C M Y K
www.morungexpress.com
Dimapur VOL. VIII ISSUE 251
The Morung Express “
www.morungexpress.com
It is easier to love humanity as a whole than to love one’s neighbor
Muzaffarnagar riots: Mulayam rejects parallel with Godhra [ PAGE 08]
reflections
By Sandemo Ngullie
No more tax money to pay bills. So, err … mind selling rice beer for some time?
Dutch ‘apologises’ for colonial killings
Sridevi calls Boney Kapoor ‘Papa’
[ PAGE 11]
Workshop on Women’s Rights in Int’l Standards [ PAGE 02]
Diplomats move on 2 fronts on Syria weapons [ PAGE 09]
”
C M Y K
Friday, September 13, 2013 12 pages Rs. 4 –Eric Hoffer
Akram wants Sachin’s last Test vs Pak [ PAGE 12]
Women’s activists caution in search of against the ‘death penalty’ the missing
NEW DELHI, SEptEmbEr 12 (tHomSoN rEutErS FouNDatIoN): Women’s rights activists have gone against popular public opinion and cautioned against handing down the death penalty to four men convicted in the grisly gang rape and murder of a 23-year-old woman in December. The four men were convicted of gang rape and murder by a special fasttrack court on Tuesday in a case that triggered a wave of angry protests over rising sexual violence against women in India. They are expected to be sentenced on Friday and face either life imprisonment or the death penalty. But while popular public opinion is that they should be hanged, some women’s rights activists refuse to support this. “How will the death sentence in this one case make any big difference? The argument that it is a deterrent for all other cases simply doesn’t cut ice, as research shows otherwise,” says Kavita Krishan, secretary of the All India Progressive Women’s Association. “We are focusing on the death penalty
themselves treat women in this deeply patriarchal society. An example, they cite, are reports of molestation during the Delhi gang rape protests in December, where men calling for the death penalty were found to be harassing women at the demonstrations. Enforcing and implementing current laws, ensuring speedy justice by investing in police and judicial reforms, increasing public education and creating safer public spaces will all help. Rather than providing death sentence, banning parliamentarians with rape charges against them and making marital rape a crime will send a stronger signal, they add. “The law prescribes death or the life sentence for the act of murder, so whichever sentence is passed on Friday it will be a legal one,” said Rebecca Mammen John, a supreme court lawyer and women’s rights campaigner. “My personal view on the death sentence is that I oppose it completely. I think it’s barbaric and I don’t think the state has the right to take a life away and I don’t think it acts as a deterrent in the least bit.”
JaKarta, SEptEmbEr 12 (ap): The Netherlands formally apologized Thursday for mass killings FILE - In this Oct. 10, 2005 file photo, members of South India Cell for Human Rights committed by the Dutch milEducation and Monitoring (SICHREM) and Amnesty International (India Chapter) hold a itary more than six decades candlelight vigil demanding that the Indian government declare a moratorium on execuago in Indonesia during its tions and abolish the death penalty, in Bangalore. (AP Photo) former colony’s fight for as a quick-fix solution, as hands to pull the woman’s NOT humans. Hang them!” independence. “On behalf though if we hang these organs from her body afof the Dutch government, I four men, all the rapes are ter raping her. “This is an “Baying for blood” apologize for these excesses. going to stop - rather than extreme case of depravity,” Under the law, the Today I also apologize to the looking at the root causes.” special public prosecutor death penalty is reserved widows from Bulukumba, Pinrang, Polewali Mandar Statistics showed that Dayan Krishnan told the for the “rarest of rare” casand Parepare,” Dutch Am244,270 crimes against court. In the run-up to the es. Even when it is imposed, bassador Tjeerd de Zwaan women were reported to verdict, social media sites the authorities often do not said, referring to the districts the police in 2012, against have been abuzz with com- carry out executions. Huin South Sulawesi where the 228,650 in 2011, according ments on the sentencing. man rights lawyers, many Dutch troops, then led by to the National Crimes Re- “No mercy! Hang them all! of whom are prominent Capt. Raymond Westerling, cords Bureau (NCRB). Society will revolt if de- feminists in India, say the waged a counterinsurgenmons who rip us apart are “baying for blood culture” cy operation from 1946 to Extreme Depravity not gravely punished!” said that has come to light after 1947. De Zwaan said his govProsecutors, who deone tweet, while another the incident has become an ernment has agreed to commanded the death sen- stated, “Possibility of re- easy solution for many Inpensate the victims’ widows tence in court, said the men form? Reform is only pos- dians, who have failed to in Sulawesi and Rawagede, used a metal rod and their sible for humans. They are introspect about how they who turned to the Dutch courts seeking retribution. “The Dutch government hopes that this apology will help close a difficult chapter for those whose lives were DImapur, SEptEmbEr 12 impacted so directly by the Morung Express News most viable sector to boost Na- 150 hectares of land in Thanaviolent excesses that took galand’s economy. “Let us make mir village is covered by apple (mExN): The Dimapur District Pungro | September 12 place between 1945 and this district a success story in plantation and the department and Sessions Judge conducted an 1949,” he said. Thanamir, a small village at the horticulture”, Kronu said. Later, has distributed seven varieties “in-camera proceeding” today in the first actual hearing of the alfoot of Mount Saramati, the high- he officially declared the Thana- of apple saplings to farmers. est peak in Nagaland near the In- mir as a “Vegetable village.” Later, both the dignitaries leged rape of a minor girl by a 65 do-Myanmar border, hosted the Parliamentary Secretary plucked apples from the “moth- year old man in Duncan Basti, 4th Apple Festival on Thursday. for Excise, Economics & Sta- er apple tree” of the village, Dimapur. The alleged sexual asParliamentary Secretary tistics and LM& CP, T Torechu, which was planted by Young- sault was reported by the minor NEW DELHI, SEptEmfor Horticulture, Neiba Kronu, who was the guest of honour, phukhiung Yim, GB, in 1981. in September 2012. She used to bEr 12 (ptI): Petrol prices who inaugurated the festival in said the government as well as The history of apples in Thana- work as ‘house help’ at a resimay be cut by as much as Rs dence in Duncan Basti where the 1-1.50 per litre next week on his address, said that Kiphire, Nagaland Baptist Church Coun- mir dates back to 1981 when accused was living at the time. with its rich bio-diversiYoungphukhiung prefalling international oil rates ty would lead the way in sented wild boar meat and appreciating rupee but making Nagaland a tourto Assam Rifles jawans a one-time hike in diesel and ist destination. posted in Thanamir, who possibly LPG rates is still on Kronu said Kiphire in exchange gave him four the cards. Oil secretary Vi- district with its Mount apples. Youngphukhiung Our Correspondent vek Rae said the issue of a Saramati, rain forest and planted the apple seeds Phek | September 12 one-time hike in diesel and rich bio-diversity is also an ide- cil have invested resources to in his backyard and later distribcooking fuel rates “is a politi- al horticulture zone, which can make Thanamir an “income uted grafts to fellow villagers. Manipur & Nagaland Governor, cal and economic challenge” help boost local economy. He generating” village. Torechu Now every household in this Dr Ashwani Kumar on Thursday from which “we cannot run stated that the district has been said apple cultivation should picturesque village has an aparrived in Phek town for a threeaway.” “Some burden has to giving electricity to other dis- not only be confined to Thana- ple tree either in the courtyard, day visit of Phek district. He met be borne by consuming pop- tricts through its Likimro Hydel mir village but extended to the backyard or kitchen garden. leaders of the Chakhesang Public ulation. That is the challenge electric Project. Time has come entire Mount Saramati belt in SDO (C) Kiphire, Lankon- Organization, Chakhesang Youth government faces. It is a po- for the district (Thanamir vil- order to achieve real economic sen and Director of Nagaland Front, Chakhesang Students’ litical challenge, it is an eco- lage and adjoining villages) to prosperity. He appealed for the Mission Movement, Rev. Dr. Union, Chakhesang Mothers’ Asnomic challenge. It is a chal- supply apples to other parts of Thanamir villagers to share Wati Longkumer, also spoke on sociation and others at officers’ lenge we cannot run away the state and even export out- skills of apple cultivation to the occasion. Thanamir village mess, 5th NAP battalion. from,” he said speaking at side, Kronu said. neighboring villages. council chairman, Tsuseki, gave In a memorandum submitan conference organised by In order to attract more Director of Horticulture, the welcome address and dis- ted to the Governor, CSU PresiDelhi Productivity Council tourists and also to boost local Watienla Jamir said that Thana- trict horticulture officer, Kiphi- dent, Thupukutho Lohe and here. Rae said subsidy bur- economy, Kronu said that vil- mir and the entire Saramati belt re, Kilemsungba, proposed vote General Secretary, Seve Vadeo den has reached unsustain- lagers need to produce more has “eco tourism” potential and of thanks. NPF central team led requested the Governor to adable levels which cannot apples and extend cultivation that the department was giving by General Secretary, T Shuya, dress the shortage of teachers. It financed by government to the entire Saramati belt. He all out support to apple farmers. also accompanied the Parlia- was informed there is a requireasserted that horticulture is the She informed that presently, mentary Secretaries. ment of 150 teachers falling budget and oil companies.
TrackChild: an online portal of missing and found children
DImapur, SEptEmbEr 12 (mExN): With the ever growing list of missing children cases, the Ministry of Women and Child Development has envisaged a way to address the issue. ‘TrackChild’ is a web portal with databases of all missing and found children and children in Child Care Institutions under the age of 18. A communiqué from the Department of Social Welfare informed that ‘Trackchild’ is a mechanism where data sharing among various stakeholders and real time tracking of every child in distress will be possible. The note said that most missing children are either lost, kidnapped or are runaways and become vulnerable to rapists, murderers, traffickers, dealers in child prostitution, organ trade etc. It stated that the vicious cycle of missing children, child trafficking, child labour, child prostitution, child organ trade, child abuse etc are all interlinked. It asserted that for
‘TrackChild’ to run properly, it needs well trained personnel in Police stations, Child Care institution and Bodies like the Juvenile Justice Board and the Child Welfare Committee. The Nagaland Child Protection Society conducted a two day workshop on TrackChild from September 10-11 and a one day ‘Open House’ on September 12, where participants from CCIs, JJBs, CWCs, SJPU/Police and DCPU were trained on how to upload data online. Swedesenuo Natso, System Analyst for NIC Nagaland State Centre, Kohima provided a crash course on the theory and practical applications of ‘TrackChild.’ Khehoto Sema, Society Director for SCPS-N stressed on the need for a proactive workforce to successfully implement the project. Satahi Shujo, Programme Manager highlighted the roles and functions of the Special Juvenile Police Unit. The note said that this endeavour to protect children needs co operation of various departments, bodies and organizations. “It is the responsibility of every individual young and old to fight against this evergrowing menace,” it added.
‘Horticulture can boost Nagaland economy’ In-camera proceedings in Sept 2012 rape case
Govt to decide on fuel pricing
Apple Festival held in Thanamir village
C M Y K
The accused, Tinu Amri, has been charged under section 376 (2) (f) [rape on a woman when she is under twelve years of age] of the IPC. He is currently on bail on health grounds. The victim was examined today in an “in camera” hearing, which means that the public prosecutor, the defense counsel and the judge examined her “behind closed doors.” There was no recording of the event, and no
media was allowed to witness the proceedings. Such hearings are carried out in cases where the issue is of a hyper sensitive nature. The victim is currently under the protection of the Prodigal’s Home, and was assisted today by Childline, Dimapur, which filed the FIR on behalf of the victim. Members of Childline, Dimapur will also appear at a later stage as prosecution witness. The next hearing is slated for October 31.
within CSU jurisdiction; covering 3 educational blocks of Phek, Chozuba and Pfutsero. The memo appealed for the Governor to immediately redeploy teachers from schools having excess teachers to schools having deficit teachers as per the RTE Act. It informed that the VDB’s and VCC’s have been jointly sponsoring private teachers from within their respective localities, while abiding by the requisite qualification required as per the norms and conditions of RTE Act 2009. However, the memo lamented that schools in the district have been neglected and that their genuine grievances have been “ignored” by the Education department.
It informed that the CSU has demanded for the department to identify the minimum required number of teachers per school at different levels and that teachers be appointed and posted on the basis of one teacher per class room. Whereas, it said that the department has “repeatedly failed to incorporate the demands of schools in rural areas.” Parliamentary Secretary for higher education and SCERT Deo Nukhu was also present at the function. Dr Kumar is scheduled to visit the district hospital, Phek College and Lozaphuhu village on September 13 and interact with public organizations under Phek district. On September 14, he will visit Pfutsero.
Governor urged to address teacher shortage
C M Y K
C M Y K
2
Dimapur
LocaL
Friday 13 September 2013
MEx File
20th dist level Hindi Diwas celebration Kohima, September 12 (mexN): The All Nagaland Hindi Teachers Union, Kohima Unit will be observing 20th district level Hindi Diwas celebration 2013 on September 14 at 10:00 am at APO Hall, Kohima. Parliamentary secretary for law& justice, land revenue, labour & employment Dr. Neikiesalie (Nicky) Kire will grace the occasion as the chief guest.
CSUK freshers day cum cultural day
Dimapur, September 12 (mexN): This is to inform all the member organisations and the members of the Gorkha Public Panchayat, Kohima. that a general body meeting of the Gorkha Public Panchayat will be held at GPPK Hall, Chandmari, Kohima on September 14, 2013 at 2:00 p.m. A press note issued by Suresh Kr. Lama, General Secretary, Gorkha Public Panchayat, Kohima stated that the meeting will deliberate on construction of GPPK office, membership and on other issue concerning the community. All are requested to attend the meeting positively.
13th Lotha Baptist Youth Delegates Conference
C M Y K
Dimapur, September 12 (mexN): The 13th Lotha Baptist Youth Delegates Conference will be held at Lotha Baptist Church, Pangti Village, Wokha from September 20 to22, 2013. A press note issuedby Mangleo Ngullie, Pastor therefore informed the delegates of all youth department under KBES are requested to be prepared and attend the said conference without fail. At the same time, it is further requested the Pangti Villagers in general and the youths in particular who are staying outside the village to make it convenient and avail the opportunity to attend the conference being held.
Modern College Kohima fresher’ social
Kohima, September 12 (mexN): The Modern College Kohima will hold its 16th freshers’ social on September 16 at 10:00 AM at the college auditorium under the theme “Look ever forward.” Viketol Sakhrie, commissioner & secretary department of rural development will grace the occasion as the chief guest.
C M Y K
Workshop on Women's Rights in Int'l Standards Kohima | September 12
Kohima, September 12 (mexN): The All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) informed all the affiliated colleges of ANCSU that the colleges are to submit the articles for the souvenir of 16th Biennial General Conference 2013 on or before September 16 at the ANCSU office. Article received after the stipulated time shall not be entertained, the Union said in a release issued by its general secretary Kevigho K. Yeputhomi.
Gorkha Public Panchayat Kohima meeting
C
Morung Express News
ANCSU informs
Kohima, September 12 (mexN): The 10th annual fresher’s social cum cultural day of Chang Students’ Union, Kohima will take place on September 14 at Moluki (Para Medical), Kohima at 10:00 AM under the theme “Sprouting of a new generation.” Parliamentary secretary for RD and REPA Cl. John will grace the occasion as the chief guest.
The Morung Express
A woman is seen planting kholar or common bean (Phaseolus sp) at a field near Tuensang Village. The bean is normally cultivated twice a year. The seeds are firstly planted in FebruaryMarch and secondly in August-September. Three Phaseolus species are commonly found in the district which is organically cultivated. The common bean from the district is in high demand across the state and outside due to its superior taste. The nutritious bean is often considered the poor man’s meat for its high protein and mineral content. (Imojen I Jamir)
A three day workshop on the topic ‘Locating Women’s Human Rights in International Standards’ was organized by North East Network (NEN) from September 10 to 12 at Hotel Japfu, Kohima. Altogether 20 people from Meghalaya, Assam and Nagaland participated in the workshop with Sreekala MG, Independent Consultant, as the resource person. “The main objective of this training is to address women organizations, organizations working with women, lawyers, media persons because we felt that there is a need to strengthen their analyti-
cal skills on human rights standards. A lot of us hardly know the existence of such conventions. And even if we do, we don’t know how to interpret it in our own context”, says Wekoweu Tsuhah, Program Manager, NEN Nagaland. The workshop training particularly focused on Human Rights principles with an overview of UN Human rights systems and its various mechanisms on women’s human rights, the Convention for Elimination of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and its application to enhance women’s equality were also introduced to the participants and the documentation of women’s human rights violation using
M Y K
CEDAW mechanisms and related international advocacy. The participants were trained through interactive discussions, participatory exercises using case studies and inputs. “I developed a better understanding of CEDAW principles especially the state obligation to protect, promote and fulfill the rights of women. The workshop also help me gain an understanding of the disparities between the privileged and the underprivileged and ways in which the world adopt policies according to their position and how it shapes the women’s movement.” says Renemsongla Ozukum, Sisterhood Network, a participant at the workshop.
Seminar on National Education Policy begins PWCB demands review of new
Kohima, September 12 (Dipr): The two day National Seminar on National Education Policy began on September 12, 2013 at State College of Teachers Education Kohima. The seminar is being organised by State College of Teachers Education in collaboration with Department of Education, Nagaland University. The seminar was graced by Chief Secretary Nagaland, Alemtemshi Jamir as chief guest. Speaking as the chief guest Alemtemshi Jamir said that the task to structure the education system is a challenge and need serious in government interface in education policy perspective. He felt that communitisation has maintaining the equity to the poor students and mobilising the society. Jamir urged the communitisation of educational sectors to play important role in creating the quality edu-
proposed site of Pfütsero College
National Seminar on National Education Policy Perspectives held at Kohima on September 12, being addressed by Chief Secretary Nagaland, Alemtemshi Jamir. (DIPR Photo)
cation in the State. He also called upon the teachers to take teaching as their profession with dedication and not for the sake of livelihood. Pro-Vice Chancellor Prof. Lanunungsang on his guest of honour address stress on the shortfall of Naga students in certain subject like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry which is feared of future grave con-
sequences. He also thinks its right time to revamp all the education system and should review the syllabus for all courses. He also added the importance of mother tongue as compulsory education. Professor ICSSR Nation Fellow, Tata Institute of Social Science, Hyderabad, G. Haragopal was the resource person. The programme was compered
by Dr. Lungsang Zeliang and Narola Chuba while welcome address was delivered by Head of Department Education, NU, Dr. Buno Zetzuvi and vote thanks by Principal, SCTEKohima, Dr. Rukhono K. Iralu. Former Naga Idol Toshinaro presented a special number and a glimpse of rich Naga culture and tradition was displayed by B.Ed students.
Dimapur, September 12 (mexN): Raising objection for the newly proposed site of Pfütsero College, the Pfütsero Welfare College Body (PWCB), Phek has written a letter to The Deputy Commissioner, Phek. In the letter Müthaduyi Dasai Chairman Vetsosa Wezah Secretary of PWCB mentioned that Pfütsero College was established since 1982 and initially sponsored by thirty (30) villages surrounding Pfütsero. The site was proposed helipad ( 1 km from the main town towards Kohima road) and was inaugurated by Gen. K V Krishna Rao Governor of Nagaland on May 10, 1988. In the same site building foundation stone was laid by S C Jamir, the then Chief Minister on October 10, 1989. PWCB stated that however, the dream hasn’t come true till date since
the College run as private for last two decades with financial shortage and due to various adverse circumstances. In the mean time, the Government has taken over the college. Under such creation of higher scope few persons have proposed fresh site for the college for the benefit of specific group. And put forward to the Government for approval without the mandate of public. It also added that as the college is not owned to any individual or particular area, the Pfütsero College Welfare Body in the interest of the public have objection on fresh site proposed by few fraudulent people. “We therefore, request your esteem authority to intervene the issue and review the site for the common interest and benefit of people in mass,” stated PWCB.
C M Y K
“Heads of School Conference” concludes
Kohima, September 12 (mexN): The School Ministry of the Nagaland Baptist Church Council conducted a Heads of School Conference on September 11 & 12, 2013 at Kenneth Complex Kohima. Thirty seven participants from the member schools of NBCC all over Nagaland attended the program. Vipralhou Kesiezie, Director SCERT spoke on the topic ‘Partnership in Education’, Nyamto Konyak, Principal Konjong Higher secondary School shared on the topic ‘Challenges Facing Christian Schools’, Nini Sekhose from Little Star Higher Secondary School spoke on the topic ‘Staff management’.
C M Y K
Participants from the member schools of NBCC at the "Heads of School Conference" held on September 11 to 12.
Kenilo Semp Senior lecture DIET conducted a workshop on ‘Designing of Question Paper’. In all the sessions, the
participants had a meaningful discussion with the resource persons and it was an enriching one. Besides these,
the members resolved to have better networking and to strengthen the member schools.
Nagaland Technical Education issues discussed
C M Y K
Dimapur, September 12 (mexN): Parliamentary Secretary for Technical Education, IT&C, Science and Technology and Taxes, Tovihoto Ayemi has said that with six more Polytechnics in the offing and various other steps ahead, the State Council for Technical Education (SCTE) has a challenging job ahead as it is the nodal body for monitoring and certification of various training institutes mushrooming in the state. This was stated in a press note issued by the Press Secretary to Parliamentary Secretary. Tovihoto was delivering the inaugural address during the 7th meeting of SCTE at the Conference Hall, Directorate of Technical Education, Kohima on Thursday. Tovihoto who is also the chairman of SCTE acknowledged the fact that SCTE has initiated various measures in providing quality training by various institutes such as continuous supervision, curricula review and designing guidelines from time to time during the year. Noting that the SCTE meeting was less often
(Centre) Parliamentary Secretary, Tovihoto Ayemi (right) Commissioner & Secretary, Higher & Technical Education, F.P. Solo and on left Director, Technical Education, Athili Kathipri.
held, the Parliamentary Secretary suggested that frequent meetings should be held taking into account the huge responsibility the Council has in Technical Education. In response to this suggestion, the Council members resolved to meet twice in a year. Accordingly, the next meeting has been tentatively scheduled for March 2014. Tovihoto pointed out that so far, 3669 students had enrolled under the SCTE and around 1696 awarded diploma certificates by the Council. He
said the SCTE is providing ten different three year diploma courses in three polytechnics and generating about Rs 30 lakh annually for the state government by way of admission and examination fees. He also acknowledged that students of Fashion Designing in polytechnics were doing well in the state and outside the state as well. Commissioner & Secretary, Higher & Technical Education, F.P. Solo talked about the need to promote and encourage the students
to take up Technical Education. Stating that there was poor linkage between educational institutions and industries, Solo said that by promoting Technical Education, the department would strive to cater to the needs of the industries. Director, Technical Education and Member Secretary, SCTE, Athili Kathipri moderated the business session. The Council meeting was attended by members of various departments such as power, mechanical, higher education etc.
C M Y K
Regional
The Morung express
Friday
13 September 2013
No Division of Meghalaya: Mukul Sangma Shillong, September 12 (pti): Meghalaya Chief Minister Mukul Sangma today dismissed the demand put forth by statehood activists to bifurcate this small north eastern state into two separateKhasiandGarostates even as five Garo Hills districts were partially affected by the shutdown called by the agitators. "I do not foresee further division of Meghalaya. There
is only a bunch of people who are asking for this (statehood)," Mukul told reporters at the sideline of a conference on chemical disaster management here. The Chief Minister said, democratically demonstrating or prevailing upon government on issues whether for statehood or for anything in the spirit of democracy is okay but it
does not give them the right to damage public property. Yesterday, a group of statehood activists stormed the office of the deputy commissioner in Tura and 13 persons have been arrested including the general secretary of the Garo Hills State Movement Committee Augustine R Marak in this connection. Normal life was partially affected in the entire five Garo
Integrated check post with Bangladesh to open November
AgArtAlA, September 12 (iAnS): After Attari (in Punjab) along the border with Pakistan, the international-standard multi-use Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Akhaurah in Tripura with Bangladesh would be open to people in November, officials said here Thursday. "The multipurpose ICPs would boost trade with the neighbouring countries, besides facilitating trans-border passenger traffic," an official of the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) told IANS. The official, seeking anonymity, said: "Trade between India and Pakistan through ICP at Attari increased a lot after it was inaugurated by then union Home Minister P. Chidambaram (now union finance minister)." "Similarly the trade and movement of people between the Bangladesh and northeastern states would be increased to a large extent after the opening of the Akhaurah ICP in November. This is first of its kind with Bangladesh," he said. Built at a cost of Rs.73.50 crore, the Akhaurah ICP project had its foundation stone laid by Chidambaram in May 2011. Dealing with around 4,500 people per month legally travelling between the two countries,
Sikkim's first airport to be ready by 2014
new Delhi, September 12 (iAnS): Sikkim's first airport will be completed by end2014 providing muchneeded air connectivity to the landlocked state, Tourism Minister Bhim Prasad Dhungel said here Thursday. Speaking after meeting union Tourism Minister K. Chiranjeevi, Dhungel said the airport at Pakyong, 30 km south of the state capital Gangtok, is being constructed by the Airports Authority of India on 200 acres of land. At an altitude of 4,700 feet, it will be one of the five highest airports in India. "Work is in full swing and flights will begin from March 2015," Dhungel said. "The airport has a 180-metre-long airstrip and will facilitate flights of ATR-7 (twin-engined short-haul turboprops) planes and will also have hangars for two ATRs," Dhungel added. At present, the nearest airport to Gangtok is located 124 kilometres away at Bagdogra in West Bengal. The Pakyong airport will open an alternative connectivity route for the state as at present it has to solely depend on National Highway-31 for connectivity to the rest of the country. "The airport will facilitate free movement when the national highway is blocked by protestors from time to time," said Dhungel. The airport will have a terminal building which can accommodate 100 people and a car park for 80 vehicles. Dhungel also requested the tourism minister to provide central assistance of Rs.20 crore for upgrading helipads in the state.
Akhaurah land customs station is the second biggest land port along the 4,096 km India-Bangladesh border after Petrapole-Benapole check post in West Bengal. The Akhaurah check post is one of the most important international trading land ports in eastern India, with an average of 200 Bangladeshi trucks loaded with goods entering Tripura every day. A high level 18-member inter-ministerial team led by Gouri Kumar, secretary, border management Wednesday inspected the ongoing works of the Akhaurah ICP, two km west of the heart of Agartala city. The official team, visited the under-construction ICP at the Petrapole-Benapole check post. The report said: "The ICPs are being commissioned "to secure India's borders against interests hostile to the country and to put in place systems that would interdict such elements while facilitating legitimate trade and commerce and as a part of an overall strategy for more improved border management." The ICPs, being built at expenditure ranging from Rs.35 crore to Rs.170 crore with a total outlay of Rs.635 crore - would be sanitised zones with dedicated pas-
senger and cargo terminals and space for regulatory agencies besides the necessary modern facilities under one roof. Besides passenger terminal buildings, adequate customs and immigration facilities, weigh bridges, security and scanning equipment, currency exchange booths, internet facility, cargo process building, cargo inspection sheds, warehouse and cold storage, health and quarantine facilities, clearing agents, banks, scanners, close circuit television, public address systems, isolation bay, parking, cafeteria, hotels and other public utilities would be available at the ICPs.
Hills districts in view of the indefinite shutdown called by the pro-statehood activists. IntheKhasiJaintiaHillsregion, stray incidents of arsons andattacksongovernmentofficesandvehicleswerereported in East Khasi Hills and RiBhoi districts during the night road blockade hours. ProInner Line Permit activists hurled Molotov and stones at moving vehicles along the
NH-40 and 44. The four-day night road blockadewhichbegan on Tuesday was imposed in the seven districts in the
PERMANENT VACANCY
Required 250 Security Guards, Company Packaging Staff and Nurse. Handsome salary and accommodation provide. Contact: Mr. Giyan:- 09085558223 / 09085558135
ANGAMI CATHOLIC YOUTH ASSOCIATION SALES DAY
Items available: Various kinds of Local & Organic Vegetables, Pineapple, Pork, Muodi, Gum Rice, Galho, Local Made Washing Powder, Herbal Soap, Wooden Handicrafts, Dressing Table, Bamboo Shoot, Bamboo Posts, Firewood, Flower Vase, Forest Mol, Games & Entertainment, and lots more... VENUE : KOHIMA LOCAL GROUND DATE : 14TH SEPTEMBER 2013 TIME : 8:00 AM ONWARDS
ALL ARE INVITED
FELICITATION With great joy, the Benreului Nkwa, Kohima (BNK) felicitates Mrs. Angau I Thou, Deputy Commissioner, Mon on being conferred the Indian Administrative services. The BNK thanks the Government of Nagaland for acknowledging her service as an able administrator. Mrs. Angau I Thou is the first lady among the Benreului to be inducted into the prestigious Indian Administrative Service. The BNK Pray that the gracious God will continue to grand her wisdom and guidance in her future endeavour. Iluheing Nsarangbe President, BNK
Ahiobe Kulim General Secretary, BNK
WORD EXPLOSION BIBLE CAMP 2013 FOLLOW UP PROGRAMME
Date: 14-09-2013 Arrival Time: 8:00 A.M Venue: Naga Shisha Hoho,Pruzie Kohima Speakers: 1) Rev.Shan Kikon (founding pastor, Faith Harvest Church Kohima) 2) Pastor.Vezokho Vero (Pastor, NSHP&H Centre, Pruzie Kohima) Notification: - Bus services shall be provided from 7:00 A.M to 8:00 A.M at the Under Mentioned pick up points and will be dropped back to the same Points in the evening. 1) P.R Hill Junction 2) Below N/Police Station, Themezhie 3) High School Junction
BORDER ROADS ORGANISATION AMENDMENT NO.02 TO NIT DATED 19 JUL 2013 (TENDER NO 10 OF 2013-14)
Name of work: SUPPLYAND STACKING OF STONE METAL 53 MM,STONE CHIPS 22.4MM FOR BUSG WORK AND STONE CHIPS 13.20MM,STONE CHIPS 11.20MM,SAND AND FIREWOOD FOR EXECUTION OF RE-SURFACING WORK (2013-14) BETWEEN KM 0.00 TO KM 8.00 ON ROAD MON-LUNGWA UNDER 100 RCC/15 BRTF ROAD SECTOR PROJECT SEWAK IN THE STATE OF NAGALAND. 1. Reference this HQ NIT No. 8158/NIT/2013-14/10/E8 dated 19 Jul 2013 and amendment No. 01 issued for said NIT vide this HQ letter No. 8158/NIT/AMDT01/2013-14/E8 dated 31 July 2013. 2. Following amendment may please be carried out in the NIT/Amendment issued vide this HQ letter under reference:-
FOR
Para 2 Tender documents may be downloaded from BRO of NIT website www.bro.gov.in on or after 21 Aug 2013 and printout is to be taken of A4 size paper. It is advisable that the downloaded tender document is preferably printed through laser printer only. Submission of photo copy of tender is not permitted. Tender documents downloaded from BR0 Website shall be accompanied with cost of documents, failing to which tender documents shall he summarily rejected. READ -do- Tender documents may be downloaded from BRO website www.bro.gov.in on or after 14 Sep 2013 and printout is to be taken of A4 size paper. It is advisable that the downloaded tender document is preferably printed through laser printer only. Submission of photo copy of tender is not permitted. Tender documents downloaded from BR0 Website shall be accompanied with cost of documents, failing to which tender documents shall he summarily rejected FOR
Para 9 Tender (in full) either downloaded from BRO web site of NIT or purchased from BR0 will be received by HQ 15 BRTF (GREF), Pin-930 015, C/O 99 APO so as to reach this office on or before 14 Sep 2013 at 1200 Hrs. READ -do- Tender (in full) either downloaded from BRO web site or purchased from BR0 will be received by HQ 15 BRTF (GREF), Pin-930 015, C/O 99 APO so as to reach this office on or before 05 Oct 2013 at 1200 Hrs. Part-I (Unpriced Bid) will be opened on 05 Oct 2013 after 1200 Hrs and Part-II (Priced Bid) shall be opened after 1200 hrs on 12 Oct 2013. 3. All other terms and conditions of the NIT will remain unchanged. 4. This amendment shall form part of the tender documents. SW For Accepting Officer 21 Aug 2013 8158/NIT/AMDT-02/2013-2014/10/E8 Headquarters 15 Borders Roads Task Force C/O 99 APO Davp 37102/11/0387/1314
Khasi-Jaintia Hills region by pro-ILP activists demanding immediate introduction of the ILP to curb influx.
Dimapur
3
JOB ADVERTISEMENT STUDENTS SPIRITUAL CONFERENCE (Students Campus Ministry)
1. Director (1 Post) 2. Coordinator (1 Post) Graduate/Post Graduate (having theology Or Music background is preferential) Rs. 10,000/-+ facilities D.O. Interview-20th Sept. 13@Cross Wonder Church, Kma. N.B.
This is the 2nd Phase of Interview. Any fresh candidate can apply. Whoever applied and couldn’t attend the 1st Interview can come.
Cont. 8794461133, 8731815985, 9436001680/ketouade@ gmail.com * SSC follow up service at Heritage (every Sunday from 4 p.m.)
UPPER KHOMI BAPTIST CHURCH GRATITUDE
Through this humble column the Upper Khomi Baptist Church expressed its deepest gratitude to KVK, NCRM Porba dist. Phek for providing crop seedlings and broiler chickens on act of good gesture, we deeply regret our inability to repay you yet we do assure you our prayer from almighty God to shower bountiful blessings upon you. We are also thankful for enlightening us with knowledgeable information on backyard farming of broiler chicken and on how to foster and nurture crops in a scientific, organized and systematic manner. We do look forward for your constant support and assistance even in the near future. God bless you all. Special mentioned goes to:1. Dr. Deboijit Bortoky SMS (Animal Science) 2. Mrs. Hannah SMS (Agronomy) 3. K. Asangla SMS (Agronomy for chicken) Jt. Director, ICAR research complex for NEH region, Nagaland Centre Jharnapani. In Christ HUSAPA RUHO Pastor Upper Khomi Baptist Church
C M Y K
4
Dimapur
public discoursE
Friday 13 September 2013
T
Remembering Dr. K. Kire
o rememb e r Dr. K. Kire, a member of Kohima I M A, as simply our first lady doctor is to do her a great disservice. For Dr. Kire’s achievements stand at par with all doctors alike. As a pioneer in the field of medicine, her accomplishments set new standards & opened new possibilities for many of our people for whom education was a difficult stranger. At a time when most of our people were satisfied with the bare academic minimum & ran the danger of settling into complacency, Dr. Kire’s triumph in her field challenged us to push ourselves toward greater intellectual heights. Many in our current society of doctors are indebted to this great woman, for without her daring & perseverance as our example, we may not have had the courage to choose this profession nor the strength to see it through. In her various administrative & leadership capacities as well, Dr.
K. Kire was an inspiring pioneer. Steadfast in her dedication to serve the people, excellent in the quality of work she provided & unwavering in the cause of charity & truth. It is thanks to her farsightedness that our state is a proud member of International Red Cross Society. Through her initiative, the Naga Mothers’ Association now stands as an influential body to be reckoned with. She has left an indelible mark on the legacy of the Social Welfare Board, the Nagaland branch of the Indian Medical Association & other bodies on which she has served in various capacities. Today we the members of Indian Medical Kohima Branch, mourn the loss of a great Naga, an outstanding member of our society. As we mourn we also honour her achievements & the paths she opened up for us. She has left us today, but she will not be soon forgotten. May her soul rest in well deserved peace. Dr Kezevituo Keditsu President. IMA Kohima
W
the Britishers and Meitei Maharajas to forcibly enter/migrate into the Naga territory for invasion projects. KIM is reminded of the fact of the history that Nagas have no business to fight against the Kukis because there were no Kukis in the present Naga areas in Manipur until Nagas were attacked, terrorised and forcibly penetrated into Naga territory during 1834-1878. KIM is advised to refer to a remark by Revd. F.S. Downs in his book: ‘The Mighty Works of God’ wherein Downs rightly remarked that, “Conflict between these two groups had begun when the nomadic Kuki people began to move into an area which the Nagas regarded as exclusively theirs”. History has it on record that the Kukis attacked Chingsui (Chingsoo) village in 1880, Phungcham village in 1884, Chingjaroi village in 1895, Somra Tangkhul village in 1909, Anal Naga village in 1917 and Awang Kasom also known as Ngahui and Shangshak village in 1919. Alexander Mackenzie in his book: ‘The North-East Frontiers of India’(p.205) documented that, “On the 17th of February, 1880; Chingsoo Tangkhul village was attacked by Chassad Kuki led by its chief Tonghoo, with 50 muskets destroying the entire village. 20 men, 7 boys and 25 women were killed. 1 man, 1 girl and 1 woman were taken captive”. Annoyed by the Kuki Rebellion of 1917-1919 and its savagery, all the rebel leaders were arrested and rebellion was finally suppressed by the British on December 19, 1919. Unaccountable Naga people have been killed by the Kuki marauders and mercenary of the British. So, it is clear from the above facts that the Nagas have never started the conflict. Rather, it was always the Kukis who have started the conflict in history of the relationship between the Kukis and the Nagas then and now. It is now clear that Kukis have mastered the art of manipulating and exploiting the difficult situation of Nagas by taking favour from the British Empire in the past and now with the Indian state. “The Kuki settlement in the Naga territory either by means of intimidation or per-
the government of Nagaland. Anyie has had an illustrious career, and was an inspiration to many doctors in the family who took up medical studies from her example. As an administrator she was efficient and kept the medical directorate on its toes. It was all because she lived her life according to certain principles and she never swerved from those principles. In 1956, she was baptised into the Seventh day Adventist Church, and she remained an active member throughout her life. Her own life is a testimony to the healthy lifestyle of the Adventist church. The food restrictions she abided by included pork and no pork was ever served in Anyie’s house. She preferred to eat healthy local preparations like galho and unpolished rice, and never suffered from any of the complications of obesity. Well into old age, she maintained a good appetite, and her hearing and eyesight served her well. Anyie long enjoyed good health that was the envy of people twenty years younger than her. I like to believe that Anyie’s healthy mind stemmed from her healthy body. When we were growing up, it was Anyie that we sought out with all our teenage problems. She served as an unlikely peacemaker between parents and adolescent children.
Simple Rules - There is just one simple rule: “Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box co ntains the digits 1 through 9.”
SUDOKU Game Number # 2646
O
R
WAr & PeAce
FRENCHINDIAN WAR
AllIES
GuNS
AMERICAN REvOluTION
HOSTIlITIES
BATTlES
INTERNMENT CAMPS
CASKET
lAWS
CASuAlTIES
lOvE
CIvIl
MASS DESTRuCTION
CIvIl WAR
MOvIES
CIvIlIANS
MuRDER
COlONEl
PEACE
COMBAT
PRISONERS OF WAR
DANGER
SOlDIERS
DEFENSE
vIETNAM WAR
DESERT STORM
WAR
DOvE
WARFARE
ENEMIES
WEAPONS
FAMIlIES
WORlD WAR ONE
FIGHT
WORlD WAR TWO
D l I R I E F E S O I E I I E S W H J E J S
C I E v M I v A C T N E D P N O I C O M Z
Answer Number # 2645
S A I D I O G I M A S O C K R H R N A T W I
suasion was definitely made conditional and all a temporary accommodation.” They have to pay Lousal Lampan to the Chiefs of the Naga villages where they settle. The Herald, a Weekly newspaper published in Calcutta on 3rd September 1993, under the caption ‘Insurgency in Manipur Critical’ wrote, “When the Kukis settled in the Hills of Manipur from the Chin Hills of Myanmar during 1830-1846, they agreed to pay a loyal land tax to the Naga Chief...”. “Default of mutual agreement was never tolerated by the Naga Chiefs” according to a book ‘The Outrageous Political Drama in Manipur’. KIM is advised to go through the book ‘Manipur and the Naga Hills written by Maj. Gen. Sir James Johnstone, the Political Agent of Manipur wherein he clarified that, “The Kukis are wandering race consisting of several tribes who have long been walking up from the south. They were first heard of as Kukis in Manipur during 1830-1840”. T.C. Hodson, the 1st Political Agent of Manipur in his book ‘The Naga Tribes of Manipur’ wrote, “We are like the birds of the air, said a Kuki to me once, we made our nest here this year and who knows where we shall build next year”. So, in short, KIM should know that Kuki-Naga conflict is a case of infringement into the land of the Nagas by the Kukis. It is a case of tenant’s outrage to become the land-owner. Nagas are well aware of the fact that Kukis do not have their own original homeland. There was no such thing as Kuki homeland in the history. It was in 1840s when Mc Chulloch the British political agent who initiated a systematic policy by bringing in a large number of Kukis in the Naga Hills loaded with British firearms and ration to subdue the Nagas resistance against the mighty British Empire. Within a short period of time thousands of more Kukis were planted in the Naga Hills. The demand to establish a Kuki homeland is a recent phenomenon and that is also within the Naga territory. No Naga will fall prey to such kind of hallucinating proposition in
l M R E v H S E S E R A E I R l T S P l S
E l M u T I T S R K I A E C S T D E u O N W
I A M N E G E I E M W P O O B W R A T D A
E S Q A S T R C T E D l M N N A N l H D l
S S R M C W G A T N l O B E O R M T W E D
A N D l W I A G N Y E R v A R F T E I A F E
I E B A v R A R S H O E T S A W N E R E S
I S S R I N E E Y O W E I O M O T S F N E
R R T I J l I B v N S I B T F I v C R A S R
S R S C W C B O G T D A G W l l A E R E T
D u E I A I S l W I O T u A I J M I E v S
C E C A v R v Y u R l v T N R E E P D B A T
N T I I G I H T P I E l S R S E S l S D O
S I W l A l F I Q T D E E W E A P O N S R
H E O I I O E B O E I E S D v B E I S u O M
E N A A R E P N A E A D A N G E R O N X I
O O l N I A H N J S C O l O N E l B R W S
v E N S R A W N A I D N I H C N E R F T T
Publicly she was seen as strict and unswerving. In private, she was the most broad-minded member of the family. She had the capacity to think beyond narrow tribal lines, and come up with highly progressive solutions as early as the seventies. Yet this was no feminist we are talking about. This was my sensible, practical doctor aunt whose approach to life was a mixture of firm faith in God and a good application of common sense. She did not approve of my parents forcing us to eat vegetables. Her advice was to let the children develop their own appreciation for healthy food. Good advice that worked down the years. In small ways that no textbook will bother to eulogise, she affected our lives positively. In the years when she was more active, she loved to garden. Even though her town house did not have the space for a big garden, she grew squash below the kitchen which provided abundant food for man and beast alike. And indoors, she had a variety of pot plants that strained to climb up the roof and walls, and out of the pots they were restrained in. “It’s her green fingers. Everything that she sows grows so well,” Bazo, her niece and constant companion explained to me. Tomatoes ready to be picked and chilli plants weighed
any way. KIM should know that the consent of the Nagas is quintessential for any tribes or communities if they have to live peacefully in Naga areas. KIM’s strategies of implicating the NSCN regarding the Kuki-Naga clash of 1990s are a sham because the NSCN has nothing to do with the incidents that had occurred. Had NSCN been involved in such crisis, the outcome would have been a different story. KIM prayer to Dr. Manmohan Singh to settle the problem in the Indian Court for peace and justice and to bring about law and order does not make any sense to NSCN because NSCN is not bound by the Indian Court. NSCN does not stop the KIM to have their traditional last burial rite of those died in the clash. NSCN is not fighting against the Kukis or Meiteis or Assamese in any sense of the terms. Nagas have been struggling to achieve the Right to Self-Determination of the people for their historical and Political rights which are unique and distinct. NSCN do not solicit unnecessary intervention into its own business of doing Naga National Politics. Last but not the least, the initiative of KIM and Kuki Organisation for Human Rights to commemorate 13th September as a Black Day in Kuki places is not moving in the right direction towards establishing a friendly and cordial relationship among various nationalities and communities of the region. Kuki leaders and some church leaders have gone too far instigating the Kuki youth and maligning the image of Naga political organization in India and abroad. Patience has its own limit and it is not in the interest of any party to repeat what is not wanted. Nagas are peace loving people but when organization like KIM repeatedly continues to harbour hatred and sow enmity between Nagas and Kukis then KIM shall be held responsible for any unwanted fallout again.
down by fruit were part of the assortment of plants she had sown. Anyie likewise, sowed into people’s lives. I cannot fully recount all the lives she has touched, and all the people she took into her household and generously provided for. It was a generosity one never heard of unless the receiver spoke of it. Not just financially but in many additional ways, and most of all, by example. I still remember a conversation I overheard thirty years ago. Back then there was a scare of landslides in her locality. A colleague comforted her with the words, “Doctor, a house like yours built with hard-earned money and not one dishonest paisa, will never go down in a landslide. “ Anyie belonged to another generation, and it is a generation that is passing away. Anyie’s contemporaries who have survived her are Apuo Zhavise, Apfii Zhanikhoii Savino, and Azuo Neichiilieii Haralu. What Anyie lived by and what her contemporaries live by are not irrelevant for us. Those who are still with us are wonderful examples of how we should endeavour to live our lives. Today I pay tribute to Anyie without hyperbole. The life she has lived deserves it. She didn’t live it flamboyantly. That is not her. She lived it as a daily blessing unto others, and we count ourselves richer for having had her in our lives. Easterine Kire
CMO response to ‘Costly Recipe- the financial health of Nagaland’
T
he attention of the Chief Minister’s office has been drawn to the editorial titled ‘Costly Recipe- the financial health of Nagaland’. While we appreciate the concern expressed by the editorial which creates a healthy debate on the financial health of the State, there are certain misperceptions in the editorial which needs to be clarified. This communiqué is being issued to clarify certain facts and also in the interest of public knowledge. Firstly, there is no denying the fact that the financial position of the state has become very tight, as stated in the editorial. In fact, the financial position of the state has always been very tight for the last about 13 years, especially since the year 1989-90, when the Central Government changed its pattern of funding of the State plan outlay. Prior to 198990 the entire non-plan deficit of the State used to be fully covered by the Central Government (Planning Commission) by providing additional plan assistance to cover the deficit, in the spirit of the 16-Point Agreement, Clause eleven, which read as follows:- Quote. “To supplement the revenue of the Nagaland, there will be need for the Government of India to pay out the Consolidated fund of India: 1) Lump sum towards meeting the cost of development in Nagaland and 2) A grant-in-aid towards meeting the cost of administration”. Unquote. But this system was unilaterally withdrawn from 1989-90. The people would remember that during most parts of the 1990’s, the State was facing severe financial problems, leading to frequent pro-rata cuts in plan outlays already approved by the Planning Commission, diversion of plan funds for salary payments, suspension of payment of salaries, and GPF advances etc except with the prior clearance and drawal authority of Finance Department. In fact, compared to that period, the financial position of the State has become more stable during DAN Government. 2. The delay in finalizing the State’s plan outlay this year was basically due to the State going for General AsKUKNALIM MIP sembly election in March, 2013, and the re-scheduling NSCN/GPRN of plan discussion programme by the Planning Commission, and it has nothing to do with the financial condition of the State, or the keeping of around Rs. 648 crores in civil deposit, as stated in the editorial. As already stated by Chief Minister on the floor of the Assembly, the nonincrease in the State’s plan outlay this year was basicalCROSSWORD # 2658 ly due to the hue gap in our balance of current revenues (BCR), arising from our high expenditures on salaries and pensions, higher than the level projected by the 13th Finance Commission. It may be stated here that Nagaland has the highest ratio of government employees to population, for which successive governments since the formation of the State are responsible. 3. The practice of keeping Government’s money in civil deposit at the end of the financial year is a normal practice of cash management resorted to by most of the State Governments these days, and is not peculiar to Nagaland. Instead of releasing plan fund to Government Departments for works which are yet to be started, or yet to be completed, such plan funds are temporarily kept in civil deposit with the RBI. This has the effects of cushioning the states cash position in the RBI, reducing over-draft, or ways and means advances. Secondly, it leads to better implementation of projects, by matching the release of fund to the actual progress of works. Out of Rs. 648.30 crores kept in CD at the close of March, 2013, the Government has already released around 50% till date, as per progress of works. 4. As regards the one-time grant of Rs. 365 crore given by the GOI in the month of March, 2003, let it be clari60. Dogfish 33. Lukewarm ACROSS fied again that it did not wipe out the entire liability of the 61. Dental medicine 34. Young girl 1.Collection of maps State Government at that time. It did not cover the unpaid 63. Cooking fat 36. Keen 6. Potato bills of contractors & suppliers, as well as other undis64. Solitary 37. Care for 10. Plateau 65. Carcinoid 38. Therefore charged liabilities of the State Government, amounting 14. Way to go 66. Sea eagle 42. S. American country to around Rs. 212 crore at that time. 15. Countertenor 67. Sketched 43. Directed 16. Nile bird 5. The statement in the editorial that “information on 68. Platform 45. Foiled 17. Inebriate our state’s finances is usually kept top secret,” is not at all 47. Stage 19. Mats of grass DOWN true. The entire accounts of the State’s finances are given in 48. Bushbaby 20. Intensify 1. Dry detail in the budget documents laid in the Assembly each 49. Extraterrestrial 21. Aye 2. Anagram of “Note” year during the Budget Session, copies of which are also 51. Eastern newt 22. Run away 3. Pear-shaped instrument made available to all media persons and media houses 52. violent disturbances 23. Contemptuous look 4. At the peak of and institutions. The post-mortem of the State’s finances 54. Grasp 25. Seashore 5. Genders 56. A promiscuous woman are also done by Accountant General, who brings out the 26. Couch 6. Baglike structure 57. Unwakable state Finance Accounts and the Appropriation Accounts of the 30. Quake 7. Team member 58. All excited 32. An ardent early State Government for each year, copies of which are also 8. Spoke 59. Stringed instrument supporter laid in the Assembly, and made available to the media. 9. Accomplishes 62. Not used 35. Order 10. Bad luck Hence, the state finances are never kept in secret. It is rath39. Queasiness Ans to CrossWord 2657 11. African virus er an open book for all those who care to study it minutely. 40. Parallel slat 12. Factions 41. Oval Abu Metha 13. Something of value 43. Tilting Communication & Media 18. Hotel 44. Goof Adviser to Chief Minister 24. French for “Summer”
_
LEISURE
AGGRESSIvE
Dr Khrielie-u Kire Angami
NSCN (IM) response to KIM memorandum
hile totally forgetting the history of being nomads in existence in Manipur and elsewhere, the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM), in order to play ‘a holier than thou’ politics against the Nagas with the venomous idea of sabotaging the Indo-Naga Political Negotiations, has been ferociously submitting representations of malice and prejudice to the Indian Prime Ministers, the latest being to Dr. Manmohan Singh, on 31 July, 2013, “urging him to deliver justice to the 900 Kukis killed, 360 villages uprooted, and one lakh people made refugees by the NSCN-IM in the 1990s before any possible agreement is made with the Naga outfit” as reported by Hueyen News Service/NNN. “This problem, the KIM’s memorandum said can be amicably settled in a proper court of law in order to have peace and justice and to bring about law and order”. “If it is so, “the last rite of those 900 innocent people murdered could be performed, according to the Kukis’ traditional practice of the burial rite, and over two decades mourning come to a close”. KIM’s memorandum continues, “Without settlement, the age old Kuki customary law of burial rite cannot be performed and therefore, the Government of India is repeatedly requested to settle the matter of Kukis killed before any agreement made with the culprits”. The memorandum stated that “Kukis are the people who stood firmly for all indigenous people of the present so called North East India against the British might, and saved the whole land by sacrificing thousands of lives and many leaders imprisoned in several prisons in India and abroad”. “Kukis hate violence of any form but want peace restored by means of the law of the country” stated in KIM’s memorandum. From the KIM’s memorandum, it is crystal clear that the Kuki-Naga conflict of 1990s was the only recorded conflict history of Manipur between these two communities. However, KIM can never run away from the truth of history of how Kukis were used by
W
O
n a calm September afternoon, my aunt Dr Khrielie-u, drew her last breath and went to be with the Lord she had always reminded us to think upon. Even as her memory of recent events in her life was fast fading away, she would end every meeting with the words, “Pesogei keba-u rukralie luo,” or ‘remember the one who is above.’ My siblings and I called her Anyie, paternal aunt. Born on the 12th January 1918, Anyie told us that she was an only child for a long time. Growing up in Kohima village, her constant companions were a puppy and a piglet. Her love of dogs and animals stemmed from her childhood, and she constantly kept dogs in her town house. Each dog that came into her house got a name, got its own plate and became a member of the family, and was well loved until death claimed it. Anyie Khrielie-u began her education in the Mission School, Kohima and went on to study further in Shillong. It proved highly providential for the family. While she was doing her studies in Shillong, war broke out in the Naga Hills, and my aunts and uncles travelled to Shillong to seek refuge in her house. After the war, she went on to complete her medical studies in 1952 and became the first Naga lady doctor. After that, she had a long service which began from 1947 until she retired in 1979 as Director, Health Services, for
The Morung Express
DAILY CROSS WORD
46. Cocoyam 47. Tartan 50. Not over 53. Satan’s territory 54. Possessed 55. Financial
25. Hot chocolate 26. Rational 27. Iridescent gem 28. Offensively malodorous 29. Acculturate 31. 5280 feet
Readers may please note that the contents of the articles, letters and opinions published do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form.
LOCAL
The Morung Express
Friday 13 September 2013
Dimapur
5
Disbursement of Village council repairs roads BIrthday GrEEtInGs D ear Imcha Jamir, NSAP monitored DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 12 (MExN): In order to ensure that National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) in Nagaland are utilized as per the prescribed procedures and guidelines of the Government of India, member of the State Level Vigilance and Monitoring Committee (SLV&MC) S. Richard Humtsoe visited District Welfare Officer's office Kohima on September 11, informed a press note issued by K Atoli Sema, District Welfare Officer Kohima. The note mentioned that Humtsoe monitored the disbursement of NSAP in Kohima, which started the payment on August 26. Richard Humtsoe informed that the NSAP was launched on August 15, 1995 and is administered by the Ministry of Rural development, Government of India, and is a 100% centrally sponsored programme. According to the release, Kohima presently has 5891 beneficiaries of old age between the age
group of 60-79 years, 365 beneficiaries at the age of 80 years and above, 258 widow beneficiaries, 170 disabled beneficiaries, 511 invalid beneficiaries and 48 blind beneficiates that covers six areas: Tseminyu, Chiephobozou, Jakhama, Urban, Tribal. With regard to the 80+ programme, the release said Government is unable to cover all eligible indigent citizens who are 80 and above, which shows discrimination. The note further mentioned that no additional allotment is given, and thus the office is facing lots of pressure from the public for additional allocation. It requested that the amount of Rs 2400 and Rs 2100, which is being paid to the disabled be increased to Rs 5000 as it is only a onetime payment. It further suggested that additional funds must be given as there are many more disabled or handicapped persons, who are yet to be covered under the scheme.
DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 12 (MExN): Recognizing that deplorable road condition is a major problem that people are facing during this time of the year, Purana Bazaar village council renovated not only the colony roads inside the village, but also extended its assistance to give a facelift to the “terrible” condition of National Highway 29 by way of filling sand gravel into the “pond-like potholes” within the village area on Wednesday. A press release received here stated that the village council dumped sand gravel along the National Highway 29 starting from Old Dhansiri Bridge till Holotoli School. This stretch of national highway is worse, especially during this time of the year, the release said. Due to water-logging caused by heavy rains, it became almost impossible for vehicles, especially small vehicles to ply on this stretch of highway, which is under the maintenance of SEWAK, it added. The note further in-
It is our pleasure to wish you a very Happy Birthday. As our colleague you are the best & we at the office, hope all your birthday wishes come true. Enjoy this greeting because that’s all you’re ever going to get from your colleagues. Ask ‘Boss’ for your birthday bonus. Here’s wishing you the best day at work! Happy Birthday!!! From, The Morung team.
Dearest
ABET. H. MURU (St. John residential hr. sec skul, dmp) On this special day of yours, we just thank God for blessing you, in our life... nothing gives us more joy than to have you as a sweetest bro.. you're the brightest light Village council members of Purana Bazaar filling the pot holes with sand gravel along of happiness in our life.. we pray that God bless you and the national highway on Wednesday. make all your dreams come true. formed that the village Town Council of East Dima- highway, because of which HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Council of Purana Bazaar pur was dissolved by the water gets stagnant during Ever loving, has been taking up the re- administration, a release rainy season. Therefore, family's. sponsibility of various de- received here said. it has urged the authority velopmental works, besides Meanwhile, the village concerned to immediatemaintenance of sanitation council rued that there ly intervene and provide within the jurisdiction of is no drainage system on proper drainage system May stars shine this the village, after Ad-hoc both sides of the national along the road.
Dear Anga Viliho
day, may flowers bloom this day, may birds sing 4 u this day, may u get everything in ur life which u DIMAPUR, SEPTEM- of Regional Pastoral Coun- and with others as people wish this day” BER 12 (MExN): The cil, Peren emphasized on of God. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Zeliangrong Catholic Lay the need to have a body of The note mentioned
Huge consignment of IMFL seized Zeliangrong Catholic Association formed
Mokokchung Police officials with the two bootleggers at the Mokokchung PS-I on September 12, 2013.
MokokchUNg, SEPTEMBER 12 (MExN): Personnel of Mokokchung Police Station –I intercepted a truckload of banned IMFL at New Camp, on the Mariani-Mokokchung road early this morning around 12:30 am. Two persons were arrested in this connection. The truck bearing
registration number NL O7 A 4625 – was transporting 622 cases of assorted IMFL which were neatly packed in cement bags. Altogether police discovered 500 cases of McDowell Rum, 53 cases of McDowell whiskey, two cases of vodka and 76 cases of beer. Mokokchung PS-I officials identified the
two arrested persons as Mohamad Ekramad Islam (20), resident of Dimapur, while his accomplice as Thürütsü (18) from Phek district. The two arrested persons are presently under police custody. They have been booked under relevant sections of the law, police added.
Leaders and Regional Priests Meet for formation of apex Zeliangrong Catholic Body of Nagaland was held on August 31, 2013 at St. Paul’s Parish Centre, Peren. A press note received here stated that the meet was attended by parish priests and parish representatives from Peren, Jalukie, Tening and leaders representing in and around Dimapur and Kohima, including women leaders from Zeliangrong Catholic Women Association (ZCWA), Nagaland. Rev. Fr. Kurian P.V. Parish priest of St. Paul Church, Peren who is the Animator
Zeliangrong Catholic. He expressed dissatisfaction about the progress of the community in Peren, and challenged the house to live up to the call in serving the community and society as faithful Christians. Letgong Patrick, Coordinator urged the house to be proud of being Zeliangrong and being Catholics by faith. He also stressed on the need to form an apex body for members of Zeliangrong catholic community of Nagaland to foster faith, cooperation, closer understanding, peace and unity among the Zeliangrong Catholics as brethren
that besides other resolutions, the house unanimously resolved and formally formed an apex Zeliangrong Catholic called, “Zeliangrong Catholic Association, Nagaland (ZCAN)” with the following office bearers for a term of three years: P.F. Zeliang President, C. H. Kangba Andrew - Vice President, D.T. Haideu Anthony - General Secretary, Kidongam Victor Panmei - Jt. Secretary, D. M. Agay Joseph - Social & Cultural Secretary, Aloibe Alex - Treasurer. The Advisory Committee include Kevipelie Paul Iheilung, Mathew Chandy, Ringam Thomas.
Mon DBPB meet on September 16
kohIMA, SEPTEMBER 12 (MExN): The monthly meeting of Mon District Planning & Development Board for the month of September will take place on September 16, 11:00 AM at the conference hall of the Deputy Commissioner, Mon. All the board members have been requested to attend the said meeting without fail.
First naga woman doctor Khrielieü Kire revered
Chief Minister: Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio has expressed deep pain over the demise of first Naga woman doctor Dr Khrielieü Kire (95) at her residence in Kohima on September 11. In a condolence message, chief minister acknowledged that Dr Khrielieü contributed immensely to the development of health services in the state, and retired as the Director of Health Services, Nagaland. Not only was she actively involved with the health sector, she was equally active in the area of social services, he said. After her retirement from the government service, she also served as the chairperson of the Nagaland Social Welfare Advisory Board, and also member of the Family Planning Association of India. She was also the convenor of the first Naga Mothers’ Association, the first honorary secre-
tary and founding member of Indian Red Cross Society Nagaland. She also served as the president of Nagaland Institute of Health. Thus, the CM said Dr Khrielieü was a pioneer in many areas of social service. The chief minister and his wife further conveyed condolences to the bereaved family members. Governor: Governor of Nagaland Dr Ashwani Kumar has expressed deep grief at the death of Dr Khrielieü Kire, first honorary secretary of Nagaland State Red Cross Society and also the first Naga woman doctor. In a condolence message, Dr Ashwani Kumar acknowledged that during her career, Dr Khrielieü served the people of Nagaland in various capacities, both as medical professional and a social worker. Her death is an irreparable loss to the State of Nagaland, he added. The governor further
conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, while praying for the Almighty to grant grace to the departed soul. IRCSN: Indian Red Cross Society Nagaland (IRCSN) has expressed deep shock and sadness at the demise of Dr Khrielieü Kire (KK Angami), founding member and the first honorary secretary of IRCSN. Remembering Dr KK Angami as the first Naga lady doctor who rendered her best services for the sick and the downtrodden in all parts of Nagaland, IRCSN, in a condolence note recounted that the deceased after her retirement from government service as Medical Director initiated to establish a IRCS branch, and with the support of some likeminded prominent citizens of Kohima, IRCSN was established on February 24, 1982. According to the note, she was an upright
person with high moral integrity and an inspiration to the Naga society, particularly Naga women. In her demise, the Society has lost one of the most prominent Red Cross members of imminence, it said. IRCSN further conveyed its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed for the almighty God to grant solace to the departed soul and also strength and courage to her near and dear ones. NIHESW: Nagaland Institute of Health, Environment & Social Welfare (NIHESW), Kohima has expressed shock over the demise of Dr. Khrielieü Kire, whom it called the patron of the institute. In a condolence note appended by its director, NIHESW stated that Dr. Khrielieü and Dr. K K Sharma, former Pro ViceChancellor, NEHU founded NIHESW in the year 1990, with a vision to establish
MYO appeals not to grant bail to two Khonoma rape accused Response to kohIMA, SEPTEMBER picked the victim from her will be held responsible for
12 (MExN): Mezoma Youth Organization (MYO) has strongly condemned the gang rape of a mentally and physically challenged minor by two accused Viriezolie Meyase (24) and Kepevilie Savino (29) at Khonoma Village on August 31. A press release issued by MYO president Zhasa Sirie and vice president Vikomelie Kielienyu informed that the victim had gone to Khonoma to visit her sister who is married and settled there. The two youths reportedly
brother-in-law’s house and took her to a secluded place called “Terho Tsiese”, where they committed the crime. While appreciating the law enforcing agencies for booking and remanding the accused in judicial custody, MYO urged the authority that should “dastardly acts” should be dealt with “iron hand” and “severest punishment” should be awarded to the perpetrators. The Organizations cautioned that whoever stands for the surety of the two accused
any future eventualities. Further, the organization appealed the authority not to grant bail under any circumstances to ensure the investigation process is not hampered in any manner. “Any lackadaisical or leniency shown on the part of the law enforcing agency will encourage recurrence of such crime in the future,” it said. MYO assured its fullest support and co-operation to the law enforcing agency in curbing such menaces in the society.
institute of Indian system of medicine to give quality health to the people of the State and also to promote activities on health, environment and social welfare. The note acknowledged that Dr. Khrielieü’s vision brought the institute at a level where the institute now has – ENVIS Centre, deals with environment and its related issues of the state, National Children’s Science Congress, DNA Club spread over 13 schools covering 6 districts and is promoting science popularization activities etc. “She has walked the path of life beautifully, gracefully and an example of servitude to medical fraternity,” it said. NIHESW further paid tribute to Dr. Khrielieü Kire for her contribution to bring up the Institute and prayed for her soul to rest in heavenly peace. It also conveyed heartfelt condolences to
ACAUT’s statement It is imperative to respond to the statement made by Action Committee Against Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) last Wednesday supporting the decision of the Urban Development Department to terminate the services of 41 toll collectors appointed by DMC CEO Orenthung Lotha to collect toll tax at toll gates. The cause of the ACAUT to fight against the rampant taxation is appreciated by all, but what responsibility it has to poke its nose into the issue that is going on between Dimapur Municipal Council and the department of Urban Development? Simply branding the action of Chief Executive Officer of DMC as illegal and taking the side
the bereaved family. NSCF: Nagaland Senior Citizen Forum (NSCF), Kohima has conveyed its deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved family members of Dr. KK Angami on the September 11, 2013 at her residence at Midland Colony, Kohima. NSCF Kohima in a note appended by its president and secretary stated that the deceased was a respectable senior member of the forum. KVC: Expressing sadness over the death of one of its village members Dr Khrielieü Kire, Kohima Village Council (KVC) recognized the deceased as a pioneer of medical science among the Nagas. Being a dedicated woman, she worked with full sincerity and integrity for the welfare of the Naga society, it said. KVC prayed for the almighty God to give solace to the bereaved family.
4m ua loving mum, dad, sis N bro
MEx FILE Stolen govt car recovered DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 12 (MExN): A stolen government vehicle, which was reported missing on May 2012, was recovered by the police on Thursday, September 12. The vehicle (NL 10 7032) was attached to the additional director of Food & Civil Supplies. According to the police, the vehicle was recovered after a chase at Chumukedima today. The person driving the vehicle, identified as Asen Thankhul, was arrested. The movement of the stolen vehicle, with a Manipur state registration number, was detected at the inter-state bus stand, Golaghat Road earlier during the day, police said. But it sped off when the police tried to stop and verify its credential. It was later intercepted at Chumukedima. The arrested person reportedly told police during interrogation that the vehicle belonged to his cousin.
DGU blood donation camp
DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 12 (MExN): Dimapur Gorkha Union (DGU) has requested all the DGU units, well wishers and past DGU officials to attend the blood donation camp to be held on September 14, 2013 from 9:00 am onwards at Dimapur Club premises. Special request has been made to all the members from different units of DGU who had volunteered to donate blood to be at the venue positively by 9:00 am.
DNSU meeting
DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 12 (MExN): DNSU has convened its presidential council meeting on September 14, 11: 00 am, at its office to discuss matters pertaining to the 8th inter high school sports meet. DNSU president K Mhachio Lotha has informed all the constituent unit presidents to attend the meeting positively.
KNO general meeting
DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 12 (MExN): Kyong Nchumchio Okho (KNO) will hold its general meeting on September 14, 4:00 pm at Lotha Hoho Ki. Therefore, it has informed all its registered members, advisors to attend the meeting positively as various agenda(s) pertaining to the welfare of the Okho will be deliberated.
One GPRN cadre discharged
DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 12 (MExN): Chungtingse Sangtam, Khapur of United Sangtam region has been discharged from active national service on account of health problem, in pursuance of his application, recommendation from CAO concerned and subsequent approval of the Kilo Kilonser. His sacrificial services rendered to the nation shall always be remembered. This was stated in a press release issued by GPRN Kilo Secretary Q Awomi.
TSUD expresses sadness
DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 12 (MExN): Tenyimi Students' Union Dimapur (TSUD) has expressed deep sadness over the demise of Theyievisie Belho, father of Kevisienuo Belho, an active student leader and Women Coordinator of Tenyimi Students' Union Dimapur, Government College Dimapur. TSUD has also extended its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.
Public SPace of Urban Development without knowing the ground reality proves that ACAUT is paving way for nepotism and favoritism. And as such, DMC is not an NGO or a union, but it is an autonomous body/ local self-government, which has existed since 1954, responsible for maintenance, development and wellbeing of Dimapur town. In no way collection of tolls tax by the DMC can be termed as illegal. What motive does ACAUT have in favoring the list of 37 lessees approved by Urban Development and denouncing the 41 lessees authorized by the office of the DMC? It surely gives one a sense of understanding the ACAUT supporting the Urban Development for its vested interest. If not, what legality do ACAUT have to ask for immediate arrest of those 41 lessees, who, after fulfilling all the criteria, have been authorized to collect tax. As authorized by the government of CEO of
DMC Orenthung Lotha has rightfully and sincerely performed his duty in the interest of the DMC and ACAUT, instead of supporting an honest and sincere officer like him, is all out in want of suspension of the CEO. If at all ACAUT is to stand firm in support of Urban Development for its self-interest then it may even shift its office to the department of Urban Development and stop fighting for justice to the people. As rightly mentioned by ACAUT, DMC is not a playground to serve the self-interest of politicians. ACAUT is asked to clarify on what ground it has branded 41 lessees of the DMC as illegal and to arrest the lessees besides urging the government for suspension of the CEO. On behalf of 41 effected lessees Huska Sumi Midland, Dimapur
The Morung Express is introducing “Public Space” as part of our intention to provide deliberate space for the opinions of the people to be expressed and heard through this newspaper. Nonetheless, The Morung Express points out that the opinions expressed in the contents published in the “Public Space” do not reflect the views and position of the newspaper or the editor.
6
IN-FOCUS
The Power of Truth
The Morung Express FrIDAy 13 sEPTEMbEr 2013 vol. vIII IssuE 251
Along Longkumer Consulting Editor
Olympic Moment Lessons from Tokyo’s successful bid
T
okyo was awarded the 2020 Olympic Games on Saturday last. Tokyo won by a landslide, 60 votes to Istanbul's 36, after Madrid was eliminated in a first round of voting. With this, the Japanese capital has won the right to stage the sporting extravaganza for the second time, having hosted in 1964. While all three bidding cities had their plus points, which was well presented before the International Olympic Committee (IOC), area of concerns remained. Madrid had been dealt a blow by the Eurozone crisis, which left Spain with huge debts. Istanbul had been beset by anti-government protests and also the looming crisis in Syria adding to uncertainty over peace in the Middle East. As for Tokyo it was about the leaking Fukushima nuclear plant, 230 km from Tokyo. The IOC members would have taken all the plus and minus into consideration before ultimately choosing Tokyo. Whether you win or lose, in life there are always lessons to learn and to strive to become better, which no doubt, Istanbul and Madrid will come to understand as time goes. What lessons can the global community, including we the Nagas also learn from the successful bid made by Tokyo for the 2020 Olympics? For one, it should be seen as an endorsement of Japan’s successful model in the socio-economic and political sphere. At the end, it was not just about spending billions of dollars or promising world class infrastructure. All cities which bid for an event like the Olympics will make such assurances. In fact, it is reported that Istanbul was willing to spend as much as $19 billion for the Olympics, much more than Tokyo. However, as the IOC President Jacques Rogge put it, in as simple a language as possible, describing Tokyo, Japan as “a safe pair of hands”. To host a global event like the Olympics will require more than just a slick presentation. In all probability, the IOC members wanted the assurance of social order, economic growth and political stability. Tokyo’s bid had all these key ingredients while Istanbul and Madrid did not have what it takes to guarantee the confidence of the international community. On paper, Istanbul perhaps had everything that would make it a historic choice to host the Olympics. As per media reports, the Turkish presentation, Istanbul's fifth bid for the Olympics in the past 20 years, focused on linking Europe and Asia together, with importance placed on the country's ancient history and the multi-cultural population. Also both Tokyo and Madrid have hosted the games before; Istanbul hasn't. But when it came down to the ground reality, to the bare essentials that every human society should aspire to become, Tokyo stole the lead and with it the right to host the 2020 Olympics. We need to ensure that our institutions are strong, people’s lives are empowered and secure, economic growth is inclusive and political leadership is based on trust and capacity to deliver results. Tokyo in its presentation highlighted not just its “solid finances” but also its strong track record of delivering on promises. What was also laudable was that Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who spoke before the IOC meeting, was honest enough to admit the concerns over the leak at the Fukushima nuclear plant. According to media reports, his passionate assertion that the situation was under control clearly settled any lastminute nerves among the IOC. The international community has placed their trust on Tokyo to deliver a safe games come 2020. Trustworthiness is a quality that we can all imbibe. For the Japanese people, this is indeed an Olympic moment to cherish and for people like us to admire and learn from. (Feedback can be send to consultingeditormex@gmail.com)
lEfT wiNg |
Stephen Leahy Inter Press Service
Make Every Drop Count
D
rought and chronic water shortages played a significant role in sparking Syria’s civil war and in unrest throughout much of the Middle East, water experts now believe. Around the world, water demand already exceeds supply in regions with more than 40 percent of the world’s population. That may climb to 60 percent in the coming decade, a new study has found. “Water-scarce regions can’t grow enough food to feed their own people,” said co-author Manzoor Qadir of United Nations University’s Canadian-based Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH). About 70 percent of the world’s freshwater – and up to 95 percent in some countries – is used for irrigation. There is intense competition for freshwater between municipal, industrial, and agricultural uses. Increasingly, agriculture has been losing out, particularly in water-stressed regions, Qadir told IPS. The entire Mediterranean region is undergoing a prolonged drought that has been linked to climate change, according to a recent U.S. study. If climate-altering carbon emissions continue at current rates, droughts in the region will worsen and lengthen. As water supplies fall, many regions are using urban wastewater, a very valuable resource if it is treated properly, says the study “Global, regional, and country level need for data on wastewater generation, treatment, and use“, published Sep. 5 in the journal Agricultural Water Management. This is the first study to look at how wastewater is used in 181 countries. One of the key findings is that only 55 countries have good data. Synthesising what data there are, researchers found that high-income countries treat 70 percent of their wastewater while middle-income countries treat 28 to 38 percent. Just eight percent of wastewater generated in low-income countries undergoes any kind of treatment. “From the earliest of times, most wastewater has truly been wasted. However, it is a vast resource if we reclaim it properly, which includes the separation of municipal from industrial wastewater,” said UNU-INWEH Director Zafar Adeel. The volume of wastewater potentially available worldwide each year is equivalent to 14 months of outflow from the Mississippi River into the Gulf of Mexico, Adeel told IPS. In poor, water-scarce countries, wastewater is widely used to irrigate foodlands – some estimate as much as 300 million hectares producing 10 percent of the world’s food, the study says. However, there is little data to confirm this. It is often a country’s ‘dirty little secret’ that much of the food consumed in urban areas is grown using untreated wastewater. Wastewater is valuable because it has very high level of nutrients, including potash, nitrogen and phosphorus, eliminating the need and cost of fertilisers. However, untreated wastewater can transmit diseases such as cholera. Chile experienced cholera outbreaks and banned the use of untreated wastewater in 1992. “Disease outbreaks from using wastewater do happen but it is rarely cited as the cause,” said Qadir. One reason is that few studies have been done. A few years ago Qadir and colleagues discovered higher rates of waterborne diseases like gastroenteritis in children in the Mediterranean who were eating food grown using untreated wastewater. In the 1990s, fruit and vegetable exports from Jordan were banned for similar reasons. Jordan has since implemented an aggressive campaign to rehabilitate and improve wastewater treatment plants and introduced enforceable standards. “Israel uses nearly every drop of its wastewater with specific uses determined by the quality”, Qadir said. People are generally reluctant to eat food grown using wastewater but it is perfectly safe if treated properly, Qadir stressed. “Unfortunately, water treatment is not seen as a priority in many countries.”
THE EDIT PAGE
C O M M E N T A R Y
Reuven Brenner
What does a ‘two-state solution’ mean?
I
n light of what is going on the Middle East, and the efforts of US Secretary of State John Kerry to restart negotiations to reach a ''two-state'' solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict, it is worth briefly summarizing solutions I write about 30 years ago. The efforts of the United States and Europe to bring about a "two-state" solution in the Middle East are incomprehensible. A stable "state" must have one army - in Israel, that was Ben-Gurion's, the country's first prime minister correct - and painfully delivered message when firing on Altalena in June 1948. He ordered the newly created Israel Defence Forces (IDF) to fire on the ship by that name, when fractions of the Irgun, a para-military organization, were unwilling to put down the arms and be absorbed into the IDF. Following that painful episode in Israel's history - the idea of Jews shooting Jews few years after 6 million perished still shocks - the fractions of the Irgun put down the arms. The new state's monopoly on force has not been challenged since. Somehow this lesson has not sunk in elsewhere, the spread of failing states around the world notwithstanding: and they began failing when, rationalized one way or another, states started to tolerate military groups within their borders, in the Middle East in particular. At one time it was Jordan for a while (until the king's army pushed out Fattah), Lebanon, and now Syria - to name just two. How does then the current push toward a two state-solution (for Israel and Palestinians) in the Middle East look today through this prism? The Palestinians have many armies, and no leader in sight is willing and be able to do what Ben-Gurion did. It is not clear with whom to then even negotiate or about what, since nothing would be enforceable. What type of "state" is anyone talking about? What can one negotiate about, when one side cannot enforce anything? It is not even clear whether there is such a thing as a "Palestinian tribe": There appear four rather distinct ones, with only one represented in the negotiation. Some 60% of Jordan's population is Palestinian, and they may represent one group. The present "two-state" discussion does not even refer to them. Then there are the Palestinians living in the West Bank, who have representation in the present negotiations. The third group includes the about 1,400,000 Arabs within Israel's 1967 borders - who prefer to be living within a prosperous, stable Israel; this is what one can infer from the fact that they have been "voting with their feet" and have stayed - though they were free to migrate, as many discontented people throughout history have done. After all, that is what created the US, Canada, Australia, Singapore, Latin American countries - the list is long). Last but not least, there is "refugee/welfare tribe" the fourth group - created and sustained inadvertently by the continued existence of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine refugees (UNRWA) dispersed in the West Bank, Gaza, Lebanon and Syria. This refugee group has different features from the other three, and is probably the toughest to find solutions for. Whereas some 50 million European refugees after World War II have long been absorbed in various destinations, it is reasonable to ask why is it that the only refugee problem dating from the 1940s has not been, and what can be the subject of negotiation with representatives of this group? The answer to the first part of the question is that when the United Nations voted for Israel, they also voted setting up a welfare plan for the roughly 400,000 Palestinians who left in 1948 what became then Israel's territory.
In this Wednesday, December 5, 2012 file photo, A Jewish settler looks at the West bank settlement of Maaleh Adumim, from the E-1 area on the eastern outskirts of Jerusalem. Israel has proposed leaving intact dozens of Jewish settlements and military bases in the West Bank as part of a package to establish a Palestinian state in provisional borders, a Palestinian official told The Associated Press on Wednesday, September 4, 2013, in the first detailed glimpse at recently relaunched peace talks. (AP Photo/Sebastian Scheiner/ File)
The UNRWA was the institution involved and was supposed to last for two years. Yet it still exists - and it is a unique institution: there has never in the subsequent 65 years been another such institution created to deal exclusively with one particular refugee group, and defining descendants of the 1948 refugees as "refugees" too. Inadvertently this institution created over the seven decades a Palestinian welfare tribe, many of whom still live in camps, with few rights, and depending on the continued subsidies from "strangers''. This group does not have much in common with the other three - though it has some traits common with other welfare tribes created inadvertently around the world (aboriginals on Canada's reservations being one of them). Although the world tends to lump together these groups, 60% of Israeli Arabs declare that they would not allow their daughter to marry a Palestinian even from the West Bank. What can Israel even negotiate with representatives of this group, for whose present numbers the United Nations bears responsibility? It is not clear then what Secretary of State John Kerry is trying to achieve. It would be good to hear first just what does he or the State Department mean by the word "state''. With whom is Israel supposed to have credible negotiations since there is not one Palestinian leader who can enforce monopoly on force - as Gaza's case shows - where, and this is no coincidence, 1.1 million of it's 1.5 population are "refugees" according to UNRWA's unique, unprecedented definition. Imagine if the UNRWA's unique definition was applied to 50 million wandering refugees post-World War II, to Asian war refugees, to refugees from African wars, or to any other refugee group ever whose
descendants are dispersed around the world. What makes the push and timing of discussions about a "two-state" solution even more unusual is that it is happening when, except for Israel, almost all Middle Eastern and some North African states are falling apart, demonstrating that without monopoly on force, there are no "states''. Syria is fighting along tribal and religious lines; Lebanon, the same, with much of its Christian community by now in France and Canada; the Kurds have carved themselves out of Iraq, in practice, if not yet in principle (the Iraqi army is not allowed to enter the Kurdish part without approval from local authorities, where the local army rules). And Egypt with its 80 million people - it was only 30 million in the 1960s - its youth having been given no opportunities, appears heading toward a civil war. Demography is not quite destiny, but when a youth bulge is not given chances, people go hungry - and they go to the barricades. The European 1848 Revolutions - called "the Spring of Nations" - are a good reminder - and that ended badly. It may not be a coincidence either that information at that time was spreading more rapidly than previously, through trains and coffee houses, where newspapers were the equivalent of today's access to Wi-Fi. But that historical precedent is a reminder too that technology does not guarantee any "springs''. Perhaps it is time for Mr Kerry - or anyone - to clarify to start with what they mean by the word "state", and then perhaps one would understand what is this "two-state solution" in the Middle East is about. For the time being, these words lack any meaning in today's Middle East. Reuven Brenner holds the Repap Chair at McGill University's Desautels Faculty of Management.
Letters to the editor A referendum for Catalonia Some political errors Artur Mas
O
Source: NYT
n Sept. 11, 2012, Catalonia’s national day, about 1.5 million people marched through Barcelona carrying banners saying “Catalonia, Europe’s Next State.” The march was a peaceful expression of hope. Today, with the same purpose, hundreds of thousands of people will form a human chain across Catalonia. The history of Catalonia goes back centuries when Iberian tribes traded with Greeks and Carthaginians along the Mediterranean coast. An identifiable Catalan culture developed in the Middle Ages and has strengthened through time, despite the loss of the Catalan sovereignty at the end of the War of Spanish Succession in 1714, and the subsequent repeated suppression of our government, schools, language and values. Catalonia fought hard to defend the Second Republic in the Spanish Civil War from 1936 to 1939. But democracy and autonomy were crushed and the Catalan language was made illegal as Spain endured 40 years of brutal dictatorship under Franco. After at his death in 1975, Spain made an astonishing transformation to a multiparty democracy, and in 1978 a new Spanish Constitution recognized Catalonia’s autonomy and language once again. The institutions of Catalan autonomy continued to develop with the reconstitution of the Catalan presidency and Parliament, along with the return of the Catalan language to our schools. But the advances haven’t met Catalan expectations. Countless proposals from Catalonia to Madrid have been rejected out of hand or subverted by court rulings. For example, in 2005 the Catalan regional Parliament passed a new Statute of Autonomy delineating powers that should be delegated to the region. The Spanish Parliament approved
it in 2006, though only after removing key elements. Nonetheless, the Catalan people approved the weakened version of the statute via referendum in June 2006, seeing that something was better than nothing. Then in 2010 the Spanish Constitutional Court unilaterally revoked and rewrote crucial sections of the statute in a process that the Catalan government believes was procedurally dubious. Though financial concessions were made to the Basque region, our repeated requests for a new fiscal pact with Madrid to mitigate the current unjust system are constantly denied. We have been willing to pay more than our fair share to the central government to support poorer regions of Spain, but it has gone too far. Catalonia now receives less public expenditure per capita than more
wRiTE-wiNg
than half the other regions of Spain, though we contribute far more than average. In addition the Spanish government has failed to carry out its investment obligations, even in their far more limited scope as required in the weakened statute. There are many more examples that have led the Catalan people to feel we have exhausted every means possible to reason and negotiate with Madrid and the only option left is to seek sovereignty. Recent parliamentary elections in Catalonia gave us a mandate to call for a referendum on Catalonia’s future, something a majority of our people and political parties support. There are five different legal ways within Spanish law that a referendum could be authorized. Canada granted Quebec the right
to hold two separate referendums and has protections within Canada because of this. More recently, Britain gave Scotland the right to decide its future in an independence referendum next year. But despite all our efforts to seek this basic civil right Spain refuses. I appealed to Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy for his assistance on the referendum in March 2013 with the support of 80 percent of the Catalan Parliament. The request was rebuffed. In July, I made a formal written request to hold a referendum. We are still waiting for a reply. We do not seek to isolate ourselves. Catalans are deeply pro-European and we do not imagine a future outside the European Union. Catalonia would have the eighth largest economy in the union and would be a net contributor to its budgets. We would be a solid European Union partner for strengthened political unity, security strength and economic growth. We also seek no harm to Spain. We are bound together by geography, history and our people, as more than 40 percent of Catalonia’s population came from other parts of Spain or has close family ties. We want to be Spain’s brother, as equal partners. It goes beyond money or cultural differences. We seek the right to have more control over our economy, our politics, our social services. The best way to solve any problem is to remove its cause. We seek the freedom to vote. Every individual has a right to expect this from his government, while also sharing equally in the benefits. In Europe conflicts are resolved democratically, and that is all we ask. We seek justice and equality for our diverse society. Over 17 percent of our 7.5 million people came from abroad. But we are united in our call to let us be heard at the ballot box. Artur Mas is president of Catalonia
of Naga society
•- Why discuss today the political mistakes of yesterday.Is it to make a comparative study as an academic exercise only or to see who is more or less to blame,of the leaders, tribes, factions or parties? After all we have all contributed to produce the chaos and disunityof today. It is unwiseto leave our mistakes unaddressed and allow them to breed evil for us. Honesty about our mistakes makes us more understanding and compassionate towards one another. Then we will thus unite firmly in our society together. This is said to be God’s way of making societies and nations grow and committing suicides by defending our mistakes is Satan way. The Naga struggle for political issue has produced mistakes that have made life so complicated and insecure. We are frustrated and dismayed because like other we do have struggled for our inspirations as a part of our attempt to grow. We are looking at our entire crises and asking difficult questions about ourselves and our society. The Naga struggle and the politics that our crises has produced, ‘OVERGROUND’ and ‘UNDERGROUND’. The challenge we face is how we heal our relationship that will enable us to cooperate sufficiently together so that the slogan “NAGA ARE ONE” will be evolving’, empowering reality and in the name “NAGALAND FOR CHRIST”. What about standard in politics? In Nagaland, are the election held for money? What kind of political system do we believe in? How many do we understand the democratic and secular constitution of India as against our conception of freedom sovereignty? We have defended or denied our mistakes. But they have produced hurts and divisions that have paralyzed and blackmailed our society and politics. If the poisonous fruits of our mistakes are not wisely replaced now with forgiveness,understanding and sincere good will for one another, our society will become more dangerous, lawless and impossible to develop than it already is. If we do nothing now, it will bring enough curses upon us. We need strong rebirth of hope and unity for which we will give our best to one another. We have to start with simple honesty and understanding about our mistake leading to restitution, for which we can achieve what we want for our Naga society. John Kips Yimchunger
Letters to the Editor should be sent to: The Morung Express, House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur - 797112, Or –email: morung@gmail.com All letters (including those via email) should have the full name and Postal address of the sender.
Readers may please note that the contents of the articles, letters and opinions published do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form.
PERSPECTIVE
7 Will governments ever Trekking the IAS Dream obey their own law?
Friday
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
13 September 2013
F
NEWS ANALYSIS, FEATURE AND DISCOURSE
or a long time in Nagaland, when it comes to professions and careers, the most sought after and coveted ones had been medical and engineering courses. This was the case in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s and even as late as the 1990s. At least for me, this trend was very much obvious and noticeable in the case of the Angamis. However, all good students cannot go for medical and engineering courses. A student interested in pursuing these degrees has to at least have a fairly good command over subjects like Mathematics and Science. When I was in high school, many of my classmates had difficulty with Mathematics and Science and they took extra tuition classes from the teachers. On the contrary and by the grace of God, I never had much difficulty in tackling Mathematics and Science during my high school years. Despite the fact that I never took any extra tuition in either Mathematics or Science, I was always able to do better in these disciplines than most of my classmates who took regular tuition classes. Thus, at least in the eyes of my classmates, I was a brilliant Mathematics and Science student. And therefore, they all thought that I would go on to study Science after my matriculation. However, I gave many people the shock of their lives when, after matriculation, I opted for Arts stream. Even today, when people happen to see my matriculation mark-sheet, they often express their surprise to me that I did not study Science despite my impressively good marks in both Mathematics and Science. Today I am a post graduate in Political Science……but sometimes I do wonder whether I should have studied science after matriculation and subsequently pursued a medical or engineering course. In the last fifteen years or so, many friends and well-wishers have often asked me why I did not study science after matriculation. So, through this article, let me cite the reasons why I did not follow the usual conventional trend of pursuing a medical or engineering degree despite my impressively good Mathematics and Science record in high school. The first reason I would say was instilled by my mother. For her entire government service, my beloved mother worked in the Nagaland Civil Secretariat. She was attached to the office of the Home Commissioner for over 15 years. In this was, my mother saw first-hand the power and influence exercised by IAS officers and she was convinced about the positive and drastic changes than a dedicated IAS officer can bring to the society. And as such, by the time I entered high school, my mother had already introduced to me the concepts of the IAS and about the scope and opportunities that were available in the admin-
Khrietuonyü Noudi
Straight From The Heart History, politics, Culture… istrative line. Thereupon, when I made my own enquiries about IAS and UPSC from seniors and elders, they all expressed their approval and apprised me about the prestige, the scope and opportunities that are available in the administrative field. And after hearing all these from many people, I was obviously convinced that it would be worth the try. And many of these people whom I consulted during this time mentioned that if I plan to sit for the All-India examination, then arts stream would be much more appropriate for me after matriculation. Secondly, in the 1990s, there were lots of talks doing the rounds here in Kohima village area about the prestige and wide range of opportunities that are available upon clearing the All-India Exam. And during this time, there was no person yet from Kohima village who had been inducted into the IAS through the UPSC exam. And thus, there were lots of instigations and encouragements from many quarters to the interested youths to go to Delhi and prepare for this high-profile and prestigious exam. In fact, some rich citizens of Kohima village were even ready to pay the coaching fees of any person who was serious enough to go to Delhi and try out the exam. This was how I was also swept away by the IAS fever. During my high school years, I had the reputation of being a good mathematics and science student and so everybody expected me to go for science stream after matriculation. But I surprised everyone by opting for Arts after my matriculation. I studied Arts at Baptist College for five years. And after my graduation in 1999, I flew to Delhi to pursue the IAS dream. In Delhi I stayed alone for five years in a two-room flat in a five storied building in Mukherjee Nagar (North Delhi). I paid Rs.2500 monthly as rent for my flat. I am grateful and forever indebted to my beloved parents for financially supporting me during these five very interesting years stay in Delhi. I went to Delhi to take coaching in civil service examinations. But
since I also got the opportunity to do post graduation in Delhi University, I took admission and was able to complete my post graduation in Political Science in 2001. Since I had come to Delhi was coaching purpose, I took admission in Chanakya IAS Academy for a six-months coaching course. This Chanakya IAS institute was situated in Mukherjee Nagar itself opposite the Batra cinema hall. The admission fee was around Rs.15000 per subject and since I took admission for coaching in two optional papers and General Studies, my fee came to around Rs.45000. Here I must express my appreciation to the ‘Kohima Village Gazetted Officers Union’ for paying a sizeable portion of my coaching fee. During my stay in Delhi, an uncomfortable situation also cropped up. This was so because people seemed to trust me more than I trusted myself. People also seemed to have confidence in me much more than I had in myself. In fact, some friends and well-wishers started to almost predict me as an IAS. I was naturally very embarrassed and offended by all these. I had to literally beg friends and well-wishers not to make any unwarranted predictions about me. But somehow I could not stop the rumors from spreading. This was how I came under pressure and spotlight. Many times I laid awake in my bed wondering how many hearts and prayers I would disappoint if I was unsuccessful in my all-India exam mission. But during this time, I also firmly held on to the saying, “When you get what you really wanted, it is indeed very good. But when you don’t get what you really wanted, it is even better.” People have often asked me how many times I appeared the UPSC exam. And when I tell them that I appeared four times (2001 -2004), they are quick to assume that if I had appeared four times, then I must have faced the interview board at least once or twice. But that is very far from the truth. The truth is that I appeared four times but I was unable to clear the prelims even once. (My case here was somewhat like
what happened to France in the 2002 World Cup. France entered the tournament as defending champions and many predicted that they would win a second consecutive world title because they were not just the defending champions but also the European champions. But we know what happened to them – they were eliminated in the first round itself). Yes, the expectations on me were high but the performance turned out to be zero. And I am not ashamed to admit that I appeared the UPSC exam four times and could not clear the preliminary round even once. And for this miserable failure, I blame neither God nor any other person. It was all due to my lack of focus and shortcomings in certain areas. But even though I had been a miserable failure in this attempt, I feel that my five years stay in Delhi was not all in vain. Of course, I did not become a saint after spending five years in Delhi. I was also not knighted by the Delhi government or the Nagaland government for my five-year stay in Delhi. But my experiences in Delhi have made me a better and insightful person in many ways. I am also happy that I did not become a drunkard or an adulterer despite many temptations that came my way. And because of my stay in Delhi, I have come to have a deep appreciation and understanding of Indian lifestyle and culture. Every year, holidays on account of festivals like ‘Holy’, ‘Diwali’ and even ‘Eid’ bring back many fond memories of my stay in Delhi. Of course, I don’t celebrate these festivals in any way. But I now know how much these festivals mean to Indian people and Indian culture. Yes, I could not become an IAS despite the enormous faith and confidence friends and well-wishers had in me. But in the recent years, I am deeply comforted by the fact that a few from Kohima Village had been able to come out with flying colors in UPSC and NPSC exams. Indeed, the stories of these persons become even more encouraging and inspiring when we know that some of them were able to achieve their goals despite the fact that their fathers were no longer alive to guide and mentor them. This means that they are disciplined, determined and focused persons and this makes them ideal youth icons and role-models for the younger generations. Youngsters have often asked me about my years in Delhi. On the one hand, I feel that the experiences I had there were worthwhile, enriching and enlightening and it has certainly made me a more matured and complete person in many ways. But on the other hand, I also feel that there was nothing extraordinary about studying in Delhi; there was nothing romantic or heroic about being in Delhi, it was just a waste of time and money….
As governments are so infrequently held accountable for their actions, is there any reason why they wouldn't try and circumvent the very laws they hold in place?
T
Geoffrey Bindman
he impotence of international institutions is once again highlighted in Syria. The use of chemical weapons in flagrant violation of international law again poses the perennial problem of enforcement. How can an independent sovereign state be made to comply with its international obligations? In the last resort is force the only means? And when the United Nations fails to deliver, must we only wring our hands in despair? The UN Charter requires member states to refrain from the threat or use of force. The only exceptions exist in Chapter VII, which excludes the use of force except in self-defence, or where authorised as a last resort by the Security Council. Before that critical stage is reached all possible peaceful steps must be taken, including the interruption or severance of commercial and diplomatic relations. The major obstacle to this methodical process is disagreement among the members of the Security Council, especially when one of the permanent members – UK, USA, France, China and Russia – uses its veto to block a decision favoured by the others. Such a stalemate produces, as in the Syrian case, intense frustration and a strong impetus to by-pass the rules. It has led to the development of the doctrine of “Responsibility to Protect” (humanitarian intervention). States can use force without Security Council authority when faced with the urgent need to save lives in imminent danger. But not every state accepts this. The motive for side-stepping the UN Charter may be entirely laudable, but doing so inevitably weakens the authority of the international community over individual states. Contempt for international law is encouraged when powerful governments ignore it. Yet international law retains moral authority and has practical effectiveness in many situations. Nor should we underestimate the vigorous efforts the most powerful make to claim legitimacy for their actions. The most blatantly brutal regimes will deny their crimes even when they know that there is little or no risk of any sanction. The violators and those who defend them will dispute the facts or the sufficiency of the evidence – or, as in the Iraq debacle, will present evidence that turns out to be false. And in some cases, such as the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, the state will claim a legal justification, which is hotly challenged by other legal experts. That is why the most important role of the United Nations in international conflict is authoritative fact-finding. Authoritative legal rulings are also important whether by the International Court of Justice or other lawyers of appropriate standing. Article 2 of Chapter I of the UN Charter obliges all member states to assist the UN in maintaining international peace and security. Clearly that includes allowing independent and unobstructed investigation of all relevant facts and evidence. In pursuing this aspect of its role, the UN (usually through its Human Rights Council) has mandated independent experts, special rapporteurs and representatives to examine questions such as the presence of weapons of mass destruction and chemical weapons. There are said to be 37 of them in office, but this seems a puny number and the effectiveness of their investigations has been restricted by lack of resources and by attempts to challenge their independence and reliability. A striking illustration is the case of the UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights in the Palestinian Occupied Territories: Richard Falk has been professor of international law at Princeton for many years. He has a worldwide reputation as an outstanding expert in his field. He was appointed as Special Rapporteur in 2007 in succession to the equally distinguished Professor John Dugard, former Dean at the University of Witwatersrand Law School in South Africa. Like his predecessor, Professor Falk has presented a number of reports to the UN on his findings. All of these have recorded serious violations of the Fourth Geneva Convention and other human rights norms by the Israeli authorities. His conclusions have not been acceptable to those authorities and their supporters, some of whom have publicly attacked Professor Falk in vituperative terms. He has been accused of bias against Israel. Understandably, he has replied vigorously and the ensuing dispute has led to calls for his resignation (which he has rejected). The saddest aspect of all this, as of other situations in which political differences obstruct law enforcement, is the diversion of attention from the main issue. The victims of illegality are denied redress and their dire circumstances remain unchanged. The intrusion of political differences and the eagerness of politicians to subordinate law to expediency are of course precisely what make enforcement of international law so difficult. It is naïve to suppose that politics can ever be wholly excluded from the process. Nevertheless, if there is to be progress the way forward is surely to strengthen the capacity for independent investigation and fact-finding. We cannot stop politicians from denying the obvious, but we can make it harder.
Crossing the Bridge for an alternative arrangement! an opinion
W.G.Vashum he cry for an Alternative Arrangement outside the jurisdiction and legitimacy of the government of Manipur (GoM) by the Nagas in the present state of Manipur was not a hasty decision. The circumstances and conditions that led to this decision goes much deeper, and beyond the various perspectives, interpretation and speculations being made by State actors, Non-state actors and civil society. Aware of the exhausted and limited strategies used in the past to achieve Naga peoples’ struggle for rights to life and property, identity, land, resources, traditional institutions and customary practices, the concept of “Alternative Arrangement” (AA) represents a resolute and confident strategy derived from within the collective thinking of the people. The AA stands for a peaceful and democratic process that goes beyond the notion of Manipur state territorial integrity. Naga students, youths, women, men and traditional bodies in Manipur under UNC (United Naga Council) formed the NPC (Naga Peoples Convention) the highest decision making body. The NPC deliberation in 2010 resolved to severe all political ties with the GoM. It demanded the intervention of the Government of India (GoI) to form an Alternative Arrangement outside the present state of Manipur, which is well within the legal provisions of the GoI. The GoI responded with the suggestion for a tripartite dialogue between UNC, GoM and GoI at a ministerial level. However, the series of tripartite talks which began in 2010 have been at a bureaucratic level only; where the representative of the GoM repeatedly informs at the end of every meeting that: “....We have not come to any conclusion or agreement....we will discuss and deliberate again...”. While the GoI has acknowledged the AA issue as genuine, its unwillingness to engage in a dialogue based on mutually agreed terms implies that the tripartite dialogue is a premeditated strategy to delay the process and weaken the Naga people’s resolve by testing their patience. The purpose and the method in which the tripartite dialogue is being carried on
T
needs to be taken very seriously, lest, the Alternative Arrangement concept as well as its possibilities are pushed into oblivion. Sustaining a peoples’ movement in a sophisticated bureaucratic ruled democracy like India, is a great challenge. In this form of bureaucratic ruled democracy, people’s movement are often caught within the cauldron of electoral political divide, thereby complicating their strategy in an already murky state of affairs. The controversial “elected unopposed” ADC members (Autonomous District Councillor) and inability to break through the impasse has furthered this uncertainty in Manipur. The monotonous reaching-out programme by the AA and UNC to all Naga districts in Manipur has not been able to create a sustainable and decisive impact required to make the GoM respond to the people’s demand. The challenge of the UNC will be to sustain the movement for Alternative Arrangement while keeping in mind the impoverished economic conditions of the Naga people. Time is therefore of the essence, and it will be worthwhile for the UNC to maintain a stipulated time frame in order to achieve their desired objective. Whereas, on the other hand, it will be strategy of the GoM to delay this process as long as possible, knowing full well the economic conditions of the Nagas. The recent seminar organised by United Club of Manipur (UCM) on the theme “India’s Stand on the Territorial Integrity of Manipur” and the recommendation for mass movement and the subsequent decision of the Manipur Cabinet to protect the territory of Manipur state from the so called border dispute with Burma needs to be viewed cautiously. The timing and intention of the UCM recommendation and the Cabinet on the usage of “territorial integrity of the state” has deep rooted politics. The outcome of the 6th round of AA talk at Ashoka Hotel Delhi as per sources is interesting, because the spirit of tripartite talks seem to remain overtly positive to all parties. Such formal pretentiousness is not helping in addressing the core primary issues. Rather this has reduced the process from actual dialogue at the ministerial level to negotiating around secondary issues. The
politics behind this recent tripartite talk indicates that the GoI & GoM used it as a platform to convince UNC to lift its ban on the national project notably the construction of the power grid and Trans-Asian railway. In the backdrop of the 6th round of talks, the hurriedly called meeting of the UNC presidential council and frontal organisations within 3 days of the talks which decided on lifting the ban on construction of national project was hasty and a breach of people’s trust and confidence. It was bad politics and not a well calculated decision. It has given advantage to the GoI and GoM. The UNC will have to rethink its strategy and return to the primary objective of the AA. The GoM is also using development as a weapon to manufacture divisions with the UNC constituencies by initiating sectarian development. As part of Look East policy, upgrading Imphal Airport to an International Airport, massive tunnels cut through mountains belonging to the land of Zeliangrong Nagas (Tamenglong) for Railway to reach Imphal does not necessarily benefit the Naga People. However, GoM representative propounded these activities as development during the talk. If the primary purpose for an Alternative Arrangement is to be achieved then the direction and leadership provided by the UNC must be united in purpose and peoplecentred. Therefore, consulting the people, seeking their opinion, disseminating information and keeping them updated of the process and sharing the purpose and objective of the AA and its campaign should be the focus of UNC. There must be space for active participation of the youth and women. Simultaneously, UNC should continue to engage in dialogue with other communities and stake holders both within and without. The direction of AA cannot be influenced by the interest of vested politician and other interest groups in the name of empowerment, upliftment and development, as this will have far reaching ramifications in the Naga people right over their political, social, economic and cultural future, including their ownership over land and resources. It is important that the future course of the Alternative Arrangement is decided by the people. The UNC needs to seriously and resourcefully
motivate the people. In this regard, from past experienced counter-active methods such as bandhs and blockades should be discontinued, since it only creates bad publicity. More importantly, these methods instead of weakening the GoM has only strengthen them and it has compelled the dominant community in Imphal valley to become united. The UNC initiative should garner more support, rather than isolating themselves from the people and as well as other communities. The UNC has clearly stated its understanding the mindset of the Meitei’s in its “Position Paper and Declaration for an Alternative Arrangement,” which says “The perception of the dominant community is the perception of the Manipur state government...To the Meitei’s, Manipur means Imphal and the people of Manipur means Meitei’s alone, and the tribals living in the hills and the 90% of the state’s areas belonging to the tribals are mere appendage.” Name any infrastructure, everything is completely centralised to Imphal: hospitals, national and state institution, research centre, sports, culture centre, Manipur University, Central Agriculture University, Regional Institute of medical Science. Jawaharla Nehru Hospital, National institute of Technology (NIT) Manipur Institute of Technology (MIT), Multi stadia Complex, Rice Research Centre, State Pesticide Testing laboratory, Soil Testing Centre, Software Technological Park, State Mechanise Farm, Seed Testing laboratory, Small and Medium Enterprise Development Institute, Sports Authority of India, Bio-diversity Conservation and Sustainable Development. Indira Gandhi National Tribal University, Veterinary Institute, Nursing, ITI, Polytechnic, Jawaharla Nehru Institute of Medical Science, State Institute of Rural Development, Tribal Research Centre, one can go on naming are cramped in Imphal and what is left in the hill areas just a name tag District HQ. Therefore, it is paramount to understand the dynamics in achieving Alternative Arrangement. The challenge is not just trying to win over the GoI and GoM, but it also means convincing the other people to be convinced of the inevitable reality that Nagas must decide their own future. This means the UNC must strengthen
its relationship with the people and educate them and consult with them. The UNC will become a weak and powerless institution without the support of the people. The strength of UNC can only become stronger when the heart and mind of the people are with them. An inclusive and united approach is indispensable for AA. Therefore, instead of maintaining status quo and following the same conventional operational strategy, a logical paradigm shift should be approached with series of envisioning process, such as discussion forum in different level of the society beyond the existing organisational level. The Church also needs to be encouraged to get involved and should be utilized in dissemination of information. Creative symbolic gesture must be developed to keep people’s spirit active and creating open spaces for people to voice out their opinions should be encouraged. In this way, it will reduce the obscure views and propaganda which is promoted by vested people. Providing platforms for school and college students through debates, symposiums and essay writing; and encouraging Naga artistes to write and compose music are some of the ways that the campaign can be strengthened. Naga journalist forum must be encouraged and strengthened since media is the weakest sectors for the Nagas at present. Engaging the Naga academician and scholars to facilitate and provide inputs, suggestions, criticism and analysis is a necessity at this juncture. Nagas from the present state of Manipur who are residing in the mainland India as students, research scholars, academicians, activist, and employees in govt. or private sectors can become an asset in reaching out and educating the people in India. The Alternative Arrangement is a litmus test for the Nagas in Manipur, since it is only a strategy to ensure all Nagas come and live as one people in freedom and dignity. It is only a temporary necessity. Shift from exclusive monotonous point of view to broadening the horizons of collective view needs to be approached for more pragmatic process. In the given situation the best way to realize as a dignified people is through an Alternative Arrangement outside the state of Manipur, come what may. May be then together we will continue to march singing ...we shall overcome!
Readers may please note that, the contents of the articles published on this page do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form.
8
Dimapur
NATIONAL
Friday 13 September 2013
The Morung Express
Muzaffarnagar riots: Mulayam rejects parallel with Godhra AgrA, September 12 (pti): Under attack over his government’s handling of the Muzaffarnagar riots, SP supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav on Thursday rejected any parallel with the post-Godhra 2002 riots in Gujarat and also played down the face-off with sulking party colleague Azam Khan. Mulayam promised “justice” for the victims of the riots and “strict action” against the guilty, claiming there was “no justice” in Gujarat. Denying any rift with Khan, a senior minister and the Samajwadi Party’s muslim face, Mulayam said Khan can never be “upset” with him. Triggering speculation of a rift in the SP, Khan skipped the ruling party’s two-day national executive meet here after he was reportedly unhappy with his own government’s handling of the riots that has claimed the lives of 40 persons. “There was no justice in Gujarat but justice will be done in UP...I have never done the politics of caste and religion. Strict action will be taken against the guilty. We will provide the maximum possible assistance to them (the riot victims),” Mulayam told reporters at the end of the meet. Mulayam, who was flanked by senior party leaders including chief minister Akhilesh Yadav, was responding to a question on the remarks of RLD chief Ajit Singh that SP was doing what Modi had done in Gujarat to polarise voters. Singh had earlier said, “If you go back to what Modi has done in Gujarat was basically that he did not act. He stopped police from taking any action and that is what happened in UP.” Rejecting the charge, Mulayam said his party’s government will take “such strong action (against the culprits) that they will never dare to re-
peat it”. He said the state government has taken into custody many people and and will arrest all those who are on the run. Mulayam while seeking to mollify Khan said, “Azam Khan can never be upset with me.” The stand taken by Mulayam was in contrast to the party national general secretary Ramgopal Yadav’s remark earlier in the day that either Khan should have attended the meet or resigned. Ramgopal had also said that Khan’s absence was not felt at the meet. The SP supremo said the party knew that why Azam did not attend the meeting. “Our’s is a democratic party and not an autocratic one,” he said. Asked about some SP leaders speaking against Khan, Mulayam said that whatever statement need to be given had been made.
Muzaffarnagar riots: SC issues notice to centre, UP The Supreme Court Thursday issued notice to the central and Uttar Pradesh governments on two petitions seeking a CBI probe into the Muzaffarnagar clashes that left 38 dead and for providing relief to victims. A bench of Chief Justice P. Sathasivam, Justice Ranjana Prakash Desai and Justice Ranjan Gogoi issued notice on two petitions -- one by Mohammad Haroon and eight other residents of Muzaffarnagar and the other by the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA). The court made it clear that it was not commenting on the plea to direct the central government to discharge its obligations under article 355 of the constitution which is linked to President’s Rule. “We are not saying anything on article 355,” said Sathasivam. Failure to act in ac-
cordance with the direction of the central government under article 355 could invite the dismissal of the state government and imposition of President’s Rule. The court also directed the central and Uttar Pradesh governments to inform it about the steps taken to assist the people stranded in Muzaffarnagar without food, water and shelter. It sought details on further steps being contemplated by the central and state governments to mitigate the suffering of the riot victims. The court also sought details on the opening of proper relief camps and providing psychological help to the victims. It kept open the prayer seeking a high-power inquiry committee headed by a retired apex court judge of “reputation and integrity” to inquire into the violence. Appearing for Haroon, a resident of Muzaffarnagar, senior counsel Gopal Subramanium told the court the incidents leading to the communal violence were taking place in the state for nearly a year. Things were building in Muzaffarnagar since July and there were intelligence reports but nothing was done to address the situation, he contended. “According to you, in such a situation, the role of the government of India is much more,” Chief Justice Sathasivam said, as Subramanium sought lay equal blame on the central government. “Every person under the sun was contacted. Prime minister, secretary, ministry of home affairs and the (Uttar Pradesh) governor and there was no response,” Subramanium told the court. SCBA president M.N. Krishnamani pressed for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the Muzaffarnagar violence.
Life has slowly started coming to normal in riot-hit Muzaffarnagar, where over 40 people have died in the past few days. But hundreds of Muslims continue to flee their homes fearing for their lives. Mohmmed Kadir, who lost his son and daughter-in-law in the riots, has now taken refuge in Basai village with his grandsons. (IE Photo)
From the chaos, tales of Hindu-Muslim unity
mUZAFFArNAgAr, September 12 (AgeNcieS): The eerie calm in curfew-bound Shahpur, 35km from here, was broken on Tuesday noon when a group of people spilled onto the main road. Policemen ran towards the crowd anticipating trouble. They were surprised when “Hindu-Muslim bhai bhai” slogans went up. Shyampal Bhaiji, Mohammed Arif, Madan Kumar Jain, Zafar Qureshi held hands as they led more than 100 people marching down the street. Hindus and Muslims embraced each other and pledged to live together. The morning rioters went on the rampage some bravehearts risked their lives and saved victims from the community the marauders targeted. Former Fugana pradhan Vedpal Malik sheltered 50 in his house. “They stayed with me for two days after the September 8 riot,” Malik said. Later, the rioters returned, burning homes, shops and cars. The rising columns of smoke scared those in Vedpal’s shelter. “I understood their fear. I told them we won’t stop you if you want to go. If you stay, we’ll protect you,” the former pradhan said. He called in policemen who escorted the terrified victims to camps. Vedpal and his neighbours stay up nights and guard homes and cattle of their Muslim neighbours. Around 1,000 Muslims have fled Fugana. Kharar pradhan Bijender Singh Malik opened his doors to 150 Muslims. The likes of Vedpal and Bijender want their “Muslim brothers” to return. But Muslims say they can’t muster courage. Nobody from the state has reassured them.
‘Need to decriminalise defamation’ BJP may ignore Advani, name Modi as PM candidate
New Delhi, September 12 (iANS): While Britain has amended its laws to decriminalise defamation, in India the issue is still being debated with journalists often being harassed on the basis of libel, said experts. According to journalist Aniruddha Bahal of online magazine cobrapost. com, defamation laws in India were used to harass journalists with cases slapped on them in courts in far off places in the country where they were forced to appear in person. According to the law, a journalist or editor faced with a defamation case had to appear in person in court to give his or her defence. “The court notices are issued from distant places and the journalist has to be present everywhere,” he said at a panel talk on ‘Decriminalising Defamation: Global Perspectives on Punishments for Speech’ held at the Press Club of India here. Bahal said framing of charges can take from five to six years. “All this is used as a means to harass people,” said Bahal, who was involved in a sting exposing bribetaking politicians. Peter Noorlander, CEO of Media Legal Defence Initiative (MLDI), London, said Britain had decriminalised libel two years ago. Earlier, London was known as the libel capital as it was very easy to slap libel cases. Powerful business houses from other countries would bring libel cases on websites, which were allowed to proceed in British courts. Even scientists and artists were getting sued, he said. “The ability of companies to sue on libel was unlimited... and the damages were huge,” he said. With the change in libel laws, things
have changed. Now you can’t launch proceedings against any anybody - there has to be a British connection, he said. The damages have also been limited, so people don’t have to face bankruptcy, he said. He said there was a need to pull libel out of the criminal sphere and put it in an appropriate civil law environment. Nani Jansen, an attorney with MLDI, related cases around the world of journalists being punished for libel for criticising the government despite the respective country having freedom of expression as part of its constitution. This, she said, “underlines the need for reforming of legislation...there should be more room for criticism of public individuals, or libel can be used as an instrument of political oppression”, she said. Chinmayi Arun, a research director with Centre for Communication Governance and assistant professor at the National Law University, related the case of actress Khusboo who was slapped with several cases over her comments on premarital sex. She said there was a conflict between the freedom of expression and the right to reputation. While Khusboo had resources and could fight her case, a person with less resources would appear in a weak position, she added. Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, president of the Foundation for Media Professionals, an independent journalist and an educator, said stories that need to be reported were not being reported due to fear of the libel law. The discussion was organised by the Centre for Communication Governance at National Law University, Delhi, and Foundation for Media Professionals on September 9.
New Delhi, September 12 (pti): The BJP leadership on Thursday appeared to be in a clear mood to announce Narendra Modi as the prime ministerial candidate, with its president Rajnath Singh seeking to downplay party veteran LK Advani’s reservations, saying “nobody is unhappy”. There were indications that the announcement could be made at the earliest notwithstanding Advani’s opposition as attempts to convince him failed. Hectic activity was underway in the party to evolve as much consensus as possible. In this context, senior party leader Ananth Kumar met leader of opposition Sushma Swaraj, who is also said to be having reservations to Modi’s projection.
Rajnath Singh is set to meet Swaraj. On Wednesday night, he had called her up to discuss the issue. Rajnath Singh met senior leader Murli Manohar Joshi also on Wednesday night. “I want to clarify that nobody in BJP is unhappy and nobody has put any conditions (on declaring Modi as PM candidate),” the party president said this morning when asked about Advani’s opposition and whether there was any hitch in declaring Modi as BJP prime ministerial candidate. Asked when the party’s parliamentary board meeting would be convened to take the final call on Modi’s projection, he said “it will be conveyed to you whenever it will be announced.” Rajnath Singh had
a 30-minute meeting with Advani on Wednesday to persuade him on Modi’s candidature but failed to get an assurance. The moves to formally announce Modi as the candidate gained momentum after the go-ahead given by RSS last week. Signficantly, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat is in Gandhinagar and Modi is expected to meet him on Thursday. Modi’s supporters in the party insist that the announcement should be made before September 17 and efforts are being made to convene the parliamentary board meeting. While Advani has remained silent on the issue, his close associate Sudheendhra Kulkarni attacked Modi, describing him as a “polarising” leader” in the society as
well as the party and cast aspersions on his ability as a Prime Minister to run a stable and effective government. “A socially polarising leader has polarised his own party. Can he run a smooth, stable and effective government at the Centre? think seriously!” Kulkarni said on Twitter about Modi without naming him. “Elections are 7 months away. People want a change. But who will provide the change? Leaders who are polarising the society?” Kulkarni told a news channel. He maintained that there is no unanimity in the party about the prime ministerial candidate. “Question does arise that can such a leader ensure a smooth government and peace in the society,” he said.
Girl locked in school bathroom dies, angry protesters ransack school, ‘trap’ teachers
KolKAtA, September 12 (AgeNcieS): The death of an 11-yearold girl allegedly due to trauma after being locked in the bathroom by her seniors has sparked angry protests at a Kolkata school where agitated parents kept teachers from leaving the building for hours. Several parents and other protesters barged into the Christ Church school dur-
ing classes this morning and ransacked the premises, breaking windows, computers and furniture while the principal hid under a table in her room and over a dozen teachers locked themselves in a staff room. The teachers had to be escorted to a different floor after the protesters wrenched open the windows of their hiding place and threw stones at them.
Hundreds of students had left hours ago as a heavy contingent of police came in to control the crisis. Oindrila Das, a Class 6 student in the school, died on Wednesday, eight days after her seniors allegedly locked her in the bathroom for not coughing up Rs. 100. They were allegedly helped by the school caretaker. Oindrilla was let out only when school got over.
She fell ill and refused to go to school after which she was admitted to a nursing home. There, she recounted to the doctors the bullying she had suffered in school. Oindrila's family says the doctors found nothing physically wrong and released her on Monday. A doctor gave her an injection on Tuesday, and a day later, when she was taken to hospital, she was declared brought dead.
"She was traumatised in school. That’s why she fell ill. There is also medical negligence. The doctors didn't treat her properly," her mother Rekha Das alleged. Oindrila's parents have filed a police complaint against the school. The school's principal Sharmila Sarkar, who had earlier apologised in the day to the protestors, was pushed to resign.
‘India’s ability to be multi-lingual has kept us together’
New Delhi, September 12 (iANS): What with 900 languages alive and kicking, possibly the most for any country in the world, it is this multi-lingual ability that has kept the Indian fabric together, says G.N. Devy, the man whose monumental People’s Linguistic Survey of India (PLSI), a 13-year effort with the help of 3,000 volunteers, showed up the county with its “many complexities”. In the light of the present research and documentation, “I can say that India is the only country to have 900 languages,” he said. Devy is now determined to work with the network put in place for documenting the Indian languages and doing his bit to save languages that are dying because they have no written history. IANS interviewed the 63-year-old Devy, who is also the founder of the Vadodara-based Bhasha Research and Publication Centre. Excerpts: Q: The PLSI report is an expansive gamut of information. How did the idea germinate? How many people have been associated with the project? A: India has many complexities
and because of that it took us 13 years to formulate a common framework. In 2010, only after I was confident that we can carry forward the idea to the next level that we decided to conduct the survey. Therefore, it took us about four years when we worked closely with people of the communities and trained them through several workshops. About 3,000 people, from farmers to a vice-chancellor, helped us. And now with this network in place, the work will continue. Q: In the 50 volumes on Indian languages, 780 languages have been documented. From the data could you identify the languages that suffered major losses? A: The coastal communities that migrated to the cities with the loss of their occupation suffered major losses. Then, the nomadic or de-notified communities also suffered. For generations they were stigmatised by the Criminal Tribes Act of 1871. Now they don’t feel comfortable in disclosing their cultural and caste identities because the stigma still haunts them. So, they don’t speak their language in presence of other people. Q: Despite being a country with
Salient features of the language survey * * * * * * * *
There are 900 languages in India. Of these, 780 have been documented in 50 volumes. It took G.N Devy about 13 years for the project. Around 3,000 volunteers contributed by working closely with the people of different communities. Coastal communities and nomadic communities have suffered major linguistic losses. Konyak is the least-spoken language in Assam, while it is widely spoken in Nagaland. West Bengal has the highest number of scripts among all the states. Around 38 languages are spoken in the state. Twelve variants of Marathi and 38 other languages are spoken by people including adivasis, tribals, nomadic tribes and denotified communities in Maharashtra.
900 languages, what keeps us together? Is there any other nation with a similar linguistic history? A: Our ability to be multi-linguistic has kept us together. Hindi and English act as the binding languages in our country even as we use our own languages. Though it is believed that Papua New Guinea in the Pacific Ocean has around 1,100 languages, there is no clear survey on that front. The numbers don’t match to the population
there. Considering that anomaly, I can say that India is the only country with 900 languages. Q: A large number of languages have been clubbed together under ‘All Others’ title. Is this because they had no scripts? A:The large number of languages clubbed together under the title “All Others” were given that description not because they had no scripts. The fact is that as against the 1961 Census Report on Mother Tongues which
had announced a list of 1,652 ‘Mother Tongues’, the 1971 Census offered a list of only 109 ‘Mother Tongues’. Of these 109, the first 108 were names of ‘Mother Tongues’ and the last item was “All Others”. The impression one may get by comparing the two figures --- 1,652 and 108 separated by a short period of 10 years --- is that over 1,545 ‘Mother Tongues’ simply vanished in that duration. However, that was not the case. The reason for this strange and shocking reduction in the number was that the government decided in relation to the 1971 Census to announce the names of only those languages that are spoken by over 10,000 persons. The cut-off figure of 10,000 speakers for a language to be recognised as ‘language’ is completely unscientific. For instance, a great language like Sanskrit does not have at present 10,000 or more speakers, but that does not diminish its status as a language. Q: The volume on ‘The Indian Sign Languages’ was recently released in the capital and with that you have provided a platform to the “ignored” sign languages. How did this idea come about?
A: Language makes us human. Language has to be part of the rights of a citizen. So, if there are people in the country who use sign language, then it’s their right to have their language described and included in the survey. So, we had to create a volume on sign language. Q: Can you elaborate about your team? A: It is a small team of four-and-ahalf people in Bhasha. They had joined us 20 years back as interns and are with us today with little monetary concern. Even, my wife, Surekha, has been a great force at the centre of it. We work from a rented house in Vadodara. Q: Is it too much of a responsibility to manage this social drive of raising awareness about Indian languages and its existence? A: When somebody runs in a marathon, in the moment of running the person is not aware of the responsibility but more of how much the feet ache and how much distance is left. I have a sense of responsibility, but I am not bogged down by that sense. I am excited that there is a long path ahead of me as I have trained myself as a long distance runner.
INTERNATIONAL
The Morung Express
Catalans form human chain for independence from Spain
bARCeLONA, SeptembeR 12 (AFp): Catalans massed in a vast human chain stretching hundreds of kilometres along the Mediterranean coast on Wednesday, demanding independence from Spain in the face of fierce opposition from the national government. Hundreds of thousands of people in yellow t-shirts joined in, according to organisers, yelling “Independence!” They linked hands and rose them in the air along highways and through towns in the northeastern region, amid countless pro-independence flags bearing the red and yellow stripes of Catalonia overlaid with a white star on a blue background. Proud of their Catalan language and culture, but suffering now in a recession, many of the 7.5 million people in debt-laden Catalonia say they feel shortchanged by the central government which redistributes their taxes. “We need to put an end to the cultural and economic suffocation we are suffering,” said Carme Forcadell, president of the Catalan National Assembly, the grassroots group organising the human chain. “We have come out in our
hundreds of thousands into the street to show in a democratic and inclusive way that we are capable of achieving any aim we set ourselves,” she told the crowd in central Barcelona. She said earlier that the rally aimed to draw 400,000 people and to stretch for 400 kilometres (250 miles) along Catalonia’s Mediterranean coast. The chain passed by landmarks such as the Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona and the city’s Camp Nou football stadium. Demonstrators, many wearing yellow t-shirts bearing the slogan “Catalan Way Towards Independence”, joined hands at 5:14 pm (1514 GMT) as rain showers gave way to sunshine. The timing was a reference to the year 1714, the date of the military defeat which for many Catalan nationalists marked the beginning of oppression by the Spanish state. Wednesday’s protest marked Catalonia’s national day, the Diada, which recalls the conquest of Barcelona by Spanish king Philip V’s forces that year. Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy’s conservative government refuses to countenance a break-up of Spain, and has vowed to block a referendum on self-rule that Catalonia’s re-
gional president Artur Mas has promised for 2014. A referendum would be a “unilateral declaration of independence that would have serious consequences for Spain and also for Catalonia” which would have to “bid farewell to the European Union”, Spanish Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Garcia-Margallo warned. “With the strength of our unity, they can’t deny us a referendum and independence,” said Fina Agullo, 65, as she took part in the human chain in front of the Sagrada Familia basilica. In Barcelona’s Plaza de Espana square, giant yellow letters placed on the grass spelt out in English: “We want independence”. Mas, who avoids using the word “independence” in his demands, said Catalans “must be consulted next year on their political future” and vowed to use all “legal and democratic means” to that end. He confirmed on Wednesday that he had held covert talks on the issue with Rajoy on August 29. “We are in dialogue with the government but I doubt very much that this dialogue will bear fruit. I do not see any political will,” he told foreign reporters in a briefing. Catalonia has long been con-
Jews from all over the world are seen praying in the Western Wall in preparation for “Yom Kippur”, the day of atonement, on September 11. According to Wikipedia, the Western Wall, Wailing Wall or Kotel is located in the Old City of Jerusalem at the foot of the western side of the Temple Mount. It is a remnant of the ancient wall that surrounded the Jewish Temple’s courtyard, and is arguably the most sacred site recognized by the Jewish faith outside of the Temple Mount itself. (Photo by Kuku Christina)
Stay positive for a healthy heart
COpeNhAgeN, Sep 12 (IANS): Having a positive attitude encourages heart disease patients to exercise more which in turn increases longevity, says a study. Researchers used a questionnaire to assess the moods of 600 heart disease patients in a Denmark hospital. Five years later, researchers found the most positive patients exercised more and had a 42 percent less chance of dying for any reason during the followup period. Deaths were less than 10 percent. Among patients with less positive attitudes, 50 deaths occurred (16.5 percent). Positive mood and exercise also cut the risk of heart-related hospitalizations, reports Science Daily. Coronary artery disease is caused by narrowed arteries that don’t provide enough blood and oxygen to the heart. “We should focus not only on increasing positive attitude in cardiac rehabilitation, but also make sure that patients perform exercise on a regular basis, as exercise is associated with both increased levels of optimism and better health,” said Susanne S. Pedersen, one of the study authors and professor of cardiac psychology, the Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, the Netherlands, and adjunct professor of cardiac psychology, the University of Southern Denmark and Odense University Hospital, Denmark. The new research has been published in the American Heart Association journal Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes.
A demonstrator holds a sign in the colours of the Catalonian national flag in Barcelona, Spain Wednesday September 11. (AP Photo)
sidered an engine of Spain’s economy, but it has suffered in the economic crisis of recent years. Its unemployment rate has climbed close to 24 percent, its debts exceed 50 billion euros ($67 billion) and it had to ask Madrid for 9.07 billion euros from a fund to help debt-laden regions. Last year Rajoy rejected Mas’s demands to give Catalonia greater freedom to tax and spend. “That would have solved much of the problem a year ago, but now, a
fiscal pact will not solve the problem,” Mas said Wednesday. “Any solution for Catalonia must come from the ballot box, from a consultation, from a referendum.” He said that if Madrid blocked a referendum in 2014, the next regional elections due in 2016 would serve as a plebiscite on self-determination. “The referendum cannot be delayed,” said Arnau Ivern, an 18-year-old physics student, joining the rally in Barcelona FC’s Camp Nou football stadium.
Friday 13 September 2013
Dimapur
9
Yahoo CEO fears defying NSA could mean prison
SAN FRANCISCO, SeptembeR 12 (AFp): Yahoo chief Marissa Mayer said she feared winding up in prison for treason if she refused to comply with US spy demands for data. Her comments came after being asked what she is doing to protect Yahoo users from “tyrannical government” during an on-stage interview at a TechCrunch Disrupt conference in San Francisco. Mayer said Yahoo scrutinizes and fights US government data requests stamped with the authority of a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, but when the company losses battles it must do as directed or risk being branded a traitor. Data requests authorized by the court come with an order barring anyone at the company receiving the request from disclosing anything about them, even their existence. “If you don’t comply, it is treason,” Mayer said when asked why she couldn’t just spill details of requests by US spy agencies for information about Yahoo users. “We can’t talk about it because it is classified,” she continued. “Releasing classified information is treason, and you are incarcerated. In terms of protecting our users, it makes more sense to work within the system.” Yahoo, Google, Facebook, and Microsoft are among Internet firms pushing for permission to disclose more details to users about demands for data made in the name of fighting terrorism or other threats. Technology titans have been eager to bolster the trust of its users by making it clearer what has actually been demanded by and disclosed to US authorities. “It is our government’s job to protect all of us and also protect our freedoms and protect the economy and protect companies,” said Facebook co-founder and chief Mark Zuckerberg said at TechCrunch Disrupt on Wednesday. “Frankly, I think the government blew it.” US intelligence officials declassified documents Tuesday revealing the National Security Agency violated privacy rules for three years when it sifted through phone records of Americans with no suspected links to terrorists. The revelations raised fresh questions about the NSA’s ability to manage the massive amount of data it collects and whether the US government is able to safeguard the privacy of its citizens.
10
Dimapur
SPORTS
Friday 13 September 2013
The Morung Express
Hope nobody will stop Test for Klinsmann will be at the WC me from winning: Vettel
Formula One world champion Sebastian Vettel holds a new helmet at the exhibition booth of the company Infiniti during the first press day of the 65th Frankfurt Auto Show in Frankfurt, Germany, Tuesday, Sept. 10. (AP Photo)
New Delhi, September 12 (iANS): Who does he think can stop him from winning the Formula 1 drivers' championship for the fourth successive year? "Nobody, I hope," quips Sebastian Vettel, who leads the title race by 53 points over his nearest rival, Ferrari's Fernando Alonso, after the 12th of the 19-race card. For all his disarming modesty, the 26-year-old German, with 222 points, looks well on course to win the World Championship for Red Bull. "If you ask the others they probably will tell you that they're trying very hard. But I am not thinking about the championship
and the title too much. It's good to know that you're in a strong position, but anything can happen between now and the Brazilian chequered flag," Vettel, who has won six of the 12 races in 2013, told IANS in an email interview. "If you look back to last year or 2010, it went down to the wire. So never feel too comfortable where you are. Fernando can pose a challenge as he is consistent and quick." With Felipe Massa's inconsistent form, there was talk in the Formula 1 paddock about Vettel's move to Ferrari. However, the three times World Champion scotched all ru-
mours by extending his Red Bull contract till the end of the 2015 season. But wasn't it his childhood dream to race for the Italian team? "Of course, as my hero Michael Schumacher was wearing red, so as a youngster you imagine yourself taking the place of your idol. Now I see it differently. I am very happy in blue and very happy with the team I am racing for," said Vettel, who has helped his team win the constructors' championship comprehensively from 2010-12. The champion has already broken several records. He is the youngest to win a Grand Prix at 21 years and 73 days. He is already third in the list of most number of pole positions (40), after Schumacher (68) and the late great Ayrton Senna (65) and is tied fourth in the exalted list of most Grand Prix victories with 32. Does he set targets like becoming one of the most successful F1 drivers? "No, such thoughts never cross my mind. I love what I am doing and of course I want to be successful, but I am not waking up in the morning thinking 'Wow, 2011 was a fantastic year, 2012 was awesome', and so on. I want to do the best that I can today - not yesterday and not tomorrow," said Vettel, who won the Italian Grand Prix Sunday. The Red Bull driver has had a frosty relationship with his teammate Mark Webber. The Australian has decided to quit Formula 1 at the end of the season and Vettel's attitude towards him is attributed as one of the reasons.
COlUmbUS, September 12 (Ap): Jurgen Klinsmann sat on a podium and smiled after guiding the United States into its seventh straight World Cup. Not to minimize the accomplishment, but the former German star player and coach will be judged not on reaching soccer's elite tournament, but on how well the United States performs in Brazil next year. "The team's success, especially in official competitions and difficult games in Europe has been very good," U.S. Soccer Federation President Sunil Gulati said Wednesday, "but I think everyone understands that the World Cup is a different level." Beating Mexico by the now traditional "dos a cero" score at Columbus Crew Stadium on Tuesday night, the Americans have now won four straight home qualifiers against El Tri by 2-0. Klinsmann helped Germany win the 1990 World Cup and the 1996 European Championship, then retired as a player two years later and moved to California with his American wife. He commuted from Orange County to Germany for a two-year stint as coach, leading his nation to the semifinals of the World Cup it hosted in 2006, then quit. Gulati recruited him later that year to succeed Bruce Arena but couldn't reach an agreement on his authority. But after the U.S. played listlessly during the 2011 CONCACAF Gold Cup, Gulati ended Klinsmann's five-year stretch as coachin-waiting and hired him at a $2.5 million annual salary to replace Bob Bradley. Results have been impressive: 25 wins, nine losses and six ties, including the Americans' first victory over four-time world champion Italy, their tri-
In this photo taken Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2013, United States manager Jurgen Klinsmann, right, talks with Landon Donovan during a World Cup qualifying soccer match against Mexico in Columbus, Ohio. The United States clinched its seventh straight World Cup appearance, getting second-half goals from Eddie Johnson and Donovan on Tuesday night in a 2-0 win over Mexico.(AP Photo)
umph at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium and their first Gold Cup title since 2007. He's already fifth on the U.S. career wins list, trailing only Arena (71), Bradley (43), Bora Milutinovic (30) and Steve Sampson (26). "The best thing he's done is created lots of competition, and so every time you step on the field you have to perform or you're not going to step on the field the next time," star attacker Landon Donovan said. "It's not in a pressure way, but it's in an accountability way." In his first weeks, he stripped players' names off jersey backs
and went to the old soccer method of changing numbers from game to game and assigning the starters Nos. 1-11 based on position. He wanted to encourage competition. Bayern President Uli Hoeness complained Klinsmann made the club purchase computers to develop PowerPoint presentations used to inform players of game strategy and compared him unfavorably with Jupp Heynckes, who led the team to this year's Champions League title. "With Heynckes, we win games for 12.50 (euros), while we spent a lot of
money under Klinsmann and had little success," Hoeness told the Donaukurier newspaper two years ago. Klinsmann hired Phoenix-based Athletes Performance, a company he worked with during his time with Germany and Bayern. The company develops training and nutritional plans for each player. And players' time on the practice field lengthened considerably. Then the U.S. followed with a 4-0-1 streak in qualifying and a team-record 12game winning streak this summer. "He's a super positive guy. He never lets it show
Stage set for Ozil to launch his Arsenal career
lONDON, September 12 (reUterS): Arsenal fans waited a long time for a big summer signing and when the club smashed its transfer record on Mesut Ozil on deadline day the international break meant another delay before they could feast their eyes on him in club colours. The Germany international, signed from Real Madrid for 42 million pounds, was a huge coup for manager Arsene Wenger and after scoring in a World Cup qualifier in the Faroe Islands in midweek Ozil is set for his debut at Sunderland on Saturday. England's north east coast is a little more hospitable than windswept Torshavn but nevertheless Ozil will quickly learn about the physical demands of English football against a Sunderland side desperate to kickstart their season. Ozil is not the only player anxious to make an instant impression for a new club as the domestic season swings back into action after World Cup distractions. Marouane Fellaini will be eager to pull on a Manchester United shirt for the first time after his 27.5 million pounds deadline day move from Everton. Like Arsenal, United were quiet
in the transfer window but the introduction of Belgian midfielder Fellaini will give David Moyes' side some added venom as they host newcomers Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, having managed only one win from their opening three Premier League games. Everton will have Gareth Barry (on loan from Manchester City) in their ranks as they take on Chelsea although striker Romelu Lukaku will not make his debut because of Premier League rules on loaned players playing against their mother club.
Raised Eyebrows Ozil's departure from Real Madrid in the wake of the Spanish giants' world record signing of Gareth Bale for 100 million euros raised plenty of eyebrows across Europe and even Arsenal's Santi Cazorla admitted being surprised he had been allowed to leave. "I am very happy that Ozil is here. He is a spectacular player and we are very lucky that we are going to learn alongside him," Cazorla told Spanish newspaper Marca this week. "I don't understand that (why Real Madrid sold him), he is a unique player. You will have to
Raikkonen exit puts Lotus top of vacancy list
lONDON, September 12 (reUterS): Lotus can take time to announce a replacement for Kimi Raikkonen because they are now the Formula One team with the most sought after driver vacancy, team principal Eric Boullier said on Wednesday. Champions Red Bull and their main rivals Mercedes and Ferrari have now finalised their 2014 lineups, with the latter team announcing Raikkonen had signed a two-year deal to replace Brazilian Felipe Massa. Lotus are the fourth most competitive outfit this season. "We are currently in discussion with a few people and will make a decision shortly," Boullier told the team website (www.lotusf1team.com). "We are in the privileged position of being the most desirable team on the grid with a seat available, so we are therefore in no rush to announce anyone without establishing what will be
the best for our team and the future." Germany's Nico Hulkenberg, the Sauber driver who had been tipped to join Ferrari when it seemed Raikkonen could be headed for Red Bull, looks an early front-runner but Massa could be another option. Boullier said there was no bitterness about the Finn's decision to join Ferrari, the team with which he won the 2007 championship, alongside double world champion Fernando Alonso. "Now, it's time to think about the future. We remain a medium-sized team and there are some areas in which we're not in a position to fight against the other top teams just yet." Lotus had hoped to retain Raikkonen and greeted Ferrari's announcement with a Twitter posting declaring "So #Kimi is off to #Ferrari for 2014; it hurts a little bit..." along with a photograph of two rabbits mating.
ask the club for reasons why they sold them, but at the same time he didn't think he was getting the opportunities he deserved. "Luckily he has come to us." Ozil had more assists than any other player in Europe last season and is regarded as a magician capable of unlocking the meanest defences, yet it remains to be seen whether Arsenal have the forwards to capitalise. "I want to improve myself further and I'm looking forward to the style of play," Ozil said of his new team. "Arsenal are well known for the strength of their technical game and their desire to play attacking football. "I think I will fit perfectly into that." Olivier Giroud has begun the season well for Arsenal, scoring the winner against Tottenham Hotspur in the last round of fixtures, but manager Arsene Wenger has few other natural striking options at his disposal. He will be hoping Theo Walcott, who hobbled off for England in Ukraine on Tuesday, will be fit for the trip to Sunderland who have managed one point from their first three games.
of an important period for manager Moyes as he continues to try and stamp his mark on Old Trafford following Alex Ferguson's retirement. Victory over Palace will be viewed as essential before United begin their Champions League quest at home to Bayer Leverkusen then travel to Manchester City for the derby. Fellaini could fill a variety of roles at United but Moyes, who signed him for Everton, believes he will become a vital cog in the side, whether it be in the position vacated by Paul Scholes or further back in the engine room. "Marouane is not someone you want to be playing against," Moyes told Sky Sports this week. "He has attributes other people don't have. And with those qualities he has, I am sure he will be a big player for Manchester United." With early leaders Liverpool not in action until Monday at Swansea City, Chelsea can go top with victory at Everton who have drawn all three of their matches so far. Manchester City travel to Stoke City who have started the season well under former City boss Mark Hughes while Tottenham Hotspur are looking to Important Period bounce back from defeat by ArseUnited take on Palace at the start nal against Norwich City.
Mesut Ozil controls the ball during a training session for the FIFA World Cup 2014 qualification group C soccer match between Germany and Austria in Munich, southern Germany. (AP Photo)
when the chips are down," Howard said. "And I think we've answered the bell a bunch of times: Guatemala in Kansas City, the snow game (against Costa Rica in Colorado), when there was all this internal strife and we hated each other." America spent 40 years in soccer's wilderness, failing to reach the World Cup between 1950 and 1990. Now the nation is much more attuned to the world game, boosted by changes in technology that allow most top European matches to be available live on U.S. television and even mobile telephones.
Entertainment
The Morung Express C M Y K
Demi dating ex-boyfriend's father
D
emi Moore is allegedly dating her ex-boyfriend Harry Morton's father Peter Morton. The 'Joneses' star, who split from Ashton Kutcher in November 2011 after six years of marriage, is reportedly dating Hard Rock Cafe billionaire Peter Morton, 66, just five months after she decided to end her sixmonth relationship with his son Harry Morton, 31. A source told Britain's Grazia magazine that the couple ''have been seeing each other up to three times a week. ''Demi says that thanks to Peter, her thought he'd be her type, viously dated Lindsay Lo- were better off as friends toy boy fascination could but she really likes him.'' han, ended their romance but the restaurateur has be over ... at 66, she never Demi and Harry, who pre- in May after agreeing they allegedly given the actress
and Peter his blessing. The source said ''It's a bit strange, but ultimately Harry is happy if they are.'' Demi's daughters Rumer, 25, Scout, 22, and Tallulah, 19, whose father is her exhusband Bruce Willis, are also happy for their mother. The insider said ''The girls are glad Demi is dating someone older than herself for once. They met Peter at a recent party at his Beverly Hills home and they think he's charming.'' Demi - whose divorce from the 'Two And A Half Men' actor Ashton has not yet been finalised - was most recently linked to former commercial pearl diver Will Hannigan.
Jurassic Park 4 to be named Jurassic World
T
he fourth installment in the Jurassic Park franchise will be called 'Jurassic World' and is slated for a 12 June, 2015 release, it has been revealed. Universal Pictures made the official announcement about the flick, which will be helmed by Colin Trevorrow and produced by Steven Spielberg, the BBC reported. The Jurassic Park trilogy, which first hit screens in 1993, has raked in 1.9 billion dollars at the box office worldwide since the first film was released. The studio had previously stated that t h e initial release date of Jurassic Park 4 had been put on hold to give them and filmmakers adequate time to bring audiences the best possible version of the next installment.
Miley Cyrus defends her controversial video Wrecking Ball... as she reveals hidden message
S C M Y K
C M Y K
and you actually look at me. ‘You can tell that I actually look more broken than even the song sounds.’ Adding: ‘The song is a pop ballad. It's one of these songs that everyone is gonna to relate to, everyone's felt that feeling at some point.’ In the video a nude Cyrus straddles a swinging wrecking ball, licks a sledgehammer and smashes up a few walls for good measure. But Miley admitted that the provocative visuals may provide a challenge to viewers, who could write off the performance as merely lewd and attention-seeking. ‘If people can take their minds off the obvious and go into their imagination a little bit and see kind of what the video really means and the
way that it is so vulnerable,’ Miley said. And Miley, who is engaged to actor Liam Hemsworth, admitted she was incredibly nervous about exposing herself emotionally on camera: ‘If you look in my eyes I look more sad than actually my voice sounds on the record. It was a lot harder to do the video than it was to even record the song. It was much more of an emotional experience.’ Cyrus posted a link to the video on Monday with the hashtag ‘#WreckTheRecord’ meaning she's keen to break her own VEVO record of views in one day, and to reclaim her crown from One Direction. We Can't Stop video scored 10.7 but One Direction's Best Song Ever clip accumulated 10.9 million glances in July. And Miley achieved her goal as she blasted past her competition with 14million views in a 24 hour period, successfully breaking the VEVO most-viewed in one day record. The single Wrecking Ball is off of Cyrus’ upcoming album Bangerz, which will be released on October 8 and the album will reportedly feature a collaboration between Miley and Britney Spears. And while Miley has caught heat for her nudity in the smash hit video, her father Billy Ray Cyrus isn’t too concerned. The country star revealed to Entertainment Tonight that he thinks his daughter is an artist. The 52-year-old father explained: ‘It wouldn't have mattered if Miley would have worn jeans and a flannel shirt ... a Tux ... or a nun's habit. ‘The song's a smash ... and her performance vocally on the tune reflects her roots and sheer God given talent.’ But the nude showing is just one in a series of over-the-top displays of less than demure behaviour. In her now infamous VMA performance she paraded around in a bra and knickers, whilst twerking and performing some other obscure movements with a foam finger. And the popstrel defended herself, in the same radio interview on Wednesday, against critics who claim her recent behaviour is merely raunchy and in bad taste: ‘Anything I do becomes such a big deal. I'm just having fun. Whatever people label it as, it doesn't really matter. I always want to switch it up.’
13 September 2013
Dimapur
11
I’d rather beat SRK at the BO
O
ne of Bollywood's biggest superstars Salman Khan has in the past ruled out all possibilities of his patch up with friend turned foe Shah Rukh Khan. However, he recently took everyone by surprise when he decided to hug SRK at an Iftar party. While talking to the media at the launch of his new TV show Bigg Boss 7, Salman for the first time spoke about his much talked about hug with SRK and said his fight with SRK will be at box-office. "It was the month of Ramadan and the gesture I showed should be done by everyone. It's a good thing to shake hands and hug. If I wouldn't have done that then I see no point in being human. And if we want to beat someone I would rather do it with my work," said the 47 year old actor." This was not all, Salman also went ahead to appreciate the super success of Chennai Express, "Like Shah Rukh Khan recently did with his film Chennai Express, I will also try to do it with my film. Aamir is also ready to beat us with his work (Dhoom 3) and then the new guy Ranbir is also at it. So it's good we will beat each other with our work," concluded Salman.
C M Y K
Sridevi calls Boney Kapoor ‘PaPa’
'I'm naked because I'm sad' he made headlines earlier this week with another attentionseeking display of flesh by going fully nude in her new hit video Wrecking Ball. But Miley Cyrus says her nudity actually has a deep and very personal message to communicate to her fans. The 20-year-old claims her overtly gratuitous display is symbolic of where she is in her life right now. In a recent interview on The Elvis Duran and the Morning Show, on New York City's Z100 radio station, the singer revealed that her nakedness in the short film is a metaphor for how vulnerable she feels inside. Miley explained: ‘I think the video is much more, if people get past the point that I'm naked
Friday
I
t is not only Sridevi's daughters — Jahnvi and Khushi — who call Boney Kapoor 'papa'. One heard even the yesteryear diva calls her husband Papa. Those close to the Kapoors say, Sri becomes a little girl around Boney and in her most childlike voice refers to her husband as 'papa'.
Incidentally, Sri, who will forgive Boney for almost anything, just hates one habit of his. Boney who is already balding has a habit of tugging at his hair especially when he is preoccupied. And Sri is constantly reprimanding her husband for this saying — 'Stop pulling your hair. You will lose whatever hair is left on your head.'
C M Y K
The Voice finalist Jamar Rogers is in intensive care for lung infection
J
amar Rogers, who burst into the spotlight on reality singing competition The Voice, is in intensive care at a Los Angeles hospital due to a lung infection. Rogers was originally admitted to the hospital on September 3, but his conditioned worsened to critical status on Monday, according to a press release on his website. However, Rogers' spirits are said to be 'high' and he will stay at UCLA Medical Center for one or two more weeks as his health improves, according to a rep that spoke to ABC News. The 31-year-old singer won the mentorship of Cee-
Are you a writer, photographer, illustrator, or just have an opinion? We want to hear from you! Submit an article, photo or illustration by August 10, September 14,2013 2013 and see your work in print!
Lo Green on The Voice last year with a rousing rendition of White Stripes' Seven Nation Army. He would sing his way into the semi-finals of the show before finally getting eliminated. On the show, Rogers also revealed that he received a positive HIV diagnosis in 2006 - the same year he got sober after battling a meth addiction, according to Yahoo. Unfortunately, it was his drug use that gave him HIV, a development that Rogers said had him 'scared shtless' as he auditioned for a different singing competition: season eight of American Idol. Rogers wouldn't make
The Morung Express monthly supplement ‘Opinion’ will be published on the third Saturday of every month. In the Opinion, you are the storyteller. Please share your story by responding to the theme of this month’s issue: “Suggestions for Naga "Nagas and their love Reconciliation for Music" and Unity” Contributions can be in the form of photography, illustrations, photos of artwork, essays, first-person accounts, poetry, reported articles, and any other form of expression that can be printed. A PRODUCTION OF
write to us at opinion2mex@gmail.com
it past the audition round, which he said was the best thing that could've happened. 'I had to finally just stand up and face the music,' he told Yahoo in February 2012. 'And one of the ways I did that was by volunteering at some amazing organizations in New York that dealt with people who were living with HIV. 'I began to see other human faces for it, and it began to change my own prejudices.' Rogers recently signed with Tommy Boy Entertainment and filmed the music video for his upcoming single, Drink Of You, which drops on October 8.
and
C M Y K
C
C
M
M
Y
Y
K
K
Ferrari create F1 super team
Kimi Raikkonen signs two-year deal to partner Fernando Alonso at Ferrari following Felipe Massa departure
Ferrari driver Fernando Alonso, of Spain, celebrates after taking the second place during the Italian Grand Prix, at the Monza Formula One circuit, in Monza, Italy, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2013. (AP Photo)
LONDON, September 12 (reuterS): Kimi Raikkonen's return to Ferrari alongside Fernando Alonso has handed Formula One a compelling storyline for the next two seasons. Whether the stellar line-up of champions, Ferrari's first such pairing for 50 years, blazes a trail to title glory or derails itself in a shower of sparks along the way remains to be seen. The two are fire and ice, and it has been no secret in the Formula One paddock that Alonso would rather have retained Brazilian Felipe Massa as a loyal Chinese tennis player Li Na poses with her own wax figure, at Madame Tussauds Wax Mu- number two, but equally seum in Wuhan in central China's Hubei province Thursday, Sept. 12. The figure cost RMB determined. Both know 1.5 million (US$245,117) to make and took 20 artists five months to complete. (AP Photo) what it takes to win titles,
MI start CLT20 preparations from Friday
mumbAI, September 12 (ptI): IPL champions Mumbai Indians will commence their preparation-cum-conditioning camp ahead of the Champions League Twenty20 from Friday at home ground in Ahmedabad. The team will have a five-day camp at the Sardar Patel Stadium and later return to play its two home matches in the city on September 23 and 27. "Mumbai Indians had a great season in IPL 2013 emerging victorious. We are looking forward to begin our CLT20 campaign from where we had left," said team mentor Anil Kumble. "Ahmedabad is our new home ground during the League. This is the first time Mumbai Indians is setting its foot in this city and it would be exciting to play in front of our fans here in Gujarat." Anil Kumble will be joined by team's head coach John Wright, Robin Singh, Jonty Rhodes, Nitin Patel and Paul Chapman in the support staff. Placed in Group A, Mumbai Indians will play its first match - also the CLT20 opener - against Rajasthan Royals on September 21 in Jaipur.
both are supremely quick and old and wise enough to see beyond the usual mind games. "I don't think Alonso will be too pleased to see Raikkonen there," said former racer and Sky television commentator Martin Brundle on Wednesday. "He (Raikkonen) will go about it in his own way. If he heard a radio message 'Fernando is faster than you', Kimi Raikkonen is not going to move out of the way. "He's going to radio back and say 'So why is he behind me, then, if he's faster than me?". And a few expletives along the way. It will definitely put Alonso on his toes. It will be the strongest pairing in Formula One."
Super Team Raikkonen, the last driver to win a title for Ferrari and first in the postMichael Schumacher era, did assist Massa in 2008 just as the Brazilian helped him become champion. But generally, the Finn does not do small talk and nor does he seem remotely intimidated by anybody or anything. When Jenson Button linked up with 2008 champion Lewis Hamilton at McLaren in 2010 in Formula One's most recent 'super team' of champions, the older Briton was warned that he was entering the 'Lion's Den' with everything geared around Hamilton. It did not work out that way,
and 2009 champion Button is now the established leader at McLaren while Hamilton has moved on to Mercedes. Alonso has grown accustomed to being the main man at Maranello but Raikkonen knows his way around the factory corridors well enough and is also being reunited with former colleagues. The Finn has already won nine races for Ferrari from his previous stint there, only two fewer than Alonso - who won his titles at Renault in 2005 and 2006 - has racked up for the scuderia. Raikkonen may not care - or talk - enough to be a leader of men, in the mould of Schumacher or
Alonso, but speed and success are powerful motivators in themselves and the 2007 champion will play to his strengths. Pat Fry and James Allison, two key technical figures, worked with him at McLaren and Lotus respectively - as they did with Alonso. Ferrari team principal Stefano Domenicali is a known Raikkonen fan, despite the Finn being paid off for the final year of his contract at the end of 2009 to make way for Alonso. All that means that there should be a much more level playing field next term at a team renowned in recent years for favouring one driver over another.
wants War-weary Afghans revel in soccer victory Akram Sachin's last
KAbuL, September 12 (Ap): Afghans on Thursday welcomed home their national soccer team with exuberance and joy, a day after the squad won the war-weary country its first international championship in the sport. President Hamid Karzai greeted the team at the airport, hugging each player and posing with them and their gleaming trophy for the cameras. The athletes then headed to Ghazi Stadium, where they were met by thousands of rambunctious fans who screamed in happiness. Afghanistan beat India 2-0 in the South Asian Football Federation Championship on Wednesday. The win brought rare unity to this ethnically divided nation, where the former Taliban government once used sports stadiums to stage executions and where bombings are part of daily life. For hours after the win, Afghans danced in the streets, honked car horns and fired guns in celebration. On Thursday morning, many greeted one another with "Congratulations!" while shouts of "Long live Afghanistan!" were still echoing across the Afghan capital, Kabul, by the after-
Test vs Pak
Afghanistan's national soccer team coach Yusuf Korgar, center, and an unidentified player, second right, hold up their trophy upon arrival at Kabul airport a day after the squad won the war-weary country its first international trophy in the sport, Thursday, Sept, 12. (AP Photo)
noon. "I am proud of the Afghan team — they made the greatest victory in the Afghan history, and I am proud to be Afghan," said Shukria Barakzai, an Afghan parliamentarian and one of the relatively few women in this strict Muslim nation who went out in public to celebrate. Even in Kandahar, a deeply conservative city in the Taliban-riddled south, Afghans hit the streets in pride, according to photos posted by the government there. The revelers piled
into cars, waving national flags as they drove through the streets. Javid Faisal, the spokesman for the Kandahar provincial governor, tweeted in what might have been only a half-jest: "I will not post any casualty reports for 24 hours as I am celebrating the Championship of Afghanistan." Afghans began playing soccer about 90 years ago, and the country's national federation was founded in 1922. Afghanistan joined FIFA in 1948. The country also was
a founding member of the Asian Football Confederation in 1954. From the 1950s through the '70s, soccer gained a strong following in Afghanistan, but it nearly disappeared during the 10-year Soviet occupation from 1979-89 and the civil war that followed from 1992-96. When the Taliban ruled from 19962001, they severely restricted sports, and public outpourings of joy like this week's would have been unimaginable.
C M Y K
Published, Printed and Edited by AkĂźm Longchari on behalf of Morung for Indigenous Affairs and JustPeace from House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur at Themba Printers and Telecommunications, Padum Pukhuri Village, Dimapur, Nagaland. RNI No : NAGENG /2005/15430. House No.4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur 797112, Nagaland. Phone: Dimapur -(03862) 236871, Fax: (03862) 235194, Kohima - (0370) 2291952
For news email: morung@gmail.com and for advertisements and circulation contact: (03862) 236871, Fax-235194 or email : morungad@yahoo.com
New DeLhI, September 12 (AFp): Famed Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram said Thursday he hoped Indian batting great Sachin Tendulkar would play his final Test farewell against Pakistan in Kolkata. World record run-getter Tendulkar, 40, is set to achieve the unique record of playing his 200th Test later this year against the West Indies, who have agreed to tour India. Speculation is rife that Tendulkar might retire from all cricket after that or sometime early next year. Tendulkar, regarded as one of the best batsmen to play the game, has so far scored 15,837 runs with 51 hundreds in 198 Tests and 18,426 in 463 onedays with 49 centuries -- all world records. But Wasim, who played in Tendulkar's debut Test in Karachi in 1989, said Tendulkar's farewell Test should be against Pakistan. "I have created an ideal scenario for his farewell Test: India playing Pakistan at Eden Gardens, Kolkata with a passionate crowd and both nations at a standstill," Wasim told AFP. "It could be the best farewell Tendulkar can have," he added. The Indian media has speculated that India may cancel their tour to South Africa later this year and invite Pakistan for a short two-Test tour. The nuclear rivals have not played a full series since 2007, but there were hints that full ties may revive after India invited Pakistan for a short limited over series last December. Recent tensions on the de facto border in the divided Himalayan region of Kashmir, however, have left 11 people dead since early August and are likely to make the prospect of a tour more remote. Pakistan's domestic team Faisalabad Wolves, due to play in India's Champions League Twenty20 that starts September 17, are still waiting for clearance from New Delhi. Wasim said sport should be separated from politics. "Cricket, as always, has the capacity to bring the people of both nations closer," said Wasim, who led a Pakistan tour of India in 1999 despite extremist threats. PO Reg No. NE/RN-722
C M Y K