Nagaland – Page 13 – Manipur News

Current TCP Gate to IG Stadium Road construction best

KOHIMA, Dec 6 (NEPS): The major road construction that has been going on since October… more »

KC Angami (left) with his assistants monitoring and supervising ongoing TCP to IG Stadium Road Construction in high school area. NEPS Photo

KOHIMA, Dec 6 (NEPS): The major road construction that has been going on since October 10 last on the stretch of National Highway 61 from TCP Gate 0.00 Km to IG Stadium—about 6 kms—has been perhaps one of the best road constructions so far to date. The quality, best materials, thickness of the layers are well seen while checking during the construction words and in some portions where the road alignments badly placed were also corrected. Many well-wishers have already appreciated the works carried out in the State capital in recent times.

It may be noted that the contractor of this TCP-to-IG Stadium road construction is none other than Mr KC Angami who has since the beginning of the construction been personally monitoring and supervising the ongoing road construction works. Almost all the construction works have been carried out at night time from 6 PM to 6 AM so as not to disturb the traffic during day time.

It said the portion of WMM (Wet Mix Macadam) base laid during the night has to be left for curing for at least 24 hours before priming is done after which it has to be left again for another 24 to 36 hours before laying of BM (Bituminous Macadam) and SDBC (Semi Dense Bituminous Concrete).

When asked about his feeling and reaction on carrying out such a massive road construction at the State capital, Angami said he was extremely happy getting such an opportunity to work at the State capital. “It is rather a privilege for me to work at the State capital,” he said. “Here I am not really concerned for the profit factor, but the quality factor, because it is my road, our road.”

He also candidly shared that he had been trying his best to provide the best road to the people of the State capital. He further appealed to the people to cooperate with them while carrying out such a massive road construction works in a place where “traffic jam” is routinely taking place. He also disclosed hardships he faced while carrying out road constructions at night time as rash divers had sometimes scant cares for his laborers working on the roads at night.

Angami also said in order to maintain longevity of the road; they have to see other areas to be improved. He stated improvement of drainage systems and frequent checking and repairing of water pipe leakages on the roads should be done. There are dozens of water pipes going under the surface of roads and even at some places hardly one inch below the surface of the roads while several pipes are randomly lying on the roadsides. As such these pipes are normally and easily get damaged with vehicles going over them. “In fact water is the worst enemies of the bitumen which is one of the main elements used in constructing roads here in our place,” Angami stated. “Therefore, I not only urge the concerned department to see in this area but also citizens to understand this reality.”

In most cases, it is often seen that people used to throw randomly water and other rubbishes on the roads from their storied buildings at roadsides causing in weakening the road conditioning. And in many areas, publics also used to unload stones, boulders, heavy woods and logs on the roads damaging the roads. The Department of Telecom also has added to the extensive damage of the roads on the National Highways as well as other roads by digging all along the road sides for carrying their underground cables. Regrettably, once they dug, these areas would remain fragile gradually affecting other remaining road portions. As such all these factors have to be looked into, if the longevity of the roads is to be maintained and expected.

Road and Bridge Minister Kaito Aye who worked to get the project through was happy to see the record construction works from TCP Gate to IG Stadium.

Naga IR jawans’ “Community Policing” wins hearts of locals in Purula

KOHIMA, Nov 23 (NEPS): Ever since the Naga IR (Indian Reserve) jawans from Nagaland deployed… more »

KOHIMA, Nov 23 (NEPS): Ever since the Naga IR (Indian Reserve) jawans from Nagaland deployed toChhattisgarh’s Naxalite prone areas like Dantawada, Bastar, their services were further sought by the Center to other Nexalite and Maoist infested areas too. After 9 NAP (IR)’s tenure in Chhattisgarh was over, the 10^thNAP (IR) have been deployed to West Bengal’s Maoist stronghold area in Purulia district. During their deployment, many of them had sacrificed their precious lives in defense of the country. One of the latest Naga IR jawan who sacrificed his life while fighting Maoists in West Bengal’s Purulia district was Mhasivikho Angami. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also paid her respect to the slain Naga jawan.

But in spite of such sacrifices made by the Naga IR jawans, they too were engaged in various “Community Policing initiatives” to win the heart and confidence of the locals in the areas. The 10^th NAP Bn (IR) currently in West Bengal’s Purulia district has in fact started “Community-policing (Humanitarian works)” since September last year in their respective Company locations in the district (Purulia). They have divided their Bn into five Companies (Coy). In all these five Coys, they have initiated “Community-Policing” works by constructing badminton courts, parks, rest houses, providing stationery items to various schools, sports goods to various local sporting clubs, extending financial assistances to poor and needy villagers for treatments, etc.

In Kumarikanan area, the “A Coy” of the 10^th NAP (IR) has constructed first class Badminton Court, besides distributing stationery items to various primary schools and also distributed sports items to local A.C.C. Club.

In Murguma sector, the “B Coy” of the 10^th NAP (IR) carried out tree plantations, provided sports materials to local sports club—Netaji Club Murguma, visited Jhalda Government High School and extended financial assistance to 7 physically challenge students and also conducted social works at the Government Primary schools and college.

In Bughmundi area, the “C Coy” of the 10^th NAP (IR) constructed garbage dumps at different sides for dumping medical wastes. They also constructed five Naga style bamboo garbage baskets with signboard—“Keep your surroundings Clean” written in English and Bengali. They had conducted social works in hospitals of this area too, besides white-washing front part of the Hospital building, the gate and the tree stamps/stems.

In Sirkabad sector, the “E Coy” of the 10^th NAP (IR) donated sports items to Kalapani Football Club. They even played football exhibition match with the players of this club by sponsoring the prize. Not only giving away stationery items to schools of this area, they also even extended educational materials to one Mr Hari Pata Maji of Arsha Higher Secondary School, the first and the only matriculate from Danasi Village since India’s Independence. They even extended financial assistance to villagers who were in dire need of medical treatments, besides providing towels and toiletries to patients of Sirkabad Civil Hospital.

This sector is the perhaps the biggest Coy out of the total “5 Coys” under 10^th NAP (IR) Bn. They also developed a beautiful “Park” under the name and style of “Lake View Park”. This park is adorned with paddle boat and a diverse array of floras. One of the significant works carried out in this sector was their conducting combine fellowship program between “E Coy” jawans and the Believers Church of India.

The 10^th NAP (IR) Bn’s last Coy—“F” also donated significant development in their area, Patarband. In the Patarband Village, they had constructed and donated “Aram Garh” (Rest House). They also constructed another badminton court to Patarband Maidhamik Shikasha Kendra School to encourage extra-curricular activities and awareness on the importance of the role of the games and sports. They also distributed secondhand clothes, shoes, boots, plates and cups to poor and needy villagers, besides planted trees in their villages. They also constantly crated awareness campaigns for the importance of tree plantations.

It may be mentioned that these “Community Policing (Humanitarian works)” were carried out since a year back from September 2010 with the contributions made by Officers and other ranks of the respective Companies of 10^th NAP (IR) Bn. These services were mainly carried out for the welfare of the local people, said Nagaland DGP K Kire, IPS.

The Nagaland Police Chief also disclosed that the people in the areas were cooperative with their jawans and at no point of time, there was any adverse attitude from the locals to their “Community Policing (Humanitarian Works)” carried out in their respective areas. These “Community Policing (Humanitarian services)” had brought wonderful “rapport” with the locals, Kire stated.

The Nagaland DGP also spent his last Christmas with the jawans of the 10^th NAP (IR) Bn at Purulia.

Classes of Nagaland NIT at its Chumu campus from January

By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, Nov 5 (NEPS): National Institute of Technology (NIT) given to… more »

Prof NV Deshpande (2nd right), Director, NIT Silchar and his team seen calling on Dr Shurhozelie (right), Minister, Urban Development, Government of Nagaland, on November 5, 2011 at his residence at Kohima. (NEPS Photo)

By Oken Jeet Sandham

KOHIMA, Nov 5 (NEPS): National Institute of Technology (NIT) given to Nagaland through an enactment of Parliament and which was attached to its NIT Silchar, Assam, will now be shifted to Nagaland. Classes in its temporary campus at Chumukedima (Chumu campus) will be started from January next year. And the State Government has also already acquired 300 acres of land in Niuland area for a permanent campus.

This was disclosed while a team of NIT led by its Director Prof NV Deshpande called on Urban Development Minister Dr Shurhozelie this morning at his residence. For the permanent campus in Niuland, the team explained the Minister that they need to have proper connectivity from the main road to the site which is nearly 3 kms, proper demarcation with fencing and security arrangement etc.

After patiently hearing the points put up by the team, the Minister said all the necessary works like realignment of road and proper demarcation with fencing of the acquired site would be taken care of by the Government. He further asked Mr M Nakhro, Deputy Director, of the Government of Nagaland, to start processing to get Engineers for the road construction and also contact Dimapur DC for the proper demarcation as well. He also told the team that security would not be a problem. All these would be taken care of, he said.

It may be mentioned that the “temporary campus” for the NIT, Nagaland would use the building which was earlier constructed for DC’s office at Chumukedima. And once the Nagaland NIT gets shifted to Nagaland from the NIT, Silchar, they would have its own Directorate with faculty members and other supporting staffs as well.

Dr Shurhozelie disclosed that when the NIT was given to them, it was without proper accommodation and thus its unit started functioning from NIT, Silchar. 1st and 2nd batches of Nagaland students are already there in NIT, Silchar.
Dr Shurhozelie also said this NIT was University-level Technical University and once its temporary campus at Chumukedima gets ready, all the students from Nagaland currently at NIT, Silchar, would be shifted to Nagaland.

The Minister also expressed his happiness to see that one Mr Nzanthung Ngullie, from Nagaland, was part of the faculty of the Nagaland NIT. He further assured the NIT team for all necessary works like road construction to the site with black toping, demarcation with proper fencing and security arrangement from the State Government side at the earliest. He also told them to complete the shifting of Nagaland NIT from Silchar and start developing the entire necessary infrastructure at the new site at Niuland at the earliest.

The NIT Team led by Director NV Deshpande comprises Dr AK Barbhuiya, Faculty, NIT Silchar, Mr Nzamthung Ngullie, Faculty, NIT Nagaland, Mr M Nakhro, Deputy Director, Government of Nagaland and lady wife of the NIT Director.
The team also expressed their gratitude to the Minister for the latter’s assurance of providing all the necessary road connectivity, demarcation with proper fencing in the newly acquired site in Niuland.

Kohima Lions Club conducted Peace Poster Contest

KOHIMA, Nov 5 (NEPS): Lions Club of Kohima (LCK) has today conducted “International Peace Poster… more »

Winners of the International Lions Peace Poster Contest held at premises of Indoor badminton Stadium, Kohima on Nov 5, 2011. Miss Miss Neikehienou (center), Class 7 of Fernwood School, Kohima won the 1st position. Miss Tianla(4th left), Class 9 of LFS, Kohima won 2nd position while Miss Tohino, Class 7 (5th right), of LFS, Kohima won 3rd position. (NEPS Photo)

KOHIMA, Nov 5 (NEPS): Lions Club of Kohima (LCK) has today conducted “International Peace Poster Contest” here at the premises of the Indoor Badminton Stadium, Kohima. This year’s “Peace Poster Contest” was conducted under of the theme of the “Children Know Peace.”

The painting contest started from 10 AM till 12:00 noon. The painting of Miss Neikehienou, Class 7 of Fernwood School, Kohima won the 1st position while paintings of Miss Tianla, Class 9 and Miss Tohino, Class 7, both from LFS, Kohima won 2nd and 3rd positions respectively.

LCK President Lion Er Hozheto Shikhu, in his presidential address, lauded the school students of Kohima for taking part in this year’s “International Peace Poster Contest” held under theme of “Children Know Peace”.

“Peace is in fact an important matter for all of us in the northeast,” he said. “And through such Peace Contest of the International Lions Clubs, our children are given opportunities to express what peace in their mind was.”

LCK President also told the students to prepare for the next year’s “International Peace Poster Contest.” He urged them to keep practicing on the theme line with the guidance of professionals, so that they would be able to come up with thematic artistic painting presentations.

Lion AB Menon, Senior member of LCK, who was chairman of the Kohima Chapter’s “International Peace Poster Contest,” said children should have peace since their childhood. “But we need more guidance when we are trying to express it through such painting contests,” he said. He also called upon the students to take keen interest in such Peace Poster Contests, so that their massage would play a major role in bringing peace on the earth.

Lion MJF Er Vitoshe Rochill, LCK Treasure Er Achakbou, other senior Lion members, teachers, parents of the students were among others who were present throughout the “painting hours” and also “prize distribution program.” LCK Secretary Oken Jeet Sandham gave his Vote of Thanks at the closing function of Prize Distribution.

Kohima Lions Club conducted Peace Poster Contest

KOHIMA, Nov 5 (NEPS): Lions Club of Kohima (LCK) has today conducted “International Peace Poster… more »

NAGAS STANCE ON SADAR HILLS : A CHRISTIANITY PERSPECTIVE

By: Songthu Raymond Chongloi When Sadar Hills districthood issue begins to catch the headlines of … … some regional dailies I felt the need of understanding some of my Naga… Read more »

By: Songthu Raymond Chongloi

When Sadar Hills districthood issue begins to catch the headlines of … … some regional dailies I felt the need of understanding some of my Naga colleagues mindsets on the deadlock. The reason : several Naga organisation came in chorus warning another communal flare up in the state; like the one witnessed some two decades ago. So, without disclosing my identity in detail I approach a Naga student leader if I am new to the issue. Before going deeper on the topic we briefly chatted. In the meantime I came to know that he was an active member of the church during his stay in Imphal, and did not hide being consulted often on every subject of the Nagas there in Manipur.

Then we proceeded. He spoke a lot about the Nagas love for independence,the rich cultural and traditional heritage,the extend of territories ,the historical records. etc.etc. which I find more to do with the Angamis ,Semas ,Lothas and Konyaks. On being enquired anything worth mentioning about the Manipur Nagas contribution towards the movement,he begins with the breakup of the NSCN in the 1980s,and keep on glorifying every action taken up by Sir Th Muivah. He continued,and blame the the Indian government for the Nagas ethnic cleansing drive on the Kukis in 1993.He also fired several accusations against the intelligence agencies for fueling the war. At some point of the interaction he was almost willing to admit that the government agencies collude with the Naga outfits.

Taking advantage of his statement I went deeper referring to the involvement of intelligent agencies in 1993 clash; the license issuance of about 600 single barrel guns by the then Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul just before the outbreak of the clash,the accusation made against Chief Minister, Shri Rishang Keishing, as on the governor’s report that time,and some more. Interestingly as expected, he strongly disapproved .Instead he blamed the media for maligning the image of the Nagas. Then without a pause, he jumped over to the Sadar Hills issue which I too find more worthy to be discussed than the bygone years. As in the case of the war,he put a heavy load on the media. Also criticize the state government attitude against the Nagas. He continued,”there are nine districts in Manipur of which five are hill districts ,and the remaining four districs are dominated by the Meiteis. Out of the five hill districts one belongs to the Kukis and the other four belongs to the Nagas. This is not a propaganda but If you need datas its with me,”he assures.

While he was totally lost on the topic I calmly opened my bag;took out a map of Manipur indicating the proposed map of Greater Nagaland, and showed to him with a wink on my eyes. With that he exclaimed:’ that’s our long cherished dream…., “he took the map and have a surprise look on it.

And next –a map of Manipur indicating Senapati district and Sadar Hills in different shades. I showed at him. As expected his mood totally change all of a sudden. He was so disappointed, yet maintains his calm. “From where did you get that,” is his query on the map to me. He continued,”we believe in respecting others sentiment. So people ought to respect ours . In the event of declaration of Sadar Hills as a full fledge revenue district without Nagas consent …bloodshed is inevitable. All to be borne by the state government there. This is all we need to understand.,”he warned. Now I put some of my queries and his replies:

Query:If Sadar Hills has been included in the proposed map of Greater Nagaland,it could still be a Naga district even if it is declared a full fledged district?Am I right?
Reply:Not so. Sadar Hills , off course ,is dominated by the Kukis . I don’t think people favour merging it with the proposed Nagaland. The Kukis have been in the forefront opposing the Nagas movement now and then. For your knowledge Sadar Hills has been much apart of our ancestral land. This is a fact.

Query: Respecting other sentiment is one that Nagas believe. So if the Nagas continue this hell-bend attitude over the district hood status,would not it amount to disrespecting ones right ,especially the Kukis?
Reply: No. Respecting others right in no way mean giving away our land to somebody. We have the right to protect our land. We must not be divide by inimical forces.

Query: Then how far would you agree and prove that Sadar Hills is the land of the Nagas? Can you point me some fact or more importantly of its history on defence against foreign invaders-the British?

With this question,it seems,he was blown out of the cold. To my surprise he smiles at his cellphone that never rings; and inquired me to repeat the question complaining the language jargon. In doing so he pleaded,”such questions need an elaborate understanding on history. He keep on with little stumbling ,”those questions are to be asked to our leaders. Its out of my knowledge”. That was how we end the discussion,which perhaps,begins lively but ended without much to appreciate on the claims and stance of the Nagas. Well. As we go through the above interaction,I believe,one may be confused over a Naga leader attitude toward their Christian brethren. Surprisingly,if a leader who claims to be so God-fearing have a warlike attitude to someone then one can easily guess the perception the general Naga population ought to posses? The reason I penned this. Now from the Christianity perspective. Some years back we have celebrated the joy of attaining a centenary-100th year of the arrival of Christianity in Manipur. It was expected that Christianity attains much maturity than before. However much against our expectation things seems to be murkier with the advancing years. The relationship one community maintains over the other is not going to wane easily. This is evident from the present crisis we face and the press statements issued against the other targeting the lesser privileged. To be little persuasive over the present demand I would like to set some record straight in the interest of all. The Manipur (Hill Areas) Autonomous District Council Act, 1971 has a provision for creation of six autonomous districts of which Sadar Hills autonomous council was one among them. Therefore, the question of bifurcating Senapati of carving parts of the district to form Sadar Hills never arise. The provision was made for administrative convenience; the same case that Senapati have. Under such circumstances Nagas communal tone over the issue is something hard to digest. Reason in defense may vary,but one may be pointed out. The sanctioned district has a mix population. No particular community could claim suzerainty over it. Off course the Kuki groups maintains the majority status with Nepali,Naga and Meitei community filling the leftover composition. But there is nothing to be so much to be alarmed off. Implanting fear to the general public is never to be encouraged. One assumption may be, Naga leader fear of similar repercussions of what they did to the minority Kukis in the areas where they hold majority two decades back! If so,the Kukis stance on Sadar hills issue till date is clear-there is no communal tone from Kuki civil organisation like Kuki Inpi , KSO etc, except KPF statement rebuking Naga civil society stance on the issue. Such is a clear indication that there is no hidden political agenda from the side of Kukis. Instead it is the general populace who wholly back the move. To keep in mind, the trend of one community dominating a district is a normal trend we have in the present day administration,yet we don’t find any ill consequences a result of such demarcation. Instead a mixed population is believe to have provided a better social environment due to intermingling of different colours. This also have proved to broadens one’s mindset to a large extend. 0

Taking advantage of the presence of a fraction of Nagas land with a scattered population of about 10%, Sadar Hills has been included in what is called the homeland of the Nagas thereby forcefully ignoring the rightful claims of the Sadar Hillites. As understood,the idea of gaining control of Sadar Hills is not a recent origin. The first open attempt came in the form of ethnic cleansing drive against the Kukis who constitute the bulk of the area, in 1993. To the disappointment of Naga leaders things could not be materialized as planned. Thank God! The second such attempt came: the present deadlock.

Never mind,our human mindsets are such that we don’t feel being bad as long as things are in our favour; but act harshly on things which deviates slightly against our wish. This type of perception full of egos –me,myself-is never to be found in the principle of the Christian faith. Rather it tells us to love our neighbor as we love thyself. Beloved Naga Christians must sense this. While we tries to grab somebody’s right to make up our dreamland-Nagalim, we don’t want an inch of Nagas land to be included in an already sanctioned district which neither means separation or secession. These are the ills that infest Naga nation. It is a society where give and take,compromise and accommodation have no meaning.

We professed to live a life on the principle of a Christian faith which encompasses brotherhood of all mankind. Often,the verbatim like forgiveness,confession,do good,accommodation,peace loving and mutual understanding became the refrain in the church which is never put into practice. While our lip service are sweet with the word of God,our hearts are filled with nothing but greed;our motives are self drive,our mindsets are preoccupied with war, bloodshed and hatred.
So ,until we develop a sense of sympathy for others we have no reason to tell the world –we are proud to be a children of the Lord. Rising up his name without upholding the principles of the Christian faith will only tantamount to insult on the Savior. The sweet motto like ‘Nagalim for Christ” has been used far and wide these days ,however, the banner has been used only to invite hatred upon the Naga society,and more importantly the church image. Let peace prevail !!

The above article is sent to Kanglaonline.com by Songthu Raymond Chongloi and can be reached at raymond.chongloi[at]gmail.com

Press Release: Mass rally held at Ukhrul, Manipur

Press Release There was a mass rally held today, 19th. 08.2011 starting from 9.30 am in Ukhrul District and all other Naga hill area in Manipur protesting against the upgradation… Read more »

Press Release

There was a mass rally held today, 19^th. 08.2011 starting from 9.30 am in Ukhrul District and all other Naga hill area in Manipur protesting against the upgradation of Sadar Hill District into full fledged District. The rally in Ukhrul was joined en mass by the Tangkhul frontal organization which includes Students, concern citizens, farmers, housewives, senior citizens, civil societies and other various organizations. The rally is mainly spearheaded by Tangkhul Katamnao Long, Tangkhul Shanao Long, Tangkhul Naga Long and Tangkhul Mayar Ngala Long.

The rally which was initiated by United Naga Council (UNC) were seen being participated by thousands of concern Tangkhul-Naga joins hands demanding and making a firm declaration that – without the consent of the Nagas not an inch of the Nagas land could be touched by an outsider, part away and alter in creation of Sadar Hills District. The Tangkhul- Nagas strongly condemn the devisive policy of Ibobi’s led Government to infuse communal hatred among the peaceful co-existing tribals. They call upon the government of Manipur to respect the previous MOU which was sign between the government of Manipur and the Nagas apex social organization on 1981,1982,1996 and 1998.

The Tangkhul Katamnao Saklong (TKS) during an exclusive interview mentioned that the Naga villages under the demand of Sadar hill District cover Naga tribal villages from liangmai tribe, Tangkhul, Thangal , Maring, Mao and poumai. More than around 47 Tangkhul- Naga villages are situated in the said demand of the so-called Sadar hill District. Nagas have been living in their forefather land from time immemorial unlike the Kuki refugees who were migrated mostly from the Chin-Burma (Myanmar) province during the British era as a labourer and who started setting up camps around the places wherever the Britisher’s made their Headquarters mostly in North East of India. In regard to the statement they claim that the Kuki-refugees in Manipur state have no rights to blow their own trumpet to claim a District or Homeland by bifurcating an inch of the Nagas land without the consent of the Nagas.

The Naga people as a mass warn the Government of Manipur (GoM) that they should look into the matter thoroughly and should not take hasty decisions which will resulted in marring the sentiments of the Naga people in Manipur or which will resulted in inter- communal disturbance. If such incidents happen in future it was declared that the responsibility and the consequences will be directly pointed at GoM.

Kuknalim!

The above press release was sent to KanaglaOnline.com by Shimray Alem {shimrayalem[at]yahoo.com}

Sangakpham: We deserve to know

By: A. Bimol Akoijam In a swift response, the Chief Minister of Manipur said that the terrorist violence that struck Sangakpham on 1st August, 2011 was the handiwork of NSCN… Read more »

By: A. Bimol Akoijam

In a swift response, the Chief Minister of Manipur said that the terrorist violence that struck Sangakpham on 1st August, 2011 was the handiwork of NSCN (I-M). This is a development which is quite uncharacteristic of the Govt. of Manipur on such incidents or as an editorial in the Sangai Express, a leading newspaper in Imphal puts it, “can’t really recollect the last time that a case of this proportion was laid bare so fast and so conclusively”. However, the said organization, according to a report released by Newsmai News Network from Dimapur, has denied the allegation. Besides, according to a press report, contrary to the statement made by the Chief Minister at the Press Conference on 2nd August, 2011, the Koren (Koireng) Youth Organization has denied that the suspected bomber one Anthony s/o Bonkolung of Sadu Koireng is “a resident of Sadu Koireng Village, Saikul sub-division…and he is not known to the people of Koireng”.

CM O Ibobi Singh inspecting the site of Sangakpam bomb blast. Source: Imphal Free Press

The contradictory reports do not help the citizens who are at the receiving end of such violent and atrocious crime. This being the case, we, as citizens must know the truth as to who is/are behind the dastardly and gruesome act at Sangakpham. The government must put the system and institutions at its disposal to task so as to come out with the truth and bring those who are responsible for the crime to justice at the earliest.

And we as citizens must also know that we must not rest till the institutions for investigations and protecting the life and dignity of the people are made to perform their assigned and expected duties and responsibilities. Only then, we can expect to live with certain sense of normative and institutional mechanisms of a civilized life.

All those who cried out for justice, and those who have statements such as “enough is enough” etc must put their statements into action by seeking and pursuing this: to know the truth and make the above institutions accountable. Only then, can one say that their slogans and outpouring of emotions have some sense and value. Otherwise, those statements shall remain as symptoms of a pathological mind which make them vulnerable to atrocious violence and indignity.

This being the case, we deserve to know:

a) Who is Anthony, the suspected bomber?

b) What are the material and circumstantial evidences on the basis of which the officials have established the identity of the suspected bomber and the organization of which he was a member or on whose behalf he allegedly carried out the heinous act?

c) As per the statement of the Chief Minister, the Bajaj scooter (Chetak) which was allegedly used in the blast had a Nagaland number (NL-O1E/1394) registered in the name of one K. Daniel s/o K. Angami of Diphu Par, Dimapur (Nagaland). Now the question is:

i) Was this information based on the recovery of the necessary document(s) from the blast site or provided by authorities in Nagaland?

ii) Has the investigating agency in the state kept in touch with their counterpart in Nagaland on this matter a) to establish the facts of the case and b) to trace the owner for further questioning?

d) ISTV news mentioned that the Union Home Minister also reportedly blamed NSCN (I-M) for the blast at Sangakpham. (There was one line in Morung express which also reported the statement of the Union Home Minister). If this is so, which agency has given them this news? This is crucial for two reasons: a) The Union Government has been in talks with the said organization and b) for the deeply ethicized and communalized mindset, the words of the Government of Manipur can be subjected slanderous allegation. Moreover, this has serious implication for the “ground rules” of the “cease fire” between the Government of India and the NSCN (I-M), which, as far as Manipur is concerned, is nothing more than a farcical enactment and a part of a make-belief world of those who were ostensibly happy with the withdrawal of the “three words” from the “ceasefire agreement” following the so-called “uprising” in Manipur in 2001.

We must avoid communally charged perspective; what we have seen at Sangakpham is the display of a horrible act of a naked and illegitimate violence that attack the life and dignity of the citizens. Democratic ethos demands accountability of institutions and transparency for a civilized life in the state. And we must work to restore such institutional imperatives, not hollow talks and rhetoric.

By the way, such a note as this one is something that one can legitimately expect to come in media in Manipur. I am sure that many of us have seen such reports and news analysis in media across the globe following such incidents. If it doesn’t come, it only speaks of our media guys just as it speaks of the people of Manipur in general. It’s time to take responsibility, each one of us, for a change.

Read more / Original news source: http://kanglaonline.com/2011/08/sangakpham-we-deserve-to-know/

Peace and Development in NE India

by Dr. R.B. Thohe Pou Many people talk about peace and development, but how many of us sincerely want peace and development in North East India? Arms Force Special Power… Read more »

by Dr. R.B. Thohe Pou

Many people talk about peace and development, but how many of us sincerely want peace and development in North East India? Arms Force Special Power Act (AFSPA) was introduced in NE regions in 1957 and re-imposed in Manipur and Nagaland in 1985. Nagaland State has again been declared as a disturbed area in July 2011. The draconic law of AFSPA has mentally and physically affected the people in the region, and it will have a great impact even in the future. Some people may allege that there is peace in the region, but controlling the people by a gun barrel cannot be called as PEACE. If you are really talking about peace, let there be peace and development in the region in letter and in spirit.

The government wants to bring peace and development in the region, but it cannot do so while denying the rights of the people. If rights and justice of the people are denied, there cannot be peace and development in NE India; this is true not only in NE India but anywhere in the world. With mutual understanding and knowing the facts of the history, no problem is so abstruse as to be unsolvable.

The BJP government took the initiative in the Indo-Naga peace talks with the senior leaders like Atal Vajpee Bihari. However, the younger generation have different views on the Naga political problem; some are even ignorant about the essential Naga historical facts. There is medicine to kill pain, and we can prescript medicine to reduce it, but a doctor needs to diagnose the root cause and problem, and give the complete dose to heal a patient. Repressing the rising voice of the people through military might is only like a doctor prescribing only the pain killer to be relieved ephemerally.

Mizoram state is becoming one of the fastest developing states in NE and has achieved the second highest literacy rate in India after the insurgent problem was solved. The State has recently celebrated the 25Years of Peace in the State on 30th June 2011. It has become one of the model states in terms of developments and peace in NE. Only those who have genuinely studied the issues and problems can only understand the real cause of the problem and issue of NE India. Recently, Rahul Gandhi – one of the promising future Indian Prime Ministers, says, “Army is not the solution to Kashmir and NE.” Many other Indian Army officers having previously served in NE region also gave a similar report.

When the NE burns, it affects all of India; when the Naxalites affected regions burn, it affects the entirety of India. Unfortunately, only some logical and visionary leaders see this aspect. According to the govt. of India – Home Ministry Affairs (HMA) 1967, NNC was listed as a banned terror group in NE India. On 17th May 2010 the govt. of India released another list of terror groups in India in which more than 100 terror groups are banned like – Maoists, ULFA, NBDF, SIMI, etc., but the NSCNs factions are not included. However, some people alleged the NSCN – the Naga National Workers as terrorist, criminal, extortionist, etc. If the NSCN are terrorist and criminal then the whole Naga civil leaders and Naga people also can be booked under TADA and criminal cases for supporting them to bring peace in the region as an accomplice also can be punished under IPC.

India will become a peaceful Nation and develop more progressively once some of the threats and problems are solved. Today the three biggest problems being encountered by the GOI are –

i). The Jammu and Kashmir issue and problems
ii). NE insurgent Issue and problems (especially the NSCN and ULFA)
iii). Maoist problems (Naxalites) issue and problems

India has been investing a huge sum of money for counter-insurgency. Such expenditures would be reduced significantly if the above three problems were solved, yielding not only peace, but also greater economic prosperity. Those three problems have different issues and problems, and it needs to consider patiently in each case separately. It is high time that the GOI gives serious thought to these burning issues in India. Corruption is another mania in India, but the above three issues are more important than other issues in India. If the GOI wants the Naga political to be solved and to restore peace in the region, it needs to acknowledge and accept the genuine cause of the Naga political problem and prescribe the complete dose to heal the region completely.

The people of NE India yearn for peace and development, but more than 60% of the Indian population does not understand the root causes for the lack of peace and development in NE. One should not think that the problem in NE region is just a law and order problem. While considering the size of the region and demographic aspects, some people may want the Seven Sisters to become one nation, but there is no historical basis for such a union. Why has the giant India had a ceasefire with the small Naga army since 1997? The size does not matter but the historical fact counts.

It is well-known that NSCN is considered as the mother of insurgents in Northeast India, and everyone who loves peace and development in the region needs to extend support to resolve the Naga political and ULFA problems. Then someday the beautiful greenery of the NE States of India can become one the best tourists’ destinations, and also become one of the commercial hubs of India. The people around the world want peace and development in the region and in a recent Annual Gathering in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the World Baptist Alliance (WBA) which consists of 120 Nations support Naga Reconciliation. NE people have suffered enough for more than 50 years under AFSPA and the insurgency problem, and it is time now for everyone to think more positively and to have the desire to the most pressing issues and problems in the region.

The Naga Political problem is not problematic only to the Naga indigenous people; it affects the whole NE region and India. Directly or indirectly, development in the northeastern region is depending upon solving the Naga Political and ULFA problems. Once the Naga Political and ULFA problems are solved, we can see the dawning of development and peace in northeastern region of India. It is alleged (reported) that the Naxalites have a link with the ULFA, and the network may continue to enlarge as times passes. It is also alleged that the NSCN is giving shelter to the ULFA cadres some where in the border of India and Myanmar. So in one way or another, all three groups are closely linked, which shows the insurgent epidemic in the future in India.

Solving the NSCN and ULFA problems in NE will bring solace to India and in particular to northeastern region. The GOI and the people of northeast need to understand not only the factual issues, but also to acknowledge and accept the genuine cause of the Naga Political problems. In previous Central-NSCN-IM Peace-talks, the Chairman of NSCN-IM said that the Peace-talks are coming to most crucial stage, and in more recent talks (18 July 2011), NSCN Special Emissary V.S. Atem told the Telegraph, India, “The talks were positive and we now enter the most crucial phase of the negotiation.” Moreover, it is also reported that the Naga political problem will be solved in “shortest possible time” and the solution will be based on “the uniqueness of Naga history and situation which was recognized by the government in 2002”. After more than 60 rounds of Peace-talks held in different countries and in Delhi, now it is showing a positive result in their Peace-talks. Consequently, the people of Naga-land and NE India should be in euphoria and extend their support to the ongoing Peace-talks to bring a long-lasting peaceful solution in the region.

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“Autonomous Council proposal is to address backwardness with seriousness”: Imchen

By: Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, Jul 25 (NEPS): Nagaland Home Minister Imkong L Imchen said the State Cabinet’s decision to recommend a proposal to the Government of India for granting… Read more »

By: Oken Jeet Sandham

Nagaland Home Minister Imkong L Imchen

KOHIMA, Jul 25 (NEPS): Nagaland Home Minister Imkong L Imchen said the State Cabinet’s decision to recommend a proposal to the Government of India for granting “Autonomous Council status” to the Eastern Naga areas comprising of four districts—Mon, Tuensang, Longlen and Kiphire—was to address the “backwardness” of the region with seriousness.

In an interview with the NEPS here today, the outspoken Home Minister said the backwardness of the ENPO area was “genuine” and the “Government has to address it with seriousness.”

“And for them to become proud and equal citizens of the state, we have taken this decision,” Imchen said and further elaborated that by such move, the “substantial solution is brought about and the people out there do not feel backwardness anymore.”

Stating that the issue of the ENPO was “common Naga problem and not only confined to them (ENPO),” the Home Minister further explained that the “proposal” for the “Autonomous Council” was only “in “principle” nature. “We have to work out what kind of mechanism and modalities should be there for it and that should be acceptable to both (State and ENPO),” he explained.

Asked why the State had taken such a hasty decision and whether it had any political motive behind such move, Imchen denied having such political move and also made it clear that it was not a hasty decision.

“The people should not misconstrue the decision of the Cabinet as political motive,” the Home Minister stated. “We are serious to address the issue and we are going to take up the matter seriously with the Government of India.”

“I personally feel that the Center, State and ENPO should join hands to address the issue in right perspective,” he said. “So that Nagas can live as equal partners and citizens of the state with harmony.”

Asked whether ENPO would accept the Government’s proposal, Imchen said, “I hope they will accept.” “But I sincerely feel the ENPO leadership as well as people there should appreciate the proposal of the State,” he added.

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“Center yet to spell out which faction is recognized”: Nagaland DGP Kire

By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, Jul 21 (NEPS): Nagaland Director General of Police (DGP), K Kire, IPS, admitted that there had been confusion as to how they would dealt with… Read more »

Nagaland DGP K Kire, IPS (NEPS Photo)

By Oken Jeet Sandham

KOHIMA, Jul 21 (NEPS): Nagaland Director General of Police (DGP), K Kire, IPS, admitted that there had been confusion as to how they would dealt with which group of the newly split factions—GPRN/NSCN and NSCN (K).

Disclosing this to NEPS here today, the DGP said now the new faction of Naga underground came up and occupied the Khehoi Camp which is a designated camp for the NSCN (K). “There are also other designated camps but they are occupied by other forces,” he said and asking “What is the stand of the Government of India (GOI) vis-à-vis the split group.”

“Nobody knows the status of this new group,” Kire disclosed. “The GOI has not spelled out which faction is recognized.”

Asked if he foresaw any unwanted development between the two factions, the DGP said some unwanted situation might come up as the two factions were poised to confront each other any time anywhere. “But we are fully prepared to control the situation and maintain the law and order in the state,” the Police chief asserted.

He, however, made it very clear that for them as law enforcing agencies in the State, they did not differentiate any faction or groups while dealing with them. “For us, anybody committing crimes irrespective of their group affiliations, they are dealt with as per the laws of the land. Our actions as law enforcing agencies in the state should not be misconstrued,” he pointed out. “We are performing our duties.”

On the allegation hurled by the NSCN (K) that the State police had provided escorts to the cadres of the GPRN/NSCN to Khehoi camp, the DGP answered, “We are only following instructions from the Chairman of the Cease Fire Monitoring Group (CFMG).”

He said the requisition of providing escorts to the faction (GPRN/NSCN) came from the CFMG Chairman. This group went to CFMG Chairman and requesting him to provide escort for their movement. “So we only do the job when such instructions came from him (CFMG Chairman),” the DGP revealed.

At the same time, N Kitovi Zhimomi, General Secretary of the GPRN/NSCN moved around in various districts consulting his friends. And one such move was he (Kitovi) went to Mon and picked up Kholie Konyak, Kire stated and admitted that “We didn’t know all these.”

“The state government didn’t come there. We have got nothing to do with it. We never knew it,” he stated.

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Oken Jeet Sandham becomes secretary of prestigious Lions Club of Kohima

Oken Jeet Sandham, after being installed as Secretary of prestigious Lions Club of Kohima on July 5, 2001 at Kohima.

KOHIMA, Jul 5 (NEPS): Noted journalist of Nagaland Oken Jeet Sandham has become Secretary of the prestigious Lions Club of Kohima. In a grand “installation ceremony” for the new Board of Directors” of the Lionistic Year 2011-12 for the prestigious Nagaland capital’s Lions Club of Kohima was held here at the Orchid Boutique, near Mezhur Higher Secondary School this evening.

Installation Officer, Lion K Seyie, administered the “swearing-in ceremony” of the new Board of Directors of the prestigious Kohima Lions Club (KLC) during the “Installation ceremony.”

The new Board of Directors are Lion Er Hozheto Shikhu (Executive Engineer), President; Lion Oken Jeet Sandham (NEPS Editor), Secretary; Lion Achakbou (Sr Agri Engineer), Treasurer; Lion Rajeev Verma (Businessman), 1st Vice President; Lion SP Francis, 2nd Vice President; Lion Hosheto Achumi, MJF (Transport Commissioner), Board of Director; Lion AB Menon, Board of Director; Lion Meren Paul, MJF (Retd Transport Commissioner), Membership Chairman; Lion Dr Imliwapang, Tail Twister and Lion Mezayi Tetseo (RTO), Tamer.

It may be mentioned that Oken Jeet Sandham is internationally renowned Muaythai leader and is currently President of Muaythai Federation of India (MFI), Vice Chairman of Development Commission of International Federation of Muaythai Amateur (IFMA) and Executive Member of Federation of Amateur Muaythai of Asia (FAMA).

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New guards for Lions Club of Kohima installed

KOHIMA, Jul 5 (NEPS): Lions Club of Kohima (LCK) has got a new team of guards to run the affairs of its Lionistic Year 2011-12. A grand “Installation ceremony” for… Read more »

New guards for Lions Club of Kohima installed

KOHIMA, Jul 5 (NEPS): Lions Club of Kohima (LCK) has got a new team of guards to run the affairs of its Lionistic Year 2011-12. A grand “Installation ceremony” for the New Board of Directors for the Lionistic year 2011-12 was held here at the Orchid Boutique, near Mezhur Higher Secondary School this evening.

Installation Officer, Lion K Seyie, administered the “swearing-in ceremony” of the new Board of Directors of the prestigious Kohima Lions Club (KLC) during the “Installation ceremony.”

Taking opportunity of administering the “Installation ceremony,” Lion Seyie also drew the attention of the fellow Lions who attended the grand “installation ceremony program” to extend their best “efforts” to make “our Lions Club of Kohima” capable of living to its dignified manner.

The installation officer also congratulated the new LCK President Er Hozheto Shikhu on being elected as Chief Executive Head of the Club and also his team. He also extended his best wishes to him and his team to carry on the activities of the Club on a higher scale.

Expressing his profound happiness on being bestowed the responsibilities as the Head of the Club, new LCK President Lion Er Hozheto Shikhu recalled the past leaders of the Club, saying that because of their dedication and sacrifices, the “spirit of Lionsim” kept alive till today. He promised that he would do his best to live up to their dreams and promises. Assuring that he would always seek their support and cooperation in discharging his duties as President of the Club, Lion Shikhu lauded the works and contributions rendered by the outgoing Board of Directors headed by Lion Dr Sashimeren Aier.

Outgoing President Lion Sashimeren Aier, while congratulating the new Board of Directors of LCK, expressed hope that the new team would keep up to fulfill their dreams. He also expressed his happiness on other new members who have joined the Club on this historic occasion of “Installation ceremony.”

Earlier, outgoing LCK Secretary Lion Er Tali Temsu Jamir gave report of the previous activities, while the outgoing LCK Treasurer Achakbou, Er Sr Agri Engineer gave financial report.

Large number of past President of the club, senior and junior Lions and Lionesses also attended the occasion.

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Next National Muaythai Championship 2011 at Hyderabad

KOHIMA, May 18 (NEPS): IFMA India National Muaythai Championship 2011 will be held from August 5 to 7, 2011 at the historic city of Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh. Muaythai Association of… Read more »

KOHIMA, May 18 (NEPS): IFMA India National Muaythai Championship 2011 will be held from August 5 to 7, 2011 at the historic city of Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh.

Muaythai Association of Andhra Pradesh (MAAP) is organizing this prestigious National Muaythai Championship which has been sanctioned by the Muaythai Federation of India (MFI) under the aegis of International Federation of Muaythai Amateur (IFMA), International Headquarters, Bangkok, Thailand.

Over 300 Muaythai fighters from across the country will take part in this mega National Muaythai Sporting event at Hyderabad. 28 MFI-affiliated Units from across the country are sending their teams to this event where over 50 officials will be conducting the 3-Day tournament.

Winners from this Championship will be selected to represent India in the forthcoming World Muaythai Championship 2011 to be held from September 20-27, 2011 at Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

IFMA Members, MFI senior functionaries, Indian Olympic Officials, national sports personalities and noted film actors and actresses are among others who will be gracing the Opening and Closing functions of this National Muaythai Championship at Hyderabad.

The President of Muaythai Federation of India (MFI), Oken Jeet Sandham, will supervise the event and the MFI Technical Chairman O Manglemjao will conduct the bouts.

Senior MFI Executive Members Mr L Kennedy (Jury), Mr Samphaba (Referee) and MFI Central Board Chairman Mr Ng Jeet Khumancha from Manipur will also attend the tournament.

It may be mentioned that Muaythai Federation of India (MFI) is the only National Muaythai Governing Body in India recognized by IFMA, WMC and FAMA. IFMA is the only International Muaythai Governing Body in the World recognized by SportAccord, OCA and Member of WADA.

Muaythai has already been included in Asian Games, Indoor Asian Games, SEA Games, SpportAccord Combat Games, World Sports For All Games, Arafura Games, etc.

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Congress trying to shift responsibility of defeat: Imchen

By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, May 17 (NEPS): State Home Minister Imkong L Imchen said the opposition Congress party in Nagaland was trying to shift the responsibility of the defeat… Read more »

Imkong L Imchen, Home Minister

By Oken Jeet Sandham

KOHIMA, May 17 (NEPS): State Home Minister Imkong L Imchen said the opposition Congress party in Nagaland was trying to shift the responsibility of the defeat of their candidate by diverting the issue.

In an interaction with NEPS Tuesday here at his office chamber, the Home Minister reiterated his stand that the mandate given to the NPF in the just concluded 26 Aonglenden by-election was a “clear manifestation” on the Naga political issue.

Elaborating further, the Minister said like any other elections in Nagaland, the election in the 26 Aonglenden by-poll too was based on “policy” that was Naga political issue. In other words, the NPF contested all were basing on such “principles,” and as such, the mandate given to them was a clear manifestation that it was on the Naga political issue, he averred.

Imchen also categorically explained that in the process of fair play in democratic principles, one thing was “sure and clear” that the defeats were accepted by losers with “humility and gracefully” which was shown even today by leaders of Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West Bengal and Assam by resigning from their respective positions.

Regrettably, in the case of NPCC it had hardly any affect, he alleged and added that, “Perhaps it is their (NPCC) party internal affairs”. He said the NPCC lost in their own game and so “why they blamed us.”

Stating that in electoral battles like theirs in Nagaland or elsewhere in the country, “winning or losing is part of the game,” Imchen expressed. “It is not sin to lose,” he said. “You have to take it sportingly.”

Asked about his reaction to NPCC president SI Jamir’s questioning his bloodline who were any in the national service during the turbulent times, the Home Minister said he (SI Jamir) had to answer in “legal terms.”

Replying to NPCC chief’s point that he was groomed to become a leader while in Congress party, Imchen asked whether they (Congress) had groomed him or he contributed to the party (Congress). “But I do admit that I was a staunch Congressman and that till today I say that,” he echoed.

But they should also know that many of the present Congress legislators in the State had also made defections from one party to others, he started saying “Perhaps they will even deny this.”

The Home Minister further alleged that the Congress party in Nagaland was capable of making all sort of “complaints” but “not capable of performers.” “It is their habit to complain against anybody on every day,” he said. “It is their business and let them go on complaining.”

“But I am not interested to conduct in running arguments with them every day,” he asserted.

Asked who should be given credit for the winning of the 26 Aonglenden by-poll, he replied that it was a “team work and with the good work of the Chief Minister.”

Reposing his faith in Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s leadership, Imchen said for any “eventuality,” “I will support him and I am for him.” He further informed that his political ideology was to “safeguard the interest of the Naga people.”

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Political era over, time to speak good of past: Dr Shurhozelie

By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, May 15 (NEPS): President of the ruling major Naga People’s Front (NPF) Dr Shurhozelie reiterated that a political era was over and therefore they should… Read more »

By Oken Jeet Sandham

KOHIMA, May 15 (NEPS): President of the ruling major Naga People’s Front (NPF) Dr Shurhozelie reiterated that a political era was over and therefore they should start talking good of the past. The NPF chief was referring to the just concluded 26 Aonglenden by-election in Mokokchung district.

Talking to NEPS here today, the NPF chief further, while explaining about their party candidate’s remarkable winning in the by-poll, said it was not that they were better than others. Although there had been lapses here and there, but on the whole, people were appreciating the “performers,” he added.

At the same time there were many “believers” who had been persistently praying for “us” and “God has answered their prayers,” he stated.

Asked about the charges made by the opposition Congress that the ruling DAN had misused of state machineries during the by-poll, Dr Shurhozelie who is also senior minister in the DAN government pointed out that such accusations made by the losers in elections were “normal.” “But if those accusations really have some sense, there is platform to address them,” he asserted.

Dr Shurhozelie also described the mandate given to their candidate “Toshipokba” as “wisdom of voters” who had realized the “need to change.” This was the main reason why they had come out boldly to give their votes to their NPF candidate.

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Prayers at over 100 centers for highest level reconciliation meet

By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, May 14 (NEPS): The Naga people in more than 100 prayer centers across the Nagaland State have been praying for 3 days to make the… Read more »

Neingulo Krome, FNR member. Photo by NEPS.

By Oken Jeet Sandham

KOHIMA, May 14 (NEPS): The Naga people in more than 100 prayer centers across the Nagaland State have been praying for 3 days to make the proposed high level meeting of the Naga political groups—NSCN/GPRN, GPRN/NSCN and FGN—a success. A special prayer as part of these mass prayers would also be held here at “Sisa Hoho” wherein leaders of the Naga political groups had been requested to attend without fail, Neingulo Krome, member of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) told NEPS here Saturday.

The FNR member narrated sequence of not holding the much waited “highest level reconciliation meet” ever since the same could not take place in the month of March this year. He said the “highest level reconciliation meet” failed to take off after Chairman of the GPRN/NSCN SS Khaplang could not come due to the spurt of factional clashes in the eastern Naga areas. “Yet low profile activities among the groups with FNR members kept going,” the FNR member added.

In the meantime, FNR members had series of meetings with GPRN/NSCN Ato Kilonser N Kitovi Zhimomi and Gen Kholie to speed up the process of holding the “highest level reconciliation meet” by bringing their Chairman (Khaplang). “They assured us to bring him (Khaplang) for the highest level meeting as early as possible,” he added.

To strengthen their pursuit, the Naga people in more than 100 prayer centers across the State had been praying for three days with a special one here at Sisa Hoho with leaders of different Naga underground groups requested to attend it, Krome disclosed.

He also disclosed that FNR convener Rev Wati Aier already had conversed with Khaplang and the latter expressed his keen to attend the highest level meet as and when the situation warranted for him to traverse. “So we are seriously working as to how this program would be materialized soon,” he added.

Asked what would be the next step after such highest level meet, Krome said, “It depends on the outcome of the meet.” “Our objective is reconciliation should take place and it should be a continuous process,” he pointed out. “But we leave the matter to the leaders of the Naga political groups as to how they would go about after such highest level meet.”

Any idea to trickle down to other neighboring areas of their reconciliation experience, Krome said, “Reconciliation is for every human being.” As of now their focus was on the infighting Naga political groups, he added.

Asked about State Government’s response towards their initiatives, the FNR member stated they were not “negative” but they could do more than that.

On DAN Government’s “facilitating role,” Krome said they knew what they could do. “I only hope political will should be there in the State Government,” he felt.

Commenting on the remarks made by NSCN/GPRN collective leadership Th Muivah and Isak Chishi Swu that Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh was sincere towards finding solution to the Naga issue, Krome felt that the duo must have calculated to give such “remarks” on the basis of this whole year’s peace process. So they meant what they said, he said.

Krome also did not buy the idea of the Government of India that the settlement of the Naga issue would be found by the end of the year. “I don’t know how they come to that far,” he stated. “That will be only their understanding.”

Such statement was in way good but on the other hand it had surprised the other group (GPRN/NSCN) as they were yet to get involved in the process, he explained.

When asked if one group could bring settlement to Naga issue, the FNR member pointed out that the main point was they should reconcile and have common approach with collective understanding and mutual trust.

He also said they were happy that the Government of India had realized that by keeping the issue in abeyance in cauldron, it only multiplied problems. So some kind of solution should be hammered out but they still appeared to be lacking courage to do so, he added.

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State gears up security for smooth May 7 by-poll: Kire

By Oken Jeet Sandham KOHIMA, Apr 29 (NEPS): Nagaland DGP K Kire said the State had geared up all the necessary security arrangements for the smooth conduct of the ensuing… Read more »

By Oken Jeet Sandham

KOHIMA, Apr 29 (NEPS): Nagaland DGP K Kire said the State had geared up all the necessary security arrangements for the smooth conduct of the ensuing by-election of 26 Aonglenden Assembly Constituency to be held on May 7 next in Mokokchung district.

Former Nagaland Chief Minister and ex-Governor of Maharashtra and Goa Dr SC Jamir, Congress candidate and Toshipokba, ruling NPF party candidate, are fighting this by-election.

Talking to NEPS here at his office chamber today, the DGP said so far they had not received any incident till date and everything was peaceful in the district in general and the 26 Aonglenden Assembly Constituency area in particular.

He also disclosed that the Home Ministry had directed them to deploy 15 Companies of CRPF drawing from Manipur, Nagaland and Tripura for the by-election purpose in the Mokokchung district. “But we taken only 10 Companies,” Kire said adding, “They already have 5 Companies of CRPF while another 5 Companies of CRPF from Manipur have already come to Nagaland.”

Out of the 10 Companies of CRPF, 1 Company would be placed in Mokokchung, while the rest would be placed in Tuensang, Zunheboto, Wokha an Peren districts mainly to prevent any elements from disrupting the polls, the Police chief revealed.

In addition to these security arrangements, they also already had 4 Companies of IR Police personnel in Mokokchung and they would be shortly joined by another 1 Company of Mahila IR personnel. “So with these arrangements in place and the prevailing peaceful environment in the district, I expect the ensuing by-election in the district will be by and large peaceful and free and fair,” he added.

Asked about the reported threat to Dr SC Jamir by NSCN (IM), Kire pointed out there was no such report of threat to him (Dr SC Jamir). He revealed that after they received such report of threat to Dr Jamir by NSCN (IM), they investigated with inputs from various sources including Army, SIB, CRPF and State Police. But not a single incident of threat to Dr Jamir was found, he disclosed.

Yet, the Threat Perception Committee had meeting and directed them to take necessary measure to provide security to the candidates. “We are doing all the needful and not taking anything for chances,” he stated.
Even IG (INT) C Sangtam met Dr Jamir yesterday and discussed about his security.

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Pandey cautious with words on Center-IM peace process

DELHI, Apr 17 (NEPS): The Center’s interlocutor to political talks with the NSCN (IM) RS Pandey, IAS, was happy with the progress of the talks and with the sincerity from… Read more »

Photo Cap: RS Pandey, Center’s Interlocutor for Talks. Picture by Oken Jeet Sandham

DELHI, Apr 17 (NEPS): The Center’s interlocutor to political talks with the NSCN (IM) RS Pandey, IAS, was happy with the progress of the talks and with the sincerity from both sides. He, however, refused to say any time frame for the final solution to the protracted Naga political issue, but expressed hope that solution would be sooner than later.

In an exclusive interview with Oken Jeet Sandham, Editor of NEPS, here at his Delhi residence today, the Center’s Interlocutor made a very cautious response when asked about any time frame on the issue. He said, “Time will come when I will talk (about time bound).” “Let us do the work first.”

When he was asked about the statements issued from both sides (Government of India and the NSCN-IM) that talks were progressing and were positive and both sides were sincere and as such why was it that he was not saying anything concrete on the issue, Pandey said, “Look, it is true that both sides are sincere. We want solution and we have made progress but nothing is final till everything is final.”

“Let us hope for the best,” he stated.

Pressed further to elaborate, the former Nagaland Chief Secretary of 1972 IAS Batch of Nagaland Cadre, cited an example in Nagamese in a logical manner, “Moikhan kinika peace process te jai ase, moi laga opinion kobo. Itu Dimapur para Kohima jabole aha nisina ase. Moikhan sub gari loikene, bhat khai kene Kohima jabole ready hoise. Kintu rasta te ki hobo na jane, kile mane monsoon season bhi ase. Landslide kono ba kono ba jagah te thaki bo pare. Hoilebi, chhoto moto landslip to safa korikene jai jabo kintu Kaunba dangor landslide para roadblock hoile, bypass banai kene Kohima punchibole try koribo. Kintu kitiya Kohima Punchibo Kobole tan ase to.” (I shall share my opinion with you as to what is the position of the progress in this regard. It is like a journey from Dimapur to Kohima. We all are ready to leave from Dimapur. We however do not know what would happen on the way to Kohima because it is monsoon season. There may be landslides. But we shall try to reach Kohima by clearing those small roadblocks. If we can’t due to heavy roadblocks, we shall try to make bypasses to reach Kohima. Yet it is difficult to say precisely when we shall reach Kohima.” )

Pandey however said, “All concerned should hope and pray that we reach a settlement sooner than later.”

It may be mentioned that the former Nagaland Chief Secretary was appointed as Center’s Interlocutor for talks with NSCN (IM). His status is that of the Cabinet Secretary to the Government of India. The Center has full confidence in him that solution to the longstanding Naga issue would be found as early as possible.

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Center hopeful Naga solution by year end: Pillai

By Oken Jeet Sandham/NEPS DELHI, Apr 17 (NEPS): The Government of India is hopeful of seeing solution to the over-60-year-old Naga political issue by the year end. Talks between the… Read more »

GK Pillai, Home Secretary, Govt of India, at his Office Delhi —Pic By Oken Jeet Sandham

By Oken Jeet Sandham/NEPS

DELHI, Apr 17 (NEPS): The Government of India is hopeful of seeing solution to the over-60-year-old Naga political issue by the year end. Talks between the Government of India and the NSCN (IM) have also progressed a lot and to realize this dream (solution by year end), the people of Nagaland should also do a lot of homework, GK Pillai, Home Secretary to the Government of India, told to Oken Jeet Sandham, NEPS Editor, during a discussion here at national capital, Delhi.

The Home Secretary expressed his deep happiness on the substantial progress made to the peace process between the Center and the NSCN IM). He said NSCN (IM) General Secretary Thuingaleng Muivah while in Nagaland made statement that there was substantial progress in the talks with the Government of India. On his return to Delhi, the discussions resumed with Center’s interlocutor RS Pandey.

Pandey had been engaging in rounds of discussions with the leaderships of the NSCN (IM). “We are happy that there has been substantial progress in the peace process,” Pillai stated.

When asked about any timeframe for solution to the Naga issue, the Home Secretary said, “We are negotiating with the NSCN (IM) and can’t say details of it.”

The Center’s interlocutor was seriously engaging in negotiations with NSCN (IM) leaderships and also Muivah was making statement about the substantial progress in the talks while in Nagaland. “We have confidence in them and are happy with the progress,” he said.

But to realize this dream, they also depended much on the negotiations between the Center the NSCN (IM), while at home in Nagaland, people also should do a lot of homework, he asserted. So that the peace process would move forward and expediting. With these efforts and the momentum at the moment, it was hoped that the solution to the protracted Naga issue would be found by the year end,” the Home Secretary asserted.

Asked if the Center would take into account the States of the region where the Nagas inhabit before entering into final settlement, Pillai said these states would be consulted before entering into any final settlement to the Naga issue. “Everybody wants solution not only in Nagaland,” he said stressing that the “basic aim is that they have to strike a harmony and bring honorable settlement to the issue.”

On Niephiu Rio Government’s facilitating role to the peace process, the Home Secretary said, “We think they (Neiphiu Rio Government) can do much more than that.”

He further explained that the Nagaland Government remained neutral, watching the Government of India and NSCN (IM) talks. “I think they should (State Government) involve in the process,” he stated.

Asked when the Center would start talks with the NSCN (K) which also had ceasefire with them since 2001, Pillai said, “We are waiting right opportunity and will do (talks) at the correct time.” “After a little bit of progress with the NSCN (IM) from the present stage, we shall start talks with NSCN (K) including State Government of Nagaland with fully in picture,” he revealed.

Pillai also expressed unhappiness on the recent spurt of factional violence claiming lives in both sides. In last two years, factional clashes came down to “zero,” but in last few months, this ghost of factional clashes resurfaced, even in loss of lives in both sides, he said terming it as “unfortunate.”

He, however, hoped that better sense would prevail soon. Any difference should be resolved through dialogue not through violence, he asserted.

On the ENPO’s demand of separate “Frontier Nagaland,” Pillai said, “This is rather for the people of Nagaland to have a discussion and not anything with the Government of India to do so.”

The Home Secretary, however, admitted that the Government of India had received the memorandum from the ENPO demanding for a separate statehood as “Frontier Nagaland” by carving out four districts—Tuensang, Mon, Longleng and Kiphire.

He further disclosed that they already sent the matter to the State Government of Nagaland. “We have not received any response from them so far,” he stated.

The ENPO pointed out discrimination as main point for demanding separate statehood. Pillai said if such issue was there, the State Government should solve it with the people of this region.

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