22th February 2014 by The Morung Express

C M Y K

www.morungexpress.com

The Morung Express

Dimapur VOL. IX ISSUE 50

“

www.morungexpress.com

The knowledge of yourself will preserve you from vanity

Sonia Gandhi seeks dismissal of 1984 case in US [ PAGE 8]

Christina Aguilera Announces Engagement And Pregnancy

”

Optimize innovations for sustainable agriculture [ PAGE 2]

‘Bad roads killing more people than poor health’ [ PAGE 9]

[ PAGE 11]

C M Y K

Saturday, February 22, 2014 12 pages Rs. 4 –Miguel de Cervantes

Serena & Jankovic have another spat [ PAGE 12]

15th lok sabha ends

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

PM says country can take hard decisions; Sushma praises Sonia

Some people stole his car. Here are his fake vehicle registration documents.

NLA summoned on March 20 KOHIMA, FEBRUARY 21 (MExN): Nagaland Governor, Dr Ashwani Kumar has, in exercise of the powers conferred by Clause (1) of Article 174 of the Constitution of India, summoned the fourth session of the twelfth Nagaland Legislative Assembly to meet at 9:30 am on March 20 in the Assembly Hall, Kohima. This was informed in a press note from the Nagaland Legislative Assembly Secretariat.

Uniforms for auto drivers in Dimapur DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 21 (MExN): The Dimapur District Regional Transport Authority has informed that all auto drivers, in and around Dimapur, will be required to wear a grey uniform with name tags from March 6 onwards. A press note from the Chairperson of the Dimapur RTA informed that the flag off programme for the same will take place at DC office, Dimapur. This is being done for the safety of the public in general and the drivers in particular. It was informed the Dimapur District RTA board has also resolved to allot a parking site for light commercial vehicles (Auto Pickup) at Rama Krishna Mission society area (Duncan Basti) with immediate effect.

Labourers are seen transporting the outer body-frame of a vehicle on a cart, enroute to a workshop in Dimapur on Friday, February 21. Photo by Caisii Mao

‘Do not politicize the foothill road’ Morung Express News Dimapur | February 21

The Nagaland Foothill Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC) has reaffirmed to stand by the July 23, 2013 resolution. One of the resolutions included a commitment to not “politicize” the project. “On July 23, the NFRCC along with the ten MLAs from the constituencies bordering Assam unequivocally resolved that this project will not be politicized in any manner whatsoever,” stated convenor of the NFHRCC, Supu Jamir after a meeting of the NFRCC in Dimapur on February 21. Jamir continued that the NFHRCC “steadfastly reaffirm and honour the July 23 resolutions”. The

NFHRCC reaffirm July 23 resolution

NFHRCC thus appealed to the concerned members and the public not to be misled by rumours and confusing press statements. With regard to the issue raised by the Class I Contractors Union, Wokha through the Kyong Hoho, Jamir informed that a NFHRCC team, led by M. Yanthan (IAS retired) visited the Lotha sector after holding a meeting with Kyong Hoho and contractors union of Wokha on February 15. The team returned with a “clear cut

report” stating that the public in that particular sector are fully committed to the project, Jamir said. Making the Lotha Lower Range Public Organisation’s (LLRPO) stand clear, Jamir said that the LLRPO is firm in its commitment to disallow any elements from jeopardising the project. NFHRCC further urged the PWD (Roads & Bridges) to issue work orders for Mon sector and at the Ao sector at Yajang C. On the bridge over Doyang, NFHRCC asserted that construction must be taken up on priority and at the earliest before the monsoon sets in. Survey of the bridge site is reported to be complete. NFHRCC further resolved to tour the entire length of the foothill road in March.

NEW DELHI. FEBRUARY 21 (PTI): The passage of Telangana bill indicated that this country can take “difficult” decisions, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said in the Lok Sabha on Friday. In his concluding remarks on the last day of the 15th Lok Sabha, he said the manner in which the Telangana Bill was passed was another example that the country was capable of taking difficult decisions. Unlike the disruptions and the slogan shouting, the House witnessed bonhomie and camaraderie on the last day with Prime Minister, leader of the House Sushilkumar Shinde, leader of the opposition Sushma Swaraj as also some other party leaders speaking well of each other. Singh hoped that a new sense of consensus will emerge to carry the country to new pathways, noting that “out of this strife and tensionful atmosphere, birth of a new atmosphere of hope will emerge.” The Prime Minister, who has been at the helm for the past 10 years and has declared that he will not opt for a third term, said people will now have an opportunity to judge on performance, weaknesses and achievements of the government in the upcoming elections. He hailed Shinde for performing his duties with superb aplomb and also praised the role of the leader of the opposition. Leader of the opposition Sushma Swaraj today praised Sonia Gandhi and other Congress leaders, returning the accolades received in the Lok Sabha. Swaraj, who had once said that she will tonsure her head if Sonia Gandhi becomes Prime Minister, said she was a graceful leader. As she spoke for the last time in the 15th Lok Sabha, which was adjourned sine die on Friday, Swaraj showered praise on

BJP patriarch LK Advani who was seen with moist eyes. Swaraj, who was at her witty best, drew applause from members as she mentioned that parliamentary affairs minister Kamal Nath tried “shararat (mischief)” ways, while Sushilkumar Shinde displayed “sharafat (decency)”. Besides, she said UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi’s gracefulness and the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s gentleness helped in conduct of the 15th Lok Sabha. While Swaraj appreciated the “nayay priyata (judicious)” approach of Advani, the BJP patriarch was seen with moist eyes and trying hard to control his tears. “We are going back with so many sweet and sour memories,” Swaraj said. When the history of the 15th Lok Sabha is written, it will say that for most of the time there were interruptions but most awaited bills were also passed during this time, she noted. She mentioned that many important bills including those related to Telangana, street vendors and land acquisition were passed in the 15th Lok Sabha. “We oppose each other but we are not enemies ... We oppose ideologies,” she said. Swaraj also said that she cannot bless them victory but can wish them glory. “We should contest (elections) with dignity,” she added.

Most disrupted session in history

The 15th Lok Sabha will go down in the history as the most disrupted in independent India so far, including the pepper spray incident which marked a new low in parliamentary conduct. Even though scams and scandals, including the Commonwealth Games and Adarsh Housing, led to disruptions, the House also created history by legislating landmark laws.

AST seeks apology from Naga designer ENSF ‘Wheeltour’ to empower people DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 21 (MExN): The Akehda Sangtamlarü Thsingmüjang (United Sangtam Women’s Association) has demanded an apology from Atsu Sekhose, a Naga designer, for incorporating a “Sangtam Male Shawl” into the wardrobe of Bollywood actress, Priyanka Chopra. The actress wore the dress during a reality show on February 7. A press release signed by AST President, Lutoli Sangtam objected to the designer’s use of a male shawl in a women’s dress and stated that “it is a taboo for the Sangtam tribe. . .” The note said that “the

designer being a Naga should know the customs and its usage because it is disparaging to the Sangtams in particular and even to other tribes too.” It added that the Sangtams have various shawls designed uniquely for men and women by their forefathers, “which have been preserved since time immemorial.” It demanded that the designer “apologize before the Sangtams for wrong usage of its custom within a short period.” It may be noted that the United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC) had also objected to it.

Will tirelessly serve nagas, assures rio

TUENSANG, FEBRUARY 21 (MExN): With the aim to empower people in the twenty eastern constituencies of Nagaland state, the Eastern Naga Students’ Federation will embark on a ‘Wheeltour,’ under the theme ‘Wheel of the Mind.’ An ENSF press note informed that the tour will start from Longleng on March 7 and conclude at Pungru on March 27. The tour is aimed to create awareness among the rural masses on their rights and provision and to encour-

age conscious participation in development of rural areas. The tour will cover four different features & exercise: training for survey, career guidance, seminar on development and developmental assessment. The training for survey exercise will include a survey of the present educational status and an evaluation of each individual’s per capita income. Under the career guidance exercise, students from standard 9 and educated youths will be

targeted. The seminars will educate rural stakeholders in understanding the rights and provisions of all centrally sponsored schemes. The Federation will also be assessing and inspecting all developmental works such as roads, school buildings and other infrastructural development etc. ENSF has asked all contractors currently undertaking construction works within eastern jurisdiction to be stationed at their work places.

launches first otV, atV shoWroom in north east Morung Express News Dimapur | February 21

C M Y K

Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio today assured that, if elected to Parliament in the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, he will “continue to tirelessly serve the Nagas with utmost sincerity and complete dedication.” The Chief Minister, in a statement issued to the media, expressed gratitude to all rank and files of the NPF, BJP and JD (U) for declaring him as the DAN consensus candidate for the upcoming LS polls. He especially thanked Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu, President of the NPF and DAN Chairman, “for his continued support and tremendous efforts. . .” “I am humbled by the people’s mandate, which has elected me to be Chief Minister for three successive terms. The overwhelming amount of support, love and affection which the people have given me and my family over the past decades has been the motivation behind my efforts in working for the people,” he stated He further appealed to all sections of people, including all political parties to extend their support and solidarity for his candidature “so that collectively we can address the problems and issues facing our people in a united manner.” A day after he was declared as the DAN consensus candidate, Rio was in Dimapur launching a showroom for Off-Road Vehicles (ORV) and All Terrain Vehicles (ATV). Rio expressed optimism

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio test drives a Polaris ATV vehicle during the inauguration of Polaris Vehicles in Dimapur on February 21. Photo by Caisii Mao

that the vehicles are used for what it was designed for and not misused. Stating that Polaris-make vehicles can be used in policing, farming, promoting tourism, and in motorsports, Rio said that it should be acquired for genuine needs rather than a luxury item. US-based Polaris forayed into the North East, introducing ORVs and ATVs, opening its first outlet at Bamunphukhuri, near Darogajan Middle School, Dimapur. A favoured vehicle in extreme terrain, ORVs and ATVs are widely used by emergency services personnel and even armed forces serving in hostile environments. Underpinning this particular characteristic of the vehicles, country head & Managing Director of Polaris India Pvt, Ltd Pankaj

Dubey held that Polaris ORVs will serve its purpose in Nagaland. For a start, it has three variants of vehicles on display - ATV series, Ranger series and RZR. Prices range from 2.5 lakhs to 25 lakhs. The cheapest ATV variant (a cross between a bike and a MUV) is priced at Rs. 2.5 lakhs, going as high as 18 lakhs depending on the power and design of the engine. The ranger series is a general purpose off-roader, which can be customized depending on need. For extreme motorsport enthusiast, there is the RZR series. It is to be noted that these range of vehicles do not require registration and are to be used for off-road purposes only and cannot ply city roads and highways at freewill.

C M Y K

C M

Dimapur

LocaL

Saturday 22 February 2014

Manoj Rawat, DIG ITBP Tezpur and Pritam Singh, Commandant 25 Bn, ITBP carrying the casket of Lt. Khoto Yhokha Asst. Commandant of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). The funeral service of Lt. Khoto Yhokha who died in an accident on February 17 in Tezu, Arunachal Pradesh, was held on February 20 at Kigwema village. Yhokha was one of the first Naga officers to join ITBP.

C M Y K

Dimapur, February 21 (mexN): CIHSR will be holding a counseling session for career in health profession at the hospital premises on March 4 at 3:00 pm for students who are currently appearing their 12th standard exam and those who have passed out (Science stream only). Dr Sedevi Angami, Medical Superintendent CIHSR in a press release said that this session is to enable those interested to learn more about the courses and its scope as CMC Vellore conducts over 30 paramedical courses including graduate programme. CIHSR invites the interested students and their parents/ guardians to come and learn more about the courses and the possibility of sponsorship in MBBS, Nursing and other Para Medical Courses. For more information contact the front desk, CIHSR at 03862-242555/530

Optimize innovations for sustainable agriculture

Y K

Counseling session for career in health profession

The Morung Express

Dimapur, February 21 (mexN): Parliamentary Secretary for IT&C, Science & Technology, Technical Education and Taxes, Tovihoto Ayemi has called upon the farmers to make maximum use of the evolving technology, which could uplift the agriculture status ultimately contributing to the socioeconomic status of the state. Addressing a farmers’ training on bio-pesticides and its application at Nagaland Science Centre in Dimapur on Friday, Tovihoto said that many farmers were not able to fully optimise innovations, which could increase productivity. At the same time, he pointed out the major challenges faced by the farmers for sustainable agricultural practices while integrating chemical pesticides, fertilizers and bio-pesticides

even as the state strives for total organic status. Tovihoto said the state government has been promoting organic farming but added that the productivity aspects remained a big task. He said augmentation of bio-pesticides in organic farming would lead to sustainable farming and stabilise production levels. The government has been making considerable efforts to make its agricultural system organic however, of late, the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides by our farmers is increasingly noticed to combat pest and diseases for sustained production due to the ever-increasing pressure for cultivable land because of increase in population. In its pursuance for total organic status, integrating chemical pesticides

and fertilizers and bio-pesticides is a major challenge for a sustainable agricultural practice. Many farmers and agriculturists are not able to fully optimize the innovations in frontier areas of agriculture which if fully optimised could increase productivity and this remains a big task he maintained. Therefore, trainings such as this can considerably create awareness amongst the farmers, as augmentation of bio-pesticides in organic farming will lead to sustainable farming and at the same time stabilize production levels and can be also environment friendly he observed. Tovihoto further added that Nagaland Science Technology Council (NASTEC) in collaboration with Indian Institute of Horti-

culture Research (IIHR) Bangaluru, are initiating program for indigenously developing Bio-Pesticides formulated by IIHR which will be distributed and at the same time its usages will be disseminated to both farmers and agriculturists in Nagaland during the short training. The farmers’ training is being organised by Nagaland Science and Technology Council in collaboration with Indian Institute of Horticulture Research, Bengaluru and sponsored by the Department of Science and Technology, New Delhi. Secretary, Science & Technology, Nihekhu was also present at the programme. The training which is being attended by farmers from other NE states as well will culminate on February 23. (With DIPR inputs)

Villages in Wokha appeals for forest conservation Wokha, February 21 (mexN): Ten villages under Lotsu Circle, Wokha district today issued an open letter to the minster of forest and the principal chief conservator of biodiversity, government of Nagaland to preserve forest area under their village jurisdictions. The open letter appended by GBs Union Lotsu Circle Wokha President Nkhyingo Ovung on behalf of the ten villages stated that the presence of wild elephants at this area for the past many years has been known by one and all and the consequences has been very grave as the villagers could not carry out any kind of cultivation. The constant destruction of paddy fields and other plantations by the wild elephant has been the going on for many years and human life have lost on many occasions. Thus, the ten villages could not culti-

M Y K

vate the area and it became a reserve forest, lying waste for many years by now. Therefore, the villages concerned has made request to the Minister of Forest, Government of Nagaland and Principal Chief Conservator of bio-diversity, Government of Nagaland to include the said area under the bio-diversity conservation, preservation of the traditional forest under various schemes for the welfare of the poor villagers. The ten villages include Meshangpen village, Tsopo village, Chudi village, Longtsung village, Sheruechuk village, Morakjo village, Lotsu village, Pyangsa village, Moilan village and Pyotchu village under Wokha district would like to apprise the present condition of farmers of the above mentioned 10 (ten) villages under Lotsu Circle, Wokha district.

Fire breaks out at NZP PHED prioritizes clean water and sanitation

Dimapur, February 21 (mexN): Around three hectares of forest area was destroyed by a fire inside Nagaland Zoological Park, Rangapahar on the North Eastern side of the Park on February 21, at around 12:30 PM. A press note from the Officer in Charge of NZP informed that the fire

was brought under control and extinguished with the assistance from the fire brigade, Park Staff and personnel of 1st NAP, E- Coy and 9th IR, F- Coy. The cause of the fire could not be ascertained, it added. The note informed that the blaze did not harm any of animals, however some vegetation was destroyed.

Dimapur, February 21 (mexN): Delivering the message that water and sanitation are among the most basic human needs, Dhansiripar PHED Sub-Division Office conducted an awareness programme on February 21 to commemorate the ‘National Rural Drinking Water and Sanitation Awareness Week.’ Atokhe Aye, SDO (Civil) Dhansiripar was the chief guest. Speaking on the significance of the week, the chief guest explained, in nagamese dialect, the message from Water & Sanitation Support Organization (WSSO) PHED Nagaland. “Water has always been an important life sustaining to all living beings but can also destroy us if our water sources are contaminated. The safe water is that water free of chemical and bacteriological contamination. Regardless of where potable water comes from, number of impurities can contaminate water,” Aye said. “Consuming of unsafe water can lead to several diseases like nausea, fever, diarrhea dehydration, typhoid, hepatitis A (Jaundice), worm infections and long exposure can cause rashes, a number of immune, neurological, development and reproductive problems,” Aye added. While informing that the PHE department has set up Water Testing Laboratories in all the eleven

C M Y K

Atokhe Aye, SDO (Civil) Dhansiripar along with the officials and others during the awareness programme on February 21.

districts of the State, Aye encouraged everyone to avail the opportunity to test water from the laboratories where experts like the PHED officials and chemist who are available to extent their service. Stating that water and sanitation are co-related, Aye said sanitation is not only the construction of toilets for safe disposal of excreta but to keep ourselves, surrounding/environment clean so that conducive condition is created for good personal and community health there by inculcating the habit of cleanliness as a way of life. It further stated that in social development, lack of toilets affects people’s dignity, privacy, status and safety.

80 % of the diseases in the developing nations are due to water borne and excreta related diseases. Studies have shown that washing of hands with soap before meal after defecation and safe disposal of child excreta has reduced the incident of Diarrhea Morbidity by almost 50 % and child morality by 55 %. Underlining the importance of good health, the message stated that unhealthy surrounding, unhygienic condition such as open defecation, stagnation of water becomes the breeding place of Mosquitoes and other insects, which become the carriers of diseases and directly transmit to the human. “Preserve our nature es-

pecially our forest as we all know that ‘Conservation of Forest is Conservation of Water.’ Treat water with respect because water is life,” Aye quoted the message in conclusion. As per the order of the programme, Er Imkongneken Jamir, JE (PHED) was the chair; Puna Imsong, secretary, Ao Baptist Church Dhansiripar said invocation prayer; N Rengma, WATSAN secretary Dhansiripar hq delivered exhortation, vote of thanks by Er Sentimeren, SDO (PHED) Dhansiripar Sub-Division and benediction by Thungbentung, youth director, UBC Dhansiripar. The programme was attended by village WATSAN committee chairman and secretary.

C M Y K

Nagaland joins launching of national policies

Our Correspondent

Kohima | February 21

C M Y K

Nagaland joined the nation-wide launching of ‘National Youth Policy’ (NYP2014) and ‘Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhivan’ (RGKA) on February 21 at the Indoor Badminton Stadium Kohima. The Nehru Yuva Kendra Kohima (NYK) and the National Service Scheme (NSS) Kohima organized the event with Wennyei Konyak, SDO (Civil) Sadar Kohima as the chief guest. Students from different colleges and schools attended the event. The event was chaired by John Makhabo, DYC, NYK, Kohima while the keynote speech was addressed by Jackie Ruivah ZD, NYKS, Nagaland and the vote of thanks by C. Theyo, State Liasion Officer, NSS. “In the past, such kinds of policies were never there. We should all be happy these policies for the youth have been introduced. Youth are the future of this world,” said Weinnyei Konyak . “The National Youth Policy is being introduced for the all-round development and empowerment of the youths. It highlights the key issues faced by the youth and elaborates on how stakeholders can support the youth to ensure that they contribute positively to

Students participate in the rally during the launching of ‘National Youth Policy’ (NYP-2014) and ‘Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhivan’ (RGKA) in Kohima on February 21. (Morung Photo)

the development of the society now and in the future,” said Jackie Ruivah who further gave brief introductions to the objectives and provisions of the policies. After the launching, a rally was held from the Indoor stadium till Khuociezie, Kohima local Ground. The NYP-2014 and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abbhiyan is being launch at Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium in National level in 623 NYK districts and 299 NSS Universities of the country at 3:00 pm. The vision of NYP-2014“To empower youth of the country to achieve their full potential and through them enable India to find its rightful place in the community of nations.”

The RGKA aims to provide infrastructure and facilities for the promotion of sports in the country. The scheme envisages 6500 sports complexes in every rural Block of the country; 11 outdoor and 5 indoor games (including multi gym); Three local Sports Trainers (at least one female); Sports equipment worth Rs.15 lakhs; A youth resource centre; Provision of self-defence training, especially for women Funds to be provided every year to conduct competition to identify talent: Block level- Rs. 1 lakh; District level- Rs. 4 lakh; State level- Rs. 2 lakh for each district in the state; National level- Rs. 10 lakh per sports discipline.

C M Y K

REgional

The Morung Express

Moreh reels under shutdown

IMPHAL, FebruAry 21 (NNN): A Myanmarese delegation led by two ministers who were to visit Guwahati via Moreh in the Indo-Myanmar border was sent back in view of the tense situation in Moreh, Manipur chief minister O Ibobi said today. On Friday, a protest rally was staged in Moreh town by people from various communalities condemning the killing of two Punjabi traders whose bodies were found in Molcham area in Chandel district of Manipur along the IndoMyanmar border yesterday. Chief minister Ibobi said speculations are there that the bodies of the two Punjabi traders might have been thrown into the Indian side of the border after the crime was committed on them in Myanmar, but he stated that investigations are on to find out the truth.

O Ibobi then announced an exgratia payment of Rs 5 lakh each for the two Indian traders found brutally murdered at Yangnomphai on the Manipur side of the Indo-Myanmar border yesterday. Ibobi today visited Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) mortuary here to condole the bereaved families of Satindar Singh, 30, hailing from Chandpur district of Uttar Pradesh and Daljeet Singh, 30, from West Mumbai in Maharashtra. The Punjabi traders went missing on February 11 after they entered Tamu in Myanmar through the border gate number 2 at Moreh town in Manipur’s Chandel district. Their bodies were found at Yangnompokpi, a pocket in Molcham in Chandel district on the border yesterday morning. The Chief Minister said both In-

dia and Myanmar must condemn the unfortunate incident, terming it as ‘inhumane crime.’ He said the state Government did react against the unpleasant incident on time, but admitted that security forces from the state could not carry out rescue operation beyond the border and act on time to recover the duo. However, the Chief Minister assured that all the culprits will be brought to justice soon and appropriate action will be taken against them as per the established laws. He added Irrigation & Flood Control minister Ngamthang Haokip, Industry minister Govindas Konthoujam, and MLA DK Korungthang are now in Moreh to appease the tense situation there in the aftermath of the incident. On Friday, a protest rally was staged in Moreh town by people from various communalities con-

Northeast MPs meet Bezbaruah panel

New DeLHI, FebruAry 21 (IANS): Members of the Northeast MPs Forum Friday met the Bezbaruah Committee, set up by the union home ministry to look into the issues pertaining to people of India's northeastern states living in different parts of the country, especially metropolitan areas. The panel was constituted on Feb 5 and is scheduled to present its report in three months. The meeting was hosted by forum chair-

man Mukut Mithi, a member of the Rajya Sabha, said a press statement. Others who attended the meeting were Minister fo State for Minority Affairs Ninong Ering, Lok Sabha MPs Sanjoy Takam, P.D. Rai, Thangso Baite, and Thokchum Meiyna and Rajya Sabha MP Biswajit Daimary. The forum and the committee exchanged views on a variety of issues that plague the people of the northeast living

in other parts of India. The statement also said that the forum would provide more data and reports and other petitions it has given to the prime minister and other leaders. The committee found the meeting useful in framing their report and sought further information from other sources, the statement said. Mithi expressed his satisfaction at the outcome and said that if need be more talks can be held.

Teacher appointment scam in M'laya

SHILLoNg, FebruAry 21 (AgeNcIeS): Over 245 lower primary school teachers in Meghalaya, whose appointments in 2010 were found 'tainted', are set to loose their jobs as the Law department has directed the Education department to terminate their services, officials said today. "About 246 teachers will be issued notices accordingly as the Law department has directed the Education department to terminate their services," a senior Education official stated. The High Level Scrutiny Committee (HLSC) constituted by the state government to probe into the alleged education job scam unearthed by the report of CBI has also recommended termination of services of such teachers.

A CBI report found that 255 candidates out of 350 managed a back door entry after politicians recommended their names in the appointment of assistant teachers in state's lower primary schools in 2010 during which Urban Minister Ampareen Lyngdoh was Education Minister. The Education department had earlier served showcause notices to 255 teachers whose appointments were found 'tainted' due to certain political recommendation and not due to their merit, to reply as to why their services should not be terminated, he said. The Director School Education and Literacy A C Marak also warned that failure to reply to the show cause will force the department to take action as per law against the teachers.

demning the killing of two Punjabi traders whose bodies were found in Molcham area in Chandel district of Manipur along the Indo-Myanmar border yesterday. The demonstrators later held a protest public meeting at Heinoumakhong. Minister Govindas, who was attending the meeting, said that the Government is in touch with Myanmar Government over the incident, appealing all the communities in Moreh to maintain restraint. Leaders from all the communities also handed a memorandum to the minister urging him to take steps to ensure safety for people from India while visiting Tamu in Myanmar. The commercial town Moreh is now in complete shutdown enforced by its residents in protest against the killing of two Punjabis. The shutdown entered its third day on Friday.

Saturday

22 February 2014

Dimapur

'Racial attacks have to stop'

ItANAgAr, FebruAry 21 (DNA): Nido Tania, the victim of recent racial attack in New Delhi, overshadowed all issues during the 28th statehood day celebration of Arunachal Pradesh here on Thursday. Given China's frequent claim on Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang particularly, the annual celebration is often viewed by many as a platform India uses to send a message or two to its neighbor. But chief minister Nabam Tuki on Thursday used the occasion to make a strong case for the enactment of a tough anti-racial law. "The death of Nido Tania in a racial attack was not an isolated incident. People from the Northeast are being increasingly targeted and discriminated against elsewhere in the country. This has to stop. We believe we can stop this by bringing in a strong anti-racial law," the chief minister said. Son of parliamentary secretary Nido Pabitra, Nido Tania hailed from the state's Ziro town, 103 km west of Itanagar. Tuki said the situation along the Indo-China border was very peaceful. "Some ele-

ments sometimes try to create nuisance. But the border currently is very peaceful," he said. Last year there were reports about migration of villagers from the international border. Tuki attributed the migration to the availability of 'better facilities' in Itanagar and its surrounding areas. With parliamentary election round the corner, the chief minister tried to woo voters by making an announcement to almost double the wages of skilled and unskilled labourers. His announcement comes a day before BJP prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi's rally at Pasighat, some 135 km from Itanagar. Labourers and their dependents make up one sixth of the state's 6.5 lakh voters. Most of them are engaged in strategic projects in areas bordering China, Myanmar and Bhutan. Wages, as meagre as Rs.70Rs.80 a day, have been a cause of resentment among the labourers for long. The retrenchment of 7,000 labourers by Border Roads Organisation in Tawang recently had only added fuel to the fire.

URGENT SALE Urgent sale of 17 bigah land at Umnawe, Raid Market (Killing) Ri-Bhoi, Dist. Meghalaya, with 5 bigah land developed and 120x60 RCC Foundation for any factory,(any commercial purpose) within 5 km from 9th mile CRPF CAMP. RITS and 10 km from Bashisto Charali, Assam. Just Pucca road state highway, Meghalaya.

Please Contact this no.8118980371.

A Nishi tribal woman roasts meat during the 28th statehood day celebrations in Itanagar on Friday, February 21. Both India and China consider Arunachal Pradesh to be part of their territory and the giant Asian neighbors fought a brief war in 1962 over it. (AP Photo)

WANTED City Bus Driver Salary: Rs.8000/Daily allowance: Rs.100/Criteria: *Christian *Sincere & honest *Non alcoholic *Having genuine Driving (Heavy) License. Interested Drivers may contact the bus owner @ 9615690414/ 9856217923

C M Y K

public discoursE

Saturday

Dimapur

22 February 2014

D-d-dear Mr. K-k-khrove-ve-te N-n-nuh, Deputy Secretary, FGN; must confess having to be taught Naga History lesson through the barrel of a gun is hard to digest. It causes mental constipation. But now that the subject has been induced I would very humbly request you to clarify and enlighten me on the following ‘misconceived notions’ that I have been accused of: 1. Can you put your sullied right hand on the Bible and swear that the Federal Government of Nagaland has never raised any tax other than ‘free will donations’? Then kindly explain this demand note that was served to all Heads of Department (HoD) including me while I was serving as Transport Commissioner, on 22-8-1994. For you benefit I am reproducing the full text verbatim: (Quote) “FEDERAL GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND, EASTERN OKING, CHAPLEE MINISTRY; Dated 22/8/94. The Federal Government of Nagaland have decided to levy annual Tax from all the Governmental agencies for smooth running and functioning of the Government and also to met the various expenses of the same. The undersigned, therefore, with the express authority from

iabetes mellitus is a condition that occurs when the body cannot use glucose (a type of sugar) normally. Glucose is the main source of energy for the body’s cells. The levels of glucose in the blood are controlled by a hormone called insulin, which is made by the pancreas. There are two main types of diabetes: • Type 1 diabetes: The pancreas does not make enough insulin • Type 2 diabetes: The body can’t respond normally to the insulin that is made. In diabetes the blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels are too high. This leads to symptoms such as increased urination, increased hunger, extreme thirst, general weakness, burning feet, delayed healing of wounds and unexplained weight loss among others. Over time, other body functions can also get affected such as- kidneys, nerves, feet, and eyes. Having diabetes can also put you at a higher risk for heart disease, bone and joint disorders. Other long-term complications of diabetes include skin problems, digestive problems, sexual

Petrified Khekiye K. Sema the Centre, demands a payment of Rs.3,00,000/-(Rupees Three Lakhs) only from your department. The payment of the same should be made within ten days from today to the undersigned, failing which the Federal Government of Nagaland will be forced to take appropriate action. No negotiation will be entertained, Yours Faithfully Sd/-(Finance Secretary), F.G.N(Eastern Oking)” (Unquote); A good number of Departments had paid up...but that it was paid or not paid is not the issue. The fact of taxation as a policy... is. There have been other innumerable instances of tax collection being carried out by FGN over the years that the public are well aware of. Your sanctimonious declaration of not being involved in the deadly game of public taxation seems to only add up to a noise pollution. (2) Like everyone else, you too have the liberty to believe what you want and call yourselves the “only mandated Political Institution and Government” and not an NPG. Who would want to dispute your

dysfunction, problems with your teeth and gums. Amongst these complications, foot problems associated with diabetes are leading causes of hospitalization all over the world. Diabetic foot complications: People with diabetes can develop many different foot problems. Even ordinary problems can get worse and lead to serious complications. Foot problems most often happen when there is nerve damage also called neuropathy, which results in loss of feeling in your feet. Poor blood flow or changes in the shape of your feet or toes may also cause problems. People with diabetes are also at higher risk to have a foot or leg amputated (surgical removal of limb or other part of the body) than other people. This is because of the poor circulation and nerve damage. Together, these problems make it easy to get ulcers and infections that may lead to amputation. Most amputations are preventable with regular care and proper footwear. Signs and Symptoms of Foot Problems It is important to recog-

LEISURE Game Number # 2799

ChArACter eduCAtioN

ACCOUNTABLE

LOYALTY

CHARACTER

PROFESSIONAL

COMMITMENT

RELIABLE

CONSISTENCY

STRENGTH

COOPERATION

TEAMWORK

COURAGE

TRUSTWORTHY

DEPENDABLE

TRUTH

FAIR

UNDERSTAND-

FORTHRIGHT

ING

HONESTY

S I I R I E L B A T N U O C C A

S R S D S J Q H O N E S T Y W L

claim? With a gun pointed at the head the people will definitely agree with you should you want them to believe that an apple in an orange...but would that really alter the truth? Are you seriously telling me that NNC/FGN still exists as a single united entity?... That there is no “Accordist” or “Non-Accordist” factions of NNC/FGN? Mr. Khrovete Nuh, Deputy Secretary, FGN, may I remind you that I too live in this planet earth actually. Would you care to clarify who those “some Underground Representatives” were, who signed the Shillong Accord, considering the fact that there were no other Undergrounds in existence other than NNC/FGN at that time of occurrence? Are you denying that the Federal emergency meeting held from 29th November to December 1, 1975 to review the Shillong Accord did not happen? How come the Top Brass of FGN spend so many days of discussion on a non-issue if it was a non-issue? Why did they officially forward a non-issue to Mr. Phizo for his consideration? Are you denying that Madam Adino is not the President of NNC “Accordist” faction? If Shillong Ac-

cord did not happen is she the head of NNC ‘Accordist Fiction’ and not faction? You say that “On the part of the FGN, the Shillong Accord clause 1 and 3 were rejected by the then FGN President”...that’s a gross misrepresentation of truth. The letter of 30th Dec.1975 to the Governor that you referred to is not a letter of “rejection” but a statement of inability/incompetence on the part of the FGN to finalise the issues at clause 1 and 3 of the Shillong Accord at their level. Let me reproduce the exact content of the relevant text of this letter:(Quote): “Therefore, the Naga Federal authority is morally and legally not competent to include the Number One (1) and the Number Three (3) of the SHILLONG ACCORD until this subject is taken up by the competent authority. We are only competent to carry out the No.2 of the Shillong Accord.” (Unquote). Do you even remotely see a note of rejection here? Forwarding the issue to a higher authority for consideration is definitely not a rejection as I understand it. If there is any gray matter available within your parameter then ponder on this

as well: If this Accord was actually rejected, why was clause 2 of the Accord implemented or is this too a fiction? The Transit Peace Camps is in fact a part of this evolution reality or do you consider this too as a fiction? For simpletons like me, it is extremely difficult to comprehend the rejection of an Accord and yet implementing a part of the same Accord. Your statement: “In fact all Nagas have rejected the Shillong Accord as an invalid document” is fully endorsed as a statement of fact...which brings us to the question of: how would you define the status of Madam Adino as the Head of the NNC “Accordist” group? If Nagas have rejected the Shillong Accord does it not equally conclude that Madam Adino is part of that rejection? Under these circumstances where would you place the public mandate? 3. I still stand by my “desperate opinion that all the various national political groups must unite” and I don’t very much care under whose leadership... as long as there is unanimity in so doing. You have the privileged freedom to dwell in a world of fiction about your

Diabetic Foot care

nize early warning signs of foot problems, such as: • Burning, tingling, or painful feet. • Loss of sensation of heat, cold, or touch. • Changes in color or shape of your feet. • Loss of hair on the toes, feet, and lower legs • Thickening and color change (yellow) of the toenails • Onset of blisters, sores, ulcers, infected corns, or ingrown toenails. If you have any of these symptoms, consult a health care giver immediately to prevent further complications.

• After washing, use lotion on your feet to prevent cracking. Do not put lotion between your toes. Since the skin between toes tends to stay moist naturally; adding lotion there would increase moisture in that area and thereby increase the tendency of infections. 2. Examine Your Feet Each Day • Check the tops and bottoms of your feet for cuts, scratches, redness, cracks, blisters, ingrown toenails, corns and calluses. Have someone else look at your feet or use mirror if you cannot see them. Caring for Your Feet • If you get a blister or sore Here are some diabetes from your shoes, do not foot care tips to follow. “pop” it. Apply a bandage and wear a different pair 1. Wash and Dry Your Feet of shoes. Daily • Use mild soaps 3. Take Care of Your Toe• Use warm water nails • Pat your skin dry; do • Cut toenails after bathnot rub. Thoroughly ing, when they are soft. dry your feet. Infections • Cut toenails straight tend to develop in moist across and smooth with areas, so make sure you a nail file. dry the area between • Avoid cutting into the your toes well. corners of toes.

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

The Morung Express

• Do not cut cuticles.

4. Be Careful When Exercising • Walk and exercise in comfortable shoes. • Do not exercise when you have open sores on your feet. 5. Protect Your Feet With Shoes and Socks Never go barefoot. Always protect your feet by wearing shoes, slippers or footwear. For diabetic patients micro-cellular rubber chappal (MCR chappal) are recommended to prevent friction to the foot. Guidelines for using socks: • Change your socks daily. • Avoid tight socks. • Wear natural-fiber socks (cotton, wool, or a cotton-wool blend). • Avoid synthetic socks as they prevent sweat from evaporating properly and hence increasing the moisture leading to susceptibility to infections. Guidelines for using footwear: • Don’t wear any shoes more than five hours at a time. You should have

•

“mandated political Institution and Government” even after what all had happened as explained and questioned at point No.2 above. For those Nagas who truly and honestly are concerned about the future of our people, we see no hope without the NPGs UNITING as ONE...however unpalatable it may sound to you. Nagas will be hard pressed to believe an unlikely perception that Naga sovereignty will be won from the Transit Peace Camp. 4. The saying goes that a drowning man would grasp at straws...Mr. Khrovete Nuh, would you please make up your mind? All along you have been vehemently trying to convince the world that Shillong Accord was a fiction and yet in the same breath you say...because of the 16 P.A, Shillong Accord 1975 happened. Which is it...did it happen or did it not? As for the 16 Point Agreement we will leave this argument for another day. Finally Mr. Khrovete Nuh, does it not embarrass you or your flock sitting in the Transit Peace Camp, created through clause No.2 of the Shillong Accord 1975, and serve a note of

one pair for morning, one for the afternoon, and one for the evening around the house if at all possible. Never wear shoes without socks or stockings. Have both feet carefully measured before you purchase shoes. Shoe size can change due to weight gain and there can be a discrepancy in size between your two feet. Always choose a size that fits your largest foot comfortably. Always try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are their maximum size. Feet can change size as the day progresses from swelling due to prolonged standing. Shoes you select in the morning may be too tight in the evening. It’s important to avoid shoes that are too tight to prevent the development of blisters and calluses that can turn into ulcers. When you try on shoes, spend some time walking around the store to make sure the shoes

DAILY CROSS WORD

CROSSWORD # 2810

Answer Number # 2798

L A N O I S S E F O R P E B M B

D E P E N D A B L E I I F P O C

T R U T H A R R I E S G N A G O

R L O Y A L T Y N E S N M U I U

U L C E L C H A R A C T E R K R

S B T N E M T I M M O C E I T A

T U N D E R S T A N D I N G Q G

W C O N S I S T E N C Y E I G E

O I E R U H Q C K R O W M A E T

R Z C O O P E R A T I O N T O A

T A E Y N D Y I A E E T L Q I I

H I T R E L I A B L E K T V T J

Y J L R U W S T R E N G T H T I

F O R T H R I G H T B I E E G I

ACROSS 1. First Greek letter 6. Mire 10. Notion 14. Christmas song 15. Weightlifters pump this 16. Young sheep 17. Matchless 19. Hawaiian feast 20. Humiliate 21. Beer 22. Nile bird 23. Rock 25. Inscribed pillar 26. Unwakable state 30. Twerp 32. Forsake 35. Provide commentary 39. Hang around 40. Scanty 41. Physical examination 43. A cowboy movie 44. Spotted cat 46. Feudal worker 47. Thrash 50. Motif 53. Lantern 54. Meadow 55. Arouse 60. Dogfish

61. Illogical 63. Fog 64. Wise men 65. Site 66. Leisure 67. Implored 68. Gladden

DOWN 1. Corrosive 2. Alley 3. Dainty 4. “Where the heart is” 5. Assumed name 6. Missing In Action 7. Sophisticated 8. An Irish girl 9. Leg joint 10. Unable to read 11. Braised meat stew 12. Electronic letters 13. Bad treatment 18. Explosive 24. Possess 25. Fathers 26. Serene 27. Double-reed woodwind 28. A female domestic 29. Expect 31. What a person is called 33. Sticker

34. By mouth 36. How old we are 37. Small slender gull 38. Sea eagle 42. Genuine 43. Suffering 45. Accuse 47. Blaze 48. Female demon 49. Awry 51. Got together 52. Banish 54. Not stiff 56. Not hot 57. Ancient Peruvian 58. Tight 59. If not 62. Assist

Ans to CrossWord 2809

• •

caution to other Naga citizen who did not sign the Shillong Accord? I am afraid all of us must honestly try and absorb factual history without guns. I do acknowledge your caution seriously in terms of threat value, not on the intellectual content. Therefore, as Naga traditional custom would have it, I would like you to know that should anything happen to me, you will be held personally accountable. However inconsequential as I may be, I too am a proud member of a family called the Sumi Tribe and I strongly believe that my family members are not likely to take things lying down, FGN Accordist or not. No matter how much you would want to berate me and my late father, I would have you know that I am as much a true Naga at heart... perhaps not as good as the Transit Peace Campers’ patriotic selves...thinking for the greater good of our people and our future to which we are all inextricably linked to. If my views are not acceptable to you try and help me with your considered better views without the influence of your AK47...if not I could land up agreeing with you that an apple is an orange... then, we will all have missed the truth. Have a good day. Khekiye K. Sema IAS (Rtd), Forest Colony, Kohima, Nagaland.

you’ve chosen are comfortable with plenty of room. Don’t rush when making a shoe selection. The health of your feet may depend upon it. Choose shoes made of a natural material with good ventilation to reduce the risk of infection. Avoid purchasing high heels or shoes with pointed toes that might reduce the amount of wiggle room for your toes. It’s important your toes have lots of space to move and breathe. Avoid wearing open toed sandals since these can increase your risk of injury or foot infection. Look and feel inside your shoes before putting them on to make sure there are no foreign objects or rough areas.

to your feet. • Wiggle your toes and move your ankles up and down for 5 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day. • Don’t cross your legs for long periods of time. • Don’t smoke as smoking hardens the arteries. 8. Be more active. • Plan your physical activity program with your doctor.

9. Check with your doctor. • Have your doctor check your bare feet and find out whether you are • likely to have serious foot problems. Remember that you may not feel the pain of an injury. • • Call your doctor right away if a cut, sore, blister, or bruise on your foot does not begin to heal after one day. • Follow your health giv6. Protect your feet from er’s advice about foot hot and cold. care. • Don’t put your feet into hot water. Test water be- 10. Get started now. fore putting your feet in • Begin taking good care of it. Check the water tem- your feet today. perature with the back • Set a time every day to of your hand before putcheck your feet. ting your feet in because With these simple tips on your diabetes may make foot care followed, the it difficult to sense water vast majority of diabetic temperature with your foot related complicafeet. tions resulting in ampu• Never use hot water tation can be prevented. bottles, heating pads, Inaholi Asumi and or electric blankets. You Merentola P Longkumer can burn your feet withTutors, College Of out realizing it. Nursing 7. Keep the blood flowing CIHSR, DIMAPUR

Response to NPF; Support Cong to thwart Communal Forces he repeated claim made by Dr Shurhozelie who holds both the post of President NPF and Convenor DAN on T the issue of consensus candidate for the lone Lok Sabha

seat from Nagaland smacks of veiled arrogance that has become the hallmark of the NPF led DAN govt while basking in the glory of their purchased mandate. Off late, the word ‘consensus’ has been loosely used by the NPF and their President to assert their viewpoint which is totally unacceptable to the NPCC. When the NPF and DAN coalition partners have already endorsed the candidature of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to contest the coming Lok Sabha elections, the question of appealing to the Congress and arriving at an all party consensus to back Rio’s candidature will remain a farfetched dream. The present trend of the NPF and their Chief Minster hobnobbing with the BJP known more for its ideological moorings with the RSS and is even despised by majority of liberal Hindus for their communal and divisive agenda does not augur well for a Christian majority state like Nagaland. If at all the NPF is interested in sending a consensus candidate to represent the Naga’s as repeatedly claimed, they should throw their weight behind the congress candidate regardless of ideological differences in the state so that the communal and divisive forces headed by the BJP are prevented from carrying out their hidden agenda where religious minorities and oppressed castes have no place in their idea of nationhood. The NPCC will not shy away from the electoral battle and more so with the Chief Minister contesting, the party in due course of time will unveil a formidable candidate to challenge the Chief Minister who has miserably failed the people in the last 11 years and is conveniently charting an escape route from the huge mess that has been generated as a result of his misrule. The NPF MPs in the past decade have all resigned before completion of their term, which is an insult to the mandate given by the people to represent the state in the parliament. The NPCC strongly feels that Chief Minister Rio or for that matter any regional candidate will once again scurry back to the comforts of state politics by betraying the mandate of the people. Therefore, the NPCC appeals to the people of Nagaland to repose their faith in Congress rather than send a lone regional MP to warm the back benches of the parliament thereby losing an invaluable voice to be heard on the national stage. Media Cell, NPCC

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

MEx FILE Village Council Purana Bazar ‘B’ condemns Dimapur, February 21 (mexN): The Village Council Purana Bazar ‘B’ (Bokajan) has condemned the forceful occupation of village land allegedly by Dr. Akato Awomi, Deputy Kilonser. A press statement issued by the Head GB of the village Khagen and the Village Council chairman L Temjen also condemned the “harassment of public by gun firing of several night while developing.” Declaring that the public cannot tolerate such activities, the Village Council appealed to Dr. Akato Awomi “not to develop or give harassment and leave the occupied land.”

ANSTA Changtongya serves ultimatum

mokokchuNg, February 21 (mexN): The All Nagaland School Teachers Association (ANSTA) SubUnit, Changtongya under the establishment of SDEO Changtongya held an executive meeting on the issue of non-payment of salary for the month of January 2014 as well as 2013 Arrear. A press statement appended by the Association’s president, treasurer and general secretary informed that the meeting unanimously resolved that if the pending salary and arrear are not released by February 25, 2014, all the bonafide members will go on “pen down strike”. For this, the release said, necessary information was given in written to all the authorities concerned. All the members have been requested to take part in the said strike.

Saturday 22 February 2014

State govt to implement National Food Security act

Dimapur, February 21 (mexN): Government of Nagaland has approved for implementation of National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 in the State. A press release issued by Director, Food & Civil Supplies Dimapur, Sedevikho Khro informed that the "eligible priority households" will be entitled to receive 5 (five) kgs of food grains per person per month either at Rs. 3/- per kg of rice or Rs 2/- per kg of wheat. The implementation will commence only after completion of identification of eligible priority households in the State. There will be no more

he criteria for identification of son as head of the household (as priority households under the defined in persons with DisabiliNational Food Security Act, 2013 are ties Act '1995), subjected to subas under: mission of prescribed certificate Inclusion Criteria: by a competent medical Authority. • Households having an annual • Single women (including widows, family income of Rs. 1.5 lakh or unmarried, divorced and desertless (one lakh fifty thousand) and ed women). falling under the following catego- • Homeless and destitute housery will be considered for inclusion holds. under priority households. • Occupationally vulnerable • Vulnerable and marginalised secgroups like Casual Domestic tion of the people infected with workers, Unskilled Workers, CaHIV+ and duly registered and cersual Labourers, Rickshaw and tified by Nagaland State Aids ConCart-pullers, Marginal Farmers, trol Society (NSACS). Vegetable Vendors, Rag-pickers • Households with a disabled peretc. will also be included under

Above Poverty Line/ Below Poverty Line (APL/ BPL) beneficiaries under NFSA only priority households. The AAY ben-

SAPO directives on Angami Sekrenyi celebration

eficiaries will continue to receive their monthly allocation as per the scheme. The district administration, local bodies and vil-

pereN, February 21 (mexN): All the public of Peren district are informed that District Health Society, Peren District will be conducting the 2nd round of Intensive Pulse Polio Immunization (IPPI) 2014 for all children from 0-5 years of age. The health workers through the booths will administer free Polio drops on February 23 in all the towns and villages followed by house visits. In this regard, the office of the Chief Medical Officer, Peren has requested all parents, community leaders, women and youth leaders and churches to kindly mobilize children to avail the free Polio drops.

Workshop on CSS and training planning postponed

Dimapur, February 21 (mexN): The regional workshop on CSS and training planning for NE Region has been rescheduled to March 6 and 7 at Theja Fort Hotel, Burma Camp, Dimapur due to the pre-occupation of the DAC, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India in National Conference and Zonal Conference. Inconvenience is regretted. The following officials may be contacted for further information and confirmation: Bendangyanger, Jt. Director, Agriculture- 9436001634: Dr. I. Amenla, LTO9436001577 & Alemba Jamir-9089549967 or by email: agrilan@rediffmail.com

NCSU head office calls meeting

kohima, February 21 (mexN): Nagaland Contractors’ and Suppliers’ Union (NCSU) head office Kohima has convened an emergency meeting regarding payment and other issues on February 26, 11:00 am at the union’s conference hall. Therefore, all the NCSU head office advisors, executive members, Action Committees, presidents and general secretaries of district units, NCSU have been requested to attend the meeting positively.

“O

lage councils have been requested to assist the Department of Food & Civil Supplies to identify eligible priority beneficiaries.

Any false declarations by applicants will be automatically rejected and no further appeal will be considered, it stated.

Our Correspondent Thetsumi | February 21

The villagers of Thetsumi in Phek district has a great reason to rejoice as minister for youth resources & sports Merentoshi R. Jamir inaugurated the school building of Government High School, Thetsumi, while MARCOFED chairman Mmhonlumo Kikon inaugurated the VDB multipurpose building today. Speaking on the occasion, Jamir called upon each and every individual to take ownership in managing the school and at the same time asked the villagers to take education as the top most priority. He was appreciative that despite the remoteness of the village, bordering Manipur, Thetsumi village is advanced in many areas. In this, he called upon the villagers to continue to shine and advertise Nagaland in positive way. He also stated that a time has come for the peoDreamz Unlimited performing a play on the theme "National Rural Drinking Water & Sanitation" at Capital Con- ple of the state to come together as one. Stating that vention Centre, Kohima on February 20, 2014.

Minister Merentoshi addressing during the inauguration of school building of Government High School, Thetsumi.

DAN has approved Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio as consensus candidate for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, he asserted Rio is the right person to represent the state at the Lok Sabha and bring economic development and resources to the state. He also sought the support of the general public for Rio to let the voice of the Nagas be heard in Delhi. Meanwhile, Kikon said the state government has empowered the community at the grassroots level by extending funds through the Village Development Board (VDB) for which it is the responsibility of the community to make the best use of the packages for fast pace of

Village authorities resolve on BRGF Training for state level kohima, February 21 should be released as per five political parties, media (mexN): The five Backward years prospective plan submitRegions Grant Fund (BRGF) benefitting districts, namely Mon, Wokha, Longleng, Tuensang and Kiphire held a joint meeting on February 20 regarding payment and utilization of the said fund at DUDA Guest House, Kohima. A press release appended by general secretary, Kiphire VDB Association, and presidents of VDB Associations of the other four districts stated that the House after thorough deliberation on the present nature of implementation of BRGF Scheme, strongly resolved that, the BRGF fund

ted by village authorities concerned with effect from 20132014. The House also resolved not to accept any materials as the department has been issuing materials to the VDBs in the past years, it added. Further, it resolved not to entertain any VIP note for allotting of work under BRGF Scheme which is against the BRGF Guidelines. In this connection, the House appealed to the department concerned to treat this matter as important, failing which the house resolved to restore to any form of agitation to fulfill this demand.

kohima, February 21 (Dipr): As directed by the Election Commission of India, CEO, Nagaland, Sentiyanger Imchen, IAS, has informed that a State level training programme for the State level recognized political parties and media in connection with the upcoming Lok Sabha election 2014 will be held at Hotel Japfu on February 28 from 10:00 am. CEO, Nagaland, Sentiyanger

Public SPace

ne lives in the hope of becoming a memory” (Antonio Porchia) and “Immortality is to live your life doing good things and leaving your mark behind” (Brandon Lee).When we retrospect who among the Nagas has truly lived upto these ideals, one man instantly comes to mind who is none other than the champion of the poor, the needy and the downtrodden Mr Vamuzo Phesa-o. Fourteen years has elapsed since his death but I still hold him dear in parts of me with profound gratitude for his selfless services to the Nagas and particularly for his masterpiece schemes for the economic upliftment of the rural populace. Time passes at unprecedented pace and people forgets history and pioneers who devoted their entire life to making a reality of what we are enjoying and feeding upon today. He

Exclusion Criteria: • Any member of a household possessing a four wheeler. • Household receiving ration/food subsidy under any schemes. • Any member of the household who is an employee of central/ state government with an annual income of more than Rs 1.5 lakh.

Thetsumi gets GHS, VDB buildings

kohima, February 21 (mexN): The host of Angami Sekrenyi 2014 celebration, Southern Angami Public Organisation (SAPO) has informed that no guns and ammunitions will be allowed beyond Gate No. 2 at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama on the day of the celebration i.e. February 25, 2014. Therefore, all the celebrants as well as uniformed personnel and bodyguards have been requested not to bring arms and ammunition. The security forces have been requested not to attend the celebration in their uniform. No individual or group take part in an awareness rally on total sanitawill be permitted to hold any sort of picnic till the cel- Women tion organized by Naga Women Hoho Dimapur on Februebration is over with immediate effect. In a press re- ary 21, 2014 in Dimapur. (Photo by Caisii Mao) lease issued by SAPO Press Secretary, Khevisa Chale, the public have been requested to abide by the directives issued in the general interest.

Peren district to conduct 2nd round IPPI

Priority Households. • He/She should be a bonafide citizen of India and a permanent resident of Nagaland. • Salaried employees (Public/ Private Sectors) falling below the income bar as mentioned above.

will deliver the keynote address. Areas of training will include Election Expenditure Monitoring, Paid News and observance of Model Code of Conduct, which shall be imparted by the State Level Master Trainers namely State Coordinator (Disaster Management), ATI, Nagaland, Dr. Hovithal N. Sothu; Assistant Election Officer, Kohima, R. Mhathung and Assistant Election Officer, Dimapur, Toshimeren.

THE FOOTPRINTS OF VAMUZO is death and gone but i. Even though a no relation of him, as senior citizen, through this brief write-up, would like to highlight immense contributions Mr Vamuzo made for the welfare of the Nagas and country, strongly believing to inspire present leaders and evoking social, political and economic consciousness of the younger generations. Beginning as a Naga Army in the Naga National Movement to becoming the chief minister of Nagaland Mr.Vamuzo was though and though a patriot, a politician with conviction, a genius innovator, a reformer true in purpose. Often times, because of his love for Naga Nation and for his strong assertion for sovereignty and preservation of Naga identity, he was labelled as a rebel, a secessionist by the Indian union, but never did not participate in the election, in response to the clarion call by

the Nagas under the slogan “SOLUTION NOT ELECTION”. As the champion of the under-privileged, he stands the figure of a god-father.it is his nationality approved and adopted VDB and CADS that the rural folks are benefitting today. It is because of these schemes that they are able to buy salt, get free C.G.I. sheets for roofing, a road to ply, financial aid to the other citizens, and consummate developmental boards like Village Councils and DPDB..... et al. Whenever I do any VDB or compact work the figure of Vamuzo comes to life and I pray to god for another Vamuzo who can envisage such innovative schemes for the upliftment of the starved and neglected rural folks. The god-father of the rustics had no less love and concern for urbanities .if I can remember anyone, it is Vamuzo, who was pivotal in giving shape to the present state of

urban areas in Nagaland, the pride of Nagaland, the new secretariat Complex, Dimapur fly-over bridge, Dimapur super market complex, Kohima town playground pavilion, to name a few, are the masterpiece of Vamuzo’s initiatives. Mr.Vamuzo, if I must say on, not only devoted his life to the cause of uplifting the economic wellbeing of the Naga,but also he was a great reformer who sought to foster peace, uproot corruption, and promote societal interest. It was he who moved the resolution for Nagaland total prohibition of liquor in the assembly to give meaning to Naga’s pledge “NAGALAND FOR CHRIST”. And to eradicate all evil practices which all stems from liquor consumption. Sadly the days of Vamuzo is over but not without leaving behind thousands footprints to guide us. Indeed Mr Vamuzo’s contribution

is immense; it would take years and hundreds of pages if one were to write on him. So with this brief write-up I take leave as for now. However, I want to make it clear that I do not intend to criticize or belittle anyone’s leadership or contribution. Leaders has been many and there are many and each has done one’s own part. But undoubtedly Vamuzo was the most dynamic, committed leader Nagaland has ever had. I therefore wish to urge the Naga leaders to be even more people-oriented leader than Vamuzo himself and forge the Naga’s aspiration on a new anvil. I sincerely entreat all the concern nags to join in prayers that god may bless and guide our present and future leaders to always walk in the footprints of Vamuzo and bring new dawn upon Nagaland. GOD BLESS NAGALAND N.Nyiempa Konyak Tizit Village.

development and progress. He also called upon the villagers to give due attention towards their children’s education. He asserted that due care must be taken in appointment of teachers and selection of the teachers should be in competition form as the growth of education solely depends on good teachers. He also stated that any teacher keeping ‘substitute’ should be discontinued as it has potential to hamper the education system. Kikon added that disciplinary action must be taken against such teachers. Also, emphasizing on the importance of unity, he said that everything is possible when there is unity.

Dimapur

IGNOU entrance tests on Feb 23 kohima, February 21 (mexN): Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is conducting entrance tests for Management Programme (Openmat-xxxv), M.Phil and Ph.D programme for sessions starting from July 2014 on February 23 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. University has already dispatched the hall-tickets to the candidates. The particulars of hall-tickets are also available on the IGNOU Website www.ignou. ac.in . In case of non-receipt of hall-ticket by any candidate, it can be downloaded from the University website by entering name and date of birth of the candidate and report to the examination centre. In case candidates are unable to download the hall-ticket, they can contact the Regional Centre and obtain the information of examination centre allocated and report to the Examination Centre with a proof of submission of entrance test application form along with recent passport size photograph. In such case, they have to submit an undertaking at the Examination Centre stating that in the event of information furnished by them found to be incorrect, their candidature will be cancelled. Candidates must report at the examination centers 45 minutes before commencement of the entrance test. The tests are being organized in 81examination centers accommodating 6161 candidates. University has deputed central observers in all 81examination centers to ensure smooth conduct of the entrance test. Kohima Regional Centre Regional Director in a press release has informed that due to operational reasons, request for change of examination centre will not be entertained.

greetings

Dear Alu Vese

into your eyes, and we see the Wetruelookmeaning of innocence. We feel your little heart beat, and we understand the true meaning of love. Happy 2nd Birthday With love from Mom, Dad & Relatives

DSSATA appeals for release of pending salaries and arrears

t a time when the state government and the people rejoices over the exulted victory of the SSA Scheme in Nagaland, needless, the concern authority need to seriously review its failure in disbursing the teacher’s salary in time. The fourth month of extended patience is on the verge of completion that the 2500 plus SSA teachers have been victimized, unreasonably stripped and forcefully made beggars for want of due salary’s and arrears. Continuing with the justification process, we are compelled to make clear our stand that the SSA Scheme is a joint response of the Central, State and Local governments to the demand for Universal Elementary Education to all children. It is but, when the very survival of the teachers are threatened, the thought of promoting social justice through basic education becomes a secondary matter, for which, we earnestly appeal the government to review and turn the matter vice-versa. The crucial meeting of ANSTA along with SSA Teachers, Hindi Teachers and Special Education

Teachers on January 28, 2014 at CANSSEA building Kohima, serves an important landmark as we wait, 30 days hence, a positive outcome of the memorandum which was submitted to the government. We have suffered long and good enough in every provision of our job; a good number of us have experienced the storms and tides of delayed appointments for a year, we have experienced the coldest Christmas season and our children’s recent admission is nothing short of Divine Providence. For the moment, our pending salary and job stability holds more important than the coming Lok Sabha elections. Seeking a ‘credible road map’, the DSSATA earnestly appeal the state government and the concerned authority to kindly release our pending salaries and arrears and also make necessary arrangements in the near future so that teachers are not affected while rendering their service of imparting education to the students. Dimapur SSA Teachers’ Association (DSSATA)

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.

People, life, etc... Saturday | 22 february, 2014

WhatsApp: A $19 billion bet for Facebook Barbara Ortutay

& Michael Liedtke aP technology Writers

acebook is placing a $19 billion bet on reaching its next billion mobile users with the acquisition of WhatsApp, a popular messaging service that lets people send texts, photos and videos on their smartphones. The deal is by far Facebook's largest and bigger than any that Google, Microsoft or Apple have ever done. But it is likely to raise worries that Facebook and other technology companies are starting to become overzealous in their pursuit of promising new products and services, said Anthony Michael Sabino, a St. John's University business professor. "I expect there to be a lot of skepticism about this deal. People are going to look at this and say, 'Uh-oh, did they pay way too much for this?" Sabino said. The world's biggest social networking company is taking the long view. WhatsApp has 450 million monthly users, 70 percent of whom use it every day. The service is adding a million new users a day. There are 19 billion messages sent and 34 billion received via WhatsApp each day, in addition to 600 million photos and 100 million video messages. At this rate, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg is confident the app will reach a billion users. Services that reach that milestone, Zuckerberg said in a statement, "are all incredibly valuable." Facebook said Wednesday that it's paying $12 billion in stock and $4 billion in cash for WhatsApp. In addition, the app's founders and employees — 55 in all — will be granted restricted stock worth $3 billion that will vest over four years after the deal closes. The transaction translates to roughly 11 percent of Facebook's market value. In comparison, Google's biggest deal was its $12.5 billion purchase of Motorola Mobility, while Microsoft's largest was Skype at $8.5 billion. Apple, meanwhile, has never done a deal above $1 billion. Facebook's $1 billion Instagram deal seems like a bargain in retrospect. Capturing mobile users — and young people — was a big reason behind Facebook's 2012 purchase of the photo-sharing app. Even its reported $3 billion offer for disappearing-message app Snapchat pales in comparison. Snapchat rejected the bid. The deal stunned Gartner analyst Brian Blau. "I am not surprised they went after WhatsApp, but the amount is staggering," he said.

does WhatsApp deal show Facebook knows what's up?

Michael Liedtke f Facebook hopes to remain the stop shop that fulfills everyone's social networking leader, CEO digital desires. aP technology Writer Mark Zuckerberg knows the "The smartphone is a social company must follow the people. Gates, made during the late 1990s platform in ways that the desktop That realization compelled Zuck- when the Internet began to trigger computer never really was," Evans erberg to pay $19 billion for What- an upheaval in business and cul- said. "A lot of the winner-take-all sApp, a mobile messaging applica- ture. Gates recognized that Micro- dynamics don't apply on the smarttion that is redefining the concept soft's lucrative Windows software phone." of texting while its audience of 450 franchise could be undermined by Facebook has been adjusting to million users expands this reality more quickly at an even faster clip than many other Interthan Facebook itself. net companies that began The deal sent shock to thrive while PCs still waves through the techruled. While Facebook renology industry bemains the world's most cause of the staggering popular hangout with price being paid for a 1.23 billion users worldfour-year-old service wide, a lot of its audience that isn't as well known turns to other mobile in the U.S. as it is overapps for reading news, seas where WhatsApp sharing photos and sendhas become a hip way This Wednesday, February. 19 photo shows the WhatsApp ing messages. to communicate instan- and Facebook app icons on an iPhone in New York. On The fragmentation is Wednesday the world's biggest social networking company, prompting Facebook to taneously. Facebook, announced it is buying mobile messaging service Although t h e WhatsApp for up to $19 billion in cash and stock. (AP Photo) develop a suite of discrete amount of money inapps. Besides acquiring volved is difficult to Instagram for sharing comprehend, the reason Facebook a variety of new services made pos- photos on mobile devices, Faceprizes WhatsApp is easier to grasp. sible by the Internet, but didn't act book recently introduced a new "This is a 'go big or go home' on some his early instincts. app for perusing news and now is By the time that Steve Ballmer trying to become a bigger player in moment for Facebook," said Benedict Evans, a former cellphone ana- had succeeded Gates as Microsoft's mobile messaging with the Whatlyst who is now a partner with the CEO in 2000, Google Inc. was al- sApp acquisition. venture capital firm Andreessen ready way ahead in the lucrative Facebook is "trying to keep its field of Internet search and Apple coolness factor with all these differHorowitz. Just as he did nearly two years was gearing up to develop the iPod ent products that could turn them ago when Facebook bought photo- music player that paved the way for into a mobile media conglomersharing service Instagram for $715 the iPhone. ate," said Virginia Commonwealth Zuckerberg, 29, is showing his University journalmillion, Zuckerberg is trying to ensure that his company doesn't get savvy and moxie by moving quickly ism profesleft behind as people move to the to adapt to fickle tastes, said David sor Marcus Rogers, a professor at Columbia M e s s n e r, next trend. And WhatsApp is what's hot University's business school and who studies now. The Mountain View, Califor- the author of the book, "The Net- social menia, startup already has nearly work is Your Customer." dia. "User behaviors in these digital twice as many users as the better Fa c e known short messaging service, experiences evolve so rapidly that b o o k alTwitter Inc. What's more, What- you can't afford to play the Win- ready offers sApp is adding about 1 million us- dows game and say, 'We are the its own mesers each day — more than even dominant platform so we are just saging app going to hold our position by mak- tied to its soFacebook. The rapid growth has con- ing little tweaks,'" Rogers said. cial network. Zuckerberg signaled his interest Although that vinced Zuckerberg that WhatsApp is bound to exceed 1 billion users in mobile messaging apps late last app is popuwithin the next few years to give year when he offered to buy Snap- lar in its own Facebook even more telling in- chat for $3 billion only to be re- right, Zuckersights into what matters to people. buffed, according to several media berg noticed Even at its current size, WhatsApp outlets and technology blogs that that it increasis already handling an average of quoted unnamed sources. It took ingly had be19 billion messages per day. Those less than two weeks to pull of the come more like daily messages include about 600 WhatsApp deal, according to Zuck- email instead of million photos. Facebook believes erberg. real-time comBeing nimble has become even munication like that WhatsApp's messaging volume already exceeds all the tradi- more important as smartphones W h a t s A p p i s . tional texts sent through the net- supplant personal computers as Most WhatsApp works of cellphone carriers. Those the primary way people interact users also give short messaging services, or SMS, with digital services. the service access to the personThe advent of smartphones has al contact lists stored on smartgenerate about $100 billion in annual revenue while WhatsApp been accompanied by a seemingly phones, providing Facebook with charges just $1 annually after the bottomless well of free smartphone another potentially valuable applications that make it easy for source of data. first year of free usage. By making a big bet on What- people to hopscotch from one ser"This is not an investment in the sApp, Zuckerberg is trying to avoid vice to the next. The phenomenon current value of WhatsApp," Messthe mistake that one of his heroes, has made it more difficult for a ner said. "This is an investment in Microsoft Corp. co-founder Bill single application to become a one- the potential of WhatsApp."

Facebook likely prizes WhatsApp for its audience of teenagers and young adults who are increasingly using the service to engage in online conversations outside of Facebook, which has evolved into a more mainstream hangout inhabited by their parents, grandparents and even their bosses at work. WhatsApp also has a broad global audience. Zuckerberg said the service "doesn't get as much attention in the U.S.

as it deserves because its community started off growing in Europe, India and Latin America. But WhatsApp is a very important and valuable worldwide communication network. In fact, WhatsApp is the only widely used app we've ever seen that has more engagement and a higher percent of people using it daily than Facebook itself." Ten-year-old Facebook is looking to attract its next billion users while keep-

ing its existing 1.23 billion members, including teenagers, interested. The company is developing a "multi-app" strategy, creating its own applications that exist outside of Facebook and acquiring others. It released a news reader app called Paper earlier this month, and has its own messaging app called Facebook Messenger. Facebook said it is keeping WhatsApp as a separate service, just as it did with Instagram.

WhatsApp, a messaging service for smartphones, lets users chat with their phone contacts, both one-on-one and in groups. The service allows people to send texts, photos, videos and voice recordings over the Internet. It also lets users communicate with people overseas without incurring charges for pricey international texts and phone calls. It's free to use for the first year and costs $1 per year after that. It has no ads.

lives than we would like; while many people do a fairly good job of identifying stress and eliminating it (or at least marginalizing it), one thing many of these people fail to realize is that it is far better to prevent stress than to stop it after it starts! As such, here is a look at a handful of the preventative measures you can take in

your own life, in order to keep stress away. The first thing you need to make sure you are doing, if you have a desire to have less stress in your life (and to be able to get more done as a result!) is to make sure you are getting enough sleep; of course, this sounds counterproductive to some people, as "getting more sleep" means "more time away from the things you need to get done." When you give yourself enough sleep, however, your body will be far more refreshed, and you will have a much

easier time taking care of the things that need to be taken care of in your life! Another big part of eliminating stress from even coming your way is making sure you are eating healthy; when you give your body the right foods, you will find that your body is functioning better as a result, and this will ultimately lead to your body helping you eliminate stress as you move through your day to day tasks. Another great way to make sure stress is not building up inside you is

to keep yourself active exercising on a regular basis, going for walks or jogs, and even participating in sports - as exercise causes your body to release endorphins that are good for getting rid of stress; when you exercise on a regular basis, you will feel better about yourself, and you will also have a lot less stress building up in your body and affecting you as you move through your life. And finally, if you want to keep stress away, you need to learn to start relaxing and doing the things you enjoy doing;

the unlikely founders behind Whatsapp's rise Barbara Ortutay aP technology Writer

hatsApp isn't your average Silicon Valley startup. The company's founders Jan Koum, 38, and Brian Acton, 42, shun the media spotlight and are much older than your typical college dropoutturned CEO. And at a time when social media companies are focusing on advertising to generate revenue, WhatsApp rejects the idea of showing ads to the 450 million people who use its mobile messaging app. The whopping $19 billion that Facebook is paying for the service is also unusual, even as other startups with no profit, or even revenue, are commanding sky-high valuations. Koum and Acton are at the center of the largest buyout deal ever for a venture-backed company. How did two former Yahoo engineers who witnessed the late '90s dot-com

boom — and bust — create the world's hottest app and make 10-year-old Facebook seem a tad grizzled? "Jan keeps a note from Brian taped to his desk that reads 'No Ads! No Games! No Gimmicks!' It serves as a daily reminder of their commitment to stay focused on building a pure messaging experience," wrote Sequoia Capital partner Jim Goetz in a blog post about Thursday's deal. Sequoia is WhatsApp's sole venture capital investor. The Ukraine-born Koum, WhatsApp's CEO, move to the U.S. when he was 16. Acton was born in Michigan. "We're the most atypical Silicon Valley company you'll come across," Acton told Wired in a December interview that

the magazine will publish next month in its U.K edition. "We were founded by thirtysomethings; we focused on business sustainability and revenue rather than getting big fast; we've been incognito almost all the time; we're mobile first; and we're global first." The pair started WhatsApp in 2009, two years after they left their jobs at Yahoo Inc. and five years after Facebook got its start in Mark Zuckerberg's Harvard dorm room. The service is simple. People use it to send text, photo or video messages to their contacts, bypassing text messaging charges and other fees from wireless carriers. "WhatsApp is simple, secure, and fast. It does not ask you to spend time building up a new graph of your relationships; instead, it taps the one that's already there. Jan and Brian's decisions are fueled by a desire to let people communicate with no interference," writes Goetz, who along with Sequoia also stands to reap a hefty sum from the deal. Much like Zuckerberg did during Facebook's early years, WhatsApp's founders shun ads. But unlike Facebook, which now relies on advertisements for the bulk of its revenue, WhatsApp remains ad-free. Users who download WhatsApp on their phones are greeted with a link that reads "Why we don't sell ads." The link leads to a quote from Tyler Durden, the antiestablishment character from the 1996 novel "Fight Club." "A d v e r t i s ing has us chasing cars and clothes, working jobs we hate so we can buy s--- we don't need," it reads. A note from Koum follows with more details. "These days companies know literally everything about you, your friends, your interests, and they use it all to sell ads," writes Koum. "No one wakes up excited to see more advertising, no one goes to sleep thinking about the ads they'll see tomorrow. We know people go to sleep excited about who they chatted with that day (and disappointed about who they didn't). We want WhatsApp to be the product that keeps you awake." Koum then goes on to call advertising an insult to users' intelligence and an interruption to their train of thought. Take that, Facebook.

While WhatsApp rejects ads (it charges 99 cents per year after letting people use it free of charge for the first year), Facebook works to gather as much information as possible about its 1.23 billion users, their tastes for coffee and music, where they live and travel, their friendships, marriages and breakups. WhatsApp doesn't ask users their age, gender or where they live. In a conference call with financial analysts, Zuckerberg talked about the acquisition and said he doesn't think ads are "the right way" to make money from messaging services. Koum agreed. Although WhatsApp is profitable, Koum told analysts on the call that making money "is not going to be a priority for us." "This is why I actually respect Mark and his vision, is that he takes a very long term on everything they do at Facebook. They focus on something that is not just tomorrow, but something that's 5 or 10 years from now, and that's the same about with our company," he said. "We always talk about where mobile is going to be, not today, not next year, but in 2020 or in 2025. And as we look forward to the next 5 or 10 years, 5 billion people will have a smartphone and we have a potential to have 5 billion users potentially giving us money through the subscription model." Koum, who is now a billionaire, at least on paper, lived on food stamps when his family first moved to the U.S. He told Wired of growing up in a communist country, where "everything you did was eavesdropped on, recorded, snitched on." That's another, more personal reason for his insistence on not collecting information about users. WhatsApp doesn't store your chats history on its servers because it doesn't need to, since it doesn't need it to target advertisements to you. Though he's known Zuckerberg for a couple of years, the Facebook deal wasn't in the works yet when Koum spoke to Wired late last year. He brought up Facebook, Google, Apple and Yahoo as examples of "great" companies that never sold, and signaled that WhatsApp would like to stay independent. Acton, meanwhile, expressed worry about what a bigger company would do with WhatsApp's users, to whom the company has made such an important promise of "no ads, no gimmicks, no games."

Preventative Measures to Keep Stress Away Minnie Harrington

ne of the biggest factors that tends to affect many of us in our lives is stress, as this is something that wears us down and causes us to be far less effective in our day-to-day

as simple as this sounds, this is something that many adults are actually very bad at, as they spend so much time doing the things they "have to do," they never end up taking the time to do the things they "want do do." By instead making sure you are relaxing and enjoying life, you will find that it is also easier for you to enjoy getting done the things you need to g e t done!

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.

Saturday

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

22 February, 2014

Morung Youth Express

PaRliamEntaRy ElEctions 2014

Battle For the Ballot

“Unity In Uniformity” Or “Unity In Diversity” Dr. John Mohan Razu

Professor, Social Ethics, CTC, Mokokchung

ndian democracy is inexorably moving towards the politics of identity which represents and upholds the interests of specific religious, ethnic, caste, linguistic and minority groups. This appears as a natural outcome of a democratic process. People belonging to different groups and communities become conscious of their identities; of their rights, and aspirations. Interestingly, national identity in recent times is pushed and promoted because it has the capacity to subsume multiple identities within the gamut of “patriotism”. Over and above, ‘nationalism’ is increasingly being used as an integrating principle to unify the diverse identities. The convergence of these identities in recent times is constructed in the name of patriotic nationalism, invoking Hindustan, Hindu pride and thus equating to ‘national identity’ which implies ‘majority identity.’ In the wake of 2014 Parliamentary Election this concept is widely and subtly used under the aegis of Modi, who has been designated as the Prime Ministerial candidate by the BJP. For us nation comes first, and then nationalism. What do we do with nationalism without a nation? However, nationalism as a concept has the tendency of taking extreme forms leading to dangerous and alarming proportions. For example, fascism in Nazi Germany deeply entrenched in ethnic cleansing and liquidation of identities.’ Likewise, the BJP’s Hinduised version of nationalism could lead to anti-Semitism. ‘Nationalism’ is like cancerous cells that have been resurrected in the wake of extreme ultra-rightist ideology viz., Hindutva. The term Hindutva, means ‘’Hinduness,’’ which simply denotes Hindu nationalism. To realize, Hindutva as a political project BJP exhorts everyone to come under its umbrella of ‘nationalism’ meaning “Hindu” that does not characterize plurality. Interpretation of this highly loaded word “Hindutuva” as “a way of life” is just a sugar coat, but latent motif is something else.. In contemporary India, BJP’s mode of Hinduism has become the dominant identity. It is consolidating its identity by subsuming other identities. The emergence and rise of Modi is perhaps the most striking feature of contemporary Indian politics. Though the ideology of Hindutva is a recent phenomenon, it is founded and constructed on ‘Hindu nationalism.’ Its political project is creating a “Hindu Raj” comprising of homogenous identities”. In the process of homogenization, it hegemonises the interests of certain castes and classes. The ideology of Hindu nationalism being an ideological tool absorbs, assimilates, articulates as well as rewrites, reinterprets and reconstructs the nation’s history in furthering its agenda of ‘one nation,’ ‘one culture,’ ‘one language,’ and ‘one religion.’ The Hindutva forces, in order to consolidate its social control, launched a process of standardization of Hindu law to categorize and exclude all those who could not be considered on the grounds of Christian, Muslim, and other religious minorities. In addition, the Hindutva hegemony has launched the census as a categorization device wherein the lower rungs of the social ladder, i.e., castes and communities, are given the option to clearly identify themselves as one or the other. They are posing as a homogenous ‘Hindu’ community by pretending that they have transcended the caste divides so that the other identities such as the Dalits and the Tribals who practice their own particular religious beliefs be brought under the category of ‘Hindu.’ The Hindutva forces vertically homogenized the upper and other backward castes (OBCs) and classes, and are gradually moving into the terrains of the Dalits and Tribals to push the logic of majoritarian democracy furthering their own interests in the name of Hindu. At the same time, the large scale conversions of Dalits to Christianity and Islam, escaping from the tyranny of the Brahminical social system poses grave threats to upper caste hegemony. Dalits and Tribals are lured to re-convert to Hinduism as part of a pan-Indian raj. The construction of a nation based on an ideology of Hindutva in its definition, consolidation, and articulation underlines ‘Hinduness.’ For the past two decades a series of assaults and killings of Christian priests, school principals, rape and molestation of nuns, burning and bombing of churches, distribution of highly provocative and communal lit-

erature, reconversion drives and the bid to saffronise educational institutions and school text books, clearly portrays a well-planned strategy and systematic execution by the Hindutva brigade in all the BJP ruled states. What happened in 2002 in Gujarat for the Muslims and in Kandamal for the Dalits are still simmering amongst those who last their dear and near one. By resorting to violent means and methods, the Hindu communal outfits have gradually been consolidating their base amongst the Dalit and Tribal Hindus. The ideology of Hindutva ‘represents all departments of thought and activity of Hindu fanaticism’. For the Hindutva forces, India is a Hindu nation in which Hindus alone are the true sons/daughters of the soil. It is engaged in bringing about ‘’one nation, one people, one religion, one language, one culture and one executive.’’ And Modi belongs to aggressive Hindutuva stream who is all set to translate the ultimate vision of BJP, if he gets elected. There is no doubt that “If” he gets elected it is a disaster to the whole nation. ‘’Hinduness’’ seeks to establish the political, cultural and religious supremacy of Hinduism and the Hindu nation. Therefore, Hindutva as an ideology provides common identities i.e., social, cultural, political and religious, to its fold, and thus polarize and consolidate Hindus and others to reconvert. And those who belong to other religions such as Christianity and Islam, are given the identities such ‘’aliens,’’ ‘’infiltrators,’’ ‘’aggressors,’’ and ‘’enemies.’’ What is happening currently in India particularly in the locales of Muslims and Christians, Dalits Chrstians and Christian Tribals has a close parallel in history. Drawing parallels from history is important as we face planned and systematic attacks by the forces of Hindutva. The horrendous and darkest blot in the history of the twentieth century was fascism under Adolf Hitler. It has been succinctly explained: “How essential anti-Semitism was to the Nazi party program from the very beginning. Already in 1920, claims were made that only those of German blood, i.e., those who belonged to the Aryan (German) race, could be considered and claim rights as citizens. Others, such as the Jews, could only be regarded as guests and came under law for foreigners. In a private letter written by Hitler in 1919 he made it clear that the anti-Semitic rationale envisaged the planned elimination of all rights of the Jews” On the basis of the above quotation, Hitler and his party had translated the ideology of fascism in the following way: A program of ‘’Aryanization’’ led to the expropriation of Jewish property and its transfer into suitably Aryan hands. Schools and universities expelled Jewish students, Jewish families became subject to house searches and individuals subject to arrest, Jewish stores were defaced, and Jews were required to take the name of ‘’Sarah’’ or ‘’Israel’’ and have the letter J stamped on their identity card ... Nazi thugs smashed windows in Jewish shops and homes throughout Germany, burnt and destroyed almost all synagogues, humiliated and beat countless individual Jews, and arrested ten thousand Jewish men, who were then sent to concentration camps. On these lines, the main backbone of the BJP, via Sangh Parivar, has always held strong fascination for Hitler’s German paradigm. For example, In 1940s and 1950s, the boudhik (intellectual discourse) given to the swayamsevaks invariably used to contain a reference to the World War I German plan which was praised as the most brilliant strategic military plan devised by human imagination ... The RSS was unashamedly patterned on Hitler’s Nazi party in ideology, uniform, drills and bands, parades and display of strength, its attitude towards women and minorities and its organisational structure, its principle of one supreme leader and its slogan of ‘one nation, one people, and one culture.’ In fact, the slogans find an honored place in the BJP manifesto. Indeed Guru Golwalkar wrote approving of Nazi action and observed that India must learn from Germany that two cultures and two civilizations cannot co-exist in one nation. In addition, Golwalkar who was inspired by Adolf Hitler reiterates that, “... Germany has also shown how well-nigh impossible it is for races and cultures having differences going to the root, to be assimilated into one united whole, a good lesson for us in Hindustan to learn and profit by. For Golwalkar, Hitler’s Germany and antiSemitic stance became tools for pushing the ideology of Hindutva. He was

against pluralism and secularism enshrined in the Constitution. Instead, he spoke for nationalism and the preservation of pure Aryan culture engrained in the religion of Hinduism. However, with regard to other religious identities, Golwalkar emphasized that, The non-Hindu people in Hindustan must either adopt the Hindu culture and language, must learn to respect and revere Hindu religion, must entertain no idea but the glorification of the Hindu nation ... but also cultivate the positive attitude of love and devotion ... they must cease to be foreigners or may stay in the country, wholly subordinated to the Hindu nation, claiming nothing, deserving no privileges, far less any preferential treatment, not even citizen’s rights. Whatever said in the above quotation is happening now. Hindu communalism is on the rise against the minorities. Vinayak Damodar Savarkar (who coined Hindutva in early 1920), Guru Golwalkar, Swamy Chinmayanand and few more visualized and thus worked out a clear ideology for the ultra-rightists. Hindutva forces are clear in their strategies and vision. Will Hindutvabacked Modi tolerate other religious identities to co-exist? Apparently the space for plural identities to co-exist with the majority is gradually shrinking. Take the State of Gujarat and a spate of attacks against the minorities. Under the leadership of Modi all these have happened. Currently, the conflict could perhaps be intellectual, political or ideological or whatever it may be but is clearly between “Unity in Uniformity” and “Unity in Diversity”. The communities who are increasingly under threat and under surveillance are Christians, Muslims, the Dalits and the Tribals. The very identity (religious) Christian or Muslim means ‘’alien,’’ ‘’foreigner,’’ ‘’infiltrator,’’ ‘’unpatriotic,’’ and ‘’disloyal.’’ In order to get one’s equal rights, original identity is to be restored (before conversion) which they consider to be Hindu. It presupposes one’s conversion to Hinduism. They say that Christianity is a Western religion. Therefore, the Christians should emigrate to the west. The options they pose to Christians are clear. Either reconvert or leave. The multiple identities that all of us that we thus far+ cherished should be transformed into Hindu identity. The forces behind Hindutva ideology are trying to unite Hindus against Christians and Muslims. The Hindutva-constructed Hinduism revolves around Brahminical orthodoxy which centers its authority on Vedas and Sastras. The religions of the Dalits, Tribals and subalterns do not subscribe to these. The Brahminic Hinduism is all out to centralize, hegemonise and subsume the existence of other streams, identities, belief systems and practices. In such a situation co-existence of multiple identities and their belief systems would come under attack. What should be the response of Christians and the churches? Once again I would like to draw a parallel between the German churches during Hitler’s Nazi Germany and the churches in India as of now. The scenario was, Many Christians welcomed Hitler’s coming to power, and regarded it as a God willed change. They also felt reassured by his anti-Communist policy. The Catholics, who had so far been second class citizens, now felt proud to be fully accepted. Hitler wanted to use the churches for the purpose of creating a Nationalist Socialist religion. Any nationalistic system needs religious fervour. So they adulterated Christian religion, cleansed it of all Jewish elements, included a German god and hero Jesus, and even put a picture of Hitler on the altar to be worshipped. Thus many church members and pastors were forced to be in the opposition and learnt how to resist fearlessly the control by the Nazis, the persecution by the Gestapo (the Secret Police) and the ruthlessness of the SS (Hitler’s dreaded elite police force). Though some vehemently opposed Hitler’s specific policies, Christians by and large supported the regime. Particularly a vast majority of Christians failed to raise any objection with regard to Jewish persecution. Germany being a Christian nation, the churches had failed to exert moral authority on Hitler. However, “... the efforts of oppositional pastors and theologians to stop the German Christians from ‘’Aryanizing’’ the Evangelical Church---that is, expelling pastors, church officers, and parishioners with Jewish blood. The German context then and the Indian content now, portray number of commonalities that bring these two

historical epochs much closer. Currently, the churches, cutting across a wide-spectrum, are gripped with fear and horror as opinion polls swings in favor of Modi. The Indian churches (Reformed) now in “wait and watch” mood, but some like the deputy moderator of the CSI who belongs to Syrian community in praise of Modi. The Kerala Churches especially Syrian Churches with their open hands embraced Modi. The behavior of the so-called heads shows the frivolous character of the Church. The elite and middle-class Christians relatively speaking are not all concerned about the Hindutva menace as evil. The intelligentsia from the Christian community to a large extent failed to out rightly denounce the evils of Hindutva. Some privileged class/caste within the Christian community who have their kith and kin in the west may emigrate the moment the crisis deepens. Who would meet the brunt of the attacks and resist the onslaught of Hindutva? Most probably the poor Christians located on the margins of the cities, the Dalit and the Tribal Christians living in rural settings and those who are committed to a plural society and secular values. Dietrich Bonheoffer (1906-1945), an organic theologian and ethicist, a member of the German Resistance, life and faith, i.e., secular and religious, proved that both (life and death) cannot be dichotomized or separated, but rather is intrinsically linked together. In one of his profound statements, when people at large were frightened and crushed under Hitler, Bonheoffer said, ‘’Do not allow disaster to happen, and then tie up the wounds and offer consolation. No, throw yourself into the spokes of the wheel and stop it from turning and crushing those underneath.’’ Bonheoffer accordingly joined the Operation Seven in order to stop Hitler’s ‘Aryanization’ agenda and the racial holocaust and made his position clear especially to the church in the following way: The situation as of now is no different than that of Nazi Germany. Modi is clear the moment BJP gets the majority in the Lok Sabha and” if” he becomes the Prime Minister the real color of Modi shall unfold. He would be ruthless especially against the Dalits, the Tribals, and the minorities employing force (covert and overt) by following a policy of assimilatarianism. The Hindutva forces have a well-drawn project for these identities. This hyphenated construct posits respect to plural identities and those believe in an inclusive framework. But in our context, the hyphen is posing grave problems for plural identities. The slogan of ‘one nation,’ ‘one culture,’ ‘one language,’ and ‘one religion’ has brought tensions between the Hindutva and other identities. Modi’s brand of Hinduism will not allow plural identities and other religions to co-exist and be practiced in India. More importantly, aggressive Hindutva brand of Hinduism tends to subsume, integrate and assimilate other identities and belief systems. Secularism is not pseudo. Secularism as a political philosophy or a Constitutional imperative has to be understood as a political frame that allows other religions and identities to co-exist. It is enshrined in the Indian Constitutions, and therefore, mandatory. Therefore, ‘’identity’’ is more than a matter of religion, class and caste. To respect, to promote and to preserve ‘’plural’’ and ‘’secular’’ identities, what we need at this historical juncture is commitment to a plural-secular framework. Once again we are reminded that Indian democracy survived all these sixty six years is because of secular ideals and fabric that cuts across caste, creed, class and other persuasions. People by and large believe, recognize, and appreciate the notion of “multi-cultural” and “plural pan-Indian ethos”. India is a country for all those who belong to diverse identities. Modi and his Hindutuva brigade are pushing a theory that “India” is for Hindus because its ethos is premised on Hindu culture. This argument has not been agreed by the electorates and rejected BJP through democratic means. The electorates want their country to be plural, inclusive and diverse. India is known for its confluence of diverse cultures, religious traditions, ethos of live and let-live over hundreds and thousands of years. Ultra-rightists’ fascist ideology of “unity in uniformity” ought to be countered with “unity in diversity”. Even the majority belonging to Hindu do not subscribe to this ideology since plurality and diversity are the foundational ideals of our secular fabric. In such a state of affairs a broad secular forces will have thwart the demonic forces so that the rich plural and secular ideals be saved.

The Naga Blog is a forum on facebook where Nagas from Nagaland and around the world network, share ideas and discuss a wide range of topics from politics and philosophy to music and current events in Nagaland and beyond. The blog is not owned by any individual, nor is it affiliated to or associated with any political party or religion. The only movement it hopes to stir is the one raised by the voices of the Nagas every step of the way, amassing perhaps to mass consciousness one day. www.facebook.com/groups/thenagablog

Who is the hypocrite?

Robert N. Solo: The reasons why I feel Nagaland is behind our neighbouring states, persons like Khekiye Sema and Thepfulhouvi Solo are considered as Indian agents when they speak the truth. When Sir Khekiye tells, 'It is wrong to tax the people so much' the undergrounds say, he is the enemy of the Naga Nation. The underground factions use non-Nagas to extort money from us. They have sent Miyas to loot and rape our dear sisters and teach us freedom in the media. The Holy Bible is never preached to proclaim God's kingdom but it is also used to defend their wrong doings. Once our public leaders such as NGO are elected then they become a big contractors and most of the time they will be looking for an opportunity to meet and please the ministers. Most of the public leaders visit CM's residence to get his favour as a result, they would never open their mouth against our corrupt leaders. Mahriili Osah: If we blame this way, Nagaland to be continued behind other neighbouring states. Take Manipur, the taxation issue is more acute. There are more than 15 UG’s in Manipur and so there are multiple taxes. Assam also has its own UG’s related problem. The reason why state like Manipur is growing fast is due to high dedication put into education. We may know how they really work. They are also quite industrious and mind occupied always with business.. You must have seen especially the Meities in odd places doing their normal business. Let the Nagas work hard in all professions, build a mind like Meities, Marwaris, and then things will turn around like many nations. Anyway, being behind other states is also highly contestable if we take from various parameters sans the govt/public own infrastructures. Having said that I do not meant there can be UGs in Nagaland. They have to be banished from the land for being disobedience to the call of the public(FNR, NH & others) to come together as one and negotiate for permanent peace. Thungbemo Murry: There is no end to money chasing unless one finds a way to make money chase us. Not only our CM but a lot of our people go out just to chase after money. Know what, I adore any professional or an expert in certain trade and fields going out of Nagaland chasing after job, but chasing money at the expense of our integrity, family and our dear fellow naga citizens. Anyway, it is high time we should be speaking the truth with boldness uplifting ourselves in truth and in spirit. I'm happy that we Nagas have started coming out for TRUTH. Thank God. Hotokhu Chishi: As far as Nagas stand for self rule and issues on complete ownership of land and its resources are concerned, we must stand together with NPGs with one stern message: either unite or abandon the existing tread. I don’t forsee anything good for Nagas under the present style. NPG’s must remember that if there is only one reason for the sustenance of Naga issue for more than 60 years, it is the generosity of the Nagas. No underground groups ever wish to recognise this reality and continue to deny this powerful backing. Truth is always bitter but it shall stand till the end. Don’t use Nagas’ money to hide from factional tamashas. We don’t pay you for this. It is time for you to limit you needs. S Minsang Kaibah Konyak: Infact they(UG’s) are the Indian agents, dying for Indian election and Indian rupee. Just hopeless.

you Know you're in Nagaland When?

Kelhou E Chielie: You Know You're In Nagaland When: 1. Every graduate should appear NPSC atleast once. 2. If you get first class in the matriculation, you have to take up science stream. 3. Any above average height should try in police job. 4. Modeling always depicts a loose character. 5. Obesity means you’re in good health. 6. Wild animals are good for any kinds of sicknesses. 7. You cannot participate in any sport or go for long journey without having chicken/port the night before. 8. Special dinner/wedding/birthdays, etc. means pork. 9. If you’re a government servant and not corrupt, you are a chicken heart. 10. If a child became a government servant and did a church wedding, the dad has fulfilled his duties. If not, the mom is irresponsible. 11. Non-government servants are failures. 12. If you don’t touch alcohol, tamul, kaka sada or any other tobacco products, you will go to heaven for sure. (Courtesy Nokho Nyekha) Sem Wall: In Nagaland if you are suffering from some brain disorder or something like that, guess what??? THE DEVIL CAUGHT U!! Hehe Allem Mer: After graduation off to Delhi is a MUST for coaching! Kilang V Naga: And when you find at least 5-6 presidents in every village. No wonder it is a land of organization with no progress. Jonah Achumi: What the chief guest speaks is never important but how much amount he donates is always the most important.

Day Light robbery by Assam police

Butesen Ozukum: Friends let’s try to do something about the Assam Police robbing people from other parts of North-East in the trains every day. Just this morning a friend of mine from the south and his Naga wife were demanded an amount of Rs. 2000 just because they could not produce their marriage certificate. Who will carry even their marriage certificates even for train journey? Damned fools. There are also other instances where a friend from Manipur paid an amount of Rs. 500 just because he was carrying a CD with him. I have heard lots of stories where people have paid fines (as they call it) just because of carrying pickles and other stuff which are not even illegal. The story goes on and on. People who travel regularly know about all these corrupt people and usually do not pay. However, there are countless travelers who are just paying these jerks after they are threatened. Let’s put our heads together and find a proper channel to address this and put an end to this day light robbery.

(The Naga Blog was created in 2008 by Yanpvuo Kikon. This column in The Morung Express will be a weekly feature every Saturday)

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.

Dimapur

NATIONAL

Saturday 22 February 2014

The Morung Express

‘Army-govt distrust’ behind row over 2012 troops movement; NSA says ‘No Distrust’

PatNa/New deLHI, February 21 (PtI): A fresh controversy has erupted over the movement of two Army units near Delhi in 2012 with then DGMO Lt Gen A K

hary said on Friday after he was quoted in an interview, saying that the then defence secretary Shashi Kant Sharma had asked him to send the troops back as the government at the

with the Army everyday. I don’t see that,” he said. The movement of the troops was a “normal” exercise, Choudhary said, and the government immediately “understood”

Choudhary saying there may have been “distrust” between the Army and government on the issue, a view rejected on Friday by the national security adviser (NSA). “There was misconception or there was perceptional difference or there may be distrust,” Choud-

highest level was “worried” over this. When asked about this, NSA Shivshankar Menon said there was no distrust between the Army and government. “I don’t see there is distrust. How can I comment on something that I don’t see. Because I am a civilian, I work very closely

the issue after he explained the matter to them. “But before that either there was misconception... or may be distrust.” Asked by reporters whether there was any confusion in the government then over the troop movement, he shot back, “You ask them (government)”.

“It confirms who cooked up routine move to denigrate Army”

Woman gives birth in exam hall PatNa, February 21 (IaNS): A woman in Bihar gave birth in the examination hall where she was appearing for her class 12 exams, an official said Friday. The incident took place at a college in the state’s Saran district where Manisha Devi, in her early 20s and married, was taking an exam Thursday when she started feeling uncomfortable followed by labour pain, said S.K. Singh, a college official. “Before the ambulance could arrive in the college, she had given birth to a healthy

Pressed further whether alarm bells had rung in the government over the issue, he said, “I won’t say they were alarmed or not alarmed”. He said there was daily interaction between the government and the Army headquarters and if at all there was any confusion then, they could have sought clarification in such meetings. He said the government did get “a little excited” which was “uncalled for”. “I was only thinking that if there were inputs of this nature they (government) had thought about , they should have called us up and asked us for clarification. It would have finished at that point of time only.” When Sharma sought an

explanation from him as the government had no information about it, he told him that this is a “normal routine” exercise and “you need not worry about it at all and they understood it”. The then Army chief General V K Singh, whose relations with the government soured over the controversy on his date of birth, said Choudhary’s comments only confirmed the hand of a senior bureaucrat linked to Chandigarh in raking it up. “It confirms who cooked up routine move to denigrate Army,” he wrote on his twitter post. The then DGMO said it would be wrong to link the troop movement with Gen Singh’s decision to

drag government to the Supreme Court over his date of birth row as such exercises are planned long in advance. “Such training exercises are planned in advance. It is wrong to link it with any particular date. It has nothing to do with him (Gen Singh) going to court,” Choudhary said. Singh had moved the apex court on January 16, 2012, which coincided with the movement of troop. Choudhary termed the exercise as “very small”, something which happens round the year. “These exercises they keep on doing very often. Earlier also they have done, they don’t ask me. These are normal, routine exercises with the formation’s command. They

New york, February 21 (IaNS): India’s Congress party president Sonia Gandhi’s has filed a new motion to dismiss a human rights violation lawsuit against her by Sikhs for Justice, a New York based human rights group. In a reply memorandum filed in the district court of New York’s Eastern District, Gandhi’s lawyers said the plaintiffs had unjustly argued for “unlimited extraterritorial jurisdiction and corporate liability to reach the tragic events of 1984 in India, and hold an innocent Gandhi liable. Saying that “two wrongs don’t make a right,” the motion said the plaintiffs “fail to attribute actual acts or omissions to Mrs. Gandhi.”

The plaintiffs complaint was also devoid of any “factual content that allows the court to draw the reasonable inference that the defendant is liable for the misconduct alleged,” they said. US federal court for the Eastern District of New York had in Sep 2013 issued summons against Sonia Gandhi on a complaint filed by SFJ and some victims of anti-Sikh violence in India in November 1984. The group has sought compensatory and punitive damages against Gandhi for her alleged role in shielding and protecting Congress party leaders including Kamal Nath, Sajjan Kumar, Jagdish Tytler and Amitabh Bachchan from prosecution for their alleged role in the 1984 violence.

Hyderabad, February 21 (IaNS): A man, who brutally murdered three nieces, committed suicide by jumping into a river in Andhra Pradesh, police said. The body of 38-yearold Narender Reddy was found in Godavari river at Basar in Adilabad district Friday. The car used by the accused to kidnap three children was found abandoned at Basar Thursday. The accused kidnapped the girls aged between four and nine years during a marriage Wednesday night in Nizamabad. The next morning charred bodies of nine-year-old Sri, six-year-old Akshaya and four-year-old Kushi were found on the outskirts of Nizamabad town, about 175 km from here. The girls, granddaughters of a Congress leader Raghupati Reddy in Dhoopally village of

Nizamabad district, were attending the marriage of a relative when Narender kidnapped them. They were daughters of three sons of Raghupati Reddy. Narender, a nephew of Raghupati, was staying with him since childhood after he lost his father. As Raghupati’s three sons got married and settled down, Narender reportedly developed a grudge. He was suffering from financial problems and was also under mental stress over not getting married. Two marriage proposals for him had fallen through. At the marriage of a relative Thursday, he had reportedly told people that how others were getting married while he remained unwed. Police said they were investigating whether Narender burnt the girls alive or murdered them before setting afire their bodies.

Man who butchered three nieces commits suicide

2012 was routine training: Antony Defence minister AK Antony on Friday reiterated his earlier stand that it was a “routine training incident”, rejecting suggestions of a trust deficit between him and General Singh or any “alarm” in the government over the troop movement. “I said we got report from the Army. It was a normal routine programme. It was routine, nothing wrong in it. That is the answer, written answer I gave to Parliament. It was a routine training incident.” He said the defence secretary gave the same answer to the Parliament standing committee that the exercise was a routine training.

HC suspends AAP’s pending power bills waiver

agra, February 21 (IaNS): This one is straight out of a Bollywood potboiler. An American, who fell for an auto driver here and married him, was viciously stabbed to death by her husband. The man then blew himself up. American social worker Erin White alias Kiran Sharma in September last year married Bunty Sharma alias Ashok, an auto driver. They had met when Erin, 35, visited Agra alongwith a group of Americans. She was stabbed Thursday evening in the auto which her husband Bunty drove.

Her body was thrown out of the auto and found around 8 p.m., police said. Bunty returned home in Sanjay Nagar after the murder. He shut himself up in his room, opened a gas cylinder valve and blew himself up. Senior police officials alongwith the dog squad visited the two spots. The union home ministry and the American embassy in New Delhi have been informed. Shalabh Mathur, a senior police official, told media persons that the incident took place due to personal problems between the two, following

which Bunty killed her and then committed suicide. Erin and Bunty married on the rooftop of a hotel in Tajganj, against the backdrop of the Taj Mahal. Police said the couple were having marital problems for the past few months and had visited a family counsellor to resolve their differences. Bunty accused Erin of lying that she was not married while Erin charged Bunty with cruelty, greed, infidelity and also concealing the fact that he was already married once. The family counsellor managed to persuade the two

to end their differences and start living peacefully. Erin White was deeply in love with Indian culture and wanted to improve civic conditions in Agra. She was involved in social work. On the day she was killed, she addressed a press conference in the afternoon to promote her campaign “Agra Sunder Hai”. Several local NGOs pledged support to her. Erin, a professional yoga teacher, had identified three areas which needed to be focused in Agra: water, plastic waste and garbage disposal.

New deLHI, February 21 (IaNS): The Delhi High Court Friday suspended the AAP government decision to give 50 percent waiver on pending electricity bills of 24,036 consumers. These consumers had stopped payment of their dues during the Aam Aadmi Party’s “bijli satyagraha”. A division bench of Acting Chief Justice B.D. Ahmed and Justice Sidharth Mridul, suspending the AAP government’s decision on waiver of pending power bills, also issued notice to the government for March 18. The bench asked the government to file an affidavit on its current stand on the issue. “Issue notice to Delhi government. The counsel of the government has already filed short affidavit. A detailed affidavit shall be filed indicating the current stand of Delhi government within ten days,” the court said, adding: “In the meanwhile, Feb 12, 2014, decision (waiver on power bills) of Delhi government is stayed.” During the hearing, advocate Zubeda Begum appearing for the Delhi government submitted a copy of the department report on the decision taken by the Delhi cabinet. The bench asked the government to clear its stand now. “What is your (the government’s) stand now? What is your proposed action now? Are you going to carry the decision now or not?” the bench asked. The report filed in the court by deputy power secretary of the Delhi government said: “In view of the cabinet decision, the department of power, Delhi, vide letter dated Feb 2, 2014, submitted revised final excess and savings statement for the financial year 2013-14 towards making provisions for one-time relief to electricity consumers to the tune of Rs.6.821 crore and for creation of a new budget head for the purpose.” The bench was hearing a the public interest litigation (PIL) filed by advocate Vivek Narayan Sharma, who also sought quashing the Delhi government’s decision to close power theft cases registered against 2,508 consumers last year. The plea said that such action of the government was like “sponsoring and abetting criminal/terrorism acts and acts against rule of law and constitution”. Shortly after its formation, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) launched ‘bijli satyagraha’ alleging that power bills in Delhi are inflated. As part of the campaign, Kejriwal urged people of Delhi to stop paying their power bills, the plea said. About 24,036 consumers in Delhi stopped paying their power bills in Delhi, reportedly from October 2012 to December 2013. During this period, the authorities disconnected a total of 2,508 electricity meters for non-payment of bills and these people started to steal power. The PIL said numerous theft cases were initiated and are pending in the courts. On Feb 12, the AAP government, two days before resignation, announced it would provide 50 percent waiver on pending bills of 24,036 people, and also decided to waive off the penalties for default. The plea claimed that the AAP and its leaders were enticing the public to follow no rule, and the estimated loss to public exchequer because of the move was around Rs.6 crore.

New deLHI, February 21 (IaNS): Parliament Friday passed the Whistle Blowers Protection Bill with the Rajya Sabha giving its nod on the last day of the last parliamentary session of the UPA-II government. The bill was taken up with an understanding to approve it as passed by the Lok Sabha so that it does not need to be sent to the lower house again. This is the only one of the six anti-

graft bills that could secure parliamentary approval in this session.m There were several amendments from the government itself, but none of them were moved. Some other amendments were defeated by voice vote. “We must pass the bill as passed by Lok Sabha,” Minister of State for Personnel and Public Grievances V. Narayanasamy said shortly before the bill was passed. Communist Party of India-Marxist leader Sita-

ram Yechury quipped: “So many amendments were circulated, but none were passed. This is a waste of stationery.” The bill, which provides for protection of whistleblowers, will now become law after the president’s assent. Had the amendments been passed, the bill would have been stuck as the lower house was adjourned sine die while the bill was being passed by the upper house. Friday was the last day

of the last session of the 15th Lok Sabha. The bill seeks to establishamechanismtoregister complaints on any allegations of corruption or wilful misuse of power against a public servant. It also provides safeguards against victimisation of the person who makes the complaint. It seeks to provide “adequate protection to persons reporting corruption or wilful misuse of discretion which causes demonstrable loss to the govern-

ment or commission of a criminal offence by a public servant”. While the measure sets out the procedure to inquire into the disclosures and provides adequate safeguards against victimisation of the whistle blower, it also seeks to provide punishment for false or frivolous complaints. Protection to whistleblowers is endorsed by United Nations-adopted the Convention Against Corruption. This conven-

tion has been signed by 140 nations, including India. Participating in the debate on the bill earlier, Bharatiya Janata Party’s Ravishankar Prasad recalled the sacrifice of Satyendra Dubey, an Indian Engineering Service officer who was killed after he tried to reveal corruption in the Golden Quadrilateral highway construction project in 2003. The need for a bill to protect whistleblowers was realised after his murder.

New deLHI, February 21 (PtI): Ailing Air India, which was recently hit by LTC scam, has stumbled upon another case of fraud involving crores of rupees in a scheme meant for family members of the employees of the state-run airline. The case has been referred to CBI after a discreet probe launched by the vigilance department of the public carrier unearthed a scam in its family fare scheme (FFS) in which the cash-strapped airline was defrauded, sources said on Friday. The help of CBI for further probe was sought by

the vigilance department since the case had all India ramifications, the sources added. Under the FFS, concession is given to employees of the airline in which they can take their family to a domestic destination once a year at subsidized cost. Chief vigilance officer (CVO) of Air India BK Maurya confirmed to PTI that one suspect travel agency had been identified during their initial probe who alone was allegedly responsible for an estimated loss of over Rs 6 crore to the airline due to the alleged fraud in the FSS.

“We have referred the matter to CBI. It is suspected that many more travel agencies could be involved in this case causing direct loss of crores of rupees to AI,” he said. mThe AI spokesman did not immediately respond to phone calls and messages sent to his mobile. AI has asked the CBI to take up a probe as “the case has all India ramifications with possible loss caused to the government and AI with possible involvement of other governmental and nongovernmental agencies.” A CBI official said that according to an internal

probe of the Air India’s Vigilance team, which had looked into the records from 2007, had found that in one particular sector alone the alleged fraud under the FFS involved 5,916 tickets. The probe report said the travel operator “indulged in fraudulently altering the fare on flown coupons to higher amount than the fare shown on the audit coupons and thus presumably keeping the excess amount which is difference of fare as per flight coupons and the audit coupons.” The vigilance probe also found that a manda-

tory rule of mentioning that “all family members travel together” was not found printed in a number of tickets issued under FSS which has to be mandatorily stamped so that the scheme is not misused. Sources said the alleged fraudsters, which AI suspects could also involve its staff, separated the passenger and AI redemption coupons by writing two different fares aimed at claiming more money from the airline. The flag carrier has asked the CBI to take up the case as it suspects the scam has pan-India ramifications with many more such

travel agents and the fraud estimates could be as high as Rs 15-20 crore over a period of time. The preliminary inhouse enquiry conducted by the vigilance department found out that the fraud was largely carried out on the Chennai-Port Blair and Kolkata-Port Blair sector and this caused a loss of Rs 2.70 crore to the AI but the overall loss to the exchequer was over Rs six crore. The vigilance department of the airline had detected a similar fraud in the leave travel concession (LTC) scheme and the CBI is currently probing the case.

child,” Singh said. Later, she was admitted to a hospital. The delivery was normal and both mother and child are safe, healthy and recovering fast, doctors attending to the woman said. The class 12 examinations began last week at 882 centres amid tight security with non-teaching college employees in the state on an indefinite strike. This year 981,778 students, including a record 410,662 girls, across Bihar appeared for the exams, board officials said.

Sonia Gandhi seeks dismissal of 1984 case in US

don’t inform us, it’s not required,” he said. He parried questions as to whether the concern in the government had to do with reports of “trust deficit” between Gen Singh and defence minister A K Antony and said such queries should be put to them. He, however, appeared to blame the government for the row, saying if they were worried then they should have asked the Army. “I cannot say what was in there mind when they received the information. When they asked me the next day, I explained it to them and it ended there... You should ask them if they were confused or what caused it,” he said. Army units movement in

India's ruling Congress party supporters burn an effigy of Chief Minister of the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu Jayaram Jayalalitha outside Tamil Nadu state house during a protest march in New Delhi, India on February 21. The protest was in response to the Tamil Nadu state, which had ruled on Wednesday that seven men serving life sentences for the 1991 assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi should be freed as they have served more than 20 years in prison. India's top court on Thursday stopped the government of Tamil Nadu state from releasing three of the seven prisoners. (AP Photo)

Agra man kills American wife, blows himself up

Parliament passes bill to protect whistle blowers

Ailing Air India hit by another huge fraud, asks for CBI probe

InternatIonal

the Morung express

Saturday 22 February 2014

Dimapur

EU mEdiatEs UkrainE pEacE dEal

kIeV, FebruarY 21 (reuterS): Ukraine opposition leaders signed an EU-mediated peace deal with President Viktor Yanukovich on Friday, aiming to end a violent standoff that has left dozens dead and opening the way for an early presidential election this year. Russian-backed Yanukovich - under pressure to quit from the mass demonstrations in Kiev - earlier offered a series of concessions to his pro-European opponents, including a national unity government and constitutional change to reduce his powers, as well as the presidential vote. German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said the deal provided for the creation of a national unity government and an early presidential election this year, although no date had been set. The vote had been due in March 2015. A Reuters correspondent at the signing in the presidential headquarters said Yanukovich did not smile during a ceremony lasting several minutes. One of the European Union mediators, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski, described the agreement as a “good compromise for Ukraine”. In a post on Twitter, he said

it “gives peace a chance. Opens the way for reform and to Europe”. With Ukraine caught in a geopolitical tug-of-war between Russia and the EU, at least 77 people have been killed this week in the worst violence since the independent country emerged from the wreckage of the Soviet Union in 1991. “There are no steps that we should not take to restore peace in Ukraine,” Yanukovich said when announcing his concessions before the deal was signed. “I announce that I am initiating early elections.” Yanukovich said Ukraine would revert to a previous constitution under which parliament had greater control over the make-up of the government, including the prime minister. “I am also starting the process of a return to the 2004 constitution with a rebalancing of powers towards a parliamentary republic,” he said. “I call for the start of procedures for forming a government of national unity.” Earlier, a Polish foreign ministry spokesman said a council of protesters occupying Kiev’s Independence Square, which is also known as the Maidan, had backed the agreement. The civic council “has

An anti-government protester gets a blessing from a priest at Independence Square in Kiev, Ukraine on February 21. Ukraine's presidency said Friday that it has negotiated a deal intended to end battles between police and protesters that have killed scores and injured hundreds. (AP Photo)

voted in favour of the three opposition leaders signing the agreement with President Yanukovich concerning resolving the conflict”, the ministry’s spokesman, Marcin Wojciechowski,

‘Bad roads killing more people than poor health’

New York, FebruarY 21 (IaNS): Whenever you read about news related to traffic accidents and deaths on Indian roads, realise that bad roads put more people at risk in some countries than three leading causes of death worldwide - cancer, heart disease and stroke. While global death rates per 100,000 population are higher from chronic health-related causes than from traffic accidents, the latter does claim more victims in some countries - especially in developing nations. Namibia and Chad are among the African na-

tions that have the highest traffic fatality rates per 100,000 population, reveal researchers at University of Michigan’s transportation research institute. Using data from the World Health Organisation (WHO), researchers Michael Sivak and Brandon Schoettle compared fatality from road crashes with mortality from cancer, heart disease and stroke. They realised that several countries in Africa and Middle East fare worse when it comes to traffic fatality rates. When it comes to the greatest number of deaths

from road crashes as a percentage of fatalities from all causes of death, several countries in the Middle East are at the top. The results indicate that road safety is a greatly underappreciated component of public health in many parts of the world, added Schoettle. By comparison, the US and Canada are both below 2 percent and several European nations are under 1 percent in terms of road deaths. Overall, traffic deaths account for about 2 percent of all fatalities from all causes worldwide, noted the study.

Pamela Rauseo, 37, performs CPR on her nephew, five-month-old Sebastian de la Cruz, after pulling her SUV over on the side of the road along the west bound lane on Florida state road 836 just east of 57th Avenue around 2:30pm on February 20. At right is Lucila Godoy who stopped her car to assist in the rescue. The baby was rushed to Jackson Memorial Hospital, where he is reportedly doing ok. (AP Photo)

said on Twitter. The German and Polish foreign ministers were in Kiev to promote the political compromise to end the bloodshed amid a standoff between riot police and

anti-government protestBefore the deal was ers who have occupied the signed, armed police briefcentral square for nearly ly entered the parliament three months. building while lawmakers were holding an emergenSCUFFLES IN PARLIA- cy session but they were MENT quickly ejected, opposition

New York, FebruarY 21 (IaNS): With changing diets, alcohol consumption, smoking and less physical activity, the developing countries are now facing the burden of chronic illnesses - already a major and expensive problem in developed countries. This disturbing trend - along with high rates of infectious disease - is something poor countries cannot afford in the long run, say researchers. “The emergence of chronic disease in developing countries is a ‘turning point’ because they

are facing a confrontation with the same kinds of economic pressures that now bedevil developed countries,” said Daniel Callahan, co-founder of The Hastings Centre, a non-profit bioethics research institute based in the US. Chronic illness in these countries has some distinctive characteristics. For one, it is common to find obesity - a major contributor to chronic disease - and malnutrition in same families. And chronic illness typically begins about a decade earlier than in developed

countries. Chronic disease would only add to the existing inequities. The treatment is usually expensive and the rich in poor countries are likely to have better access to it. Callahan proposes a new set of goals for medicine, applicable to both rich and poor countries, which he calls ‘sustainable medicine’. “Nothing less than a revolution one that overthrows the tyranny of an economically and socially unsustainable model of medicine - is increasingly needed,” stressed Callahan. Chronic conditions

waShINgtoN, FebruarY 21 (IaNS): Premature babies benefit from being exposed to adult talk as early as possible, shows a new research. A study led by a team at the Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island and the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, both of the US, has been published in the February 2014 online edition of Pediatrics, the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics. It indicates that premature babies benefit from being exposed to adult talk as early as possible, reported Science Daily. The research, entitled “Adult Talk in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) with Pre-term Infants and Developmental Outcomes”, was led by Betty

Vohr, MD, director of Women and Infants’ Neonatal Follow-Up Programme and professor of pediatrics, along with her colleagues. The aim of the study was to test the association of the amount of talking that a baby was exposed to at what would have been the 32nd and 36th weeks gestation if a baby had been born full term, using the Bayley scales of infant and toddler development, 3rd Edition (Bayley - III) cognitive and language scores. It was hypothesised that pre-term infants exposed to higher word counts would have higher cognitive and language scores at seven and 18 months corrected age. At 32nd and 36th week, staff recorded the NICU environment for 16 hours

with a Language Environment Analysis (LENA) microprocessor. The adult word count, child vocalisations and “conversation turns” (words of mother or vocalisations of infant within five seconds) between mother and infant are recorded and analysed by computer. The results showed the hypothesis to be true. “Our study demonstrates the powerful impact of parents visiting and talking to their infants in the NICU on their developmental outcomes,” Vohr said. Historically, many premature infants are at increased risk of language delay. The study now identifies an easy-to-implement and cost-effective intervention to improve outcomes come talk and sing to your baby!

said Clay Georgia, a marine mammal biologist for the Georgia Department of Natural Resources. He was part of the team that got close enough to the 30-foot whale to sever the three-quarters-inch fishing line using a grappling hook equipped with cutting blades. “We feel like what we did gives the whale a fighting chance to shed the remainder of the rope on its own,” said George, who estimated the whale is still dragging about 20 feet of the rope woven with lead weights. “The real takehome message here is we can’t just go out and save and fix every whale that shows up entangled. In some cases it’s just completely impossible to disentangle that whale.” The entangled whale spotted this week was ac-

Adult talk ‘motivates’ premature infants

In this February 17, released by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, members of the Georgia DNR and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission throw a custom-made "cutting grapple" in an effort to sever the long strand of fishing rope being dragged by an endangered right whale off the Georgia coast. Seconds later the heavy rope parted and the whale swam away unencumbered. (AP Photo)

tually a 4-year-old male, which George said isn’t surprising despite a misconception that only pregnant females and their babies migrate south at wintertime. A crew doing aerial sur-

a planned issue of 5-year Eurobonds worth $2 billion, it told the Irish Stock Exchange where the debt would have been listed. Kiev had hoped Russia would buy the bonds to help it stave off bankruptcy. Russia’s economy minister said Moscow was still undecided on the next $2 billion instalment and was awaiting clarity on the government in Ukraine. On financial markets, Ukraine’s dollar bonds and the hryvnia currency firmed against the dollar from record lows hit this week on hopes for a deal. However, RBS analyst Tatyana Orlova noted the country was still in dire financial straits. “This is not the end of the story. What I am reading is there is a deal but the devil is in the detail ... The urgent need is for a technocratic cabinet that could take steps to avert default,” Orlova said. The health ministry said 77 people had been killed since Tuesday afternoon, which meant at least 47 died in Thursday’s clashes. On Thursday, EU foreign ministers meeting in Brussels imposed targeted sanctions on Ukraine and threatened more if the authorities failed to restore calm.

including heart disease, stroke, cancer, pulmonary disease, and diabetes are rapidly increasing in developing countries which can

be tackled with a sustainable model of medicine, said the study published in the Brown Journal of World Affairs.

‘Chronic illnesses haunt developing nations’

Fishing rope cut from endangered whale

SaVaNNah, FebruarY 21 (aP): Wildlife experts cut away more than 280 feet (85 meters) of commercial fishing line being dragged by an endangered right whale off the Georgia coast, though some of the heavy rope had to be left tangled in the whale’s mouth, officials said Thursday. Entanglement in commercial fishing gear and collisions with ships off the East Coast are considered the greatest threats to the right whale’s survival. Experts estimate only about 450 of the large whales remain. Each winter they migrate to the warmer waters off Georgia and Florida to give birth to their calves. It was the first time since 2011 that a right whale snared in fishing gear has been spotted offshore in the Southeast,

leader Arseny Yatsenyuk said. Members exchanged punches when speaker Volodymyr Rybak tried to adjourn proceedings. Opposition deputies were angered because it would mean delaying a possible vote on a resolution pressing for constitutional changes to restrict the president’s powers. The speaker left the chamber and debate continued. The deal would be a setback for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has made tying Ukraine into a Moscow-led Eurasian Union a cornerstone of his efforts to reunite as much as possible of the former Soviet Union. Putin appointed his own envoy to the talks at Yanukovich’s request on Thursday but it was not clear what role, if any, Russian officials had in the negotiations. In another sign of the severity of the crisis, ratings agency Standard & Poor’s cut Ukraine’s credit rating for the second time in three weeks on Friday, citing the increased risk of default. S&P said latest developments in the crisis made it less likely that Ukraine would receive desperately needed Russian aid. Ukraine cancelled

veys for the Navy offshore near Jacksonville, Fla., spotted the whale dragging fishing line behind it Sunday. Florida officials responding by boat managed to cut away some of the rope and attach a tracking buoy

to the end. The whale was about 40 miles (64.37 kilometers) offshore of Darien, Georgia on Monday when the Georgia DNR was able to maneuver a small boat close enough to cut away most of the remainder.

NOTICE

Whereas Smti. Akiula wife of Lt . Lithsise Sangtam of Yingshukur Village has applied for issue of succession certificate under the Indian succession act 1925 in order to draw/receive the payment of movable/ immovable property of Lt.Lithsise Sangtam Constable under the establishment of 3rd NAP Battalion Tuensang who expire on 21/11/2013 Descriptions of property 1. GPF 2. GIS From the office of 3. FBF Commandant 3rd NAP 4. PENSION CASE Tuensang 5. Any other dues etc Kesonyu yhome IAS D.C KIPHIRE

The Morung Express 10 SPORTS Neymar attacks Santos, Miami Heat too hot for Thunder defends father in transfer row Dimapur

Saturday

22 February 2014

sAO PAuLO, FebruArY 21 (reuTers): Barcelona and Brazil striker Neymar has launched an attack on his former club Santos and spoken out in support of his father, insisting he had the right to make millions from the player's transfer last year. A company owned by Neymar Jr. received 40 million euros when the Brazilian moved from Santos to Barcelona for a fee the Spanish club has since reported to be 86.2 million euros. Santos' share was 17.1m euros, prompting the club's fans and officials to question the deal. Santos asked a court to let them see the Neymar family's contract with Barcelona with a view to seeking a bigger cut of the transfer fee. The club lost their case and are now threatening to ask a Spanish judge to order Neymar and Barcelona to hand over the contract. The 22-year-old Neymar, in a short and angry attack on his official Instagram page (instagram. com/p/knYJg_xtrG/), protested his father's innocence and hit out at Santos' current and former presidents. "I am sick and tired of this ... I've had enough of all this talk," Neymar Jr.

wrote. "I am a fan of my dad for having put me where I am, and if he makes millions from that, what's the big deal? He worked for it, it didn't just fall in his lap." "I am totally disappointed with the ex-president LAOR (Luis Alvaro de Oliveira Ribeiro) and the current ODILIO (Rodrigues)," he added. "Principally with LAOR, who I always treated with the utmost care and admiration. "Enough is enough. Sorry, Santos fans, but my love for the club won't change because of 'one or two people'." Odilio Rodrigues had criticised Neymar Sr earlier this week, calling the deal he did with Barcelona "unacceptable". "There was as an ethical error," he said, in reference to Neymar Sr's companies. Neymar's father, in a statement on his son's website (www.neymaroficial. com) on Thursday, said he held no grudge against Santos - the club Neymar supported as a child - but he questioned their conduct. "We could start deliberately blaming everyone else," he wrote. "We hear lots of things and we don't really know what's going on. It seems to me to be opportunism or maybe internal (club) politics."

DEAL INVESTIGATED Neymar helped Santos win three Paulista state championships and the Copa Libertadores for the first time in almost half a century. However, his departure and subsequent arrival in La Liga have been plagued by controversy. Barcelona initially said they had paid 57.1 million euros for the player but in January admitted the he cost them 86.2 million, including a bonus payment to his family. The deal is being investigated by a Spanish court for possible misappropriation of funds following a complaint from a Barca member. Sandro Rosell, who was named in the lawsuit but denies wrongdoing, stepped down as Barcelona president in January to defend himself in the case. Barcelona were charged on Thursday with committing tax fraud in the signing of Neymar. "Judge Pablo Ruz has charged FC Barcelona with an infringement against the tax authority relating to the purchase of the Brazilian player," a court spokesman said. Barca had denied wrongdoing after local media reported on Wednesday that Spain's public prosecutor had asked for fraud charges to be laid against the club. Neymar also dragged his best friend and former team mate Paulo Henrique Ganso into the row on Thursday. The pair came through the ranks together at Santos and helped the club to their most successful period since Pele played for the side in the 1960s. But Neymar said Ganso, who left the club under a cloud, was hounded out by officials. "He didn't leave because he no longer liked the club or didn't want to play for them, but because of the board!!" Neymar said without giving details. Ganso is currently with Sao Paulo but has failed to consistently reproduce the early promise he showed at Santos.

OKLAHOMA CITY, FebruArY 21 (AP): LeBron James sat silently in front of his locker with a towel draped over his head, not wanting to reveal the effects of a hit to his nose that prematurely ended his night. His Miami Heat teammates finished off a 103-81 win over the Oklahoma City Thunder without him on Thursday night. Miami's star forward went down with 5:50 remaining after he was struck by Oklahoma City's Serge Ibaka on a drive to the basket. James finished the dunk, but he was bloodied and he left the court with a towel over his face. "I'm like everybody else, you're used to seeing him like Superman, get up and sprint back even after tough hits and tough falls," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "So we knew something was up." Miami's star forward had landed the hardest blow long before that. He scored 16 of his 33 points in the first quarter to put the Thunder in a bind, and the Heat rolled to a lopsided win. James passed a concussion test, but some damage was done. "He has a swollen nose right now. It's bleeding," Spoelstra said. "We'll evaluate him when we get back to Miami, but it's sore." The Thunder were the ones shaken up after James made his first five shots and scored 12 points in the first 4:11. "It was flawless," Wade said. "He was aggressive defensively, he was able to play passing lanes and be who he is. That was a great start on the road by our leader. It was something that we needed." Wade had 24 points and 10 assists, and Chris Bosh added 24 points for Miami, which won its fourth straight and avenged an earlier loss to Oklahoma City. It was a good step for the Heat, who are trying to catch Indiana for the top record in the Eastern Conference. "You can see the resolve," Wade said. "You can see

Miami Heat forward LeBron James (6) dunks in front of Oklahoma City Thunder forward Serge Ibaka (9) during the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game in Oklahoma City, Thursday, Feb. 20. James fell to the floor with a bloody nose. (AP Photo)

the chemistry. You can see a team that's gearing up for the second half of the season." Kevin Durant scored 28 points for Oklahoma City, which lost at home for the first time since Jan. 5. Durant has been the popular favorite to win the NBA MVP award, but Wade said James is still in the hunt. "It's not decided," Wade said. "I don't think that was a message. That was LeBron James being LeBron James. He loves the matchup, just like KD loves the matchup. The MVP is long, long from over." Russell Westbrook, who had missed the previous 27

Juventus beats Trabzonspor in Europa

PArIs, FebruArY 21 (AP): Juventus looked good while Ajax looked woeful in the Europa League on Thursday on a night when other former champions Porto, Shakhtar Donetsk and Sevilla also stumbled. Juventus enjoyed a 2-0 home win against Trabzonspor, but fourtime European champion Ajax fell to a stunning 3-0 home loss to SV Salzburg in the first leg of the round-of-32. Forward Pablo Osvaldo, starting his first game for Juventus fol-

lowing a loan move from Southampton, scored early on and the highly rated midfielder Paul Pogba put them in control for the return leg with an injury-time effort. Ajax, the Netherlands' most successful side, failed to make an impression as Spanish striker Jonathan scored twice for the Austrian side to take his season's tally to 30 in all competitions. Senegalese striker Sadio Mane added the other goal. Two-time champion Porto raced into a 2-0 lead against Eintracht Frankfurt thanks to goals

from winger Ricardo Quaresma and midfielder Silvestre Varela, but the German side struck twice in the second half to force a draw. Sevilla, which has also won the competition twice, conceded a late goal in a 2-2 draw at Slovenian side Maribor. Shakhtar, the 2009 winner, needed a goal from Brazilian striker Luiz Adriano to scrape a 1-1 draw away at Czech side Viktoria Plzen. Elsewhere, Fiorentina was in a strong position after winning 3-1 at Danish side Esbjerg. Striker Alessandro Matri, who is on loan from

games after having surgery on his right knee, started and scored 16 points in 24 minutes. He made 4 of 12 shots. "I'm just going to keep getting him better, and as the season goes along, as he gets more comfortable in game shape, we're going to see a better Russell every night," Thunder coach Scott Brooks said. The Thunder overcame an early 18-point deficit on Jan. 29 to roll past the Heat 112-95 in Miami, and the home fans hoped for a regular-season sweep against the team that beat Oklahoma City in the 2012 finals. Instead, they saw a rare inefficient game from the

Thunder. "When you don't have good rhythm, normally the three-ball can get you back into the game," Brooks said. "We didn't have shot makers tonight. We've had them for a while now. We didn't have them tonight." The crowd erupted as Westbrook was introduced as a starter. His first minute of action was furious and had the fans on their feet. His first basket was a twohanded, fast-break dunk 37 seconds into the game, and he got a steal 17 seconds later. The excitement quickly evaporated. James scored 10 points in the first 3:11 and Miami made 13 of its first 14 shots to take a

28-13 lead. The Heat were ahead 34-17 at the end of the first quarter. They extended their lead to 19 points in the second quarter before the Thunder rallied behind Westbrook. He scored nine points in the final 1:55 of the first half, including a dunk in the closing seconds, to trim Miami's lead to 54-47 at the break. Miami took control early in the third quarter. James scored six points during a 10-0 run that helped the Heat take a 64-49 lead. The advantage grew to 75-53 on a 3-pointer by James with just over five minutes left in the frame.

Ramos gets revenge on Spurs

AC Milan, gave the Italian team an early lead. Forward Martin Pusic replied soon after for Esbjerg, but midfielders Josip Ilicic and Alberto Aquilani added further goals for Fiorentina before halftime. Portuguese side Benfica, last year's runner-up to Chelsea, secured a 1-0 win at Greek side PAOK thanks to a goal from Brazilian forward Lima. Also, Lazio lost 1-0 at home against Bulgarian side Ludogorets Razgrad, with both teams missing a penalty, and Swiss side Basel drew 0-0 at Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Bayern in no mood to repeat last year's mistakes

LONDON, FebruArY 21 (reuTers): European champions Bayern Munich have no intention of making the same mistakes as they did against Arsenal last year when they meet in the second leg of their Champions League round of 16 tie next month. Bayern overcame what captain Philipp Lahm described as a "huge challenge" in beating Arsenal 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday, with goals from Toni Kroos and Thomas Mueller after Arsenal had goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny sent off in the first half. A year ago to the day, Kroos and Mueller were also on the scoresheet when Bayern beat Arsenal 3-1 in London at the same stage of the competition, making the second leg look like a formality. However, Arsenal had other ideas and won 2-0 in Munich with Olivier Giroud scoring after three minutes and Laurent Koscielny four minutes from the end. In the end Bayern survived, scrambling through on away goals, and recovered to sweep past Juventus 4-0 on aggregate in the quarter-finals and Barcelona 7-0 in the semis before beating Borussia Dortmund 2-1 in the all-German final at Wembley. Since that 2-0 defeat to

goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Bayern's Thomas Mueller, center, celebrates his side's second goal during a Champions League, round of 16, first leg soccer match between Arsenal and Bayern Munich at the Emirates stadium in London, Wednesday, Feb. 19. (AP Photo)

Arsenal, Bayern have scored in 51 successive matches, losing only two of them, and have built a commanding 16-point lead in the Bundesliga. Under coach Pep Guardiola, who took over from Jupp Heynckes last summer, they look even stronger than last season. Captain Lahm, who had an outstanding match on Wednesday, said they would be taking nothing for granted in the second leg after last year's scare. "Tonight was a huge challenge for us, especially

as Arsenal played so well at the start, but in the end we can be very happy with the result," he told reporters. "It is a good result to take back, but we have been warned by the match last year. All of us who were there know how quickly things can go wrong. "We need to be alert from the first minute once again and will try not to make the same mistakes again." Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger, ruing the dismissal of his goalkeeper for a 38th-minute foul on

Arjen Robben and an early missed penalty by Mesut Ozil, was able to take some comfort from what happened in Munich last year. "We went there and won and we will try and do at least that again," he said. "It is not over and we will fight to the end, like we did last year." Wednesday's match was full of drama and incident virtually from the first minute to the last. Arsenal battered Bayern with a series of early dangerous raids and were only denied by some excellent saves from

BOYHOOD FRIENDS The most important one came after eight minutes, when he stopped a penalty from his great boyhood friend and former Schalke 04 team mate Ozil. Wenger admitted afterwards that Arsenal's record 42.1 million pounds signing was lacking in confidence after some recent poor displays. It was Ozil's second penalty miss in the competition this season after failing from the spot against Olympique Marseille in the group stage, and his contribution was minimal as Bayern gradually took control of midfield and the match. Whether he should be rested until he rediscovers his form is something for Wenger to ponder in the weeks ahead. The turning point came when Szczesny was sent off for clattering Robben, although David Alaba also missed the ensuing penalty, cracking his leftfoot attempt against the lefthand post. Bayern did score through the superb Kroos, who thundered in a rightfoot curler early in the second half, and they wrapped up the match with an 88th minute header from substitute Mueller before Kroos hit a post in the last minute.

Yevhen Konoplyanka of Ukrainian Dnipro, second left, scores a goal past Tottenham's goalkeeper Brad Friedel, front, during their UEFA Europa League round of 32, first leg soccer match at GSP Stadium in Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine,Thursday, Feb. 20. (AP Photo)

PArIs, FebruArY 21 (AFP): Juande Ramos earned a measure of revenge for his sacking by Tottenham Hotspur as Dnipro snatched a late 1-0 win over his former club in the Europa League last 32 first leg on Thursday. Ramos was axed by Spurs in October 2008 after just 12 months in charge at White Hart Lane, but the 59-year-old is 90 minutes away from making his old employers pay after Yevhen Konoplyanka's penalty in the closing stages gave the Ukrainian club a slender advantage to defend in the second leg in north London on February 27. The game was given the green light despite reports that at least 60 have died in three days of violent political protests in Kiev. Dnipro are based 220 miles away from the Ukrainian capital, but the shocking scenes in Kiev still resonated in Dnipropetrovsk, where there was a minute's silence before kick-off and both teams wore black arm-

bands in a show of respect for the dead. The visitors were left to rue a terrible miss by Roberto Soldado early in the second half, the Spanish striker scuffing over with the goal at his mercy four yards out. Dnipro stole the win in the 81st minute when Jan Vertonghen gave away a penalty as he fouled Matheus just inside the area and Konoplyanka, a transfer target for Liverpool, stepped up to slot in the spot-kick via a post. A Paulinho effort hit a post in the final moments, but Spurs were unable to scramble in the rebound, and manager Tim Sherwood later blamed the state of the pitch for Soldado's miss. "I am not using it as an excuse, not for the chance, as both teams played on it but I am sure that it must have played some part in Robbie missing that one," he said. "The pitch was a disgrace, it is no excuse as both teams had to play on it but it is possibly the worst

pitch I have experienced in a long time." "We could have played better," he conceded. "We will score at the Lane, guaranteed, but it depends how many we will have to score."

Swans hold Napoli Swansea City performed well against Napoli but couldn't find a way past the Serie A giants at the Liberty Stadium. Visiting goalkeeper Rafael Cabral made a crucial save from Wilfried Bony in the first half after the striker had latched on to a superb pass by Pablo Hernandez. Rafael then came off injured at the interval, and his replacement Pepe Reina continued to thwart the Welsh club in the second half, keeping out headers from Ashley Williams and Chico Flores as well as a curling effort by Wayne Routledge. "I think we're really pleased with the way we played. It tells a lot that we're disappointed to come away with a 0-0 draw," captain Williams told ITV.

Entertainment

The Morung Express C M Y K

Saturday 22 February 2014

‘I have fallen in love with the Indian people’ ot many artists can claim to have been signed on to a record label at the age of 13, even more so when the label belonged to the King of R&B R. Kelly. But former The Pussycat Dolls member, Kaya Jones, is part of this privileged minority. The singer, who provided backup vocals for Mick Jagger’s Golden Globe winning song Old Habits Die Hard, is currently on her first tour of India. She performed in Hyderabad on February 19 and in Pune on February 20. After her gig in Hard Rock Cafe in Delhi on today, Jones will perform in Mumbai and Bangalore over the weekend to finish with the last leg in India. “My shows in India, so far, have been wonderful. I’m really looking forward to the Delhi concert. I have fallen in love with Indian people and their energy,” the Hollywood Doll singer said. Jones first came to prominence in 2003 when she was chosen among thousands of other singers and signed to

Ex-Pussycat Doll Kaya Jones woos Indian fans with her first tour of the country

Former The Pussycat Dolls member, Kaya Jones, who also provided backup vocals for Mick Jagger’s Golden Globe winning song Old Habits Die Hard, is currently on her first tour of India.

NAME? Matt Brinkler WHO? Louis Tomlinson FROM? Cambridge AGE? 24 SPECIAL TALENT? He a solo artist himself

C M Y K

NAME? David Ribi WHO? Niall Horan FROM? Kent AGE? 22 SPECIAL TALENT? David was a cast member of the Tour of Hairspray last year where he played ‹Sketch›. Played Peter Pan in the Christmas panto alongside Steve McFadden in Croydon

NAME? Aaron Foster WHO? Liam Payne FROM? Newcastle AGE? 23 SPECIAL TALENT? Is also a model and dancer

hey are the five 20-somethings who perform sellout gigs, get flown around the world to perform for their most dedicated superfans and get mobbed by female fans. No, we’re not talking about BRIT-winning boy band One Direction but their tribute act, Only One Direction. Matt Brinkler, 24, Henry Allan, 23, Jamie Searls, 23, Aaron Foster, 23, and 22-yearold David Ribi have filled concert venues across the country and played to tens of thousands of screaming fans impersonating the famous five. The boys have just got back from two weeks performing two shows a night in Dubai - where their fans went so wild they stormed the stage. The boys went from struggling musicians to stadium-filling stars within months - and now see every tour as another boys’ holiday that earns them thousands of pounds. David, who sings as Niall, said: ‘I think the best way to describe it is to say it’s like being in a flash mob. ‘There’s all this greatness and craziness when you’re on stage and then as soon as you’ve done the meet and greet afterwards - everything goes back to normal. ‘It’s like you’re famous for a little while and you get the buzz of being on stage - but none of the stresses and pressure - you can just walk down the street like a normal guy.’

C M Y K

NAME? Jamie Searls WHO? Zayn Malik FROM? Cork, Ireland AGE? 23 SPECIAL TALENT? Was in the original Union J line-up on X Factor before he was booted off. Bandmate George Shelley (who is ironically often compared to Harry Styles) went on to make the final band

NAME? Henry Allan WHO? Harry Styles FROM? London AGE? 23 SPECIAL TALENT? He is also a trained barman

The boys have learned every song the boy band have released and perform a one-hour set jammed with 1D’s biggest anthems and latest hits. They went from on-off relationships at home to having thousands of girls desperate for their attention. Henry said: ‘There is just nothing better than performing - the crowd are always screaming and loving what we do and there is no better feeling than that. ‘We perform at festivals, our own gigs and birthday parties for One Direction superfans.’ Like the real 1D - Only One Direction are met at gigs by hoards of screaming girl fans. Matt said: ‘They storm the stage afterwards wanting pictures and autographs, it’s crazy. ‘The younger crowds like Niall - he’s the cute one, but the older girls love Harry so Henry gets a lot of the attention.’ The tribute band have been together for two years and were selected from hundreds of hopefuls to be the ultimate 1D cover band. David Ribi, from Kent, is also a leading man in the West End, Jamie Searls, from Cork in Ireland, was in the original Union J line-up on X Factor before he was booted off, Aaron Foster from Newcastle is a model and dancer, Henry Allan is a barman from London and Matt Brinkler is a solo musician from Cambridge. The London-based band have travelled from Dubai

to Aberdeen and have a continuous stream of gigs. Jamie said: ‘We’re very lucky - we have been on a crazy run of performances all over the country. ‘Now we get to perform in places like Dubai, which was amazing - we were performing on this massive stage in this enormous mall halfway around the world. ‘We’re a new era tribute band - we all play a character in the band but we are all singers musicians and actors in our own right.’ Matt said: ‘We learn the new songs as they are released, in the beginning we just had X Factor covers and singles but now we play songs from all three of the One Direction albums. ‘When one of the 1D songs was leaked online we learnt the song and performed it before they did - all the fans already knew the words.’ 23-yearold Aaron Foster who performs as superstar Liam Payne said: ‘The reaction of people when we perform is crazy. ‘It’s mental - when there are girls crying, they want you to touch their hands and sign their skin - it’s a really surreal experience.’ Henry who plays as 1D heartthrob Harry Styles said: ‘We have some girls that will come to all our gigs and we have 5,000 followers on Twitter - which in unheard of for a tribute band. ‘We’re on the road travelling to shows a lot of the time but it’s an incredible experience.’

Lorde appears in the latest issue of s the youngest artist to top the U.S. charts in 25 years, Lorde has the world at her feet. But those feet, it would seem, are well and truly on the ground. In the new issue of Vogue, the New Zealand-born 17-yearold - who is pictured in a beaded Miu Miu dress and floral coronet - discusses her stratospheric rise to fame, and how her new life has been a coming of age, of sorts. ‘I had been in [the Auckland suburbs] my whole life that I had ached to get out of,’ she said. ‘I had wanted to live in a city. And then I had this experience of traveling and being in the biggest cities in the world. ‘Coming back home, I realized that - A - where I live is beautiful and - B - did I want to grow up? Did I want to leave the suburbs?’ Lorde’s rise to fame was a sharp one. She was discovered at age 12 after a school talent show, and was quickly signed to a record label. Vocal lessons were a major turning point for her though. Before that, she says, she ‘had quite a nasal, twangy voice.’ Though her m o t h e r, Sonja Ye l i c h is a

11 C M Y K

become a Pussycat Doll. As part of the group, her vocals were featured in the soundtracks of films such as Shark Tale and Shall We Dance? Despite the group’s recording of Sway for Shall We Dance? receiving critical acclaim, Jones soon left the group for a solo career. The group itself disbanded in 2009. 10 years down the line, Jones is happy with her career and doesn’t miss The Pussycat Dolls. As for the possibility of a reunion, she said: “My focus right now is on my solo album. Nothing will happen until it is launched.” Her album Rise of the Phoenix is set to release on April 29 and will be her third solo collection. Jones has also diversified into developing a fashion and beauty line for girls and has her own recording company.

The 1D TribuTe acT raking in ThousanDs performing as The worlD’s biggesT boy banD

Dimapur

poet, she admits that reading and writing fiction was always her creative outlet, and prior to the vocal lessons, she had been expressing herself in the context of short stories. ‘It’s much more similar to songwriting for me — having to make something big and get it into a small space,’ she said.

Like any other 17-year-old, Lorde says she is looking firmly to the future. Despite having ‘made it’ by so many others’ standards,

she is not done with fiction writing - or, indeed, exploring other ways of using her talents. ‘I feel like I’m not yet sitting comfortably in what I’m doing, and I definitely feel a hunger for branching out,’ she explained. Being young and beautiful with an adventurous approach to fashion, Lorde has unsurprisingly been embraced by the fashion set. She says her personal icons though are artists with a strong sense of self, such as Grace Jones and David Bowie. And it seems they speak closely with her personal style. ‘The kind of clothes that I’ve found I like to wear ... have all been things that make me feel powerful and strong,’ she said. ‘I wear a lot of pants. I wear a lot of long, structured dresses.’ Unlike many of her peers, it seems Lorde has a strong sense of the responsibility involved in being a role model to other teens. ‘It’s a fine line between being a role model and preaching to people. I never want to tell anyone how they should be, especially not someone my age,’ she said. ‘But, that being said, I’m conscious of the fact that people my age are reading what I say and listening to what I say, and that’s cool - particularly for the girls who are into what I do.’ Lorde was one of the star turns at the Brit Awards in London last night. As well as performing at the star-studded event, she also took home the award for Best International Solo Female. She told the assembled crowd that the award was ‘a priceless surprise... ‘I’m still so new to getting awards that my brain feels like it’s exploding every time it happens, so forgive me.’

Christina Aguilera

Announces Engagement And Pregnancy

t’s been a whirlw i n d month for Aguilera. It looks like congratulations are in order for Christina Aguilera, who is not only newly engaged, but also expecting. Last week, the singer announced that she was engaged to boyfriend Matt Rutler, whom she met on the set of her 2010 movie Burlesque, where Rutler was working as a production assistant. Apparently the nursery rhyme was correct in this case, because less than a week later, Aguilera is announcing her pregnancy. Sources for People, who made the announcement, report that the couple could not be any happier. The engagement was announced right around Valentine’s Day last week, by Christina herself. The Voice coach tweeted a short message to her fans: “He asked and I said……,” and included a sweet photo of her hand, with the new addition of

a gigantic diamond ring, holding Rutler’s hand with some beautiful beach scenery behind them. What an excellent way to pop the question. “They’re very much in love and are really excited to take this next step!” a source close to the pair tells People. This will be a second marriage as well as a second pregnancy for Aguilera, who was previously married to Jordan Bratman. The short lived marriage spawned Max Liron, Christina’s first son, who is six years old at the moment.

apper 50 Cent has announced he is not renewing his contract with bosses at his longtime record label after years of disagreements with them. The In da Club hitmaker has announced he is leaving InterscopeShadyAftermath Records for independent label Caroline Records. A statement from the rapper reads I have had great success to date with ShadyAftermathInterscope and I’d like to thank Eminem and Dr. Dre for giving me an incredible opportunity. I’ve learned so much from them through

the years. I am excited to enter this new era where I can carry out my creative vision. Rapper Eminem, who is a co-founder of ShadyAftermath, added, Both myself and Shady Records are grateful to have had the chance to play a part in 50’s career. Shady simply would not be what it is without 50 Cent. I’ve developed a great friendship with 50 over the years, and that’s not going to change. We know 50 will have success in his new situation, and we remain supporters. The 38 year old will release Animal Ambition, his first album in five years, in June (13).

C M Y K

50 Cent Leaves Record Label

The teenage singer discusses fashion, fame and the future in her first shoot for the magazine

Deadline for Submission: February 22, 2014 Date of Publication: March 1, 2014

February 22, 2014 C M Y K

Jenson Button gets engaged with girlfriend

MaNaMa, FEbruary 21 (aFP): British Formula One driver Jenson Button and his long-term model girlfriend Jessica Michibata have become engaged. The Japanese-born Michibata could be seen sporting a diamond engagement ring as she kept tabs on her fiance during Thursday's pre-season testing at Bahrain's Sakhir circuit. McLaren posted a message on their twitter page saying: "Huge congrats to @JensonButton and @jessybondgirl on their engagement! #attaboy". And Button's new teammate, Kevin Magnussen tweeted: "Wow! Well done to @JensonButton & @jessybondgirl on your engagement!" The pair met over five years ago with Button, whose father John died suddenly of a heart attack aged 70 in January, telling the BBC that he had proposed on Valentine's Day. Michibita, whose mother is Japanese and father half-Spanish, was born in Fukui near Kyoto.

‘Federer more like an artist, Nadal a warrior’

MaDrID, FEbruary 21 (agENcIEs): Chris Evert, a legend of women’s tennis, is resigned to seeing Serena Williams matching and probably beating her record of 18 Grand Slam titles at some point, but is not quite as sure that the current world number one is really “that good.” “Is she that good or is the rest of the field maybe not that strong?” Evert told DPA in a recent interview. Evert praised the rivalry between Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer, and looked back upon a different sort of rivalry between Jimmy Connors and John McEnroe, which she saw in her days as a player. Williams was eliminated in the fourth round of this year’s Australian Open last month, when most people believed she would go on to win the tournament and match the 18 majors of Evert and Martina Navratilova. Evert does not kid herself: she knows Williams will most likely get there and beyond eventually. “It’s so interesting, she’s been in and out of the game,” Evert said. “She didn’t have a rival, and Martina and I for 18 years we were fighting. Between the both of us, 36 Grand Slams. With Serena you have to wonder, is she that good or is the rest of the field maybe not that strong?” Evert thinks the current WTA Tour has “more depth” and is “more global” than it was in her day. “So maybe in that respect you have more competition, it might be more difficult now,” she said. That might sound like a contradiction in her opinion about Williams, but it is not. When she thinks about the greatest female tennis players in history, Evert chooses strong rivalries, clashes between players who really have a chance to win titles. In this context, she has few doubts as to the two greatest players ever: Navratilova and Steffi Graf, the winner of 22 Grand Slam titles.

Clint Bowyer's car (15) becomes airborne after being hit by David Ragan (34) during the second of two NASCAR Sprint Cup series qualifying auto races at Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Fla., Thursday, Feb. 20. (AP Photo)

may be shifted Serena & Jankovic have another spat IPL out of India as govt

DubaI, FEbruary 21 (aFP): World number one Serena Williams' comeback trail endured further feisty moments with Jelena Jankovic, the former world number one from Serbia, On Thursday before she reached the semifinals of the Dubai Open. The two have exchanged testy words on several occasions, the last time in October when Jankovic appeared to question Serena's sportsmanship at the WTA Championships in Istanbul. Now, near the end of Serena's impressive 6-2, 6-2 win, a dispute blew up over the speed at which the rallies were conducted, an issue which has been a contention between them several times. It happened when Jankovic appeared to slow the pauses between rallies to the speed she thought Serena had been taking, prompting Serena to hold her arms out wide. This caused Jankovic to walk towards Kadir Nouni, the French umpire, complaining at length, once gesturing towards Serena as she did so. The match lasted another four points, when there was a further exchange of words between Jankovic and Serena. Afterwards Jankovic suggested the umpire might have been at fault. "First he tells me I'm serving too fast," she said. "Then when I took my time. It was like one minute. "So you never know what to do. Usually if I go over 25 seconds with whoever I play, you know, warning, time violation. Here it's like you can do pretty much whatev-

Serena Williams of the U.S. clenches a fist in a match against Jelena Jankovic of Serbia during the quarterfinals of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships in Dubai, United Arab Emirates on Feb. 20. (AP Photo)

er. "I have to follow who knows which rules. If it's 25 seconds, you play 25 seconds. If it goes over, someone's not ready, you should be ready. "I follow when she (Serena) serves no matter how fast or slow she plays." Serena was placatory. "I told her at the end I didn't mean anything, and I'm sorry if I played slow. "She was like, no - it was more that they say she plays too fast and then

they say she plays too slow. She said she couldn't get right." It nevertheless felt like a sequel to more heated exchanges between the two at Charleston in April when Serena claimed she was not ready to receive and made Jankovic restart her service motion, with Jankovic replying "how long do I have to wait? That dialogue apparently concluded with Williams saying: "Honestly, you got

Warriors end Rockets’ winning streak in OT

C M Y K

OaKLaND, FEbruary 21 (aP): Stephen Curry made a tying layup with 3.2 seconds left in regulation and finished with 25 points, and the Golden State Warriors outlasted the Rockets 102-99 in overtime Thursday night to halt Houston's eight-game winning streak. Just after James Harden hit a go-ahead jumper, Curry came back with a lefthanded layup over Dwight Howard to send the game to the extra session. The Warriors got a big boost in overtime when Jermaine O'Neal, who was filling in for injured center Andrew Bogut, blocked Chandler Parsons' baseline dunk attempt at the rim. Curry followed with two free throws to give Golden State a 98-95 lead with 15.9 seconds left. The teams traded free throws as the Rockets ran out of time. Harden scored 34 of his 39 points in the second half to rally the Rockets on a night neither side shot well. Golden State shot 39.8 percent from the floor, while Houston shot 36.6 percent. David Lee had 28 points and 14 rebounds, Klay Thompson and Jordan Crawford scored 12 points each, and O'Neal added 10 rebounds and two blocks. Howard grabbed 21

Golden State Warriors' Stephen Curry (30) keeps the ball from Houston Rockets' Jeremy Lin, left, and James Harden (13) during overtime of an NBA basketball game Thursday, Feb. 20, in Oakland, Calif. (AP Photo)

rebounds and scored 11 points on 4-for-13 shooting, and Parsons added 21 points and eight rebounds as Houston lost for the first time since Jan. 25 at Memphis. It was the Rockets' longest winning streak since a franchise-record, 22-game run in 2007-08 season. Playing on consecutive nights made for two tired teams until both picked up the intensity late in the fourth quarter.

Harden stripped Lee as he turned to shoot out of the post, then hit a goahead shot from 23 feet over Thompson that put Houston ahead 89-87 with 6.9 seconds to play in regulation. After the Warriors called timeout to advance the ball to half court, Curry received a pass from Andre Iguodala while running off a screen and drove to his left and to the hoop. With Howard approaching, Cur-

ry floated a left-handed layup over the Rockets' center for the tying score with 3.2 seconds left. Harden missed a 3-pointer at the regulation buzzer. Curry connected from beyond the arc at the start of the extra period, but neither side could pull away. The momentum shifted for good when Parsons slipped down the baseline, received a pass from Harden and went up for a

a problem?" This time she took trouble to take the heat out of the exchanges. "I just wanted to make sure. I don't like to have a beef with anyone. I was like, look, are we cool? Because I'm cool with you. I'm sorry if anything didn't go right." Serena has every reason for focusing on her tennis. It was as impressive as it had been uncertain in the first set of her comeback match against, Ekaterina Makarova, an unseeded Russia, on Tuesday. It made her a strong favourite to reach her first final in six weeks, as it earned her a meeting with an unseeded semifinalist - either Alize Cornet of France or Carla Suarez Navarro of Spain. There could even be an all-Williams final for the first time in more than four years. Elder sister Venus Williams continued to raise hopes of a return to the top echelons with her third straight sets win in a row to reach a semifinal against Caroline Wozniacki, the former world number one from Denmark. The seven times former Grand Slam winner overcame Flavia Pennetta, the seed-destroying Italian, by 6-4, 7-5, with a mixed performance which included a slow start and a tense finish but some typically powerful ground stroking during the guts of the match Asked how she had managed to recover from her illness and fitness problems, Venus, still ranked outside the top 40, said: "I pray and try a million different things all the time. "Serena has been extremely supportive and my family have changed their life style for me. It makes me feel better."

can't provide security NEW DELHI, FEbruary 21 (PTI): This season's Indian Premier League is likely to be shifted out of India after the government on Friday made it clear that it would not be able to provide adequate security to the cash-rich T20 tournament as its dates clash with general elections. "Due to general elections, it will be difficult to provide adequate security to IPL matches," home minister Sushilkumar Shinde told reporters here. Sources said the Home Ministry has conveyed to the BCCI that it would be able to provide adequate security personnel only after the general elections which are expected to be over by mid-May. IPL matches are likely be held between April 9 and June 3. The BCCI's Working Committee will meet on February 28 in Bhubaneswar where a final decision on the IPL venue is expected to be taken. The Board secretary Sanjay Patel had earlier indicated that the first part of the IPL may be held in South Africa while the later stage matches are played in Indian venues after the general elections are over, possibly by mid May. Patel had said that the Board also had a few other options available but did not disclose them. More than 1.20 lakh central paramilitary force personnel, in addition to state police forces, are expected to be deployed for the multi-phased Lok Sabha polls which are likely to be held in April-May. The sources said that the Home Ministry has started preparing for the massive exercise of mobilising 1.2 lakh personnel from different paramilitary forces to be deployed for poll duties. Paramilitary forces are also deployed in Naxal-affected states, Jammu and Kashmir and the north eastern states.

one-handed dunk only to be emphatically denied by the veteran O'Neal, bringing the announced sellout crowd of 19,596 roaring to their feet. The Rockets were forced to foul Curry with time running out. He made both free throws, then the Warriors intentionally fouled Harden so he couldn't attempt a tying 3-pointer. Harden and Curry trade free throws before the Warriors stole the ball from the Rockets to finish off a thrilling game that had far more action than either team made on the final day before the trade deadline passed. The Rockets sent thirdstring point guard Aaron Brooks to Denver for shooting guard Jordan Hamilton. After acquiring point guard Steve Blake from the Lakers for reserves Kent Bazemore and MarShon Brooks on Wednesday night, Golden State stuck to its plans not to part ways with any of its young core. Blake entered the game to a standing ovation with 4:34 remaining in the first quarter. He gave fans another reason to roar when he hit his first shot — pulling up for a 3-pointer — in the final seconds of the quarter.

Published, Printed and Edited by Aküm 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

C M Y K

PO Reg No. NE/RN-722