphal and also from the newspaper published in Manipur.

He stated that N.E.P.O has formed in protest against the harassment both mental and physical being carried out on Non-Manipuri people living in Manipur, Specially in imphal valley. He also said that this movement has support from all across Barak valley, neighbouring Tripura and also from other parts of Assam.

NEPO, interview, North East people Organisation, Manipur, ILPS, Jiribam, Cachar

NEPO V.P. Swadesh Sarkar (left); Momon Thoudam (right) reporting from Jiribam Manipur.

In his interview he said that the when they came to know that those people who came to Manipur after 1951 will not be allow to stay, their name will be delete from electoral roll those who are in service with Manipur Government will be terminated and people won’t even live there in rent houses they started their movement.

This movement has nothing against Manipuri people but they are fighting with govt of Manipur to stop the atrocities being carried out on Non-Manipuri.

He cited that the economic blocked which started from 5.00 am today was called off, after getting assurance from the administration govt of Assam about certain agreement being inked between Assam, Manipur and govt of India within 7 days.

The D.C himself has assured about certain solution within 7 days or the N.E.P.O can carry out much larger movement in coming days.

He said that up to 1833 the entire Jiri valley up to Barak was under the kingdom of Cachari King and they have historically proof about it.

They believed in peaceful co-existence, he said people living in both side of Jiri river peacefully since ages and N.E.P.O has no grudge against people of Jiribam but their movement is with government of Manipur.

Earlier NEPO has strongly demanded Manipur government not to implement ILPS in Manipur and also has expressed their desire to remove Inner Line Permit system from the 3 North East states i.e. Mizoram, Nagaland and Arunchal Pradesh, where ILPS has been in placed for several decades.

Attack on truck near Manipur-Assam (Jiribam) border by unknown persons

By Momon Thoudam Jiribam, 24rd August: In the midst of the present turmoil in Manipur, it has been reported that a truck driver was attacked by some unknown persons near

By Momon Thoudam

Jiribam, 24rd August: In the midst of the present turmoil in Manipur, it has been reported that a truck driver was attacked by some unknown persons near Manipur-Assam border bridge. The report says that Mr.Narendra Khumanthem was driving vehicle (no. AS-11AC 4536) towards Imphal loaded with cement bags from Fullertal, Cachar district Assam when the incident happened around 3.30 PM on Saturday, 23rd August. It added, few unknown people initially stopped the truck by blocking the road using a Canter vehicle, threatened the driver to hand them over the vehicle keys. After negotiating for some time, he was later allowed to carry on his journey. However, by the time the truck was about to cross the border bridge on Jiri river, around 3 unknown youths on bikes started attacking the truck with sticks and rods, and manhandled the truck driver, luckily the truck driver was able to cross the border with minor damages at the driver side of the truck.

The report further says that the attackers looked like Non-Manipuris, but they could communicate in Manipuri. It can be remembered that a new organisation christened as NEPO (North East People’s Organisation) formed by Bengali and Hindi speaking communities in Silchar, Assam has strongly condemned ILPS demand movement in Manipur, and demanded to remove ILPS from the existing states in NE i.e. Mizoram, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.

At this point, it is not very clear about the motives of the assailants.

In-depth thinking and political wisdom crucial to solving Naga problem

By Oken Jeet Sandham Almost all the people and even those who have been so closely associated with leaders of the NSCN(IM) for years in working to find solution to

By Oken Jeet Sandham

Almost all the people and even those who have been so closely associated with leaders of the NSCN(IM) for years in working to find solution to the decades old Naga political issue have been caught napping when the Government of India has inked the “Framework Agreement” with the NSCN (IM) on August 3, 2015 at Delhi. The low profile event of the high profile Indo-Naga issue has been arranged at the residence of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his 7 Race Course Road, Delhi in his presence along with his Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Interlocutor to Naga talks RN Ravi, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval, and also many top ranking NSCN (IM) leaders.

According to report, NSCN (IM) General Secretary Th Muivah and Chairman Isak Chishi Swu on behalf of the organization and RN Ravi representing the Government of India signed the agreement. Soon after this agreement, breaking news of this event came in all the TV Channels from Delhi and all the online editions of the National Papers. Hundreds of people in Nagaland and its neighbouring States were taken aback by the sudden announcement of the agreement as none of them expected that such an agreement would be signed so soon particularly the manner in which they did it, though many of them had some clues that some development between the Government of India and the NSCN (IM) would take place.

Soon after the news of the “Framework Agreement” broke out, there were mix reactions and confusions among the people including the Naga people themselves. Such confusion is bound to happen, and of course naturally, when the Government of India has suddenly entered into such historic agreement with the NSCN (IM) without having given any pre-information of such significance to the Naga leaders including Nagaland Chief Minister, other stakeholders. Although some said that it is “Preamble,” it would have been more logical had the Government of India and the NSCN (IM) given pre-information to the public before signing the agreement, because the Naga issue has been dragging on for decades. However, the parties have been cautious in handling and explaining of the nature of the agreement.

This sudden development has changed the political course now. Many have been finding hard to give their comments except welcoming the agreement, saying they are yet to see the details of the accord. On one side, the Naga people know that there are other groups not only fighting for the cause of the Nagas but also maintaining even ceasefire with the Government of India. On the other, they are worried and anxious of details of the agreement that are yet to be finalized soon, and of course, the NSCN (K) has already walked away from the ceasefire in March this year.

Now, even though it is “Framework Agreement,” Chief Ministers of the neighbouring States of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Manipur have already demanded the Prime Minister to make the details of the agreement public as they had suspicions that there might be some hidden agenda in it to disturb territories of their respective States as the Naga Integration issue was one of the core demands of the NSCN (IM). However, Home Minister Rajnath Singh and his Deputy Kiren Rejiju said such issues were not there now, besides saying that they (Chief Ministers of AP, Assam and Manipur) will be consulted before finalizing the details of the accord between the Government of India and the NSCN (IM).

Now the ball is in the court of the Government of India and the NSCN (IM) as to how they will move on from here, and all depends on how they act to the fast developing crucial political situation in Nagaland and its neighbouring States. One side they have to work out as to how they can take on board other Naga groups, on the other they have to see that Nagaland and its neighbouring States’ interests are protected.

Some crucial talks doing the round in the last few days after the signing of the agreement are about Nagas having a separate flag, separate currency and safeguarding their Naga customary system and land and its resources. Some of these points have already been touched by Zeliang also. When talking about safeguarding customary system and land and its resources of the Nagas living in neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Manipur, they are similar to the Clause (a) of the Article 371A of the Constitution of India. Some say that Article 371A should cover the Naga areas in other neighbouring States. Because when they talk of providing safeguards to their customary practices and land and its resources, provisions of protecting them are already there in the Article 371A. But the point to be noted here is that this Article 371A has come into effect as a result of the State of Nagaland Act, 1962. And all this development had happened because of the 16-Point Agreement signed between the Government of India and the then Naga People’s Convention (NPC) in 1960.
Now as this writer has already stated in his earlier write-ups that any attempt to amend Article 371A of the Constitution of India will be doing so against the very spirit of the 16-Point Agreement of 1960. It is because of this agreement that the present State of Nagaland was born as the 16th State of the Union of India in 1963.

If the Naga leaders wanted to have provisions to safeguard their land and its resources and customary systems for Nagas living in neighbouring States, they can be discussed, and if agreed upon, then they can be incorporated in the relevant Articles connecting with the respective States of the Northeast. But attempting to extend the Article 371A, which is for the State of Nagaland, to other Naga areas outside it (Nagaland) will unlikely to produce positive result. It is also not very clear whether the Chief Ministers of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam and Manipur will agree to the idea that the Nagas living in their respective States to have provisions of direct sharing of power with the Government of India as pointed out by some including Nagaland Chief Minister. They may feel that such arrangement may violate the Federal structure of the Constitution of India.

One should, however, know that there are various ways to work out for protecting the interests of Nagaland, other neighbouring States and the Naga people if the so-called contentious issues are no more there. The leaders should apply their political wisdom while working out for details of the accord. The leaders must have in-depth positive and mature thinking abilities because all actions come after thinking. David Joseph Schwartz, who was an American motivational writer and coach, best known for authoring The Magic of Thinking Big in 1959 said, “Where success is concerned, people are not measured in inches, or pounds, or college degrees, or family background; they are measured by the size of their thinking.”

Most importantly, the leaders in talks should see that any move they attempt should lead to solving the vex Naga political issue. Otherwise, it will be only a vicious circle.

Bottom Line:

In Delhi on Sunday, Nagaland Chief Minister TR Zeliang said, “I along with all Members of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly are ready to step down, if an acceptable and honorable solution is found to the Naga people, in order to make a new beginning.”

I genuinely believe such a decision should be taken after a thorough deliberation on the present development through a “Special Session of Nagaland Legislative Assembly,” so that it will be politically valid and logical. Otherwise, differences may crop up among the legislators in Nagaland and that will be a major hindrance to the process again.

Indian Army pesonal rapes a pregnant Bodo woman in Kokrajhar district of Assam; North East students demanded arrest of the rapist

North-East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS) protests in front of Assam Bhawan and demands immediate arrest of army personnel who raped a pregnant woman in Kokrajhar district of Assam.

North-East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS) protests in front of Assam Bhawan and demands immediate arrest of army personnel who raped a pregnant woman in Kokrajhar district of Assam.

A large number of activists, students and north-east people protested today, in front of Assam Bhawan under the banner of North-East Forum for International Solidarity (NEFIS) condemning the brutal gang rape of a pregnant woman by the army personnel in Assam’s Kokrajhar district which took place late on Sunday night. NEFIS demands immediate arrest of army personnel who raped the woman in Kokrajhar district of Assam.

Eminent activist Maya John of Centre for Struggling Women too joined the protest and pointed out the role of “AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act)” in granting impunity to the Armed forces personnel who have been abusing the people of North-East including Assam, who have faced various forms of repression in the past. Among which women are the most vulnerable victims, facing brutal exploitation such as rape. It is to be noted that AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act) is imposed in various districts of Assam under which Army officers have legal immunity for their actions. There are serious chances of putting even this rape case under the carpet as done earlier. Police cannot take any action against the perpetrators unless the Home Ministry gives permission for the same. Such provisions clearly stand against common masses as such cases are gross violation of human rights and justice. NEFIS will take the issue further in the coming days if the government does not immediately arrest the perpetrators and takes action against them.

‘Dau Huduni Methai’ a Bodo film makes it to Montreal World Film Festival

June 26, 2015 GUWAHATI: Award winning Assamese filmmaker Manju Borah’s Bodo language film ‘Dau Huduni Methai’ (Song of the Horned Owl) is selected for screening at the prestigious Montreal World Film Festival (MWFF), one of the oldest and prestigious film festivals of Canada.
“This is great news for the regional film in our region. We have been witnessing a tough time but this has come to be a sigh of relief or rather a motivation, we can say. Here I would like to thank the producer for showing courage and invest money in making films. We still have people who want to support the good cinema,” the director expressed her jubilance.
The film’s story is plotted on the suffering of innocent Bodo villagers because of rampant militancy and violence. The film had to wait for over a year as the director did not get the artiste to play the protagonist.
The Canadian film fest is scheduled to be begum from August 27 in Montreal city and Borah’s film will be screened in the ‘Focus on World Cinema’ genre category. The MWFF which started in 1977 brings some of the world’s best films and filmmakers together.
“This is very satisfying to be counted among the best in the world. It would not have been done without the efforts of the whole crew of the film,” she added.
Bora’s first feature film Baibhab (A Scam in Verse) which was released in 1999, received Jury’s ‘Special Mention’ in the 47th National Film Festival in 2000 and was also named the Best film in Asia at the 6th Dhaka International Film Festival in the same year.
In 2012, her Mishing language flick ‘Ko:Yad’ has won a number of awards including ‘Best Cinematography’ in the national awards.

Source: Bodoland Online 24

No respite from flood situation in Assam as rain continues over the region

Guwahati, 14 June,2015: Moderate rainfall has continued over Assam in the last 24 hours washing away chances of any respite. Brahmaputra River is already flowing above the danger level submerging

Guwahati, 14 June,2015:

Moderate rainfall has continued over Assam in the last 24 hours washing away chances of any respite. Brahmaputra River is already flowing above the danger level submerging various parts in the state.

The worst hit areas include Barpeta, Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, and Sonit. The floods have rendered lakhs of people homeless and destroyed crops as well. No immediate relief is in sight as moderate to heavy rainfall is expected to continue over the region throughout Monday.

Moreover, in coming days, widespread moderate rainfall will keep Brahmaputra River flowing above the level of danger. Only when the rain stops can the locals expect some respite. Relief and rescue operations will be hampered by incessant rainfall.

Flood situation in Assam has worsened with over 3 lakh people being affected. After Brahmaputra and several of its tributaries covered fresh areas in Assam, more than 700 villages in 15 districts have been affected.

According to media reports, the most affected areas were Lakhimpur, Barpeta, Sonitpur and Dhemaji districts. More than one lakh people have been affected In Barpeta district alone. The death toll remained at two, one each in Lakhimpur and Bongaigaon districts.

Source: skymet

Eight district of Arunachal cut off due to Assam flood, shortage of foodgrains

Samudra Gupta Kashyap, Guwahati, 12 June, 2015: Rains in the Eastern Himalayas and the Assam valley over the past one week have cut Arunachal Pradesh off the rest of the

Samudra Gupta Kashyap, Guwahati, 12 June, 2015:

Rains in the Eastern Himalayas and the Assam valley over the past one week have cut Arunachal Pradesh off the rest of the country and left the Brahmaputra and its tributaries flowing above the danger mark in several parts of Assam. More rains are forecast over the next few days.

On the way to school in Balimukh village of Morigaon district in Assam on Thursday, rowing across what used to be a paddy field. (Source: Reuters photo)

Road links have been snapped in eight districts of Arunachal, leaving several administrative circles faced with a shortage of essential items including foodgrains.

“Though it is only the beginning of the monsoon, the situation is already very bad. Most of the border townships and circle headquarters in Longding, Tirap, Changlang, Anjaw, Dibang Valley, Upper Siang, West Siang and Upper Subansiri districts have been cut off by landslides,” said Bamang Felix, government spokesperson.

Itanagar, the capital, has been almost totally cut off. “The main National Highway connecting Itanagar to Bandardewa (Assam) has been blocked at Karsinga for nearly a week. The alternative road to Gohpur too has been snapped at several points. Itanagar is now connected only through a village road to Assam,” Felix said. At least three persons have been killed by landslides in Itanagar, not far from the chief minister’s home. Rains have led to such landslides in many localities and families have been shifted. “Water supply lines have been snapped and electric poles uprooted in many localities,” Felix said. Schools and colleges in Itanagar and Naharlagun have been shut until Monday.

In Anjaw, one of 10 districts that share a boundary with China, deputy commissioner Nyabin Ete said, “We are in a helpless situation. A bridge has been washed away between Hawai and Wallong, cutting off two vital Army positions at Wallong and Kibithu (near the border).” Ete said he trekked several kilometres on Thursday to return to Hayuliang after he was stuck on the road. In Upper Siang, through which the river Tsangpo enters India to become the Brahmaputra, five of the eight administrative circles are cut off. “Luckily, we had stocked enough foodgrains before the rains began,” DC Remo Kamki said. In Tirap, landslides have cut off Laju, an administrative circle on the Myanmar border, for more than 10 days. “The Border Roads Task Force had only a month ago cleared a major landslide between Khonsa and Laju. Last week, another landslide almost wiped out the road near Puntong village. This has also disrupted movement of troops to the border areas where operations are on against the NSCN-K,” said an official in Tirap. The situation has improved slightly in East Siang during the past two days with road links restored, said DC Nidhi Srivastava, but “electricity to many places remains suspended as landslides have uprooted poles”.

Source: The Indian Express

‘United National Liberation Front of West South East Asia’ Formed

On 24 April 2015, nine militant groups of the northeast, including the NSCN (Khaplang) and the ULFA faction led by Paresh Baruah, have come together to form a new unified

On 24 April 2015, nine militant groups of the northeast, including the NSCN (Khaplang) and the ULFA faction led by Paresh Baruah, have come together to form a new unified front during a meeting held recently in Myanmar, security sources said.

According to Hindustan Times report, the move to form the “United National Liberation Front of West South East Asia” comes close on the heels of S.S. Khaplang, chairman of the NSCN (K), abrogating a 14-year-old ceasefire agreement with the Centre last month. Khaplang, a Hemi Naga from Myanmar, played a key role in organising the meeting of militant groups where the decision to form the new grouping was made, security sources told Hindustan Times. Though Khaplang will be the nominal head of the new grouping, a key role will be played by Paresh Baruah, the chief of the United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent who has consistently opposed peace talks with the Central government, the sources said.

Nagaland Post states that both Khaplang and Baruah are currently based in Myanmar. Baruah moved to Myanmar after authorities in Bangladesh launched a crackdown on his group, the sources said.

Besides the NSCN (K) and ULFA-Independent, other groups that participated in the meeting held at Taga in Sagaing division of Myanmar earlier this month were the Kangleipak Communist Party, Kanglei Yawol Kunna Lup, People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak, People’s Liberation Army, United National Liberation Front and National Democratic Front of Bodoland (Songbijit faction).

The new grouping is dominated by militant organisations from Manipur, which refer to the northeastern region as “West South East Asia”.

Nagaland Post states that security sources said Chinese intelligence played an active role in encouraging the northeastern groups to come together on a common platform. Chinese intelligence operatives are active in the Sagaing region and weapons are often shipped to the northeastern groups through the China-Myanmar border.

“The Chinese have promised to provide weapons and logistics to the new grouping as they want to keep things boiling in the northeast in view of their claim on the state of Arunachal Pradesh,” a source said.

Earlier, the Chinese intelligence had played a role in bringing together several militant groups from the Manipur Valley in an umbrella organisation called CorCom. Most of these groups have now joined the new grouping.

Several groups from the North Eastern states have training camps in Sagaing division. After the NSCN-Khaplang signed a truce with Myanmarese authorities in 2012, it has consolidated its position in the neighbouring country.

The NSCN (K) split in late March after Khaplang abrogated the ceasefire signed with the Central government in 2001 and wound up the cease-fire supervisory board. The group had at the time accused the Central government of not being serious about discussing the issue of “sovereignty” for Nagas. Khaplang also expelled two of its kilonsers- Wangtin Naga and P. Tikhak from the group, who were in favour of extending the ceasefire pact with the Government of India. Following the expulsion, Wangtin and Tikhak formed a new group under the name NSCN (Reformation) Nagaland Post states.

Source: security-risks.com

Manipur and Assam may be excluded from Trans-Asian Railway(TAR) network

GUWAHATI: Policy makers want to keep Assam and Manipur out of the principal route of the Trans-Asian Railway (TAR) network promoted by United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia

GUWAHATI: Policy makers want to keep Assam and Manipur out of the principal route of the Trans-Asian Railway (TAR) network promoted by United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP).

The network is being constructed to boost trade and cultural exchanges within Asia and between Asia and Europe.

The TAR is a 17,500-km long railway line passing through 28 member countries and has been described by UNESCAP as “Yesterday’s Silk Road”.

The idea was conceived in 1992 following political and economic changes in the region. The network will be fully ready after construction of the missing links between countries and connecting the existing tracks within the member countries.

The east-west corridor that traverses through India originates at the easternmost part in Istanbul in Turkey and will pass through Iran right till the Afghanistan border from where the missing link will be constructed to connect Islamabad. The existing tracks from Islamabad to New Delhi will be a part of the network, which travels eastwards to Kolkata and Dhaka.

Indian policy makers now want to bypass the areas in Assam and Manipur. According to the new proposal, Dhaka should be connected to Jawahar Nagar in north Tripura, which is south of Mahisasan from where new lines will be laid to proceed towards Sairang in Mizoram from where it would be connected to an existing line at Ka Lay in Myanmar.

“The UNESCAP plan is not final and there is room for modification. For a hassle-free rail communication without bandhs and violence, Tripura and Mizoram are better choices than Assam and Manipur. We plan to have Assam and Manipur connected to the network by trunk routes and trouble in these two states will not hamper traffic on the main TAR network,” a source said.

A construction official of the Northeast Frontier Railways said, “As of now, we are going ahead with the original Trans Asian Railway plan. A survey for connecting Imphal with Tamu is on, but it is frequently hit by trouble in Manipur. Though not final, an alternative route of 257 km from north Tripura’s Jawahar Nagar railway station to Kolashib in northern Mizoram and Myanmar’s Darlon via Sairang has been proposed to connect with this mega network.”

On the Myanmar side, there is already an operational railway line from Ka Lay to Yangoon and further down to Dawei, which is being connected to Bangkok.

Source# TOI

Glimpse of Northeast India in London

Glimpses of North East India (NE Awareness event on 08/11/2014, London United Kingdom) A rather rain decked evening, onset of the crisp, chilly winter, a metaphorical wonderland of

Glimpses of North East India

(NE Awareness event on 08/11/2014, London United Kingdom)

Glimpses of North East India in London

A rather rain decked evening, onset of the crisp, chilly winter, a metaphorical wonderland of spectacular natural beauty. Does this ring the bells? North east would be the first place to strike anyone’s mind, when we incorporate these relevant characteristics. Well, lucky are those who hail from our picturesque mountain clad, sparkling clean region, clouded by the hypnotic fragrance of fresh soil and greenery. Every North- Eastern, no matter which corner of the world they live in, tag along their state’s pride and aroma, more to this, it is a mark of our culture to stand apart and gloat in passion about the enchanting existence of our region. The world is our oyster and our people are in places, spreading fresh North East aroma. United Kingdom, London saw first event of its kind, Glimpses of North East India on Saturday 8th November

Arunachal Pradesh – Glimpses of North East India in London

It is indeed a deep pleasure to see the way our state has been highlighted on an international platform, by our very own people, who have soul-stirring ties with their region even after crossing thousand borders. Glimpses of North east India an event organized by the North east Indians in the UK announced its grand success. This event came as a massive eye-opener where all North Eastern’s caught upon an opportunity to present the beauty of their respective states to the western world. The whole idea backing this informal event was to bring all the north easterners, mainland Indians and westerners under one umbrella to promote awareness of NE India and also to promote tourism of the unexplored beauty of North eastern and to share the firmly implanted culture and impassioned connection. More to that trying to establish grounds to attract them to North East India and experience the grandeur themselves.

Nothing can beat the originality of people and fetish they posess for their home land which is always visible in such occasions .That innate passion of North-Easterners to excel everywhere, is kind of free flow.

Meghalaya – Glimpses of North East India in London

A huge step taken by our fellow people in UK to think ahead, with motives to enhance each State’s magnificence. The evening was supposedly one of its kind with multimedia presentations from each state, followed by live music by talented North Eastern’s in UK and then the typical NE cuisines namely: Bamboo shoot, rice, momo’s , Singju……Yum. The presentations for the evening focussed on boasting about the beauty of all states through slides on rural tourism, cultural diversity, lofty snow-capped mountains, green landscapes dotted with picturesque villages, monasteries and a rich tribal cultivation crotched with vibrant accents. The audience seemed to have been mesmerized much to see a broader version of what North-East India had in its platter to offer, we are a gorgeous lovely hidden, yet to be explored gem of India, are we not?

Lien Gangte from Manipur one of the organizers, hosted the show with a twist of humour clubbed with gloating about each State’s magnificence.

Host: Lien Gangte from Manipur

Manipur – Glimpses of North East India in London

Actually quite an amusement to see how far we have spread our wings, and rapidly indeed our reputation in the world market is shooting up. North East India is an entrenched holiday maker’s hub. Given the immense dedication from our people around the globe, a gradual sea of change is not a far off thing, seeing the world step on our soil. We are the world now; let us grab every opportunity to spread like wildfire.

Sikkim- Glimpses of North East India in London

The organizers express their heart-felt appreciation to all those who took time out to attend the event and the ones who helped in putting up this show and making it a grand success. Bigger and better events in the pipeline, another occasion to celebrate our togetherness, we are a simple breed who loves to work hard and play hard. Watch out for this space!!!

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/11/glimpse-of-northeast-india-in-london/

Boundary And Other Tensions

By B.G. Verghese The Northeast has been in the news for all the wrong reasons: continuing assaults on the person and dignity of persons from that region in Delhi and

By B.G. Verghese

The Northeast has been in the news for all the wrong reasons: continuing assaults on the person and dignity of persons from that region in Delhi and elsewhere, which is an absolute national disgrace, continuing controversy over AFSPA, and killings along the disputed Assam-Nagaland border.

The Bezboruah Committee has reported on the first issue. But over and above its recommendations, there must be swift and condign punishment of those indulging and encouraging hooliganism.Also, it is necessary to propagate nationally, and especially in universities, booklets and film clips on the Northeast to educate local barbarians about their own country and countrymen in place of the totally useless official “Northeast Newsletter” produced today.

IromSharmila’s release from detention after being forced-fed through 14 years of hunger strike in protest against the imposition AFSPAwas short lived as she insisted on continuing her fast.A hunger strike is a weapon of blackmail. Recalling Gandhiji’s fasts under alien rule is wilfully mistaken. Moreover, a fast unto death is tantamount to suicide, a penal offence. If Irom were to perish fasting, the situation could spin out of control and the Government would be flayed by its current critics.

There are legal and constitutional means to battle what one considers unjust laws. The Jeevan Reddy Committee recommended a workable compromise a decade back. This was to remove redundant provisions from AFSPA and incorporate some others in existing laws. AFSPA causes psychological hurt.

Further, since AFSPA can only be invoked in areas declared “disturbed”, public pressure can be applied on the concerned authorities to revoke “disturbed area” proclamations. There has been wrongful use of AFSPA. These cases have invoked speedy investigation and punishment in many cases. But to lift AFSPA totally in areas subject to militancy, cross border mischief and terror may be unwise. Militancy often occurs in remote uninhabited areas where city-based magistrates are not at hand to issue necessary warrants of search, seizure and firing. Hence investiture of such powers in the armed forces is necessary. Ground gained at great cost over time can be lost in an hour.

It might be desirable for the DA Act and AFSPA to be withdrawn in phases in limited areas. But let the armed forces decide on the scope and tempo of such initiatives in collaboration with the local government, whether in the NE or in J&K.

The Assam-Nagaland border dispute has been allowed to drag on for too long. Similar disputes exist between Assam and the new states of Arunachal, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Nagaland carved out of it. This stems from the discrepancy between the so-called administrative “Inner Line”, initially drawn in Assam a century ago to safeguard the settled areas with their tea gardens, oil fields and coal mines,and subsequent revenue lines delineated by the Raj to mark out additional forest working areas as valuable sources of raw material and revenue. So when Assam was reorganised, the question arose as to which Line should be the border. Sadly, inter-state disputes have reduced these areas to no-man’s landsand havens for illegal activities.

Central policy has been muddled. In the Assam-Nagaland case, the Sundaram commission recommended a joint survey. Nagaland unreasonably refused and there the matter has rested with periodic conflict. The answer, as this writer has long recommended, is that these disputed border strips be declared Trusteeship Zones, with the two contending states and the Centre as partners for, say, 50 years, and placed under a Centrally-directed joint administration to be developed as rail and road heads, infrastructure, communication and training hubs and special economic zones that attract industry and investment, using cheap NE hydro- power. Higher and technical education and health facilities could be located here. Revenues could be shared. But who islistening?

The same lack of imagination drives the fatuous debate on ways to attract back Kashmiri Panditsto the Valley from where they were driven out under jihadi pressure 25 years ago. Few remember that 50,000 and more Kashmiri Muslims also fled the state – traders to end routine extortion and worse, youth for education and training, and girls to escape forced marriage to jihadi brutes.

The Pandits lost their jobs and homes. If they return they will have to make a new beginning. Where? How? Building new ghettoes is no answer. With the Katra-Bannihal- Qazigund railway likely to be operational within two years, and maybe the planned lower-altitude, all-weather Bannihal tunnel as well, trans-PirPanjal movement will become shorter, quicker and cheaper. With Srinagar becoming an active international airport and an additional 1000 MW of hydro-power coming on stream during this same period, a Baramulla-Srinagar-Qazigund-Bannihal-Katra-Jammu industrial-transport corridor, with a fibre optic transmission line and technical training facilities to boot, could come into being. One can conceive of a series of SEZ hubs along this corridor, specialising in agro-processing, herbal-based pharma, floriculture and IT-enabled services.

J&K residents, whether Pandit, emigrant Muslim or other, would gladly seize the rich opportunities that beckon. And non-State subjects should be welcome if they bring investment together with technical, managerial and marketing skills. Pettifogging arguments by littlebigots crying wolf about “outsider” land grab and demographic change must be slapped down for the nonsense they are. Nor can J&K be condemned to be governed by the idiocy of people who ask why the State shouldnot have a Hindu chief minister or by the diktats of Pakistan’s Hurriyatstooges. Umar Farooq dare not even own up to who assassinated his father in 1990 and joins in celebratingthe late Mir Waiz’s “martyrdom” by his assassins.

Sadly, a section of Pandits have allowed themselves to become pawns in the hands of the Hindu Right which is as fanatical as the separatists. Pilgrimages are planned and opposed as insidious efforts to divide and mobilise communities and disturb communal harmony.

The proposed Indo-Pakistan talks are off thanks to the Pakistani High Commissioner’s boorish insistence in meeting Hurriyat leaders on the eve of the Foreign Secretary level talks, despite being warned against doing so. To argue that Pakistani VIPs have consistently met the Hurriyat over many years does not constitute an extra-territorial right. The parallel would not be Indian dignitaries meeting with Baloch and Sindhi separatists on the eve of talks on J&K with Pakistan, but of defiantly meeting PAK and Gilgit-Baltistan opposition leaders such as Amanullah Khan of the JK Liberation Front and others in Islamabad if they have not been incarcerated or forced to seek refuge in distant shores. These critics have no place in Pakistan’s tightly-controlled Kashmir colonies ruled by the constitutional ideology of swearing by “the ideology of accession to Pakistan”.

Anyhow, Nawaz Sharif is currently embattled in Islamabad with Imran Khan and TahirulQadri, a cleric from Canada, seeking to topple him. This has enabled the Army more obviously to assume control over a weakened premier whose efforts to expand trade with India and try Musharraf for treason are not to the liking of the military as evidenced by spoiling fire across the LOC.

Meanwhile, at home, the BJPin particular continues to debase democratic standards and push for a “Hindu nation”. Mr Modi is in danger of becoming India’s Nawaz Sharif, playing second fiddle to the RSS “army”.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2014/08/boundary-and-other-tensions/

Assam – Nagaland Interim Border Agreement should be scrapped

Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement should be scrapped By Oken Jeet Sandham One of the most humiliating chapters in the history of Nagaland since Statehood would be, perhaps, its inability to

Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement should be scrapped

By Oken Jeet Sandham

One of the most humiliating chapters in the history of Nagaland since Statehood would be, perhaps, its inability to conduct elections on its own soil at Ladaigrah under Longlen District, bordering Assam, due to Assam Police’s deliberate threat and refusal to vacate a Nagaland school building wherein the polling was supposed to take place.

Everyone including the media in Nagaland were stunned when they saw the news along with a picture showing the Assam Police blocking the road preventing Nagaland polling officials from proceeding toward Ladaigarh to conduct polls for the Ladaigarh Polling Station No. 1 under 49 Tamlu A/C. Later in the day, it was declared that the polling at Ladaigarh could not be conducted due to Assam Police’s blocking of road leading to Ladaigarh and thus it (polling) had been adjourned.

In the past also, the Assam police did the same thing. But the previous elections, somehow a makeshift polling station was arranged nearby and allowed the voters to exercise their franchise. But this time, the situation was altogether different that not only murdering the rights of the voters to exercise their franchise but also not allowing the Nagaland polling officials from proceeding towards their polling station at Ladaigarh. But the saddest part was the state government’s inability to make any arrangement for the voters to exercise their franchise. If the Assam police refused Nagaland polling officials from proceeding to Ladaigarh, the Nagaland government could have airlifted those polling officials to conduct the polls there. But they did not.

It is unfortunate that when the state of Nagaland was created in the early 60s, the drawing of the new state boundary was not properly carried out. And once the new state was carved out from the existing state, the boundary had to be drawn and the necessary border machineries should be put into place. These unresolved border issues have really taken quite a toll on the lives of people on both sides.

It is only understandable that such border skirmishes would take place from time to time but they should not be misinterpreted as threatening to the aged old relationship between the two neighboring people. The people of the two states should not, at any cost, allow this issue lingering.

Most of the incidents including the Ladaigrah episode that have been taking place in the Assam-Nagaland border areas were something to do with longstanding unresolved inter-state border issues. Many issues were to do with paddy fields, farmlands, forests, etc. as per the past records. There were allegations from Nagaland border side that some people from across the border descended on their ancestral paddy fields, farmlands and even forcibly grabbed their lands with the help of Assam armed police as well as neutral forces. On the other side, there were also allegations that the Nagas from across the border encroached Assam’s lands or killed wild animals. And sometimes, clashes took place on either side while stepping into either side. Sometimes, such issues became hot debates even during assembly sessions of both the states. Yet, they were also resolved through series of dialogues at various levels.

Regrettably, large numbers of non-locals have been systematically occupying the long stretch of Assam border over the years and their numbers keep increasing leaps and bounds. And the people of Assam have little knowledge of what these non-locals have been doing on the state’s border areas.

To ease the border problem between the two states, the Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement as early as 1972 was made. This Agreement was meant to lessen border tension, while trying to find long lasting solution to the border issue.

The problem is this Interim Border Agreement was not implemented in toto. Rather it became a tool for the Assam government to strengthen their state forces along the border, while Nagaland relegated to a helpless position as they had to oblige to the terms of the agreement. According to information, Assam has 44 Assam armed police posts set up all along the Assam-Nagaland border in violation of the Interim Agreement; whereas there is reportedly 1 Nagaland armed police post all along the border. In other words, Nagaland was sincere if not over-sincere.

As per the Agreement, the Disputed Area Belt (DAB) should be placed under the neutral forces. Interestingly, such forces are placed again under the command of an IG of Assam police. And also Nagaland government temporarily allowed the Assam forest department for the management of the border reserved forests in the DAB. But due to the mismanagement by the Assam forest department, people from both sides started settling in the disputed reserved forest areas. Subsequently both the Assam and Nagaland governments had given recognition to those settlers.

Today, the problem is more complicated because the people living in the border areas of Assam are mostly non-locals but the Nagaland side becomes helpless as they do not know to whom they will talk. We have seen that some non-locals started talking the language of locals to restore aged old relationship between the Nagas and the Assamese. This interesting development might have confused some leaders in Nagaland. We started seeing some statements made by some responsible Naga Ministers saying they would not talk to “Adivasis” for resolving Assam-Nagaland border raw. But they failed to realize that by uttering this way, you would be paying attention to them instead of focusing on the right persons. It looks like you have been asked to talk to these people to resolve border raw with Assam. Let us be wiser and focus on the real issue plaguing both the states.

This so-called Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement 1972 is a blunder and it has become a bond of contention between the people of the two neighboring states. The first step to find solution to the chronic border issue is this “Assam-Nagaland Interim Border Agreement” should be scrapped.

At the same time, both the states should immediately engage in serious business to frame new Border Agreement. Only then should they constitute an Assam-Nagaland Border Committee wherein persons with high social standing from both the states should be appointed as Members for a period of 5 years and their term can be extended on periodic basis. Their main job is to check the border irregularities and also examine the process of implementation of the Agreement.

It is still afresh in our memories about the infamous interstate clashes at Merapani in 1985 over border issue. No one thought the relationship would return as good as before. But the aged old relationship had fast returned. Because both sides can’t afford remaining un-neighborly as they will remain as neighbors till this beautiful God given earth exists.

The construction of “Foothill Road” on Nagaland border is very important for the development of the state. But this should not be misinterpreted as solution to the Assam-Nagaland border issue. The failure to find solution to the Assam-Nagaland border issue is not due to not constructing “Foothill Road.” Nevertheless, you can construct hundreds of new roads. It is your prerogative. But the Assam-Nagaland border raw can only be resolved provided both parties are sincere.

Students camp at Rangapara on December 28-29

Guwahati: The north east is power hub of young talents. But these are lying unexplored. Over the years, these talents have not got a proper space to properly show their talent. Need of the hour is a mechanism to help them … Continue reading →

The initiative to bridge the gap is on the threshold. Courtesy Advancement of Peoples Group (APG). The organization is on a venture to provide the school and college students (HS 1^st year to TDC final year) goers with a space to show the way.

A two days residential camp ”NE Youth Euphoria 2013″ is on the cards in Rongapara area in Sonitpur district of Assam. Being organized on December 28-29, 2013, the event will facilitate the to candidly rub their shoulders to share their experiences. The organizers believe it to be the best way to help them exclusively ventilate their feelings and experiences. If properly dealt with, these would go a long way to utlise the youth power in nation building task.

Apart from this rendezvous, the participators would have scope aplenty to attend a series of workshops and competitions. This will be followed by cultural show in both the evenings.

Interested students, teachers and guardians are urged to contact APG at 09717309865, 09401732209 or email:apgrpa@gmail.com. Or log on to www.assamtimes.org to download application form.

Urgent teacher vacancy for Junior College in Assam

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Urgently needed a teacher for a Junior College in Assam. Qualification required: MSc – Physics and Chemistry and also BSc Physics and Chemistry. Interested candidates are asked to call on this No immediately: +918751862712. Attractive salary. teachers required for 3 … Continue reading →

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Urgently needed a teacher for a Junior College in Assam.

Qualification required: MSc – Physics and Chemistry and also BSc Physics and Chemistry.

Interested candidates are asked to call on this No immediately: +918751862712.

Attractive salary. teachers required for 3 months minimum.

*The Job Details is being sent by Fr. Benny James SDB, Principal, Don Bosco College, Maram Centre, Manipur – 795 105

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Assam Floods 2012: Situation Grim

The post Assam Floods 2012: Situation Grim appeared first on KanglaOnline.com. In Assam, over all flood situation remains grim as the Brahmaputra and some of its tributaries continue to flow above danger level at some areas. Around 21 lakh peop…

The post Assam Floods 2012: Situation Grim appeared first on KanglaOnline.com.

In Assam, over all flood situation remains grim as the Brahmaputra and some of its tributaries continue to flow above danger level at some areas. Around 21 lakh people of 16 districts have been affected following flash flood. In … Continue reading →

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Request to cancel Tiger Reserve propose by Karbi Anglong Council in the land of Indigenous tribal Kuki People

The post Request to cancel Tiger Reserve propose by Karbi Anglong Council in the land of Indigenous tribal Kuki People appeared first on KanglaOnline.com.From: Mithu Chouydhury / Guwahati / 18th Sep’12 A MEMORANDUM SUBMITTED To His Excellency T…

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From: Mithu Chouydhury / Guwahati / 18th Sep’12 A MEMORANDUM SUBMITTED To His Excellency The Governor of Assam Raj Bhawan, Guwahati GOVERNMENT OF ASSAM Through The Deputy commissioner,Kamrup Metro,Guwahati, FOR CANCELLATION OF TIGER RESERVE IN THE LAND OF INDIGENOUS TRIBAL … Continue reading →

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