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The Morung Express
Dimapur VOL. IX ISSUE 151
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www.morungexpress.com
Wednesday, June 4, 2014 12 pages Rs. 4
It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory Yashwant Sinha arrested, sent to judicial custody
By Sandemo Ngullie
Palestinian unity govt faces many obstacles [ PAGE 9]
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union Minister Gopinath Munde is no more Sequence of eventS
Senior BJP leader dies in a road collision in Delhi
The following is the sequence of events leading to the death of Union Minister for Rural Development Gopinath Munde: 6 a.m. Munde starts from his house to reach the Indira Gandhi International Airport 6.20 a.m.Munde’s Maruti Suzuki SX4 car hit by a Tata Indica at Aurobin do Marg in south Delhi on the side where he was seated 6.26 a.m.Indica driver telephones police control room (PCR) about the accident 6.30 a.m.Munde taken to the Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Centre at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) 6.35 a.m.Munde’s security personnel hand over the Indica driver to Delhi Police 6.42 a.m.PCR van reaches the spot 7.20 a.m.The senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader declared dead at AIIMS 12.30 p.m. Munde’s post-mortem examination completed 12.41 p.m. Munde’s body taken from AIIMS to the BJP headquarters 4 p.m. Union cabinet meets to condole his death
Me too! I don’t like felicitations.
Gopinath Munde (AP Photo)
Two families were rendered homeless in a fire incident at Aokong, near Dillai interstate check-post, Dimapur on June 3. The fire erupted at a residential compound housing two families. Electrical short circuit was suspected to have caused the fire, which started around 4:50 am. No human casualty was reported. The Fire & Emergency Services responded with five trucks and it took over 40 minutes to control the flames. A vehicle was also among the property destroyed.
DAN parliamentary party resolves
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KOhiMA, JuNe 3 (MexN): The DAN Parliamentary Party has resolved to move the Speaker of Nagaland Legislative Assembly to “re-constitute” the Joint Legislature Forum of the 12th House, with the objective of “providing a common platform for the elected representatives of the Naga people to work for, and facilitate the early resolution of the Naga political issue.” This was done at the Party’s meeting held at the State Banquet Hall at 4:00pm here today. It also resolved to “request and press” the Government of India and the Naga nationalist groups to expedite the peace process to arrive at a peaceful resolution of the Naga political issues. The Parliamentary Party thanked the leadership of the Parties constituting the DAN-III, as well as Neiphiu Rio, the former Chief Minister of Nagaland for their “efforts and contributions in enabling the smooth transition of power” to the new Ministry, headed by T.R. Zeliang. The house also expressed its “unflinching support” to the new leadership in its effort to “work for the progress and development of the State.”
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–Nelson Mandela
Bouchard to face Sharapova in French Open semifinals
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reflectionS
‘Quality of education going down in Nagaland’
Saif plays peacemaker between Karisma, Sunjay Kapoor
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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left, places a wreath as he pays tribute to India’s Rural Affairs Minister Gopinath Munde in New Delhi on June 3. Munde was killed in a car accident Tuesday in New Delhi. (AP Photo)
New Delhi, JuNe 3 (iANS): The week-old government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi was dealt a blow Tuesday when Gopinath Munde, a senior cabinet minister who looked after three portfolios, including rural development, died after an early morning road accident in central Delhi. Munde, 64, a senior BJP leader who was once deputy chief minister of Maharashtra, was going to the Indira Gandhi International Airport, to catch a flight to Mumbai, in his Maruti Suzuki SX4 car when he was hit by a Tata Indica on the Prithviraj Road five-point crossing around 6.20 a.m., police said. Munde’s personal security officer (PSO) was sitting in the front next to the driver and the minister was seated behind him. The Tata Indica hit SX4 with great force from the side where Munde was seated. Due to the force of the impact, Munde fell down in the car and was helped to sit up by his PSO. Munde asked for water and told his driver to rush him to hospital before losing consciousness. AIIMS public relations officer Amit Gupta said: “Munde was brought to the emergency
department of Jai Prakash Narain Apex Trauma Centre, AIIMS at 6:30 a.m by his personal assistant and driver.” “On his arrival at the Trauma Centre, there was no spontaneous breathing, no blood pressure, no pulse, no cardiac activity. So immediately Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) was started and continued for the next 15 minutes. Despite resuscitative measures, Munde could not be revived and was declared dead at 7:20 a.m.,” Gupta told reporters. “There were no grievous external injuries. It seems, he had a cardiac arrest after the impact,” Gupta said, indicating the minister may have died of shock caused by the accident and internal injuries. Munde was a diabetic patient. The spot where the accident is just a kilometre away from the prime minister’s 7 Race Course Road residence. Munde’s death came a day after his name was mentioned as a contender for the post of Maharashtra chief minister after the assembly elections this year. Munde, a farmer’s son, was adept at building bridges with other
parties in the state and became the foremost BJP leader in Maharashtra after the sudden death of his brother-in-law, party strongman Pramod Mahajan in May 2006. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Munde as “a true mass leader” and said he was “extremely saddened and shocked” by the minister’s death. Modi was one of the first to be informed of the tragedy. Besides rural development, Munde, also held the portfolios of panchayati raj as well as drinking water and sanitation - all crucial portfolios from the perspective of rural India. Among his first callers after taking over as minister last Tuesday, was his predecessor Jairam Ramesh. Following a post-mortem, the body was brought to the BJP headquarters at Ashoka Road. The body was accompanied by senior BJP leader Nitin Gadkari and members of Munde’s immediate family, who had rushed to the capital after hearing the news. As a mark of respect to Munde, the national flag will be flown at half-mast in the national capital, capitals of states and union territories Tuesday, the government
announced. The cabinet, chaired by Modi, later passed a resolution condoling Munde’s death. Briefing the media, parliamentary affairs minister M. Venkaiah Naidu said: “The cabinet passed a resolution and observed a national mourning today (Tuesday). Tomorrow the cremation will be held in his native place with full state honours.” The cremation will be held in Beed. Munde was an MP from Beed. At the BJP headquarters, there were many with moist eyes as senior leaders and party workers paid their homage. Munde’s body wrapped in white sheets and covered in rose petals was kept in a transparent coffin as senior leaders, including Modi, L.K. Advani, Nationalist Congress Party supremo Sharad Pawar and Janata Dal-United leader Sharad Yadav paid tributes. Munde’s daughter Pankaja Munde-Palve, a Maharashtra legislator from Parali, touched Modi’s feet as he came to pay his tributes and appeared shaken. Munde is survived by his wife, who is Pramod Mahajan’s sister, and three daughters.
Driver arrested for hitting Munde’s vehicle, gets bail
New Delhi, JuNe 3 (iANS): The driver whose car rammed into Gopinath Munde’s vehicle Tuesday, killing the union minister, was arrested but later released on bail by a court. Gurvinder Singh, 32, was arrested from the spot, said police. He was driving the Tata Indica car, DL 7C E4549, which hit the senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader’s Maruti Suzuki SX4 DL 8C BF0034 on the side he was sitting. “We are investigating whether he (Gurvinder Singh) jumped the red light in the morning,” Joint Police Commissioner M.K. Meena told IANS. Later, Additional Commissioner of Police S.B.S Tyagi said it “apparently looked Singh jumped the red light”. Gurvinder Singh works as a driver in a hotel. He was on his way to work when his car hit Munde’s vehicle at Aurobindo Chowk in Delhi around 6.20 a.m, sources said. The hotel, however, issued a clarification that he was not on duty of the hotel in any manner. Informed sources said that Singh himself made a call to the Police Control Room
(PCR) and informed that his car was hit by a red-beacon SX4. Sources also said that he kept waiting for the PCR van to come, while in the meantime, Munde’s personal security and driver took the minister to AIIMS. According to sources, Gurvinder Singh was also questioned by Intelligence Bureau officials considering the “sensitive nature” of the case. He was later presented in a local court, which granted him bail. Metropolitan Magistrate Puneet Pahwa granted bail to Gurvinder Singh, saying the case falls under a bailable offence and declined the police plea seeking 14 days’ judicial custody of the accused. Police told the court that the Special Cell and Intelligence Bureau (IB) are investigating to find out any possible conspiracy behind the incident and Gurvinder’s custody is required. On this, the court said that if any conspiracy is unearthed, the police can seek the custody of the accused then. The court asked Gurvinder to furnish a personal bond of Rs.30,000 and a surety of like amount.
State govt facilitator, not party Railway Bazar residents claim no notice served before demolition to ceasefire: Lt. Gen. Niki Sumi
Says Nagaland State government has “without discretion victimized hundred of NSCN workers merely on grounds of law and order”
DiMAPuR, JuNe 3 (MexN): Lt. Gen. Niki Sumi, People’s Army of Nagaland, NSCN (K) has noted today that the “polarization” of Naga political groups and “diabolic ceasefire engagement” of the Government of India with various such groups “regardless of authenticity of their stand” on the Naga political issue has created significant “anti-incumbency environment” in the overall Indo-Naga “political standoff.” Lt. Gen. Niki reiterated in a statement today that it has been “categorically clarified on many occasions that the State Govt. is only a facilitator and not a party to ceasefire agreement between GOI and NSCN.” However, the State Government and its agencies, especially the police and bureaucracy, have, for the last decade of ceasefire, “without discretion victimised hundreds of NSCN workers merely on grounds
of law and order situation.” He clarified that the Indo-Naga issue is “over and above law and order issue and therefore zealous effort of state agencies to underrate the issue by emphasising ‘law and order’ prerogative is an open defiance to the Nagas in general.” The Lt. Gen. brought to attention how “NSCN properties” worth crores and invaluable assets including human resources have been “seized, destroyed or scuttled by these agencies with a pure ulterior motive to incapacitate NSCN.” Besides, “hundreds of NSCN members” have been incarcerated, he stated, under the NSA despite the ceasefire, making “vivid” their anti-NSCN campaign. In conclusion, Lt. Gen. Niki stated that “every single instance” of these actions have been “recorded for further interpretation and none shall be absolved from the crimes committed against NSCN without explanation.” “Either in the capacity as vested state official or individual, taunting the legitimacy of NSCN as people’s struggle by these puppets of GOI shall never be tolerated. If required, even the progenies of such elements shall be held accountable,” Lt. Gen. Niki maintained. Full text on page 4
DiMAPuR, JuNe 3 (MexN): The Railway Bazar Area Permanent Residents’ Union (RBAPRU) has sharply reacted to the demolition of their houses “without serving any notice” despite having Pattas issued to them by the Dimapur district administration. Referring to the demolition/ eviction at Westyard Area on June 2 by the Railway Authority along with Dimapur district administration as “illegal and unlawful,” the RBAPRU chairman, Heikedaung Zeliang and GB, Nading Haining, stated that they should at least have been served a notice, and some time, for “self arrangement.”
“However, to our surprise the Railway authority Red marked some selected houses on 1 June 2014 without serving any notice to the victims (if there is any doubt regarding notice, Mr. Nading Hainding GB. was the living witness) and demolished on 2 June 2014 without giving a chance to release their (Victims) household goods and shops stationeries shows a clear violation of law,” the RBAPRU stated in a press release today. It was informed that only in the light of Pattas (Jamabandi) issued to them by the (Dimapur) district administration the people had constructed “RCC building also
with other valuable materials etc.” According to the media report, stated the release, the SP of Dimapur, V.Z. Angami had mentioned that 33-houses demolished or evicted were “unauthorized structures.” However, the RBAPRU claimed that Pattas (Jamabandi) were issued “with proper verification by the district administration.” They asked the SP to clarify the statement and whether the Pattas issued by the administration were “unauthorized.” While not objecting to the expansion of the railway platform or any other developmental activities, the Union claimed that as bonafide citizens of India and as human be-
ings, there should have been a proper procedure to prepare them for the demolition. The Union claimed that the fundamental rights of the people evicted were denied, and there was a violation of law. The RBAPRU requested all right thinking citizens to think whether “the demolition/eviction was carried out with proper channel or not.” “For us, it is a forceful act on the part of the law enforcing agencies and should measured the high handedness of the concern authority and must redress the victims grievances in totality without bias etc.,” they maintained.
Phek town condemns NTC sends public representation armed group action to the CM over recognition issue
PheK, JuNe 3 (MexN): The people of Phek Town have condemned the alleged murder of Chivoveyi Nienu by Vekuvo and Thomas of NNC (N/A) “through false conviction.” The ACAUT’s media cell informed that the Phek Town public has demanded a response from the NNC (N/A) “whether death penalty is appropriate and befitting for a mere theft if committed by the victim.” It also questioned whether any “law and order” exists within the NNC (N/A). The public warned Naga political groups “not to disown its cadres and their acts when committed to cover up the status of the outfit.” Stating that “the act is not acceptable to the peace
loving people,” the public of Phek Town have resolved to stand by the resolution adopted on May 19, 2014. “If the concern outfit authorities failed to handover the criminals within 48 hours, the public will resort to flushing the NNC (N/A) out of the town through any means possible and impose non-cooperation to the said outfit,” the ACAUT stated. In a separate statement, the Phek Chamber of Commerce and Industries condemned the “act of cowardice action carried out by indiscipline cadres of NNC (N/A).” It offered to render “full co-operation and support” to the public urged “peace loving organisation to condemn such anti-social activities.”
KOhiMA, JuNe 3 (MexN): The Nagaland Tribes Council (NTC) has sent a Public Representation to the Chief Minister of Nagaland against the Rongmei tribe recognition in the State of Nagaland as one of the indigenous Naga tribe of Nagaland entitling them of all benefits as indigenous inhabitant tribe. The representation, signed by acting president NTC, Lendinoktang Ao, and its general secretary, Nribemo Ngullie, highlighted the resolutions passed following a public rally on the said matter on May 13 at Dimapur. It urged upon the Govern-
ment to “examine the matter with utmost seriousness and take necessary steps to revoke the above notification with immediate effect and restore the rights and privileges to the citizens of the State.” At the May 13 public rally, the NTC resolved to “reiterate the representations submitted to the govt of Nagaland by NTC against the inclusion of Rongmeis as recognized Tribe in the State of Nagaland and unequivocally reaffirm to pursue the matter spearheaded by NTC till the Notification is revoked in the larger interest of the people of Nagaland.” It also resolved to “de-
nounce” the July 23, 2012 Cabinet decision for recognition of “Rongmeis as one of the Naga tribes” entitling them all benefits of Scheduled tribe in the Sate as “anti people’s decision”. It demanded the “total revocation” of the State Government Notification NO. HOME/SCTA6/ 2007 (PT-1) dated Kohima the 4th Aug/2012 granting “Rongmeis as one of the Naga Tribes” entitling them the benefits of Scheduled tribe in the State of Nagaland with immediate effect, failing which the NTC has no other option but to be compelled to resort to “befitting action.”
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Dimapur
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Kohima | June 3
The meritorious award ceremony for HSSLC toppers and Degree exam achievers of 2013 was held at Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan on June 3. The Department of Higher & Technical Education, Nagaland, organized the ceremony. Comparing exams to a Formula 1 Race, Dr. Ashwani Kumar, Governor of Nagaland who graced the occasion, stated that victory will depend on the practice and preparation once has taken before the race begin. Like the race, victory also depends on the team members who have given their support such as the parents and the institution. Dr. Kumar said literacy rate in Nagaland is one of the highest in India but the quality of education imparted in government schools is gradually going down in Nagaland and other states as well. While stating the regrettable fact that out of the 55 toppers, only 9 were from government schools and colleges, the Governor also asserted that the problem lies not in the lack of resources but on
Development of groundwater workshop on June 6 C Y K
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DimaPuR, June 3 (mexn): The department of Geology and Mining, Dimapur is organizing one-day workshop on ‘Judicious and sustainable development of groundwater’ in hilly area at Hotel Metsuben, Mokokchung on June 6 at 1:00 am. DC Mokokchung Murohu Chotso will be the chief guest at the inaugural function. The directorate of geology and mining, Director SK Kenye in a press release stated that the workshop has been organised in order to deliver awareness and acquaint with the basic technical knowledge on groundwater development particularly on regular maintenance of tube wells to ensure its efficiency and longevity. In view of the scarcity of water during lean period, particularly in hilly areas, coupled with the ease and simplicity of groundwater extraction, the pace of ground water development is gaining very fast in the state. However, unless it is developed and managed scientifically, over exploitation of the vital resource will result in dwindling of this precious commodity and drying up of the phreatic aquifers leading to deterioration of ground water quality and quantity. The available water resources, particularly ground water that is already established in hilly terrain in the state needs to be developed judiciously and on need based before it becomes scare. The department invites all stakeholder and well owners under Mokokchung district to attend the workshop.
Governor of Nagaland Dr. Ashwani Kumar, Parliamentary Secretary Deo Nukhu, Commissioner & Secretary FP Solo with toppers and rank holders of 2013 HSSLC and Degree at Durbar Hall, Raj Bhavan, Kohima on June 3. (Morung Photo)
the system and urged for a greater need to change the system. He said educational schemes are well drafted however, the problem lies with the implementation process thereby he stressed on the application of modern management technique in our educational system. Despite the numerous schemes well drafted by bureaucrats, Dr. Ashwani
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Kumar pointed out that the improvements are hardly visible and stated that the problem lies in the implementation of the schemes and the administration and management of schools and colleges needs to be improved tremendously. “What we become in life matters much more than in which school you have studied,” said the Governor who also studied in gov-
ernment institutions while encouraging the students that most people have to depend on what they have while only a few have the luxury of choosing their positions. Speaking at the occasion, Deo Nukhu, Parliamentary Secretary, Higher Education & SCERT stated that at the time of statehood, Nagaland only had two colleges under Gauha-
ti University and the first HSLC examination under the Nagaland Board of School Education was held only in 1975. However, now in 2014, Nagaland has one central university and four private universities, which are catering to the requirements of higher and technical education in the state. Nukhu also stated that Nagaland will be one of the few states which will
NRC on Mithun celebrates 26th foundation day
DimaPuR, June 3 (mexn): The NRC on Mithun observed its foundation day at Jharnapani campus to commemorate the 26th year of its confounding. Dr. KK Baruah, Principal Scientist, NRCM chaired the programme. Dr. S Mukherjee, Dr. Anupama Mukherjee, Dr. RK Singh, Dr. Vidya Singh Dr. K Khate and Dr Akhilesh Kumar, technical staff, research associates and senior research fellows
and administrative staff of the NRCM participated in the programme. On this occasion, Dr. Baruah praised the scientific community associated with the institute since its inception for the hard work and bringing glory to this Institute. He emphasized on close coordination between all the scientists to achieve the goal of the Institute and wished the more success in the coming
years. During the discussion on various challenges relevant to the Mithun farming, scientists stressed on ensuring nutritional security to Mithun in face of shrinking landmass. The emphasis was also given on wide scale popularization of artificial insemination, distribution of superior germ plasm to avoid the inbreeding and dilution of germ plasm of this majestic animal as well as the con-
‘Time to create a disabled friendly environment’
moKoKchung, June 3 (mexn): Under the Community Based Rehabilitation programme for People with Disability, the Care and Support Society, Mokokchung visited Merayim Baptist Church and conducted devotional service on June 1. Imchawati Kichu, Managing Director cum Advisor MDPAPWD, and Imkongnungchet CBR worker of Care and Support Society, Mokokchung District Parents Association for People with Disabled (MDPAPWD), PWD, CWD visited Merayim Baptist Church. Atola, Secretary led the service and Mar Namo President MDPAPWD said a short challenge. Two PWDs Akangmongba who is visually impaired and Temjen, Locomotor presented special songs while Katibenla recited poem and special number. Imchawati Kichu, Managing Director delivered the word of God. After the service, a short meeting was held with the congregation where the President of MDPAPWD encouraged parents to come forward, support the PWD/CWD and join in the Association. He called upon the gathering to create a disabled friendly environment in the church starting now. The Managing Director shared about
Hekuto Ayemi
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Gov calls for a greater need to change system in the implementation process
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
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The Morung Express
'Quality of education going down in Nagaland' Our Correspondent
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4 June 2014
Atokukau, Kiyeto Village 02/02/68 -- 31/05/14 The bereaved family conveys our profound gratitude to you all who stood with us with your prayer and words of comfort in our dark hour. Your thoughtful presence and sympathy has truly been a tower of strength. Special appreciations to: • Western Sumi Baptist Akukuhpu Kuqhakulu • Western Sumi Hoho • Western Sumi Kukami Hoho • Western Sumi Totimi Hoho • Aqahuto Tokukujo Kukami Hoho • Western Sumi Students' Union • Aqahuto Tokukujo Kiphimi Kuqhakulu • Dimapur District G.B Union • Urra Area Village Union • Dr. Sethi - Wife, Children and the family members
Imchawati Kichu, Managing Director cum Advisor MDPAPWD speaks during the service at Merayim Baptist Church held on June 1.
PWDs ACT 1995 focus on the rights of PWDs and encouraged audience to think in this way. He said, “If I do not care a disabled person and do not create a disabled friendly environment today, who will take care of me if I happen to be disabled person tomorrow.”
tainment of various diseases to the level minimum. The Institute was established in June 2, 1988. Since past 26 years, the institute is are working hard with a mission of conservation, up gradation, propagation and dissemination of available Mithun germ plasm. In this direction since its inception, NRCM has generated and transferred various farmer friendly technologies.
Chümoukedima land registration drive underway
DimaPuR, June 3 (mexn): The Chümoukedima Village Council (CVC) has notified all concern land owners/plot holders that the Chümoukedima Land Registration Drive 1st phase (village area dated June 2 to 27) had already commenced. The CVC secretary Mhasiletuo Visezo in a press release has advised all the individual land owners/plot holders to come along with the necessary documents for their land registration within the given stipulated time. They are requested to strictly follow the given schedule chart for the general conveniences. No land or plot documentation shall be entertained after the expiry of the given period. The CVC further informed that the old Land Registration Patta/ documents be submitted to the CVC office, which shall be deemed invalid prior to the completion of the Land Registration Drive Period. Failing to do so the CVC shall not be held responsible for any future complication. For further information, contact-Chairman, Chümoukedima Village Council @ 9436013379.
soon avail a new centrally sponsored scheme namely Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) starting from this financial year which the department hoped to expand existing government colleges in terms of infrastructure and academic activities. Proposals are also in plan to make Kohima Science college an autonomous college which will have
complete academic autonomy to design curriculum, introduce new course etc with a vision to transform Kohima Science College into a deemed university. Nukhu stated that more than 65% of Government school teachers and 85% of private school teachers in Nagaland are untrained. However, with the initiative taken by the department of Higher and Technical Edu-
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cation to improve quality education, today the state has two colleges for teacher’s education in the government sector and six in the private sector. Nukhu also asserted that the initiative and developments achieved by the department would not bear fruits unless the students take full advantage of the opportunities available to them and put in their ultimate efforts. FP Solo, Commissioner & Secretary, Department of Higher & Technical Education, Nagaland said, “Students are at the core of our education system.” The event was chaired by Dr. Kevileno Sakhrie, Associate Professor while prayer was invoked by Rev. Moa Longchari, Pastor, BMC, Kohima. Chieli Music Academy, Kohima and Pezet Newme presented special Music. Presentation of Meritorious Awards was awarded by Dr. Ashwani Kumar, Governor of Nagaland and the program ended with the vote of thanks by Megono Liegise, Joint Director, Higher Education. Altogether 29 toppers were present at the function. All the toppers were awarded a citation, Rs. 10000/- and a laptop.
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The new parliamentary secretary for transport and IPR, P Paiwang Konyak with the IPR department officials led by commissioner & secretary and director in his office on June 2. (DIPR Photo)
Kohima, June 3 (DiPR): The senior officers of IPR department, led by Commissioner & Secretary, MK Mero and Director, Imokokba called on the new Parliamentary Secretary of the department, P. Paiwang Konyak at the latter’s office chamber, Nagaland Civil Secretariat, Kohima on June 2. P. Paiwang Konyak, Parliamentary Secretary for Transport and Information & Public Relations, while having a brief interaction with the department officers, stated that the important role that the depart-
ment plays cannot be under estimated, as IPR department is the link between the government and the people. He expressed his interest and zeal to improve the department’s assets, especially in the far-flung and remote areas. While appreciating the department officers for their unstinted efforts to improve the functioning of the department in spite of limited funds, P. Paiwang Konyak also sought the constructive and positive inputs from the department officials to enable him to take the department forward.
Commissioner & Secretary, MK Mero, while welcoming the new Parliamentary Secretary of the department, expressed optimism that under the stewardship of such a young and dynamic Parliamentary Secretary, the department will be benefited. Director, Imokokba briefly highlighted the functions of the department and the organisational structure of the department. The department officers presented a bouquet to the Parliamentary Secretary, welcoming him to the department.
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Horti dept ventures to promote apple farming
Life skills training concludes
Horticulture officer Chubatoshi, Sharma, owner of the Itipen nursery and DHO, Qhutovi Wotsa with the farmers at Itipen nursery.
Participants with the resource persons, principal, vice principal of Hebron Higher Second- Kohima, ary School, Sovima.
DimaPuR, June 3 (mexn): Capacity building of youth on life skills training was conducted at Hebron Higher Secondary School, Sovima, Dimapur from May 27 to June 2. Altogether 48 youths participated in the programme. John Makhabo, DYC, NYK, Dimapur in a press release stated that 10 core life skills training was imparted with special stress on adolescent sexual and reproductive health, HIV and drug abuse which were immense important for the youth today. The resource persons were John Makhabo, DYC, NYK, Dimapur, and Lohrii Lawrence Lecturer, Rosy Shupao, Counsellor. Some of the topics included what is life skills, self-awareness and empathy building skills, decision making and problem
solving skills, creative thinking and critical thinking skills, effective communication and interpersonal relationships skills coping with emotion and stress, adolescent sexual and reproductive health, adolescent and HIV/AIDS, understanding high risk behaviour substance abuse among adolescent, confliction management skills etc. Capacity building of youth focuses to help young people translate knowledge, develop appropriate attitudes, behavior and inculcate values that would help them acquire the ability to reduce exposure to specific risk factors like RTI/STI/HIV/ Drug abuse and augment protective factors to the trainees. This in turn would help in the instillation of responsible behavior towards improved lifestyle.
June 3 (mexn): The department of Horticulture, Kohima led by District Horticulture Officer (DHO), Qhutovi Wotsa in order to upgrade the idea of apple farming organized a one day field trip with farmers of Kohima by visiting the Central Institute of Horticulture, Medziphema, State Horticulture Nagaland (SHN) and Itipen nursery located at Khatkhati. A press release on the trip stated that the department of Nagaland through the field trip aims in pro-
moting apple farming, which was introduced for the first time in Kohima since 2013. Qhutovi Wotsa said that through such exposure farmers could improve their farming skills and produce good quality products. He also stated that the department is polishing the progressive farmers in qualifying the ongoing aggregation process under the National Horticulture Board (NHB), which can only be approved with good quality products that can be brought to the market.
The group also visited the ‘Itipen’ nursery owned by retired Army Major Sharma who is married to a Naga. Sharma grows varieties of fruit items like apples, mangoes, kiwi, strawberries, almond, apricot, peach, pecan nut and many more. During a short interaction with the farmers, Sharma gave guidelines and ideas as to how such fruits can help them generate a better livelihood. A group of 17 members initiated by the horticulture officials of Kohima took active part in the field trip.
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REgional Security forces accused of harassing parents of cadre
Wednesday
The Morung Express
Newmai News Network Imphal | June 3 More than a year after their daughter had joined an underground outfit, parents of Alice Kamei are experiencing a harrowing time with security force personnel allegedly harassing them. Alice Kamei was just 16 years old when she reportedly joined the Revolutionary People's Front (RPF) on March 13, 2013. At that time the parents of Alice Kamei had filed a missing report to the police. They also accused the underground outfit of abducting their daughter to join the militant organisation against her will. One year down the line on April 6 midnight seven
Mizoram making preparations for repatriation of Brus AIzAwl, June 3 (PtI): Mizoram government is making preparations to repatriate 3,800 to 4,000 Bru families lodged in the six relief camps in neighbouring Tripura, an official statement said here today. Detailed preparations for the resumption of the repatriation were discussed today in a meeting of the District Core Committee on Bru repatriation, chaired by the Mizoram-Tripura-Bangladesh border Mamit District deputy commissioner K Lalthawmmawia, it said. The repatriation was proposed to be completed within eight days, the statement said, adding that two facilitation centres at Zomuantlang and Kanhmun would be established where the repatriated Brus would be received by the officials. While around 2,000 families have to be resettled inside Hachhek assembly constituency, only 875 plots of land have been identified so far prompting the district administration to hold further consultations with village authorities within the constituency. Meanwhile, joint secretary of state Home department Lalbiakzama told PTI that he would go to Tripura to meet officials there on the repatriation issue.
security force personnel entered Alice Kamei's house at Nambol Isok Chingfu Kabui khul of Bishenpur district and asked the whereabouts of Alice Kamei to the family members. At the time Alice Kamei's father Chakri Tombi Kamei and her mother Sundari Kamei were sleeping in a room and Alice's brother Boboi on the other room. Narrating the ordeal today before media persons here, Chakri Tombi Kamei said security personnel accused him of lying saying Alice had come home. When he refuted their version, the security force personnel kept pressing to disclose the whereabouts of Alice Kamei.
Some of the jawans were also interrogating Alice's brother Boboi in the other room in the same time. The jawans told Chakri Tombi Kamei that Boboi had said Alice had come. The security force personnel even threatened to take him away with them. When his wife Sundari cried out the jawans warned her too that she will also be taken away if she makes noise. The jawans then asked for Alice's father's phone number. When he was looking for his phone number the jawans left the house. Boboi later told his father that he had also told the security personnel that Alice never came again to the house ever since she left last year.
Again, on May 31 at around 3:30 pm while Chakri Tombi Kamei was repairing his cycle at Isok Bazar Manipur police including a woman police personnel came near him in four vehicles. They told him that Alice used to come to the house. The police asked the whereabouts of Alice at the moment saying she was at home then. "I told them that ever since she left home there was no more contacts with her," Chakri Tombi said. Meanwhile, joining the press meet, Human Rights Alert (HRA) executive director Babloo Loitongbam appealed to the armed groups not to recruit minors into their fold saying
Dimapur
4 June 2014
3
it is against international law. Loitangbam also said any child below 15 years should not be in the armed groups. Loitangbam then said the security force personnel coming to Alice Kamei's house and harassing her parents is akin to encouraging Alice Kamei not to return from the militant outfit. Manipur Alliance for Child Rights Convener A. Pradip Kumar urged the security force personnel to immediately stop harassing and intimidating Alice Kamei's family members. Kumar said that harassing the parents of Alice Kamei who had filed an FIR on the missing of their daughter is Wild elephants swim and feed on water plants in a lake at the Deepor Beel wildlife sanctuary, unfortunate. on the outskirts of Guwahati, Assam on tuesday, June 3. (AP Photo/Anupam Nath)
SDSA warns overloaded vehicles plying NH-2 North East AIDS cases show alarming trend SenAPAtI, June 3 (Mexn): Concerned by the menace of overloading of vehicles plying along the National Highway, the Senapati District Students’ Association (SDSA) has urged drivers and owners of vehicle to strictly abide by the Supreme Court’s and ply their vehicles within the permissible limits i.e., 9 tons for 6 tyre vehicles and 15 tons for 10 tyres vehicle. The SDSA in a press note stated that it realized “the seriousness of the menace of overloading of vehicles” which it stated results in “potholes (and) badly damages the precious road in-
frastructure, incurring huge expenses on the exchequer to maintain the roads and increasing number of road accidents along the National Highway – 2, the lifeline of Manipur.” Stating that the stretch of NH-2 between Mao and Imphal had many sinking zones combined with numerous curves, SDSA reasoned that the department concerned with repairing and labourers find it hard to maintain quality work unlike other Highways. “In spite of insurgency problems and other hindering factors, the contractors and labourers are do-
PRISM slams govt for spending Rs 288 lakh on purchasing cars AIzAwl, June 3 (PtI): Aizawl-based corruption watchdog People's Rights to Information and Development Society of Mizoram (PRISM) slammed the Mizoram government for spending Rs 288 lakh on purchase of cars for legislators. PRISM, in a press statement stated, "Out of the 40 legislators only ten of them were not allotted any vehicle by the state government and they were the only ones who required cars." It accused the government of not enforcing austerity measures despite acute financial crunch be-
ing faced by the state. "Twelve ministers, speaker, deputy speaker and seven parliamentary secretaries were already allotted government cars, that also more than one car each," it said, adding that fifteen legislators were also allotted official vehicles due to their positions like chairmen of corporate bodies and others. If only ten legislators, not allotted official vehicles were given money to purchase cars, the government would spend only Rs 80 lakh, the statement added.
Northeast Briefs 2 women gang-raped in separate incidents AgArtAlA, June 3 (PtI): Two women, including a school student, were gang-raped in two separate incidents in Tripura, police said today. A group of four persons entered a house when the schoolgirl was alone at Dakshin Takma, a remote tribal hamlet of South Tripura district on March 29 last, they said, adding, that they then took her to a desolate place and two of them raped her. They then took her to a place, about four kilometres away from the crime scene and freed her. The girl took shelter at a local's house, who after two days reported the matter to local police, police said. No one was arrested in this connection and initial investigations revealed that the perpetrators were unknown to the girl, they said. Meanwhile, in another incident, three persons gang-raped a widow inside a Tata Sumo at Badharghat here last Tuesday night, police stated. The same night a police patrolling van discovered her inside the vehicle and took her to Agartala women police station where she alleged of being raped by three unknown persons inside the vehicle. The incident happened when the woman, mother of one, who lost her husband recently, boarded the vehicle on Tuesday night to go to a sub-divisional town. During the course of her travel, two unknown persons got into the car and took the vehicle to a secluded place and raped her, police said. The driver of the vehicle was arrested when he came to recover the vehicle seized by the police, they said.
Huge arms haul from ATTF hideout in Bangladesh DhAkA, June 3 (IAnS): Bangladesh's Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Tuesday uncovered a huge arms cache in Satchharhi jungles in the north-eastern district of Habiganj, bordering India's Tripura, a media report said. The area was reportedly the headquarters of the All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF). Around 200 high explosive anti-tank weapons with as many chargers were recovered in a daylong drive in the Satchharhi hill by the RAB, bdnews24. com quoted RAB’s Additional Director General (operations) Ziaul Ahsan as saying Tuesday. The recovery has been pegged as the single biggest case of arms seizure since the 2004 Chittagong arms case in the country. Around 100 RAB personnel conducted the raid at the 100-foot hillock and found 184 high explosive anti-tank weapons and 154 chargers inside bunkers dug in deep holes in the hillock. Ahsan said there was a possibility of recovering more arms. Meanwhile, an investigation has been launched to ascertain the source of the ammunition. The All Tripura Tiger Force (ATTF), a militant group from the Tripura region, and the United Liberation Front of Assam (ULFA) have been involved in smuggling Chinese-made weapons through south-east Asia and taking them to rebel bases like Satchharhi, from where they would be smuggled into India's troubled northeast, the report said.
ing their best to maintain quality work, but they often failed because 400-500 overloaded vehicles have been plying along the Highway everyday including security convoys and tankers without any checking,” SDSA stated. Further, taking the state government to task for not taking up stricter measures, SDSA stated, “Road transport being a State subject, the responsibility for curbing the overloading of vehicles primarily rests with the State Governments, and stringent measure should be taken up to curb overloading menace along the National Highway-2.”
IMPhAl, June 3 (nnn): There has been an alarming annual rise of new HIV cases in the North Eastern states from 5549 (new cases) in 2001 to 6460 (new cases) in 2011. The total number of HIV infected persons in the whole North East region is 63,049 cases with Manipur leading the list with 25369 cases and Sikkim recording the lowest with just 593 cases. This is just a contrast to the national trend where the overall decline rate in India is 57% recorded from 2001 to 2011. This data was revealed
Cook Wanted For a fast-food restaurant in Dimapur Contact@ 9856051149
Lower P R Hill, Kohima, Nagaland ADmissioN NotiCe COACHING for Class 10 students in all the subjects [Both Regular & Repeaters]
Issue of forms & prospectus Admission Commencement of classes
: 9 June, 2014 onwards : 9 June, 2014 onwards : 1 July, 2014
Contact No.: 0370-2226005/2244814
management
COACHING for (1) Class 11 (Science) (2) Class 12 (Science) [Both Regular & Repeaters] (3) AIPMT 2015/JEE main 2015
KeViN JAsoKie ZiNYU (WitNess)
(NotARY) R. iRALU (Advocate) Notary Public
PERS DTE — RECTT SECTION
ADVERTISEMENT FOR RECRUITMENT OF SMT (WORKSHOP) IN BSF-2014 Applications are invited for the following posts of SMT (Workshop) in BSF: Category total Pay scale (Rs.) Educational Qualification UR sC st oBC SI(Store Keeper) 01 Nil Nil Nil 01 Minimum three years' Diploma in Auto Mobile Engineering or Mechanical En9,300-34,800 + gineering or Auto Electrical GP-4,200 Engineering from an Institute recognized by Government. CT(Auto Electrician) 02 01 Nil 02 05 (i) Matriculation or 10 th Class pass from a recogCT(Black Smith Or 02 01 02 01 06 nized Board or Institution or Tin Smith) equivalent; and CT(Vulcanize Or Op- 01 Nil Nil 01 02 5,200-20,200+ a) Industrial Training Instierator Tyre Repair GP-2,000 tute certificate in respective Plant) trade; or b) Three years' experience CT(Upholster) 01 Nil Nil 01 02 in respective trade from a CT(Store Keeper) 01 Nil Nil 01 02 reputed firm. Post & trade
06
18
Note: 1. Vacancies are subject to change (may increase or decrease) (i) Last date : 30 days from the date of publication of the advertisement in Employment News Paper for all candidates. (ii) Any amendment will only be published on BSF Website. Candidates in their own interest are requested to regularly log on to www.bsfnic.in for updates. (iii) The crucial date for determining the age limit shall be the closing date for receipt of applications. (iv) 10% vacancies are reserved for Ex-Servicemen in each post. 2. For details and downloading Application Form (including Admit Card) please log on www.bsf.nicin Telephone No. 011-24364850, Extn-2601, 2606 & 2623. 3. Any further information/notification in respect to this recruitment will be made in the BSF website only. Hence, candidates are advised to log in to the BSF website from time to time. Davp 19110/11/0126/1415
THETA TUTORIALS
Lower P R Hill, Kohima, Nagaland ADmissioN NotiCe
DIRECTORATE GENERAL BORDER SECURITY FORCE, NEW DELHI
08 02 02
trol (DAC), Government of India, stated that the method of fighting AIDS in mainland India cannot be applied in the North East region. Agarwal said situation in the North East region is very different from the rest of India and suggested to have measures that suit the region while fighting the disease.
THETA TUTORIALS
It has come to my notice that some unscrupulous persons are borrowing money from various parties and individuals from Kohima Village, Kohima Town, Jotsoma Village and Visewma Village by mortgaging, witnessing and guaranteeing the following properties which have been inherited by me and registered in my name 1) Land and Building (Central Bank building), Razhu point, Kohima, covered by Patta No. 5581(old no 6) Plot No. 6 2) Residential Building at Leriechazou Colony, Kohima 3) Land and building located at M/S Zinyu Gas Services, Circular Road, Dimapur, covered by Patta No. 90, Dag 94 4) Land and building located at Circular Road, Dimapur, covered by Patta No. 141, Dag 90 5) Land and building located at 3rd milestone, Dimapur, Opposite Assam Rifles Training Center covered by Patta No. 157, Dag 263 It is hereby notified to the public that if any individuals, society, groups, banks and financial institutions give loans to any person, man or woman on the strength of or mortgage the following said properties without my consent and approval will be doing so at their own risk and peril and will be liable for prosecution in accordance of the law.
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awareness has begun in this regard. He said funding has begun and the study is also underway in the region. Oussama Tawil seeks the co-operation of the locals and NGOs working in this field. "Without their support we are helpless," said Tawil. K. B. Agarwal who is the Joint Secretary of Department of AIDS Con-
• Excellent result for the last three years • 2 Ranks in Top 50 (Ranks 22 & 27) in 2014 HSLC Exam
PUBLIC NOTICE
sl.no- 677/14 JULiAN t. JAsoKie (DeCLARANt)
during a three-day conclave entitled, "North East Conclave" organised by Manipur State AIDS Control Societies and Partners at Hotel Classic here today. Addressing the programme, Oussama Tawil who is the co-ordinator of UNAIDS in India said they are now shifting their focus to the North East region saying concerted
(i D singh) Comdt (Rectt)
Issue of forms & prospectus : 9 June, 2014 onwards Admission : 9 June, 2014 onwards Commencement of classes : 7 July, 2014 (Class 11/Class 12/AiPmt/Jee main) Contact No.: 0370-2226005/2244814
management
"AAASHSSP FELICITATES Shri. T.R. ZELIANG the 10th CHIEF MINISTER of NAGALAND." "The historic footprint of Shri. t. R. Zeliang who has been elevated to Chief Ministership was a landmark that glorified not only the Zeliangrong Community but also to the entire Nagas as a whole for all the time to come . In concordance with his unprecedented achievement, the members of the Alumni Association of All saints Higher secondary school, Peren (AAAsHssP) rejoice and congratulate the historic event in the making as he being one of the alumni members. We wish him and his team all the very best and prayed that the almighty God shower him with wisdom and health to lead and live up to the hope and expectation of the people of the State under his dynamic leadership". Yours faithfully, sd/LetGoNG PAtRiCK President, Alumni Association, All saints Hr. sec. school, Peren.
sd/AZUBo. DomiNiC secretary Alumni Association, All saints Hr. sec. school, Peren.
GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYMENT & CRAFTSMEN TRAINING NAGALAND, KOHINIA.
NotiFiCAtioN Dated Kohima the 3rd June, 2014
NO.DET-7/20/2001(Vol-V): /238 The results of All India Trade Test (Supplementary) 2014 and COE (Automobile & Apparel Sectors) held in the month of Jan/ Feb.2014 at Govt. Industrial Training Institute Kohima & Dimapur, is hereby declared and the Roll Numbers of successful Candidates are given below:1. Aitt (supplementary): Roll No: KM- 02R1, 03R1, 04R1, 05R1, 06R1, 07R1,08R1, 09R1, 10R1, 11R1, 14R1, 15R1, 16R1,18R1, 19R1, 20R1, 21R1, 22R1, 23R1, 24R1, 25R1, 26R1,29R1, 30R1, 31PR1, 32R1, 33PR1, 34PR1, 35R1 2. AUtomoBiLe (Advanced): Roll No: AATO2- 01, 02, 04. 3. AUtomoBiLe (Basic): Roll No: ABTK- 01R1, 02R1, 03R2 4. APPAReL (Basic): Roll No: APTD- 01,03,08,09,10, 11,12,14,15,17,18,20 Total Appeared : 43 Total Passed : 41 Passed % : 95 Note: marksheet, etc, will be issued after 15.06.2014 from respective iti. sdmUtHiNGN YUBA sANGtAm Director of employment & Craftsmen training Nagaland, Kohima
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businEss/public discoursE
Wednesday
Dimapur
4 June 2014
India’s central bank leaves policy rates intact
MuMbai, June 3 (ianS): India’s central bank Tuesday kept all key policy rates unchanged but eased some money for lending, indicating that it will await more positive signals from the economy and the upcoming national budget before measures to spur growth. While the cash reserve ratio was kept unchanged at 4%, statutory liquidity ratio (SLR), which is the quantum of liquid assets banks have to hold against their deposits, has been reduced by 50 basis points to 22.5%. This could release Rs.35,000 crore more for banks to lend. India Inc welcomed the move. In the second bi-monthly monetary policy review for this fiscal, and the first after the Narendra Modi government took charge last month, Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan’s stance has been status quo given the current domestic and overseas conditions. The prevailing policy rates
were kept intact: bank rate at 9%, repurchase rate at 8%, reverse repurchase rate at 7% and marginal standing facility rate at 9%. The repurchase rate is the interest commercial banks pay for borrowing money from the central bank to meet short-term fund requirements. The reverse repurchase rate is the interest central bank pays when surplus short-term funds are parked with it by banks. The central bank, however, cut the liquidity provided under the export credit refinance facility from 50% of eligible export credit outstanding to 32%. This, in effect, reduces the amount of money available to exporters as credit. “If the economy stays on this course, further policy tightening will not be warranted. On the other hand, if disinflation, adjusting for base effects, is faster than currently anticipated, it will provide headroom for an easing of the policy stance,” Rajan said.
CEASEFIRE QUAGMIRE: Augmentation of State Govt’s (Nagaland) AntiNaga Posture
P
olarisation of Naga political groups and diabolic ceasefire engagement of GOI with various such groups regardless of authenticity of their stand on the Naga political issue has created significant anti-incumbency environment in the overall Indo-Naga political standoff. It has been categorically clarified on many occasions that the State Govt. is only a facilitator and not a party to ceasefire agreement between GOI and NSCN. However rather than facilitating, the State Govt. and it’s agencies especially the Police and bureaucracy has for the last decade of ceasefire without discretion victimised hundreds of NSCN workers merely on grounds of law and order situation. Be it understood that Indo-Naga issue is over and above law and order issue and therefore zealous effort of state agencies to underrate the issue by emphasising “law and order” prerogative is an open defiance to the Nagas in general. NSCN properties worth crores and invaluable assets including human resources has been seized, destroyed or scuttled by these agencies with a pure ulterior motive to incapacitate NSCN. Incarceration of hundreds of NSCN members under NSA despite ceasefire is vivid enough of their anti-NSCN campaign. Every single instance has been recorded for further interpretation and none shall be absolved from the crimes committed against NSCN without explanation. Either in the capacity as vested state official or individual, taunting the legitimacy of NSCN as people’s struggle by these puppets of GOI shall never be tolerated. If required, even the progenies of such elements shall be held accountable. Lieut. Gen. Niki.Sumi People’s Army of Nagaland NSCN/GPRN
I
recently came across an article by Andrienne Carlson emphasizing on the importance of staying connected with our alma mater. Carlson writes, “It’s no exaggeration when I say that nine out of ten people are nostalgic about the time they spent in school and/ or college. They tend to call them “the best days of their lives.” That’s not to say that their current situation is bad; it only goes to prove that those days when you had no real responsibilities other than to make good grades and stay out of trouble are evergreen in your mind because you were young, carefree and ready to embrace life with a passion. We gain so much more than just an education from our school and college, so it is imperative that we try to give as much back”. As I read the above I was immediately taken back to my colleges days and I could not agree more. They always bring back such joy. In fact they prompted me into researching deeper into my role as an alumnus and the impact it will have on my alma mater. The result was alarming. The term “Alma mater” has its origin in Latin which literally means ‘nurturing mother’. Its meaning alone is motivation enough to do what we should do. However, if we are still not clear, Carlson has presented some of the roles and why we need to do them. They are:1. Alumni play a large role in determining the future and continued development of an institution. 2. Your donations go a long way to support scholarships for deserving students who are short of funds, and in doing so you help someone gain a valuable asset- a quality education. 3. Your regular contributions make a big difference to the operating budget of your alma mater and this helps sustain regular programs and initiatives. 4. You can give back to your alma mater much more than money – one alumnus helped build a nature trail on the 8 acre spread of his former institution so that nature lovers could
Simple Rules - There is just one simple rule: “Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.”
SUDOKU Game Number # 2897
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LIZZIE
ACCUSED
EMMA
LAWYER
ABIGAIL
JUDGE
ANDREW
DEFENSE
BORDEN
ALLEGED
FALLRIVER
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STREET
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MURDER TRIAL JURY INNOCENT
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enjoy the serenity and beauty of the campus. 5. When your alma mater continues to remain a popular and prestigious institution, the value of your degree increases as well. In continuation I would like to add, 6. For our alma mater to remain a popular and prestigious institution you and I not only have to play our part, but we need to play our part well. In my personal quest to understand better on the roles of alumni to its alma mater, I have come to realise the magnitude of our responsibilities. The more I begin to ponder on it ( in my context), the more I am overwhelmed. Failure in recognising the privileges we hold as alumni to our alma mater will undeniably curbed numerous opportunities for us to be an indispensible asset to our alma mater. If we do not make efforts to rectify the situation and acknowledge the importance of giving back in any way we can today, we may never truly come to know the power we have in impacting the future together. A power is only as powerful when the user recognises its power. Unless we are curious and restless enough to know what we are called to be a part of, it is impossible to strive towards it. Ms Grace Fu, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of National Development & Ministry of Education, COMPASS Chairman, Singapore, used a powerful Chinese illustration to point out the role of an alumnus. She quotes, “Remember the source of the water when one drinks from it”. Our alma mater need each one of us to be active participator in her growth. Finally, Winston Churchill’s quote: “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give” should inspire us to do what we simply ought to do. Let us come together and give back like never before.
Know your Salary vis-a- vis Tax deduction to 5 factional groups (Undergrounds) under the Government of Nagaland Know Salary vis-avisof Tax deduction to 5 factional groups (Undergrounds) under the Government Nagaland is being 25% of your one month salary every employees working under Nagaland Government in variousof department deducted yearly as asalary Tax toofeach factional groups inNagaland Nagaland. That means, total Tax to all the 5isgroups is 125%, 25% of one month every5(five) employees working under Government in various department being deducted which one5(five) month salary.groups Just take a look intoThat themeans, table and know theallrange your salary and yearlyisasmore a Taxthan to each factional in Nagaland. total Tax to the 5 of groups is 125%,deduction which is more the amount collected 5 factional earning every year.salary Therededuction are so many type of Tax.collected But the than one month salary.by Just take a lookgroups into thethrough table andyour know the range of your and the amount name of this Tax is still not clear. by 5 factional groups through your earning every year. There are so many type of Tax. But the name of this Tax is still not clear. Total number of factional groups is 5 (five). Hence Total amount paid in a year per employee. (bx5)
There are 91,308 employees in Government of Nagaland State as per the latest Government employee census 2011 issued by Economic and Statistical Department (Govt. of Nagaland). Class-I Gazette employees = 3707 Class-II Gazette employees = 2401 Class-III Gazette employees =61264 Grade-IV employees =23936 Total employees = 91308.
Rs. 5000
25% of Tax deduction of one month of your salary as annual Tax to each factional groups. (b) Rs. 1250
Rs. 6350
2.
Rs. 10000
Rs. 2500
Rs. 12500
3.
Rs. 20000
Rs. 5000
Rs. 25000
4.
Rs. 30000
Rs. 7500
Rs. 37500
5.
Rs. 40000
Rs. 10000
Rs. 50000
6.
Rs. 50000
Rs. 12500
Rs. 62500
7.
Rs. 60000
Rs. 15000
Rs. 75000
8.
Rs. 70000
Rs. 17500
Rs. 87500
9.
Rs. 80000
Rs. 20000
Rs. 100000
10.
Rs. 90000
Rs. 22500
Rs. 112500
11.
Rs. 100000
Rs. 25000
Rs. 125000
12.
Rs. 150000
Rs. 37500
Rs. 187500
13.
Rs. 200000
Rs. 50000
Rs. 250000
(I) Tax paid from Grade-IV Employees to factional groups: Taking minimum salary of an employee in a month (say) =Rs. 5000 Total amount paid to 5 factional groups per employee= Rs.6350 Total number of employees in Grade-IV= 23936 Total amount paid to factional groups = Rs. 15,19,93,600. Total amount paid from the salary of Grade-IV employees to five factional groups is more than Rupees 15.19 Crores. (II) Tax paid from Class-III Gazette employees to factional groups: Taking minimum salary of an employee in a month (say) =Rs. 10000 Total amount paid to 5 factional groups per employee = Rs.12500 Total number of employees in Class-III Gazette= 61264 Total amount paid to factional groups = Rs. 76,58,00,000. Total amount paid from the salary of Class-III Gazette employees to five factional groups is Rupees 76.58 Crores. (III) Tax paid from Class-II Gazette employees to factional groups : Taking minimum salary of an employee in a month (say) =Rs. 20000 Total amount paid to 5 factional groups per employee = Rs.25000 Total employees in Class-II Gazette= 2401 Total amount paid to factional groups = Rs. 6,00,25,000. Total amount paid from the salary of Class-I Gazette employees is more than Rupees 6 Crores. (IV) Tax paid from Class-I Gazette employees to factional groups: Taking minimum salary of an employee in a month (say) =Rs. 30000 Total amount paid to 5 factional groups per employee = Rs.37500 Total employees in Class-I Gazette= 3707 Total amount paid to factional groups = Rs. 13,90,12,500 Total amount paid from the salary of Class-I Gazette employees is more than Rupees 13.9 Crores._______________________________ REMARKS: In a year, the minimum amount of Tax deducted from govt. servants’ salary to factional groups is =15.19+76.58+6+13.9 =Rs.111.67 Crores. One hundred eleven crore and sixty seventy Lakhs. (Based on Minimum calculation). Actual figure is very high as per the data.
Sl. No.
Total Salary per month. (Select the range of your own gross salary per month as given below). (a)
1.
X D K S V A G P E C E J M N E
E
E G D U J B M N H U V X A E C
Q I O O W I F P G S I F D C O
A
P G G H N G F C R E R B E O N
S L V T D A V R K D L O G N D
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U J U R Y I P I F V L R E N S
R P G U Z L Z M A X A D L I T
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Y Y P O L I C E R T F E L Y R
C R J C I Z G W E R D N A D E
V Z L W H Z D P H B Q Z O N E
Naga Political Solution
Name: V.K Yhome 2.Mailing Address: Krouliezou, Billy Graham Road,Lower L.Khel, Kohima Village. 3.Telephone number: 07893382828 (Airtel/9436832265 (BSNL)
Z. Lohe
T
he Naga Political issue has to be resolved. The earlier the better, in my opinion. Pending the resolution is paradise for few and hell for absolute majority. It is embarrassing to let nonNagas know what type of social and political structure we have developed in Nagaland in pursuance of self determination today. Yet, our friends and our enemies know that an area of 16579 sq km (Nagaland State) has to house not less than 6 Governments. To each of these Govts. the status is considered similar and almost same paraphernalia are established in each. It is pathetic for the feeder State Govt. to entertain additional 5 parasitical Govts. despite Nagaland being a beggar state as it has been surviving for 51 years Dr. Wojanbeni S Yanthan solely on the generosity of Secretary the Govt. of India(GOI). Alumni Association Patkai Christian College The State Govt. is therefore
DAILY CROSS WORD
CROSSWORD # 2904
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I I E T R I A L H A T C H E T
C M U R D E R N R D D L Y E K
ACROSS 1. Farm equipment 5. Cantaloupe for example 10. The bulk 14. Former Italian currency 15. Gladden 16. A single time 17. End ___ 18. A cherished desire 20. Warehousing 22. Distort 23. Card with one symbol 24. Notes 25. Travel plans 32. Charges 33. Bonkers 34. Big wine holder 37. Unique 38. Inflammations of the big toe 39. 5280 feet 40. Born as 41. Flora and fauna 42. Lift 43. Plague 45. Anagram of “Doles” 49. In song, the loneliest number 50. Honors 53. Change places 57. Illogical
59. Wild goat 60. Encounter 61. Antlered animal 62. Wings 63. Cocoyam 64. Anxiety 65. Not more
DOWN 1. Add 2. Enumerate 3. Chocolate cookie 4. Guarantee 5. Scanty 6. If not 7. One time around 8. Ear-related 9. Roman emperor 10. Slogan 11. Scallion 12. Gain points in a game 13. Canvas shelters 19. Jittery 21. Air force heroes 25. Computer symbol 26. Anagram of “Note” 27. Small island 28. Detached 29. Way to go 30. Smidgens 31. N N N N 34. 8 in Roman numerals
V.K Yhome
V.K Yhome
Answer Number # 2896
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tember 2013-January 2014 to mitigate inflationary pressures in the economy,” he said. “Contingent upon the desired inflation outcome, the April projection of real GDP growth from 4.7% in 2013-14 to a range of 5-6% in 2014-15 is retained with risks evenly balanced around the central estimate of 5.5%.” He also nudged the government to do its bit like easing domestic supply bottlenecks and proceed with reviving stalled projects which should should brighten the outlook for both manufacturing and services. The resumption of export growth is a positive, he added. The stock markets, for a moment, did not take kindly to the apex bank’s stance. The key sensitive index (Sensex) of the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) even fell 30 points. But it immediately staged a recovery and eventually closed 175 points, or 0.7% higher.
Alumni and its Alma Mater
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LEISURE
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His reference was to the current spike in retail inflation due to sharp increase in food prices, and the central bank’s stated objective to keep the economy on a disinflationary course by lowering inflation rate to 8% by January 2015 and 6% the year after. Rajan listed some upside risks to the economy: A sub-normal or delayed monsoon due to El Nino effect, impact of geo-political tensions on fuel prices and uncertainties over the government’s administered prices for various commodities. At the same time, he also felt these appear to have been balanced by the possibility of stronger action on food supply, better fiscal consolidation and recent appreciation in the value of Indian rupee. “Accordingly at this juncture, it is appropriate to leave the policy rate unchanged, and to allow the disinflationary effects of rate increases undertaken during Sep-
The Morung Express
35. As well 36. Adolescent 38. Martini ingredient 39. Cloth 41. Anagram of “Debit” 42. Telephoned 44. Commode 45. Ooze 46. Rowed 47. Enticed 48. Muse of love poetry 51. City in Peru 52. Any day now 53. Catholic church service 54. Competent 55. Orange pekoe 56. X X X X 58. Holiday drink Ans to CrossWord 2903
getting tired, Nagaland cow is over-milked and it is already a very sick cow and unsure now whether it will survive or succumb to excess use. There is no unanimity when the topic for political solution is debated and both for and against are equally strong. Beside factions opposing each other’s agendas, to my observation, not all, but many of those who are en-cadred in factions are not for solution. To them real peace out of solution will seize their opportunity which they enjoy now. To them the existing mess is paradise as they have become the experts in exploiting the situation to their whims and fancies. These people prefer to prolong disunity among factions and delay the solution so as to continue enjoying fishing out of troubled water. Beside, these people are scare of true peace in which everyone becomes equal and I do not need to elaborate. Another formidable group for the present mess are those State Govt. employees, not all, who manipulate the funds in the name of factional taxes and enjoy percentage shares. It is reliably learnt that 5% from contract bills is usually deducted for national movement at the release of payment. Percentage of salary of poor and honest employees who never aspired for illegal side income is deducted for the same purpose. Only God, the Jehova knows whether the massive collections are transferred to factions or pocketed by the collectors in all the Govt. Deptts. or shared. This work force who are mostly decision makers in governance are apprehensive if solution comes their lucrative business will dwindle. The other influential group for the mess are those pseudo business people of all trades. Not all, but some of those selfish business people who, in hobnob with like- minded elements are having hay day out of the present social and political disorder. To honest and God fearing business man it is hell to do business in Nagaland, but to the former it is indeed a paradise as they are free to use threat and cheat under immunity to repercussion. The most powerful group for the mess to continue is those politicians, not all, who used to win elections with the help of armed groups. When solution comes, the present social and political contours may be levelled. Under
new environment those crooks may not be able to employ the mercenaries whereby their future will become uncertain. Yet, the delay in solution has badly stranded Nagaland in respect of progress and prosperity. The few States in North East India which are a decade junior to Nagaland have already overtaken us in respect of infrastructural developments and prosperity. Let us go for solution. To what extent we can give credence to latest news, as published, of possible solution as per Mizoram model I know not. Going by the value of the news, in my opinion, quoting Mizoram model for the purpose of Naga political solution is a misnomer. Nagas are not superior to Mizos and yet backgrounds are different. Firstly, Mizoram was a mere Union Territory(UT) with 30 seats (if my memory is correct) when MNF entered into Accord of 1986. Secondly, Mizoram had no faction except MNF. Thirdly, Mizoram’s Art 371(G) (a) (iv) of the Indian Constitution does not include resources of land unlike Art 371(A) for Nagaland. Fourthly, when Mizoram as a UT a Leut. Governor used to look after and the status of its Chief Minister was equivalent to that of a Cabinet Minister in Nagaland. Fifthly, Mizos were happy when the Accord could promote them to Statehood with 40 Assembly seats. Whereas, Nagaland was created a full fledged Statehood 23 years senior out of political agreement and it remains. Secondly, there are factions running its own Govts. Most importantly, Art 371(A) provides quasi sovereign status(to my layman’s understanding) to Nagaland in regard to land and its resources, etc. And thus Nagaland’s constitutional status is higher than that of Mizoram even as States in Indian Union. How will it be relevant to go by Mizoram model? Hopefully, therefore when any political solution is evolved it must enhance the existing status of Nagaland be it political or economic. A solution sans political promotion but with mere economic package of temporary measure may not be branded as ‘honourable’. The moment is crucial and it is time to put our acts together for a peaceful and worth living future. And yet, what to do we are like an animal in a cage.
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.
Wednesday
LOCAL
The Morung Express
4 June 2014
DNSU awards HSLC/HSSLC toppers Appoint teachers & implement
upgraded GHSS, urges YAA
ADC Dimapur, Elizabeth Ngully along with DNSU members and meritorious students at the felicitation programme for HSLC and HSSLC 2014 toppers organized by DNSU. Morung Express News you be able to achieve your ing global scenario. The Dimapur | June 3
Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) organized its second felicitation programme for HSLC and HSSLC toppers 2014 at Town Hall on Tuesday with ADC Dimapur, Elizabeth Ngully, gracing the occasion as chief guest. Congratulating the toppers of HSLC/HSSLC for bringing laurels not only to themselves but pride to their parents, their schools, student community and society, the chief guest however said this is only a feather in their caps. “You still have to climb the ladder of success to achieve your goals in life. The way to success will be one of struggles and hardships. There will be times when you would want to give up. Only if you have the spirit of determination, the zeal and courage, will
dreams and aspirations,” Elizabeth told the students. Stating that the efforts of the parents, teachers and schools have to be genuinely appreciated in adding to their success, she also underscored the importance of a harmonious family atmosphere in influencing a child's academic career. “The encouragement and support of parents build up the confidence of a child enabling him/her to fare better in life,” she added. Elizabeth further said that education imparted in schools should not be based on bookish knowledge and it should not only be result oriented but that it should act as a powerful instrument in bringing about social transformation. “Hence, education is not merely imparting knowledge. It is also providing quality education to keep in tune with the chang-
condolences for munde Neiphiu Rio Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Neiphiu Rio has expressed shock and sadness at the sudden demise of Gopinath Munde, Union Minister for Rural Development, Panchahati Raj, Drinking Water & Sanitation in a road accident in New Delhi on June 3. “His demise is a major loss to Maharashtra in particular and the country in general,” Rio stated. “He was a mass leader who continuously strived for the welfare of the people, especially the downtrodden and dedicated his whole life to the service of the people.” Rio acknowledged that Munde’s death is a great loss to the Bhartiya Janata Party and National Democratic Alliance government. He further conveyed deepest condolences to the members of the bereaved family and prayed to the almighty to give them courage to overcome the tragedy. P. Paiwang Konyak Parliamentary Secretary, Transport, Information & Public Relation, P. Paiwang Konyak, has also expressed sadness at the sudden demise of Gopinath Munde. “Late Munde was the most dynamic and distinguished leader from Maharashtra,” said Konyak in a condolence message. “In his demise the nation, particularly BJP lost a great promising leader. The vacuum caused by his death will be difficult to fill.” He further conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed to God to bestow them strength to bear the loss.
Khreihu Liezietsu stresses on transparency and sincerity kohima, June 3 (mexn): Khreihu Liezietsu, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Resources & Sports, New & Renewal Energy and Music task Force was felicitated by the Department of Youth Resources & Sport in the Directorate on June 3. Sharing his vision to build up the department, the Parliamentary Secretary called on the departmental officials and staffs to be sincere, informed YRS Director Kelei Zeliang in a press release. Khreihu also stressed on the importance of transparency in their functioning. Interacting with the officials, Commissioner &
Secretary, LRD & YRS, Menokhol John, also called for re-orienting thought process and impressed the officials to come up with out of the box idea so as to take the department forward. Meanwhile, Director Kelei Zeliang welcomed all the members to the function which was attended by Commissioner & Secretary LRD & YRS, Dy Secretary YRS and host of departmental officials and staffs. The programme was chaired by Neilalhoulie, Joint Director, YRS, invocation was pronounced by Zehovonuo, and departmental projects was presented by Er. John Mehta.
teachers and educational institutions should mould the youth into dynamic and committed citizens of tomorrow,” she asserted. The ADC gave away awards to 67 HSLC and HSSL toppers from Dimapur district. Earlier, DNSU president, K Mhachio Lotha, in his welcome address said DNSU initiated the annual felicitation programme for the toppers to serve as a motivation to the other students who will be writing their examinations in the coming years. Quoting E. Roosevelt’s famous lines “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of the dream,” Mhachio urged the students to convert their dreams into reality. “Aspire high in life, the secret of getting ahead is getting started,” he said. The number one ranked topper in the HSLC 2014 exam, Shubankar Barman, spoke on behalf of the toppers. The programme was chaired by DNSU Education & Statistic secretary, James Pame.
Tuensang, June 3 (mexn): Yimchunger Akherü Arihako (YAA), the apex student organization of Yimchunger community has appealed to the Department of School Education for earliest implementation of newly upgraded GHSS Pungro (Arts) and Shamator (Arts). A press release issued by YAA President Akiuba Yimchunger and Speaker Mosa Yim stated that as per the department notification DSE/CAB/HSE/ UPGR/2012-13 Dated Kohima the 29th April 2009, the admission to class 11 (eleven) was to commence
from May 12, 2014. Following the directives of the department, altogether 59 students have taken admission to class 11 at the newly upgraded GHSS Pungro and 14 students at GHSS Shamator, it said, adding that the classes will start in the month of July as per the notification. However, it stated, so far, ‘not even a single subject teacher’ has been appointed nor conversion of teachers. “Till now, there is no ‘green signal’ or ‘go ahead’ notification from the department wherein the students and parents were in lot of dilemma,” stated the releas.
Further, it pointed out that the infrastructure is yet to be completed. Thus, YAA has asked the department to make alternate arrangement for the students’ accommodation so that the careers of the students will not be at ‘stake’. YAA “having much concern with the careers of the students in particular and the parents in general” has appealed to the Department of School Education to expedite and address the matter at the earliest, so, the students concerned can pursue their academic course at par with the rest of the students.
UT-I NSCN (IM) implements ban on night clubs Dimapur, June 3 (mexn): Regarding ban on “night clubs” and “brothels” in Dimapur as informed through the media by MIP-GPRN, Central Administrative Officer, Union Territory – I, NSCN (IM), M Daniel Lotha has informed that the UT-I has strictly implemented the same order to “flush out the immoral activities which is taking place in the lounges, club, and restaurants.” The authority has even met the president of “Night club & restaurant” Atoka Awomi and requested him to stop all those “evil activities which spoils the young generation and unwanted to the Naga culture as well and which is totally
against the Christian society,” the CAO added in a press release. “Naga people also should know that there are certain rules and regulation for club and pubs everywhere in the world, like age limitation and time limitation, but here in Nagaland particularly in Dimapur, we don’t see any rules and discipline in our society,” the CAO stated. The UT-I authority has requested all the Naga public, church leaders, NGOs, and State administration to co-operate in this regard. It further informed that if any vehicle is found parked outside the night clubs and restaurants after 10:00 pm, it will be destroyed/
damaged. The liquor vendors have also been asked to shutdown their business by 9:00 pm sharp to “save people from accident and manhandling on the street.” The release also mentioned that some “miscreants” have been collecting money in the name of CAO in and around Dimapur Town, therefore, it informed the general public to “acknowledge” the CAO UT to avoid any confusion. The UT-I authority also appealed to all the business community and peace loving people of Dimapur to stop/ ban tax, contribution and donation until further order. For details, one may contact 9436971965.
Tuensang Town Tikhir Baptist Church gets new building Tuensang, June 3 (mexn): The Tuensang Town Tikhir Baptist Church has been moved to its new building at High School Middle Sector, near Ao Baptist Arogo Tuensang. The dedicatory programme for the same was held on June 1 in the presence of Tikhir Baptist Biti Atukhianti (TBBA) officials. Rev. M Shiuto, Executive Secretary, TBBA said
the dedicatory prayer. The formal pogramme was chaired by R.T. Limtimong, President, BYE. Rev. H. Sangkup, Pastor, Tuensang Town Baptist Church read scripture and said invocation prayer. Pastor Taijang welcome d the gathering and short speeches were delivered by Rev.T.Thungtimongba, pastor, Tuensang Village Baptist Church ;
N.Y.Choba Chang, president, Citizen Union Tuensang Village; and Yimba Chang, president, High School Middle Sector. President, Chang Khulei Setshang (CKS); president and general secretary of Confederation of Chang Students' Union (CCSU); president, Chang Saoshong Thangjam and various organizations’ leaders also attended the programme.
The pastor and his colleagues of Tuensang Town Tikhir Baptist Church has thanked all the delegates for their support and cooperation in organizing the dedicatory programme and wished that God bless them abundantly in their future endeavours. This was informed in a press release issued by Tuensang Town Tikhir Baptist Church pastor S Taijang and secretary T Kiutan.
AR seizes 590 kgs ganja, apprehends arms peddlers Dimapur, June 3 (mexn): Troops of 18 Assam Rifles recovered 590 kgs of ganja from a Mahindra pickup van (NL-01 2123) on May 30 in Pedi, Peren district. The Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ 6 Sect AR had placed a mobile check post based on information regarding transshipment of huge quantity of contraband
in the area, informed a press release. One Air Gun Model-35 was also recovered from the vehicle. The occupants of vehicle namely Wetsheto and Sochulo were consequently apprehended, the release added. The apprehended individuals alongwith the recovered items were handed over to Peren Police Station.
Two arms peddlers apprehended 19 Assam Rifles alongwith troops of HQ 5 Sector Assam Rifles in a joint operation apprehended two arms peddlers from Forest Colony, Kohima. According to a press release from Assam Rifles, the accused have been identified as Lokesh Kumar Modi (25) of Jaipur (Rajastan) and
BB Gurung (50), resident of Forest Colony, Kohima. One Mauser 9mm Pistol, cash amounting to Rs. 2,05,320/-, driving license, Axis Bank ATM Card, and seven mobile handsets were recovered from their possession, the release said. The apprehended individuals were handed over to Kohima (South) Police Station for further investigation.
Two vehicle lifters arrested at Khuzama Dimapur, June 3 (mexn): The police personnel manning Khuzama check gate on May 31 around 12:30 am arrested two alleged members of interstate vehicle lifting gang. The duo identified as Muglesh Uddin and Muktar Hussian Lashkar have been remanded in police
custody and further investigation is on. Officer-in-charge of West Police station, Dimapur in a press release informed that on May 30, about 10:00 pm, a verbal report followed by written FIR was received from Azhar Uddin Lashkar stating that a Manipuri couple and two
“Mian” youth hired his private vehicle - AS-11H 0089 (Innova) from Guwahati to Dimapur. But, on arrival in Dimapur at about 9:30 PM near Shamrock hospital, the two youth snatched the ignition key from the driver and sped away along with the Manipuri couple. After the matter was re-
ported by the driver to the West PS, the Duty Officer ASI Mhasi Chadi immediately alerted all the Police check gates including Khuzama. The said vehicle was seized by the Police personnel manning Khuzama gate. The occupants of the vehicle were also arrested, informed the release.
Dimapur police make series of arrests Dimapur | June 3 (MExN)
Murder accused nabbed A prime accused wanted by police for the murder of an auto rickshaw driver in November 2012 was arrested by Dimapur police on May 30 from Burma Camp. The victim, Sakaldeo Ray, resident of Ragailong colony, Dimapur went missing along with his newly bought unregistered auto rickshaw and his dead and decomposed body was recovered from a jungle in Medziphema area later. The accused identified as Akato Yepthomi (29) of Kukidolong under Medziphema PS and a resident of Oriental colony, Dimapur has been on the run after commission of the murder
and police has been keeping a look out for the arrest of the accused, informed Addl. Superintendent of Police/PRO, Dimapur in a press release. The accused is under police remand and investigation into the case is going on. ‘Extortionists’ arrested The Special Operations Team of Dimapur Police arrested an armed “extortionist” on June 3 from New Market, Dimapur. According to Addl SP Dimapur, the accused who claimed to be a member of the NNC (Non-Accordist) in the rank of ‘ss’ Central Section Officer has been identified as Kiviho Awomi (30), presently residing at Thahekhu village, Dimapur. The ac-
cused was armed with a country-made .22 pistol with 3(three) live ammunitions in the magazine, the Addl SP said. Police have also recovered and seized 2 (two) coupons of Tax collection slips in the name of NNC, one identity card issued by the Government of NNC (N/A), cash amounting to Rs.2005/- besides other articles. A case has been registered for investigation. In another unrelated report, the Dimapur police highway mobile patrol arrested an illegal tax collector belonging to NSCN (K) on May 31 from the Highway near Naharbari. The accused identified as Khekavi Aye (33), resident of Seithek-
iema Basa had stopped a number of trucks on the Highway and was found intimidating and threatening the truck drivers, the release informed. Police recovered and seized Tax Information slips of NSCN (K), cash receipts of NSCN (K) and 10 (ten) blank “Work Permit” bearing the seal of GPRN Kilo Affairs from his possession. The accused has been booked for extortion after a case was registered in this connection. Gang of thieves arrested Following a complaint received at East PS on May 26, in which some unknown miscreants had snatched the wallet and mobile phone of a pedes-
trian at Flyover bridge, Dimapur police investigating the case arrested 8 (eight) members of a gang of thieves including a receiver of the stolen property. According to the release, it was revealed by those arrested that the gang targets soft and easy victims in and around the railway station area and flyover bridge. Those arrested have been identified as David Belho (21), Ato Rochil (23), Raju Teron @ Inaho (24), Mughato Yeptho (23), Niloto Chishi (21), Hukaito Zhimo (25) and Thungbemo Murry (33), who has admitted to buying the stolen articles after the gang commits the robbery, it added. Police have recovered three
stolen mobile handsets in this connection. All the arrested accused have been booked after a case was registered. Two arrested for assault On receiving a complaint by victim of assault by unknown miscreants at Burma Camp during the wee hours of June 1, Dimapur police swung into action and arrested the accused persons for assault and causing hurt. The arrested persons have been identified as Calep Rongmei (19) and Clapson Gangmei (19), both residents of Nagagaon, Dimapur. The accused have been booked after a case was registered in this connection.
Dimapur
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MEx FILE Dimapur DPDB meeting on June 5 Dimapur, June 3 (mexn): The Dimapur District Planning & Development Board (DPDB) meeting for the month of June will be held on June 5. The time and venue will remain the same. All the members have been requested to take note and attend the meeting.
AKM to launch cleaner and greener Mkg mokokchung, June 3 (Dipr): Campaign on “Cleaner and Greener Mokokchung”, organized by Ao Kaketshir Mungdang (AKM), the apex students’ body of the Ao Community will be launched on June 5 by Deputy Commissioner Mokokchung, Muroho Chotso, at Imlong Place Mokokchung. The objective of the campaign is to sensitize the communities about the importance of the ecosystem, where every individual take the responsibility to protect and preserve the flora and fauna of the land by voicing in unison “Every Action Counts”, thereby offering the younger generations a better and safer place to live in.
Muslim Council Dimapur mourns imam’s death Dimapur, June 3 (mexn): The Muslim Council Dimapur has mourned the death of one of the most revered persons and senior citizens of the community in Dimapur, Kazi Noor Uddin (95). The deceased was the imam of old Mosque which is one of the oldest mosques in North East India built in 1906, informed MCD in a press release. He served the masjid as head priest from 1954 to 2005. A. Rahman, working president of the Muslim Council opined that the death of such a revered and pious personality is not only a loss to the community but a loss for mankind and Dimapur in general. The imam left behind 5 sons and thousands of well wishers. He was laid to rest at the town burial ground and his Janaza was attended by around 300 muslims.
NACF supports ACAUT Nagaland Dimapur, June 3 (mexn): The Niuland Area Citizens Forum (NACF) has extended its moral support to ACAUT Nagaland in its fight against "unabated taxation". The forum through its president Kakishe Shikhu and general secretary Khuvishe Hollo lauded the core team who has been “working tirelessly in every effort for a changed society.” The forum prayed that the almighty God keep them in good health and wished them success in their movement.
One car thief apprehended kohima, June 3 (mexn): One person was apprehended while attempting to lift a vehicle by the residents of Upper AG area Kohima on June 1. SDPO & PRO, DEF Kohima, Shouka Kakheto in a press release informed that the person who was handed over to the Police has been identified as Elow (24) of Punanamai village under Senapati district, Manipur. A case has been registered and necessary investigation is on. The Kohima Police has lauded the citizens of the colony for their prompt action and helping the law enforcer in combating the menace of vehicle theft in the state capital. It further reminded the citizens in general that Police helpline numbers as published earlier in the media is operational and can be used to seek assistance.
Liquor seized kohima, June 3 (mexn): The Superintendent of Excise & Prohibition Kohima on June 2 received a total of 381 bottles of 750 ml MC Rum and 22 Kingfisher Canned Beer (500 ml) from the 37th Assam Rifles. According to a press release, the seizure was made by the 37th AR at the bridge between NH 29 and NH 61. Two persons identified as Theja (27) and Jhonken (28) were arrested in this connection for violation of NLTP Act 1989 and further investigation was on. The Superintendent of Excise & Prohibition Kohima, Katoho Sumi has lauded the 37th Assam Rifles for their commendable job in enforcing the Prohibition Act in the State.
Ex-UG Khellers informed Dimapur, June 3 (mexn): All the Ex-UG Khellers under the IVR are informed that though the land allotment has been done through the recommendation of DC, ADC and ADC (Civil) for rehabilitation, many have failed to collect village patta in favour of their plot though several reminders have been made to collect the patta. The Ex-UG Khellers held a meeting on April 29 and “resolved not to include in the name list those who have failed to obtain the village patta in favour of his or her allotted plot and also resolved not to entertain such failure cases in future.”
KPC general body meeting on June 7 kohima, June 3 (mexn): The Kohima Press Club (KPC) has convened a general body meeting on June 7, 11 am at KPC conference hall, Kohima. All the members have been informed to treat this press release as the official invitation and attend the meeting compulsorily.
Mkg DPDB on June 7 mokokchung, June 3 (Dipr): Mokokchung District Planning and Development Board Meeting for the month of June will be held on June 7 (Saturday). All the members of the board have been informed to attend the meeting without fail.
Christian Forum Dimapur meeting Dimapur, June 3 (mexn): The Christian Forum, Dimapur has invited all its members to attend a meeting of the Forum on June 7 at 4.00 pm at Bishop’s House, Circular Road, Dimapur,(approx. 100 mts from City Tower) to discuss the future plans and programmes of the Forum. Apart from the regular members, the pastors of the various churches of Dimapur have been invited to the meeting. This was informed in a press release issued by Christian Forum Dimapur Secretary Fr. Chacko Karinthayil.
NSF and ENSF joint meeting with ANSTA kohima, June 3 (mexn): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) and Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) have convened a joint sitting with All Nagaland School Teachers Association (ANSTA) officials and its Units/Sub-Units on June 13, 2014 at Zonal Council Hall, Kohima at 12:00 noon. Therefore, the federations have requested the ANSTA officials and representatives of its Units/Sub-Units to attend the meeting with positive inputs and constructive suggestions.
6
IN-FOCUS
The Power of Truth
The Morung Express WEDnEsDAy 4 JunE 2014 volumE IX IssuE 151
Indigenous!
I
ndigenous peoples are descendants of those who had inhabited a territory prior to colonization or formation of the present State in which they now voluntarily or involuntarily find themselves a part of; and are caught in artificial boundaries that reflects the legacy of administrative convenience of imperial powers. James Anaya an indigenous scholar who is also the United Nations Rapporteur on the rights of Indigenous Peoples broadly refers indigenous to the living descendants of pre-invasion inhabitants of lands now dominated by others. They are indigenous because their “ancestral roots are imbedded in the lands in which they live; and have special relationship with their land which they see as being instilled with a spirituality and sacredness not generally comprehensible by others.” Hence, land for indigenous peoples is more than just a habitat or a political boundary; it is the basis of their social organization, economic and political system and cultural identification. Anaya affirms that Indigenous peoples are a “culturally distinctive peoples with historical continuity of existence and identity that links them to the communities or nations of their ancestral past who now find themselves engulfed by settler societies born of the forces of empire and conquest.” In the 21st century many indigenous peoples are still excluded from society and often even deprived of their rights as equal citizens of a state. They are marginalized and discriminated against, because their language, their patterns of social and political organizations, their culture, their worldviews, their knowledge system and their whole way of life are different and perceived as a threat by the dominant culture. It is true to say that colonization was not limited to the geography and militarization, but included the colonization of people’s minds and spirituality, causing the subsequent oppression to be present internally and externally. When indigenous peoples refer to their culture they are often met with cynical remarks such as “You mean you want to go back to wearing skins, sticking spears through each other and sleeping on trees?” Many definitions of culture favor the reductionist perspective, selectively slicing away events and activities and, above all, commodifying them. Consequently, indigenous culture as Babu Ayindo reminds us is viewed through the prism of products, examples of which would include “tribal” dances, artifacts and costumes. He further adds that, our ancestors are depicted as nothing more than violent, blood thirsty uncivilized “natives.” And, if there is any good at all then it is “tribal” and not effective in the “modern” era. As indigenous peoples, it is essential for Nagas to engage in self-definition. It implies engaging in a process of constantly negotiating with the evolving modern culture so that they can invent a world that responds to their needs, desires and dreams.
lEfT WING |
Vishnu Makhijani IANS
Chill Shanie, we're here for you
P
oor Shane Warne! The Australian cricketer has suffered his share of angst. There was this time he walked out of a press where he was to unveil a likeness of himself in soap that was to be auctioned for a children's charity when a reporter remarked: "Hey Shanie, that looks rather lean." It was with great difficulty that he was persuaded to return. Then, he was hauled up for smoking on the field in one of the early editions of the IPL and promised he would mend his his ways. Then, he did lose considerable weight but he also lost Liz Hurley before their relationship could be taken to its natural conclusion. Now, it seems, he's gone through the ultimate. "After doing five selfies with people this morning before 8 am on my morning run, I've come to the conclusion that the autograph is dead," he's been quoted as saying. Oh no! Is that so, indeed? Most certainly not! Wakey, wakey Shanie; are you forgetting your Indian visits where a pen and diary were thrust at you at the slightest opportunity, depending how close to the fence you were fielding? In India, at least, autograph books will never go out of fashion but they certainly have evolved. During my time in school - quite a few decades ago - autograph books served a dual purpose. One was, of course, to take autographs but they also served another important purpose: Across two pages were drawn a series of squares with the likes of "Best Boy", "Best Girl", "Best Teacher", "Best Film", "Ambition" and the like heading each column. It's a different thing that the owner of the autograph book was invariably the "Best Boy" - after all, who wanted to risk a black eye? The autograph book also served another purpose: for pasting photographs of yourself and your friends and even your parents, for that matter. There were even contests for filling up the maximum number of autograph books. These days, when I'm at a loose end - infrequently - or nostalgic, pretty often, I hunt out my old autograph books and relive the days that once were. You come across a name and say: "Hey, where's this person today?" If a net search doesn't yield results once can always call up a schoolmate, never mind if he or she is in Scotland. If that doesn't yield results, one can always take the via-via route through a friend-of-a-friend or even Facebook, for that matter. Many an old school chum have I managed to locate in this manner. But more than that, it's reliving those uncluttered days that helps one cope with the stress of the 21st century. Till about a decade ago, my younger colleagues tell me, autograph books were referred to as "Slam Books". Each writer got to fill in two pages, much on the lines detailed above but with greater elaboration. The taking of autographs went on in tandem. Whether or not these "Slam Books" will serve today's generation in their later life the altruistic purpose that they have served for me, the fact of the matter is that autograph hunting is alive and well in India. Visit any stadium during a cricket match, or for that matter, any high-octane sporting event; a mall or a multiplex where a film is being premiered; or, for that matter any place where there's a celebrity and you can be sure of hordes of youngsters - and the not so young too - screaming for autographs. So, despair not Shanie. Come back to India and I guarantee you will tire of signing autographs. Maybe we could go out for a beer and a smoke after that. Cheers!
THE EDIT PAGE
C O M M E N T A R Y
Marwa Fikry Abdel Samei
El Sisi's tainted legitimacy
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ince the army ousted the elected President Mohamed Morsi in July 2013, a wave of nationalist fervour has prevailed. It was a part of a cleverly articulated media campaign to praise the army for its heroic role with a special focus on the then Defence Minister General Abdel Fattah El Sisi. Sisi was presented at every opportunity as a national hero who saved the country from the perils of a civil war. His intervention was portrayed as devoid of any ambition except, “preserving the life of Egyptians”. This gratitude was soon turned into a mania and a kind of personality cult. His popularity had skyrocketed by 26 July 2013 when he asked for a popular mandate to confront the imminent violence and terrorism. The 'request' for this mandate was the peak on which the claims of national unity and consensus were then constructed. Following this moment, there was an evolving but intensive campaign stressing Egypt’s need for Sisi as president. Gradually, the image of the saviour was perfectly constructed. For some, Sisi's standing began to approach that of the prophets. At this point, it became clear that talk had shifted from referring to the army as an arbitrator not as a ruler, to a new discourse of the need for a strong man who necessarily came from a military background in view of the dangers and conspiracies targeting Egypt. El Sisi was keen at the beginning to convey the message that he would not run for the presidency. He made it clear that he did not want history to say that the Egyptian army was making a move out of personal interests or ambition. However, the idea of being a presidential candidate was steadily developed. IIn addition, it was presented in the framework of a popular commission (Taklif ). Organised campaigns by the media and some public figures calling on Sisi to run for the presidency and portraying him as the saviour and the right man at the right time were in full flood. Against this background, the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) declared on 27 January 2014 its approval for Sisi to run for presidency. This declaration itself established a new pattern in the political role of the army. Only within the above context, can we understand the nature of Sisi’s presidential campaign and the shock that accompanied the elections when they finally took place. Sisi’s campaign was devoid of any attempt to approach the people in the street. This was completely the opposite of what people experienced in the 2012 elections, where candidates were keen to communicate with the people and interacted with the streets. It would be correct to describe this as an elitist campaign that paid more attention to the artists, intellectuals, businessmen, sportsmen…etc. It clearly reflected a conviction that elites do not only count more but that they also endow a candidate with the consensual facade of enjoying the support of different spectrums of society. Sisi’s campaign tried to justify its remoteness from the street by letting it be known that its candidate was targeted and referring to the exceptional circumstances that the country was going through. This was only a cover up of the fact that Sisi was already behaving not as a possible president-to-be, but as The President. There were many different clues to this attitude, the most important
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he 1972 Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage sets out a framework “to ensure that effective and active measures are taken for the protection, conservation and presentation of the cultural and natural heritage.” Increasingly, however, the World Heritage site program, made famous through sites like Pompeii and the Great Wall of China, has come to ignore the sovereignty and rights of the Indigenous Peoples who inhabit and share the areas it was created to protect. Sites such as the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument in Hawai’i and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania have been placed on the World Heritage site list at the suggestion of local or national governments without the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) of the Indigenous Peoples to whom those sites belong and have religious, cultural,and economic value. The practice of designating a location as a World Heritage site can have a profound and long-lasting impact not only on the site itself, but also on the livelihood and wellbeing of the surrounding Indigenous communities. Indeed, Indigenous Peoples to whom these sites belong rarely benefit from the funding, tourism, and other ramifications that accompany World Heritage site status. Throughout the history of the World Heritage program, the principles of consent and consultation of the Indigenous communities involved have frequently been lacking from UNESCO’s “Five C’s” of credibility, conservation, capacity-building, communication, and communities. One
An Egyptian supporter of Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, the nation’s former military chief, wears a toy tank on his head as he holds a poster showing him with images of late presidents Anwar Sadat, top left, Gamal Abdel Nasser, top right and Egypt's interim President Adly Mansour, bottom right, during a celebration in Tahrir Square, in Cairo, Egypt on Friday, May 30, 2014. Nearly a year after he ousted Egypt's first freely elected president, former military chief Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi was elected president by a landslide of 92 percent of the vote, according to unofficial results released by his campaign Thursday. But questions over the authorities' drive to boost turnout threatened to stain his victory. (AP Photo/Amr Nabil)
of which was the prerecorded interviews with the media. It was obviousto all that TV presenters were addressing him as The President not as a candidate. Sisi himself talked as if he was already in the presidential palace and firmly rejected or disrupted comments he did not like. The second indicator was the lack of an electoral programme. Sisi denounced those who were calling for details of his programme on the basis that this would endanger national security. His discourse was full of slogans and emotional expressions but empty of any clear vision. It was obvious how he was harping on people’s longing for a strong leader. He, nevertheless, over stressed this call in a way that many thought revealed him as an autocrat-in-waiting. More importantly, Sisi’s campaign was highly supported by Mubarak’s men and former members of the National Democratic Party. Mubarak himself announced, through a leaked phone call, his support for Sisi. Different state institutions showed their bias towards Sisi. In one newspaper, there was an item covering a meeting between Sisi and Ibrahim Mahlab – the current Prime Minister— in which they discussed the formation of his government. Ironically, Mahlab in the interview was openly talking about the neutrality of the government towards the two presidential candidates, while he was putting Sisi’s photo up on his desk. In addition, in all his media interviews and meetings, Sisi repeatedly pointed to the fact that people had called on him and how he felt obliged to surrender to the people’s will. This is how the mandate moment defines the way he constructs his philosophy of governing: people ordered me to rule, they should not then ask about the details. This was also clear in his comment to those who asked about his programme. He simply said that they should have asked him this before he had left the army. The danger of this mental construction lies in the belief that people surrender their rights in return for stability and security - a Hobbesian way of thinking that raises deep concerns about the nature of his rule.
Sisi is also a keen proponent of the army's interest, categorically refusing any calls to bring its budget to public scrutiny. It was obvious in the talk how the army would remain a state unto itself, undertaking greater responsibility over the coming period. Scandalous elections The hallowed status surrounding Sisi is the main reason why the election turnout was more of a surprise to his opponents than his supporters. The scenes of empty polling stations have put a large question mark over the claimed overwhelming popularity of the Field Marshal. Sisi and his entourage were hoping for another mandate by millions of Egyptians pouring into the polling stations. Sisi himself mentioned in one of his interviews the number of 40 million voters who would enable him to challenge the whole world. This focus on the voter turnout was aimed at dealing with the tainted legitimacy of his rule. On the one hand, Sisi seemed obsessed with the idea of getting more votes compared to those won by Mohammed Morsi. He wanted to prove that his move in July was not a coup but a real revolution. A high voter turnout would have allowed them to turn the page on the question of whether 3 July 2013 was a coup or a revolution. On the other hand, large numbers of voters would have enhanced his legitimacy in the eyes of the world. Sisi’s legitimacy is still under fire from some parties like the African Union and is closely observed by western countries. Although the latter do not seem to oppose him as a ruler, they still have doubts regarding his ability to provide stability. When many voters cast their ballots, this must indicate confidence in the process and the regime. A high voter turnout would have enhanced Sisi's position as an indispensable stabiliser. For these reasons, the low voter turnout reported by many independent and international media outlets – even the pro-Sisi media could not ignore the low number of voters — caused an immense panic to Sisi
UNESCO: (Dis)honoring Indigenous Rights Mililani Trask Cultural Survival
of the most dramatic examples of the unilateral and non-inclusive methods through which World Heritage sites are established was the establishment of the Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, also known as the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands Marine National Monument, which includes 140,000 square miles of ocean, islands, and atolls of the Hawaiian Islands. The Northwest Hawaiian Islands were previously controlled by the Indigenous Peoples of Hawai’i prior to annexation by the United States in 1893, and were declared an ecosystem reserve by President Clinton in 2000. In 2006, President Bush declared the area a national monument under the control of the US Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Hawai’i Department of Land and Natural Resources, at which time all Indigenous fishing and commercial activity were prohibited. The proclamation additionally required Indigenous Hawaiian communities (to whom the region had originally belonged) to apply for permission before traveling through or engaging in cultural or religious rituals in the
new maritime monument. The monument declaration did, however, allow for unlimited access and use of the area by the United States armed forces, while simultaneously waiving all EPA regulations. At no point during this process were Native Hawaiian communities consulted, nor was their Free, Prior and Informed Consent obtained, although over 200 “public” hearings were held. The US said that Hawaiians were part of the public and should have attended the public meetings. President Obama’s administration continues to ignore the demands for Indigenous consultation and consent during its selection of the monument for World Heritage site status, as did UNESCO, which only met with individuals—none Indigenous— who were selected by the US government. The UN’s approval in 2010 of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area in Tanzania as a World Heritage site is another example of UNESCO’s failure to gain the Free, Prior and Informed Consent of Indigenous communities. The Ngorongoro site was home to some 20,000 Maasai inhabitants, yet there is
WRITE-WING
and his allies. This became evident on all sides. First, there was the hysterical reaction on the part of pro-coup TV presenters who oscillated between enticing people to vote, frightening them by alerting them to the 500 pound fine stipulated by law, and finally by insulting them and accusing them of betrayal of their country. Then the dramatic late night decision by the government to make the second day of voting a public holiday, granting people free rides on the metro and buses in a desperate last attempt to encourage them to vote. A third spectacle was the confused performance of the Supreme Committee for Elections which had to announce, without any ostensible reason, the extension of the chance to cast your vote for one extra day. Given the reported low voter turnout in the first two days, the Committee seems to have come under pressures to extend the vote to more Sisi voters. It became clear that Sisi was not competing with Hamdeen but with Mohamed Morsi, i.e. Sisi's determination to claim more votes than Morsi. This arbitrary decision of the committee questions the credibility of the whole process and casts doubts on its fairness. This is especially the case given the objection of Hamdeen Sabbahi’s campaign – and ironically Sisi’s campaign – to the extension, and subsequent withdrawal of all Sabbahi’s deputies from the polling stations. The explanation for the low voter turnout varies. Some argue that Sisi’s popularity is mainly puff - a media phenomenon, and that his level of support has been widely exaggerated from the start. This opinion finds support in the recent results of Pew’s poll on Egyptian public opinion. According to the report, 54% has a positive view of Sisi, while 45% hold a negative view of him. Comparatively, 42% of Egyptians still have a positive view of the ousted President Mohamed Morsi. The report also revealed how 72% of Egyptians were not satisfied with the path their country was following. Whichever way you look at it, the results show that any claims of national consensus in suppoprt of Sisi was simply wrong: division is still dominant in Egypt. The second explanation for Egyptians not showing up in large numbers at the polling stations looks to certain arms of the Egyptian deep state who may have felt threatened by Sisi’s claimed popularity. According to this logic, those state elements want Sisi to win but not to prevail. Sisi’s discourse may have frightened some of them off, given his over-confidence and self-centredness. The different branches of the deep state would prefer a president who is among equals so that he would pay close attention to their interests. A president with another overwhelming popular mandate may be a threat, as he may feel independent of their judgment. This may be a reason for the weak mobilisation of voters on the part of former cadres of the National Democratic Party who are experienced in elections and mobilising support. In these ways, the elections in Egypt have exposed the fragility of Sisi’s rule and signalled warning signs on the dangerous path that will be pursued due to his policies. It clearly shows how his previous mandate has already expired. While the votes are currently being counted, declaring Sisi the winner is just a formality. However, his tainted legitimacy will haunt him. little evidence that Maasai communities were involved in the consultation process during the nomination of the area. Since then, the disruption to the pastoral system in Ngorongoro has made it impossible for the Maasai in the conservation area to live a life that depends on livestock alone. In a discomfiting trend, Indigenous Peoples similarly were not properly consulted during the Sangha Trinational World Heritage site nomination process in Cameroon, the Western Ghats mountain region site in India, or the Kenya Lake system in the Great Rift Valley. UNESCO and the World Heritage Committee’s failure to consult with Indigenous Peoples and obtain their Free, Prior and Informed Consent violates Article 1 of the International Covenant on Political and Civil Rights and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. By minimizing the participation of Indigenous Peoples and communities in the nomination process for World Heritage sites, Indigenous Peoples are denied the right to self-determination. Such negligence causes devastating harm to the economic resources and livelihoods of affected communities, and prevents them from accessing cultural and religious sites essential to their history and identity. When UNESCO and the World Heritage Committee fail to get FPIC from Indigenous Peoples, they not only ignore a raft of international resolutions, but violate— if not openly flaunt—their own rules and strictures. Miliani Trask (Native Hawaiian) is an Indigenous Peoples’ rights attorney and Indigenous and community advisor to Innovations Development Group.
Letters to the Editor should be sent to: The morung Express, House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur - 797112, Or –email: morung@gmail.com All letters (including those via email) should have the full name and Postal address of the sender. Readers may please note that the contents of the articles, letters and opinions published do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form.
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WEDNEsDAy
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
4 June 2014
PERSPECTIVE NEWS ANALYSIS, FEATURE AND DISCOURSE
No human rights without God
Human rights need God because three ingredients are critical to their validity: universal moral norms, human dignity, and their “trump card” status. These ingredients are found most vividly in religions grounded in the revelations of God. They are also rooted in reason, but reason itself points to God Daniel Philpott merican commentators Larry Cox and Jack Snyder, for example, note the historic contributions of religious leaders and groups to expanding human rights. Pakistani sociologist Nida Kirmani, however, reminds us that religion often leads to exclusion and persecution. Both sides are right. Over the long durée, the religious have brutally violated, sacrificed their lives for, advocated, rejected, upheld, and withheld the human rights of vulnerable human beings. But what if we shift the question from religion’s influence on human rights, to God’s influence on human rights? More specifically, is God necessary for human rights? My argument is not that only believers may advocate for human rights; the human rights community, which has become secularized over recent decades, contains scores of people who do not believe in God but who have nonetheless devoted themselves, sometimes to the point of giving their lives, to human rights. If the question, however, is why there are human rights in the first place, then I argue indeed for God’s indispensability.
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Why? At least three ingredients are critical to the validity of human rights. First, human rights require universal moral norms, since they are claims that every human makes upon every other human being. No person, non-state group, or political regime may torture another person or deliberately take the life of a civilian, for instance. These claims must be true for everyone, or they are not human rights. The second ingredient is human dignity – the inestimable worth of each and every person. It is because human beings have this worth that they can justifiably demand that certain kinds of actions never be performed against them.
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or many mestizo people of mixed Spanish and Indigenous blood from South America, identification with their native heritage has been difficult to imagine, let alone realize. Silvia Rivera Cusicanqui, a renowned sociologist from La Paz, Bolivia, has made this quest for identity her life’s work. For Cusicanqui, the “uneasiness” (her term) that inspired her to recover her Indigenous roots began with the decision to learn her mother’s language, Aymara; it had been her father’s native language, Quechua, that was spoken at home. According to those working to maintain endangered languages, language is a central feature of human identity. For many, not knowing a language is ostracizing because you can’t fully be yourself. When asked how she self-identifies now, Cusicanqui says she claims a few drops of Aymara blood as her own. Although she has degrees in sociology and a master’s in anthropology from Catholic University in Lima, she rejects the institutional and colonial legacy of her European heritage: “I self-identify as a mestiza Aymara woman who fervently vindicates her Indigenous Aymara side. This has inspired me to learn the language. It allows me to be more coherent and holistic regarding my Aymara background. I do not negate my mestiza existence, yet . . . I will not deny my Indigenous roots. We participate in rituals that recuperate our relationship with the land, learn our language, and dialogue with the Andean spiritual world. We thank the land. In this way we are less vulnerable to the alienation and loss of our identity.” Beyond the fundamental tenet of personal freedom as a right of all peoples, Cusicanqui has dedicated her life to investigating the relationships among gender, ethnicity, politics, economics, and the sociology of oppression and resistance in Bolivia. She is fascinated by the internalization of the colonization experience and how it drives the actions
The third ingredient, which philosopher Nicholas Wolterstorff describes brilliantly in his book, Justice, is what might be called the “trump card” status of human rights. To say that a person has a right is to say that her claim cannot be overridden by simply balancing it against a competing basket of goods. Even if governments can realize great gains in war by targeting civilians or torturing suspects, they must refrain from these actions if they are respectful of human rights. Not all human rights are absolute, of course; in fact, only a few core rights are. Torture is never justified, for example, but claims for religious freedom cannot justify rituals of child sacrifice, to take an obvious example. Yet even when rights are not absolute, there is a strong presumption against overriding them. Human rights, even when they are not “core” rights such as the right to life, trump most other claims, most of the time. What systems of principles or traditions of thought contain and ground these three ingredients? We can easily rule out postmodernism, all forms of relativism, and traditions bound to particular cultures. All lack the crucial characteristic of universality. We can also rule out philosophical traditions such as utilitarianism, and most forms of consequentialism, which lack the “trump card” ingredient. Utilitarianism, for example, commends actions that maximize “utility,” or happiness. Declaring in advance of the utility calculation that certain kinds of actions are ruled out, precisely as rights claimants do, violates utilitarianism’s basic method. Utilitarianism’s founder, Jeremy Bentham, acknowledged as much when he quipped that rights are “nonsense on stilts.” Nor does the realist tradition in international relations favor human rights. Realists have long been skeptical of human rights claims, regarding them as masks for the power and interests of states. Realists also do not support the pursuit of rights when they conflict with the national interest, defined in terms of power and security. Thus while realists may ascribe universality to the laws they believe govern state behavior, they reject universally binding norms, along with human rights’ trump card status. What traditions of thought, then, assert universal norms, human dignity, and trump card status? Religions holding that God revealed certain commandments to be binding on everyone, essential for human flourishing and dignity, and admitting little room for violation or exception are strong candidates. Theologians and philosophers in these traditions have derived a right to life from the commandment to not murder, a right to property from
the commandment to not steal, and so on. In these religions, the ingredients for human rights are cemented in an eternal and unchanging being who takes an interest in every person. Not all religions posit a single God, to be sure. Hindus differ over God and gods, while Buddhists generally do not believe in God. In these faiths, as Arvind Sharma notes in openGlobalRights, human rights find their grounding insofar as they can offer a transcendent basis for universal norms, human dignity, and the trumping value of rights. The biggest challenge to my argument may be the claim that reason can make the case for human rights without reference to God. “Common morality” views in the western tradition hold that universal norms – and in many versions of these views, universal rights – can be known through reason. As the philosopher Alan Donagan argued in his 1977 book, The Theory of Morality, the West hosts two strands of common morality – a natural law strand dating back to Thomas Aquinas and a strand dating back to Kant. Several non-western traditions also entail a teaching about what the great writer C.S. Lewis, in his book The Abolition of Man, called the tao – natural law or a closely related version of universal, rationally accessible morality. Most of these versions of universal morality rationally articulate and defend the three ingredients needed for human rights. The question, however, is whether these arguments rooted in reason can achieve validity without God. In fact, the most influential articulators of common morality views did not divorce their views from God. In the Thomist strand, for example, natural law is viewed as a participation in the “eternal logos” – that is, God. Kant, similarly, thought God was necessary for morality, though in a different sense than Thomists do. There are good reasons why reason and God have gone together in arguments for human rights. In accounting for the validity of universal norms, the basis of dignity, and the trump card status of rights claims, articulators of reason-based arguments usually point to certain features of human beings that give them unique value among animals: their rationality, their free will, their capacity for moral knowledge, their capacity to realize basic goods like knowledge, and their capacity for transcendent reflection. But where do such capacities originate? And what sustains them? Were the universe a closed system made up only of material causes, it would be difficult to argue that these uniquely human capacities are real and have value. Persons would be little more than sophisticated biological contraptions of synapses. In such a world, the capacities that ground human rights and human dignity would turn out to be illusory. But if the universe contains human capacities that are not reducible to the material, then the origins of these capacities must likewise be something other than material. God emerges as a likely candidate. Reason, then, may well ground human rights, but it does not supplant God in doing so. Without God, the capacities that are uniquely human and uniquely worthy of respect have no real justification. They are nothing more than biological hardwiring. Any sense humans have of being special, and worthy of respect and dignity, is little more than false consciousness. Without God, reason offers no clear and compelling argument for respecting human dignity above all else. It is no accident, therefore, that historically, most of the great articulators of human (or natural) rights have been theists: the early Christian fathers; medieval canon lawyers; the Spanish scholastics; Enlightenment thinkers like John Locke and Immanuel Kant; Woodrow Wilson; most of the architects of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; Jacques Maritain; and contemporary Christian, Jewish, and Muslim thinkers like John Finnis, David Novak, and Abdullahi An-Na’im. Likewise, most of the great deniers of human and natural rights have been atheists: the philosophers David Hume, Jeremy Bentham, Friedrich Nietzsche; Karl Marx and Vladimir Lenin; and the postmodernist pioneers, Michel Foucault and Richard Rorty. Just ask history’s most influential thinkers: God and human rights really do go together.
Decolonizing the Person, the Image, the Collective Global Psyche Isabel Dulfano Cultural Survival Quarterly of its subjects. She contends that the mental conditioning that takes place as we interpret the visual images around us often unconsciously reinforces forms of discrimination and perpetuates the oppressive social order, prompting the need to disempower them. Cusicanqui’s research also explores the myriad aspects of colonization, what Indian scholar Ashish Nandy calls “the internal/intimate enemy.” Unlike many theorists in the field of colonial studies, she investigates not only the psychological colonization of the vanquished native peoples, but also the unwitting collusion between the oppressive structure and racist framework permeating the mestizo psyche. “The internal enemy—colonization—is within us all, from elites to the oppressed,” she says. Working to dismantle the internalization of imperialism, she is a pioneer among South American feminists working from the vantage point of the South and her ancestors’ native culture. Finding the Native Within In 1926 the Peruvian scholar Jose Mariategui published Seven Interpretive Essays on Peruvian Reality, considered by many to be the groundbreaking study of Latin American reality from a MarxistLeninist perspective. In his work, Mariategui included a definitive chapter on the “Indian Problem,” which was informed by empirical and census data of the era. In a critical rebuttal, Cusicanqui points out the likelihood of data manipulation— distorting the numbers to create the effect of an ethnic group’s cultural genocide. Rath-
er than attempt to reconcile an “Indian problem,” she calls on people to redefine the term. “I am not interested in discovering what it is to be Indian,” she says. “I already am, and have been for many years. Consequently for me, this nation [Bolivia] belongs to everyone, male and female, all people, but particularly for those who know how to appreciate this, rather than considering it as a problem solved by dispersing a few Indians here and there as token objects.” Further, she says, “Decolonization is for each mestizo to resolutely undertake. Everyone who has an Indian within should ultimately be the first one to decolonize. Focus on yourself, for that is interculturality.” Cusicanqui refuses to be pigeonholed; she shies away from labels other than “anarchist,” “sociologist,” “alternative knowledge producer,” and “social activist.” Talking about the challenges facing Indigenous Peoples, she says, “I do not propose solutions; I perform diagnostics . . . to see how colonization is manifested and continues to perpetuate.” Among her scholarly work are books on Indigenous women’s exploitation in the labor market and by the banking sector through microloans; a collection of oral histories available online through Taller de Historia Oral Andina, a workshop on Andean Oral History; an examination of the epistemological violence unleashed against, and self-inflicted by, Indigenous people; a history of the longstanding Indigenous resistance movement in Bolivia; and her current work on the sociology of the image that takes her around the globe to lecture.
At home in La Paz, she is involved in her latest project at Tambo Colectivo 2, a holistic center for research and production of alternative knowledge on the decolonization of the body, sociology of the image, and social activism. Having tired of working exclusively in the theoretical realm, Cusicanqui formed a social collective with 16 other social scientists in La Paz to live based on the principles of Indigenous cultures and alternative knowledge producers. The group implements urban agricultural production, champions Indigenous practices, traditions, and rituals, and is working to revitalize Bolivian Native people’s languages. The collective is additionally committed to raising consciousness about the harmful effects of the cosmetics industry, including the marketing of deodorant and other products that promote images of women as dirty, needing to beautify or cleanse themselves from their natural state of being. In the field of ecological activism, the group attends fairs in La Paz selling products that are eco-friendly and healthy. Fighting against environmental degradation, they began a campaign to eliminate the use of plastic bags in La Paz and have woven thousands of recycled bags into room dividers at their center. Cusicanqui sees capitalism and consumerism as the modern chains of oppression, and hopes to be a catalyst for decolonizing and liberating people from these systems’ domination. As such she recognizes the urgent need for Indigenous Peoples to recover their own form of thought—not one that has been distorted by Western imperialism and hegemony— and to activate that “cosmovision” and knowledge system in order to affect change. Ultimately, though, she knows that Indigenous Peoples must articulate this vision for themselves: from their own perspective, based on their own beliefs, and out of knowledge produced by their own hands and minds.
The Newspaper with an Opinion The Morung Express
Margaret Mead said, “We won't have a society if we destroy the environment.” As the world celebrates World Environment Day on 5th June, it is a good time to reflect on the environment in Nagaland today. Invariably, the environmental problems that afflict Nagaland such as pollution, destruction of public property and having civic sense have far reaching consequences that prohibit the progress of our society. Let’s work together to save our State and our planet Earth. Happy World Environment Day!
save Our Planet Toshimenla, B.A 4th semester (English Honours)
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orld Environment Day is celebrated each year on 5th June. It was established in 1972 by the United Nations General Assembly to honour the memory of the opening of the ceremony of the Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment. Environment Day is hosted every year by different cities and celebrated with an international exhibition throughout the first week of June. It is used by the United Nations to encourage awareness of environment and to garner political attention and public action. The first World Environment Day was held at Stockholm where, for the first time political, social, and economic problems of the global environment were discussed at great length in view of taking some definite action. From history till date, the environment has been the backbone of mankind. In the field of literature, Romantic poets like William Wordsworth and Robert Frost gave environment greater importance because they penned down many poems describing nature. One such poem is Daffodils by William Wordsworth. It is a beautifully written poem. Here, we see how the poet draws inspiration after watching a big group of beautiful yellow daffodils when he was walking in a lonely valley. Through this poem, we learn the important role environment plays in mankind’s life. Just like the poet, who was all alone with a low spirit and an unhappy mind, when a person is standing low, it is nature which remains an inexhaustible source and a priceless treasure of joy and inspiration. The need to save the environment is important as it acts as a uniting agent among the diversity of people living in a society. We see it in the first famous Chipko Movement in Gujurat in April 1973. The name of the movement came from a word meaning ‘embrace’. The villagers hugged the trees saving them by interposing their bodies between them and the contractor’s axes. The movement achieved a major victory through the Gandhian method of non-violent resistance. Increasingly, the resistance to destruction of forests, spread throughout India. Men, women, and children, all took part in this movement. Hundreds of decentralised and locally autonomous initiatives resulted in uniting the people. Even in the most common phrase of the student, it is said that, “In order to study, we need a good environment around us”, without which learning is incomplete. Environment not only provides the necessities we need, but it also teaches us how to be hygienic and civilised. An unstable environment leads to floods, draughts, spread of diseases and other such travesties. In South India, a married couple by the name of Thimmakka and her husband Bikkalu Chikkaiah, adopted 284 saplings of Banyan trees as their children, since they were childless. Though the couple were working in a quarry for their hand to mouth existence, they put in ceaseless effort in nurturing the saplings planted along National Highway 48 in Karnataka. Today, the trees not only provide shelter to humans, but also serve as a habitat for birds, protect soil erosion, maintain the climate temperature, etc. Just recently, Thimmakka received the National Citizen’s Award for Social Forestry. At present the trees are also worth an estimate of 85 crores, resulting in not only the benefit for the couple, but also for the whole country’s resources. World Environment Day is a day that stimulates awareness of the environment and enhances political attention. It is to spread worldwide awareness of plantation in order to make the environment neat and clean. Various awareness campaigns like beach clean-ups, concerts, exhibitions, film festivals, community events, and much more are organised around the world to spread the message which is carried out to bring about equal awareness and increase green footprint. Each year, the theme of the World Environment Day is selected along with a slogan emphasising the importance of protecting our planet and promoting an understanding that each individual can play a significant and effective role in tackling environment issues. Besides all the awareness programmes and slogans, the individual’s contribution depends on his/her own alertness of the environment’s needs. In the present scenario, the need to protect environment has become the first and foremost duty of every individual. We need to change our mindset. It is not only the duty of poets, social workers or NGO’s to conserve the environment. We should also learn from them. Perhaps, we can start off with some of the most basic actions like switching off the fans when not in use, saving water by closing the taps after use, maintaining cleanliness in and around us, planting trees, etc. We should perform all these actions not only on World Environment Day, but make it a regular habit without being laidback. Our actions may seem small, but at the end, it is through our little contributions that we make the world a better place to live in. After all, every action counts. “Degree of Thought is a weekly community column initiated by Tetso College in partnership with The Morung Express. Degree of Thought will delve into the social, cultural, political and educational issues around us. The views expressed here do not reflect the opinion of the institution. Tetso College is a NAAC Accredited UGC recognised Commerce and Arts College. For feedback or comments please email: admin@tetsocollege.org”.
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.
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Dimapur
NATIONAL
Wednesday 4 June 2014
The Morung Express
Gang rape reflects India’s immense cultural divide
NEW DELHI, JuNE 3 (AP): The vows for change came quickly after the young Indian woman was beaten, gang-raped on a moving bus and finally died in a faraway hospital. No longer, politicians promised, would rape victims be shamed by police. No longer, the judicial system said, would rapists be able to blame their victims. Thousands of people swept through the streets of New Delhi in spontaneous protests after the December 2012 bus rape, demanding protection for women. The victim became “the daughter of the entire nation,” said Sushma Swaraj, now the country’s foreign minister. Much has changed in the 18 months since then — harsher laws against rape, increased media focus on sexual violence, new police units dedicated to helping women. But a gang rape last week that left two teenage cousins dead, their corpses hanging from a village mango tree, has revealed the immense gulf that remains in India. In a nation that can at times appear convulsed with outrage over a culture of sexual violence, there are plenty of occasions when it seems little has changed at all. Prominent politicians have been largely silent since last week’s rapes, and there have been only a handful of protests, most attracting just a few dozen demonstrators. The largest protest, with about 200 women, occurred Monday, six days after the girls were first reported missing. The case dominated TV news for a day or so, but soon
Spurt in UP’s sex-related crimes shocks civil society
In this Saturday, May 31, 2014 file photograph, members of the All India Democratic Women’s Association (AIDWA) shout slogans during a protest against the gang rape of two teenage girls, in New Delhi, India. Beyond highlighting the rampant sexual violence in India, last week’s horrific crime is drawing attention to a glaring and fundamental problem across the country that threatens women’s safety: the lack of toilets. The placard reads ‘Arrest all accused in the gang rape.” (AP Photo/
slipped from view. The attack happened in Uttar Pradesh, a sprawling north Indian state with nearly 200 million residents. But when the state’s top politician was asked about it, he ridiculed the journalists questioning him. “Aren’t you safe?” Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav demanded of the reporters. “Then why are you worried? What’s it to you?” The comment aroused only a brief flurry of headlines. After all, Yadav’s father — Uttar Pradesh’s former chief minister, and now head of the state’s ruling party
— made far blunter comments about gang-rapists last month, arguing against the death penalty for convicted attackers by saying “boys will be boys.” Some see the lack of anger rooted in the victims’ caste. The girls attacked last week were dalits, from the group long known in India as “untouchables,” an overwhelmingly poor and ill-educated community which still faces daily discrimination. While the men accused in the attack were also low-caste, their community — the Yadavs — is politically powerful in
Uttar Pradesh. “It’s not a coincidence that the children who were raped and hanged were dalits,” said Ranjana Kumari, one of India’s most prominent women’s activists and director of the New Delhibased Center for Social Research. She believes the rapes may have been political revenge, since few dalits support the ruling party, which is headed by Yadavs. The rapists could have been “attacking the pride of the dalit community.” But if the response to the rape has been muted, the crime has not been ig-
nored. Amid the brief flurry of media attention, officials arrested two police officers and fired two more for failing to investigate when the father of one victim reported the girls missing. Three suspects, all from an extended family, have been arrested, and police are searching for two more suspects. And not long after mocking the journalists, the chief minister called on the federal government to have the Central Bureau of Investigation, India’s FBI, investigate the attack. He also urged that the suspects be tried in special fast-track
AgrA, JuNE 3 (IANS): The civil society is shocked by the spurt in sex-related crimes in western Uttar Pradesh. Social activist Shravan Kumar Singh says the porn-epidemic through laptops, smart phones, tablets and CD players is assuming alarming proportion. “Social values and control of elders are the casualties of the new environment. As more and more girls venture out of their homes for studies or work, they are becoming more vulnerable,” says Shravan. Activist Anand Rai said politicians will keep playing the blame game. He said all sections of society should come together to explore and build a consensus on a strategy to address the problem. Woman activist Padmini Iyer said the media has created such a scare that mothers are reluctant to send their daughters out for studies. The activists expressed concern following numerous cases. A 35-year-old woman in Firozabad, said to be from Chhattisgarh, was gang raped by a neighbour, who had called her for some work, and
courts, bypassing the normal Indian court system, which can take years to issue verdicts in the simplest cases. His ambivalence, in many ways, reflects the country around him. A few decades ago, a brutal crime against a pair of dalit girls might never have been investigated, and probably would not make newspaper headlines at all. Until recently rape was widely ignored in India — by the police, the judiciary and the media. But if middle-class India and the media no longer view rape as an issue to be
two of his friends. On the basis of her complaint Monday evening, the Firozabad police arrested the three after medical report confirmed gang rape. In Agra’s Paintikhera village, a young woman was raped and her body thrown into a well. The police Monday pulled out the corpse, said to be a fortnight old, from the well, with the help of fire brigade personnel. Her identity is yet to be established. In Bah tehsil of Agra, three girls of Chitrahaat village were beaten up with lathis for resisting molestation by a group of youth. Villagers who rushed to help after hearing their cries were also thrashed. Their family members were forcibly prevented from going to the police station to lodge a complaint. The police are yet to arrest the guilty. In Mainpuri, three young girls who disappeared four days ago, are still to be traced. The BSP and BJP workers have given a 24-hour ultimatum to the police. A girl in Etah committed suicide after being raped by a classmate’s friend Monday.
whispered about, it still remains a crime hidden in deep cultural shadows. In 1971, just 2,500 rapes were reported in India. In 2011, that number had jumped to more than 24,000. But in the world’s second-most populous nation, scholars and activists say even the higher number is absurdly small. The stigma of rape runs deep, with many women accused of rape still forced to answer questions about their sexual history, the provocativeness of their clothing and whether they may have invited the attack.
Rape victims can face years of whispers behind their backs. They and their siblings can have trouble finding spouses. Question marks can taint their families for a generation. As a result, most experts estimate that fewer than one in 10 rapes in India is ever reported. It’s something that even rapists understand. “They feel that they are not going to be caught,” said Meenakshi Ganguly, South Asia director of Human Rights Watch. “They feel they will get away with it. That is pretty much the case.”
Yashwant Sinha arrested, ‘90% Indians believe climate change a reality’ President, vice-president, Seventy-three percent people depend DELHI, JuNE 3 (IANS): Environsent to judicial custody NEW ment seems to be the top priority on the on municipal water supply, the survey said. PM condole Munde’s death HAZArIBAgH, JuNE 3 (PtI): Senior BJP lead- people’s mind with 90% Indians believ- It added overall 50% people are treating waer Yashwant Sinha and 54 others were remanded in judicial custody by a local court on Tuesday after they refused to seek bail in a case of alleged assault of a Jharkhand State Electricity Board official. Judicial magistrate R B Pal sent them to judicial custody for 14 days after Sinha and others refused to take bail. Sinha and others were arrested on Monday after JSEB’s Hazaribagh branch general manager Dhanesh Jha filed an FIR, accusing them of tying him up during a demonstration on electricity crisis by the BJP’s district unit here. Sinha had admitted before the media on Monday that he had “instructed” the party’s women activists to tie up Jha using a rope. “Yes, I asked them to tie the hands of the GM as women are the worst sufferers for not getting power. Their children’s education is also suffering,” Sinha had told reporters. The deputy SP had rescued Jha from the women. Jha had said that the incident was “humiliating and insulting.”
ing climate change is a reality, according to TERI’s Environmental Survey 2014 released Tuesday. The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) survey says 41% middle income group people advocate environment should be prioritised compared to development. In Delhi, over 90% respondents said climate change is occuring, 95% felt temperatures are increasing and 64% said rainfall is declining, the survey revealed. It also said water is being wasted nationwide. Ninety-five percent of the 11,214 respondents in eight cities said water is being wasted. Among the reasons for wastage, 70% said the pattern of usage by the citizens cause wastage as people generally use more water than required. Sixty percent of the people identified leakages from taps at home as a reason whereas 50 percent of those surveyed cited leakages during distribution as a cause.
ter before consuming while 32% from low income group are not treating it before using it for drinking or cooking. The survey found waste management is an important factor in overall cleanliness of the city. According to 88% of the respondents in Delhi, Mumbai, Coimbatore, Guwahati, Indore, Jamshedpur, Kanpur and Pune, improper waste management has severe health impacts. However, 87% respondents said garbage is being collected from their homes. When asked about their opinion on the best strategy to manage waste, 75% people said generating less waste will help while 14% opined improving waste recycling quality is the solution. In the national capital, 50% people favour prioritising environment over development. Ninety-seven percent are in favour of a ban on use of polythene bags while 17% expressed their willingness to pay the actual cost of water.
US house resolution commits to working with new Indian govt
WASHINgtoN, JuNE 3 (IANS): As the US reaches out to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a dozen lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan congressional resolution committing to working with his government “to advance shared values and interests”. Co-sponsored among others by lone IndianAmerican House member Ami Bera and the first Hindu-American lawmaker Tulsi Gabbard, the resolu-
tion also seeks “to further strengthen our strategic partnership with India, including in the defence, trade, and security arenas”. The resolution “congratulates the people of India on holding the largest democratic exercise in history of the world”. Introduced by Republican Aaron Schock, the resolution’s other co-sponsors included chairman of the House foreign affairs committee Ed Royce and the top Democrat on the
panel Eliot Engel. Schock and fellow Republican Cynthia Lummis, who had both visited Gujarat before the elections, and a couple of other lawmakers also issued statements to voice their commitment to “continuing to strengthen our strategic partnership”. The resolution “marks a shift in US policy and signals growing congressional support, puts forth the official position of the House of Representatives
on this matter of national and global importance”, Schock said. Meanwhile, State Department spokesperson Jen Psaki told reporters Monday that when Secretary of State John Kerry called new Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj last week to congratulate her, he also invited her to visit the US at the earliest opportunity. “I’m not aware of that being scheduled yet, but we’ll look forward to that,”
she said. “So the next step will be scheduling her visit to the United States.” Kerry had also “reaffirmed the US commitment to our strategic partnership” and conveyed “our desire to continue broadening and deepening our bilateral ties”. US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia, Nisha Desai Biswal, will be in New Delhi June 6-9 “to meet a range of officials”. But Psaki did not have the details as yet.
Modi faces battle with states to fix power crisis
NEW DELHI, JuNE 3 (rEutErS): Swathes of India’s most populous state plunged into darkness for 12 hrs a day last week as temperatures in Delhi hit their highest in 16 years, with the disruptions underlining the tough challenge a new government faces in keeping the lights on. Two years after one of the world’s biggest blackouts deprived at least 300 million people of power, India still suffers from frequent cuts that undermine efforts to revive the third-largest economy in Asia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) stormed to office last month on promises to boost the economy and improve basic services for the millions of Indians who still lack running water and electricity. One of his first steps in tackling the energy crunch has been to unite the portfolios of power, coal and renewable energy under a
single minister, Piyush Goyal. But the power sector also shows the limits to what the central government can do, with key decisions devolved to the country’s 29 states. While Modi is expected to fasttrack new projects to boost output and press states to stop politicians from giving away electricity to voters, the task of translating extra capacity into reliable supply falls on state governments. “We have a situation where there is enough idle power generation capacity in the country but states are witnessing power cuts,” said Umesh Agrawal, a power expert at PwC. “The problem today is not a lack of supply but lack of willingness from state utilities to procure power.” The BJP has blamed last week’s outages in Uttar Pradesh on the party that rules the state, saying it is punishing constituents who voted for other parties in the general election. The local government rejects the charge
and says it is not getting enough power from the centre to meet demand. Temperatures in north India have surged past 40º C, while a dust storm in the capital damaged power lines last Friday, further straining energy infrastructure.
Reform Push India’s power generation has grown - the peak deficit is down to 5.4 percent from 16.6 percent in 2008, government data shows - but getting the supply to end consumers is far trickier. Regional politicians tell distributors to prioritise supply to favoured constituents, while popular pressure for cheap or free power has kept theft high and prices artificially low, straining utilities’ finances and curbing new investment. Those factors will hamper any reform push by Modi, who campaigned on his record as chief minister of Gujarat, which enjoys a surplus of power. Reforms in Guja-
rat a decade ago cut theft, restructured distributors and split tariffs between different users. Goyal has vowed to tour the state to learn about its reforms. But the power to make decisions about tariffs, subsidies and collection rests with states, limiting New Delhi’s influence. Modi must also tackle shortages of coal and gas that have left new plants operating below capacity - India’s second-largest gaspowered plant, Bawana, is producing a fifth of its capacity, because it cannot get hold of gas. “Our entire power projects are stalled,” said Madhu Terdal, group chief financial officer of GMR Group, which has delayed making an investment of $3 billion in its plants because of the shortages and because its costs exceed the price it can get for selling electricity. “You either subsidise the distributors or you subsidise the generators, but you have to do something,” Terdal said.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, left, speaks to the relatives of India’s Rural Affairs Minister Gopinath Munde in New Delhi on Tuesday, June 3. Munde was killed in a car accident Tuesday in New Delhi. (AP Photo)
NEW DELHI, JuNE 3 (IANS): Senior political leaders expressed shock and grief at the sudden demise of Union Rural Development Minister Gopinath Munde, who died in a car accident here Tuesday morning. President Pranab Mukherjee said: “His (Munde) passing away is a huge loss for the people of Maharashtra and India.” “In his death, we have lost a veteran leader who always worked for the common man,” Mukherjee said expressing heartfelt condolences. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the BJP headquarters at 11 Ashoka Road here and placed a wreath on Munde’s glass coffin. He also offered his condolences to Munde’s family. Vice-President Hamid Ansari said he was “profoundly saddened” at Munde’s death. “Munde was amongst the most prominent leaders of Maharashtra, who had a long and illustrious public life during which he served his state and the country in various capacities with great distinction. In his departure, we have lost a distinguished public servant whose absence will be felt by one and all,” Ansari added. Munde’s reputation as someone who worked for
the interests of the marginalised was a common theme in the condolence expressed by leaders cutting across party lines. “Deeply shocked to know about Munde’s demise. He was a grassroot leader and known for his concern for poor people and farmers,” tweeted Home Minister Rajnath Singh. “Mundeji’s death is an irreparable loss to the BJP and he has left a big void in Mahrashtra’s political and social life,” he added. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said: “I am shocked to know about the sudden demise of my colleague Gopinath Munde. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.” Former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee also sent a wreath and paid his tributes. Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi visited the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) headquarters to pay tribute to Munde. Expressing “shock”, he “offered his deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Munde”. Narmada Bachao Andolan leader and AAP leader Medha Patekar tweeted: “Mundeji’s demise is shocking. Maharashtra has lost a leader sensitive to the issue of working class, OBCs and farmers.”
Cabinet passes resolution The union cabinet Tuesday met and passed a resolution condoling the death of union minister Gopinath Munde, who died in a car accident here in the morning. Munde would be cremated in his native place in Maharastra Wednesday “with full state honours”, said union Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu. The cabinet also resolved to observe national mourning Tuesday, he added. Sonia expresses ‘great pain’ Congress president Sonia Gandhi Tuesday wrote to Pradhanya Munde, wife of union minister Gopinath Munde who died in a car accident, expressing “great pain” at his demise. “The news about the sudden demise of your husband has caused me great pain. I am aware that the pain must be unbearable for you and other family members and words of condolences are not enough. There are certain accidents in life on which we lack control and must bear with,” Gandhi said in the letter. “Munde, who belonged to an ordinary family achieved a remarkable status in the sociopolitical arena through his hard work, gentle demeanour and commitment to the marginalised sections,” she added.
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the Morung express
4 June 2014
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Palestinian unity govt faces many obstacles RAMALLAH, June 3 (AP): President Mahmoud Abbas says a “black page” of Palestinian history has been turned with the formation of a unity government that formally ends his seven-year rift with the Islamic militant group Hamas. But the alliance of old foes remains volatile, Israel is threatening punitive measures and Abbas will have to secure U.S. and European recognition and funding to keep the unity government afloat. Here’s a look at what’s next. Timeline On Monday, Abbas swore in a 17-member Cabinet made up technocrats backed by Hamas and his Fatah movement. The Cabinet replaces two rival governments, one run by Hamas in the Gaza Strip after it seized the territory from Abbas in 2007 and the other, controlled by Abbas, in autonomous areas of the West Bank. Abbas presided over the first Cabinet meeting at his West Bank headquarters. Three new ministers from Gaza didn’t attend because of Israeli travel restrictions between the two territories. Abbas suggested he will visit Gaza soon, a first since 2007. Next month, the Palestinian parliament will resume operations. The parliament was elected with a large Hamas majority in 2006 but became defunct after the political split. Meanwhile, the Cabinet is to prepare for presidential and parliament elections in 2015.
West will work with new Palestinian govt
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, center, meets with cabinet members of its unity government, including Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah, center left, in the West Bank city of Ramallah on Monday, June 2. Abbas on Monday swore in a Palestinian unity government, taking a major step toward ending a crippling territorial and political split among the Palestinians but also setting the stage for new friction with Israel. (AP Photo)
Abbas says his new Cabinet has accepted three conditions set out in the past by the U.S. and Europe for dealing with any Palestinian government — recognizing Israel, renouncing violence and adhering to previous agreements. The Obama administration said Monday it intends to work with the new Palestinian government and will continue sending aid. Secretary of State John Kerry called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to relay the U.S. position. The European Union Recognition has said it welcomes unity Israel says it will shun and will maintain supthe new government be- port for a government that cause it is backed by Hamas, meets the three conditions. which is seen by the West as a terror group because Funding it killed hundreds of IsraeThe U.S. and the EU lis in attacks over the years. have provided hundreds
of millions of dollars a year in aid to Abbas’ Palestinian Authority, in addition to funds from other donors, including Arab governments. The Palestinian Authority has faced repeated deficits in recent years, amid donor fatigue and an economic downturn linked to Israeli restrictions on trade and movement. Abbas needs even more aid money now because of the higher costs of blending two separate bureaucracies that together employ some 200,000 Palestinians. A senior Palestinian official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to discuss behind-the-scenes contacts, said the Gulf state of Qatar has assured Abbas it would cover any shortfall. Without U.S. and Europe-
an funding, such a deficit bringing down a Palestincould be significant. ian self-rule government. In such a case, Israel as the Israel’s Response military occupier would Despite tough rheto- have to assume responsiric, Israel has so far hedged bility for some 4.4 million its bets. Israel announced Palestinians. Monday it will not negotiate with a Hamas-backed Hamas Gains/Losses government. That looks Hamas entered reconlike an empty threat since ciliation negotiations as U.S.-brokered negotiations the weaker party. It had to between Israel and Abbas forge the alliance with Abon the terms of Palestin- bas because it could no lonian statehood broke down ger afford to govern Gaza. A in late April, and prospects punishing Egyptian border for their resumption are blockade of the territory over slim. Israel could freeze the the past year, along with Isracrucial monthly transfer of el’s continued access restricsome $100 million in taxes tions, pushed Hamas into a and customs it collects on financial crisis. behalf of the Palestinians As a result, Hamas and has done so previous- made concessions. Most ly. However, Israel relented of the 17 Cabinet ministers, in the past because of in- while nominally indepenternational pressure and dent, are loyal to Abbas because it has no interest in or leftist factions. At the
Thai junta warns over ‘Hunger Games’ salute
bAnGKOK, June 3 (AP): Thailand’s military rulers said Tuesday they are monitoring a new form of silent resistance to the coup — a three-fingered salute borrowed from “The Hunger Games” — and will arrest those in large groups who ignore warnings to lower their arms. Despite the warning to protesters, the junta offered a reprieve to the country’s vital tourism industry. It lifted the curfew at three popular beach resorts - Phuket, Koh Samui and Pattaya - to ease the impact of the May 22 coup on tourists. A midnight to 4 a.m. curfew remained in effect for the rest of the country, including Bangkok, where the raised arm salute was unveiled over the weekend as an unofficial symbol of opposition to the coup. “At this point we are monitoring the movement,” Col. Weerachon Sukhondhapatipak, a spokesman for the junta, told The Associated Press. “If it is an obvious form of resistance, then we have to control it so it doesn’t cause any disorder in the country.” Since staging its bloodless coup, the military has prohibited political gatherings of more than five people and tried to enforce a ban on criticism of the coup by closing politically-affiliated television stations and blocking hundreds of websites.
On Sunday, authorities deployed nearly 6,000 soldiers and police in Bangkok to prevent planned protests against the coup. Amid the heavy security, creative forms of protest emerged. Some people wore masks as they walked through a central shopping district. Others joined small flash mobs, or stood alone, and flashed three fingers in the air. Asked what the symbol meant, protesters have given varying explanations. Some say it stands for the French Revolution’s trinity of values: liberty, equality, fraternity. Others say it means freedom, election and democracy. A photo montage circulating online paired a picture from the science fiction blockbuster “The Hunger Games” with a graphic of three fingers labeled, 1. No Coup, 2. Liberty, 3. Democracy. In the movie series and the book trilogy it is based on, the salute is a symbol of rebellion against totalitarian rule and stands for: Thank you, Admiration and Goodbye to someone you love. “We know it comes from the movie, and let’s say it represents resistance against the authorities,” Weerachon said, noting that if authorities encounter the salute they will first ask protesters to stop. “If a single individual raises three fingers in the air, we are not going to ar-
rest him or her,” he said. “But if it is a political gathering of five people or more, then we will have to take some action.” “If it persists, then we will have to make an arrest,” he said. Social activist Sombat Boonngam-anong, who has helped organize anti-coup protests, posted an explanation of the salute on his Facebook page along with a call to step up the silent acts of defiance. “Raising three fingers has become a symbol in calling for fundamental political rights,” wrote Sombat, a member of the “Red Shirt” protest movement that had backed the nowousted government and warned it would take action if there was a coup. He called on people to raise “3 fingers, 3 times a day” — at 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. — in safe public places where no police or military is present. “Let’s escalate the anti-coup movement three times a day together,” he said, stipulating that protesters should raise their right arm and stay still for 30 seconds. Thailand has been calm since the army overthrew the nation’s elected government on May 22, saying it had to restore order after seven months of demonstrations that had triggered sporadic violence and left the country’s political rivals in a stalemate.
WASHInGTOn, June 3 (AP): The West is prepared to work with a new Palestinian government, U.S. and European Union officials said Monday, despite Israeli concerns it gives power and influence to the radical Hamas movement. Israel maintains Hamas is a terrorist group, and has angrily refused to work with a Palestinian unity government that would include Hamas members. On Monday, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas swore in a new government that is made up of technocrats backed by Hamas and the rival Fatah political faction. Hours later, Secretary of State John Kerry called Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to relay U.S. willingness to work with the new leaders. Separately, in an Associated Press interview, the EU’s top envoy to the U.S. said Europe was prepared to work with a government backed by Hamas. “We never said we would not,” Ambassador Joao Vale de Almeida said. “It’s a question of substance rather than the question of composition of the government.” Still, Vale de Almeida said Europe was insisting that the new Palestinian government recognize the right for Israel to exist and the need for a negotiated same time, Hamas will regain some political power with the reactivation of the parliament next month. Hamas also remains in control of a large security apparatus in Gaza and thus the de facto power. Abbas Gains/Losses In regaining a foothold in Gaza, Abbas is removing a stain from his legacy — the loss of Gaza. The pursuit of unity also gives him a new political strategy after negotiations with Israel failed. He scored an ideological victory over Hamas, which is forced to accept a government is based on his political program. In return, Abbas leaves Hamas’ military arsenal and fighting force untouched and takes on the burden of procuring funds
for providing services to Gaza’s 1.7 million people. Israel has warned that it will hold Abbas responsible for any rocket fire or other attacks launched from Gaza, meaning Abbas has to rely on Hamas to prevent smaller militant groups from carrying out such attacks. Abbas risks an escalation of tensions with Israel, something he tried to avoid in the past. He has warned he would respond to any Israeli punitive measures, though he has not said what he would do. Likelihood Of Palestinian Elections Next Year Neither Abbas nor Hamas seem interested in a vote that could diminish their power and influence in their respective territories. Israel warned
Monday that it would act “against the participation of terror groups in elections,” suggesting it would not allow Hamas to campaign in the West Bank and east Jerusalem, areas under full Israeli control. Future Of West Bank Security Coordination It is likely to continue. Abbas says it’s in the Palestinian interest to have his forces continue coordination with Israeli troops in the West Bank. Their shared targets are Palestinian militants, including those from Hamas. Continued security coordination allays Israeli and U.S. concerns about a new Palestinian uprising and protects Abbas against any attempts by Hamas to stage a coup against him in the West Bank.
Prince Felipe set to become king
MADRID, June 3 (ReuTeRS): Spain’s Prince Felipe will probably succeed his father Juan Carlos as king sometime after June 18, parliament speaker Jesus Posada said on Tuesday, a day after the long-reigning monarch announced he would abdicate. Juan Carlos said on Monday he would hand over the throne to Felipe in a move aimed at rehabilitating the scandal-hit Spanish monarchy at a time of economic hardship and growing discontent with the wider political elite. Spain does not have a precise set of rules regulating abdication and succession and the transition is set to be accomplished via legislation in parliament, where the governing conservative People’s Party has an absolute majority. The opposition Socialists have said they would back the bill. “We will see, but I believe that everything should
King Juan Carlos, left, and Crown Prince Felipe, attend a military ceremony in San Lorenzo de El Escorial, outside Madrid, Spain, on Tuesday, June 3. Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy is holding an emergency cabinet meeting to draft the legal process for King Juan Carlos to abdicate and be replaced by his son, Crown Prince Felipe. The handover cannot happen until the government crafts the mechanism for abdication and Felipe’s assumption of power. (AP Photo)
be sorted out by June 18 so that the solemn proclamation can take place before the chambers (parliament and senate),” Posada said. The once-popular Juan Carlos, 76, who spent almost 40 years on the throne,
Security tight on eve of Tiananmen anniversary beIJInG, June 3 (AP): Beijing put additional police on the street and detained government critics Tuesday as part of a security crackdown on the eve of the 25th anniversary of the crushing of pro-democracy protests centered on the capital’s Tiananmen Square. Police manned checkpoints on Tuesday and officers and paramilitary troops patrolled over pedestrian overpasses and streets surrounding the square in the city center. The increased security comes on top of heightened restrictions on political activists, artists, lawyers and other government critics. Dozens have been taken into detention, forced out of Beijing or confined to their homes in other parts of the country. “June 4 has come again and the plainclothes officers are here to protect us. I can’t leave the
peace agreement with the Jewish state. Israel broke off nearly nine months of peace negotiations in April after Abbas endorsed the tentative unity government to end seven years of separate leadership in the west Bank and Gaza Strip. “We are in favor of Palestinian recognition,” Vale de Almeida said. “We think it’s an important element in the process to bringing a long-term solution — but not at any price. It has to be based on respect for a certain number of values.” He said the EU would watch to see how the new unity government moved forward — a position echoed by State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki. Psaki said the U.S. was prepared to continue sending U.S. foreign assistance to the Palestinian Authority and what she described as the “interim technocratic government.” The decision would almost certainly draw criticism from Israel and its supporters in Congress and elsewhere. Rep. Kay Granger, a Republican who chairs a House Appropriations subcommittee on U.S. foreign operations, said Palestinian aid was now “off the table.” The panel’s top Democrat, Rep. Nita Lowey, was almost as strong, saying the deal puts funding “in jeopardy.”
house to travel or lecture,” said Jiangsu province-based environmental activist Wu Lihong in a text message. Artists and former activist Guo Jian was also taken away by authorities on Sunday night, shortly after a profile of him appeared in the Financial Times newspaper in commemoration of the crackdown’s anniversary. As he was being detained, Guo, an Australian citizen, told an Associated Press reporter he would be held until June 15. A writer and officer of the Independent Chinese PEN Center, who goes by the pen name Ye Du, was also taken from his home in the southern city of Guangzhou to join in a forced “tour trip,” his wife, Wang Haitao, said by phone. Such compulsory trips are a common method of keeping government critics under 24-hour watch without the need to initiate a legal process.
China allows no discussion of the events of June 3-4, 1989, when soldiers accompanied by tanks and armored personnel carriers fought their way into the heart of the city, killing hundreds of protesting citizens and onlookers. The government has never issued a complete, formal accounting of the crackdown and the number of casualties involved. Beijing’s official verdict is that the student-led protests aimed to topple the ruling Communist Party and plunge China into chaos. Protest leaders said they were merely seeking greater democracy and freedom, along with an end to corruption and favoritism within the party. Authorities regularly tighten security ahead of June 4, but this year’s suppression has notably harsher than in past.
In this combination of photos, an April 18, 1989 file photo, top, shows a Chinese student leader reading a list of demands to students staging a sit-in in front of the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, and at the same venue almost 25 years later, a May 29, 2014 photo, bottom, shows Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) soldiers marching to their positions before an honor guard performance for a welcome ceremony. (AP File Photo)
helped smooth Spain’s transition to democracy in the 1970s after the Francisco Franco dictatorship but seemed increasingly out of touch in recent years. A corruption scandal in the family and his vis-
ible infirmity after repeated surgery in recent years have also eroded public support for Juan Carlos. Polls show greater support for Felipe, 46, who has not been tarnished by the corruption allegations.
Math formulas could find missing MH370
CAnbeRRA, June 3 (IAnS): A series of complex mathematical formulas which were used to find the wreckage of Air France Flight 447 in 2011 could be used to solve the mystery of the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, Australian academics said Tuesday. It took two years but statisticians eventually found the Air France flight at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean using the complex formulas, Xinhua reported. Professor Michael McCarthy of the University of Melbourne said that optimal searching and Bayesian statistics were two maths formulas that can help the search effort of the missing Malaysian jet, which is concentrated across a vast area of the Indian Ocean off the west coast of Australia. This technique was developed in World War II to hunt for submarines also maps the probability of the presence of a target. Bayesian methods can be used to boost small data sets with expert opinion in order to get the most out of the data.
Associate Professor Adrian Barnett of the University of Queensland said while the probabilities will be broad, statistics can still offer some insight. “The Bayesian estimates in this case would be a map of probabilities which would be used to guide the experts on where to look,” Barnett said. When authorities searching for the missing Air France Flight plugged in to the Bayesian inference statistical technique, a set of probabilities were produced for the whole search area. The statistics allowed for one crucial variation: That the black boxes may have failed to activate their locator beacons. With just such a possibility taken into account, the search was guided back to the start-point by the simple overlapping concentration of probabilities and the plane was eventually located. Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 vanished mysteriously about an hour after taking off for Beijing from Kuala Lumpur shortly after midnight March 8.
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Radamel Falcao to miss World Cup with injury
BOGOtA, COLOmBiA, JuNe 3 (AP): Monaco striker Radamel Falcao has been left off Colombia's squad for the World Cup after failing to recover from a knee injury. Coach Jose Pekerman made the announcement at a news conference Monday from the team's training facility in Buenos Aires, Argentina, dealing a serious blow to the team's chances at the tournament. Falcao's presence had been in doubt ever since he underwent knee surgery in January. But Colombians had been hoping for a miracle recovery in time for the World Cup as Falcao posted on social inspirational messages and photos of himself taking nine-kilometer Radamel Falcao (AP File Photo) (six-mile) runs. "We can say to all of Colombia that he did more than was within his power to play," said Pekerman. "He deserved the right for us to wait and keep the hope alive." The 28-year-old said that as he lacks match fitness, "the smartest thing to do" is to stay on the sidelines. He said he still plans to travel to Brazil to cheer on his teammates. "I had great hope to play but, well, one has to support the team from outside and wish it the best," Falcao said. Falcao's nine goals in the South American qualifiers paved the way for Colombia's return to the World Cup for the first time since 1998. The team makes its debut in Group C June 14 in Belo Horizonte against Greece. Colombia was a favorite to win the group, which includes Japan, Greece and Ivory Coast.
The Morung Express
Lampard ends 13-year spell at Chelsea Chelsea salute Lampard's momentous career
Cristiano Ronaldo most searched soccer star on google in India
NeW DeLHi, JuNe 3 (Pti): As the World Cup fever grips fans across the globe, Portuguese soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo has emerged as the most searched player on google in India, with Brazil topping the list country-wise. Real Madrid striker Ronaldo remained the most sought-after with a distinctive lead over Argentinian star Lionel Messi and Brazil's Neymar. English footballer Wayne Rooney and Spanish star Fernando Torres take the fourth and fifth spot on google search. Online support by Indian fans for their favourite teams and players is creating a lot of buzz even before the kickoff. More than three billion people are expected to watch the month-long tournament. Brazil has always been a favourite for Indian fans and even for the upcoming World Cup, they are keeping a close look on the five-time champions. Football teams representing England, Argentina, Spain and Italy are also among the top favourites for Indians. Queries from India around FIFA have shown tremendous spike as the World Cup starts on June 12. While Kerala leads the pack, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu have also shown interest. World Cup Schedule, squads and the theme song have been some of the prominent searches on web by the Indians.
England national soccer team players Frank Lampard, left, and Jack Wilshere kick a ball during a training session at George's Park in Burton on Trent, England, Tuesday, May 27. England play an international friendly soccer match against Peru at Wembley on Friday. (AP Photo)
LONDON, JuNe 3 (ReuteRs): Chelsea will have a massive void to fill in midfield next season after the club's all-time record goal scorer Frank Lampard announced on Monday he was ending his 13-year spell at Stamford Bridge. The England World Cup player, who joined the Premier League club from London rivals West Ham United in 2001 for a fee of 11 million pounds ($18.43 million), scored 211 goals in all competitions for Chelsea. "Whatever the next challenge is for me I will always be amongst you and have Chelsea in my heart," Lampard told the club's fans in a statement. "Hopefully I will get to see you all soon to say goodbye properly. In the meantime thank you for the memories and keep making history."
Lampard, who turns 36 on June 20 and will be England's vice-captain at the World Cup in Brazil, is out of contract and has been linked with a move to new Major League Soccer franchise New York City. The New York club announced earlier on Monday that Spain World Cup forward David Villa had signed on a three-year deal from Atletico Madrid. Lampard won three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups, the Europa League and the Champions League with Chelsea. "When I arrived at this fantastic club 13 years ago I would never have believed that I would be fortunate enough to play so many games and enjoy sharing in so much success," he said. "This club has become part of my life and I have so
Japan scores late to beat Costa Rica
tAmPA, JuNe 3 (AP): Yasuhito Endo, Shinji Kagawa and Yoichiro Kakitani scored second-half goals Monday to help Japan warm up for its World Cup appearance with a 3-1 victory over Costa Rica. After Bryan Ruiz scored for Costa Rica in the 31st minute, Japan failed to take advantage of several opportunities before breaking through when Endo scored
in the 60th. Kagawa put Japan ahead in the 80th minute, and Kakitani added his goal in injury time before a crowd of 7,106 at Raymond James Stadium. The teams have one more warm-up match in the United States, with Japan facing Zambia in Tampa and Costa Rica meeting Ireland in Philadelphia on Friday. Both teams open their World
Cup campaigns on June 14. Japan, preparing for its fifth straight World Cup, will open against Ivory Coast in Group C, while Costa Rica meets Uruguay in Group D. Four years ago, Japan beat Cameroon and Denmark before losing on penalties to Paraguay in the knockout stage of the World Cup. In addition to facing Uruguay, Japan will play Colombia and Greece
in the group stage. Italy and England complete the group that includes Costa Rica and Uruguay. Costa Rica opened the scoring when Ruiz scored off a pinpoint cross from Junior Diaz. Costa Rica — headed to the World Cup for the fourth time — was unable to put much pressure on Japan goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima after Ruiz's goal.
Scolari can't wait for World Cup to start
Brazil's coach Luiz Felipe Scolari gives instructions to his players during a practice session at the Serra Dourada stadium in Goiania, Brazil, Monday, June 2. (AP Photo)
GOiANiA, JuNe 3 (AP): Coach Luiz Felipe Scolari is eager to get Brazil's World Cup campaign underway and wishes the tournament was starting right now. Scolari said Monday that although it would be good to have more time to better prepare the squad ahead of the June 12 opener, there's no point trying to do too much this close to the tournament. "It would
be good to have another week," Scolari said of the team's preparations. "But at the same time, deep inside me, knowing that my team will be prepared, I wanted it to start now. It's time to get this thing going." With 10 days left before Brazil faces Croatia in Sao Paulo, Scolari said that after the World Cup starts there's not a lot to think about. "There's no point to
keep waiting. Things will either to be OK or go wrong, after it starts it's do or die," he said following the team's final practice ahead of a warm-up against Panama. It will be the team's second to last match before the opener in Sao Paulo next week. The final tuneup is against Serbia on Friday, also in Sao Paulo. Scolari, who will be trying to win his second World
Cup with Brazil after leading the 2002 team to the title, said that this time he has been having mixed-feelings ahead of the tournament. "There are days that I'm calm and at ease," he told a media conference at the Serra Dourada Stadium in the central city of Goiania. "But there are days that things are not right, I can't sleep, I keep agonizing inside. Then you have to go find a solution, it's what we do." Scolari was clearly upset on Sunday after the team's training session at its training camp outside Rio de Janeiro. He said he didn't like how the team practiced and felt that it didn't have the same attitude that it had been displaying so far. "We had been playing a certain way during the friendlies and the Confederations Cup, we can't change that now, we can't lose our identity," said Scolari, who complained that the starters gave too much space for counterattacks during the practice on Sunday.
many people to thank for the opportunity. Firstly (former chairman) Ken Bates, who put his neck on the line to sign me as a young player and without him I would not have even begun this experience. "Roman Abramovich, the man who saved our club and took us all to new levels. His desire to push the club to the top of the football world has rubbed off on everyone," he added, referring to the Russian billionaire who bought the club in 2003. First Season Lampard was brought to Chelsea by manager Claudio Ranieri and the player struggled to prove his worth in his first season at Stamford Bridge. The Londoner started to blossom in his second
campaign and it was his two goals at Bolton Wanderers, in Jose Mourinho's maiden season in charge in 2004-05, that sealed the club's first top-flight title in 50 years. Lampard, by then, had turned into the modernday version of England 1966 World Cup winner Bobby Charlton, with a penchant for spectacular long-range goals. Chelsea won the Premier League title again in 2006 and it was his pass to Didier Drogba that set up the only goal in the 2007 FA Cup final victory over Manchester United at Wembley. Lampard, vice-captain to skipper John Terry, flourished under Mourinho but the midfielder's insatiable thirst for goals continued when the Portuguese left in September 2007. The Eng-
LONDON, JuNe 3 (ReuteRs): Chelsea described Frank Lampard as "one of the very greatest players to have represented the club" after England's 2014 World Cup vice-captain brought the curtain down on an outstanding 13-year Stamford Bridge career. "Any Chelsea supporter who has had the good fortune to watch 'Super Frank' Lampard in full flow will know we have never seen his like in our midfield before and we will be very blessed to again see his equal," the club said in a statement on Monday. The midfielder, who turns 36 on June 20, announced earlier in the day that he was leaving the 2012 European champions. "Frank Lampard's momentous career as a Chelsea player will end when his contract expires at the end of this month," the club said. "Lampard has not yet announced his destination but all at Chelsea wish him every success for the future. He leaves with our enormous gratitude for the major part he played over 13 years packed with unforgettable victories, trophies lifted and records set. "He blazed a trail during his long Chelsea career. Only Ron Harris and Peter Bonetti played more than his 648 games and Lampard famously leads our all-time scoring chart," the club added. "His goal touch allied with all-round quality and fantastic stamina helped change the way football views the modern central midfield player." Chelsea said the former West Ham United player's consistency set him apart from the rest. "Lampard's brilliance was not just limited to the deluge of goals he netted over his years at Stamford Bridge - 211 in total at an average of over 16 a season - nor was it confined to the significance of so many of those strikes," the statement read. "What really stands him out as one of the all-time greats was his extraordinary consistency. "He netted 20 or more goals for five consecutive seasons and according to statistics compiled for Premier League assists, he has supplied the second-highest figure in that competition's history. "He made a record-breaking 164 consecutive league appearances between 2001 and 2005, still the highest for an outfield player," the statement continued. "The facts may seem to speak for themselves but in truth they barely tell half the story. It is Lampard's dedication to improvement throughout his career that is perhaps the most remarkable facet of his game." land international, who has won 103 caps for his country, claimed the domestic league and cup double with Chelsea under Italian Carlo Ancelotti in 2010. However, the crowning glory of his days in the royal blue number eight shirt came in Munich in May 2012. With Terry missing because of suspension, Lampard hoisted the Champions League trophy aloft after Chelsea beat Bayern Munich in a penalty shootout in the German team's own Allianz Arena stadium. He was also captain, with Terry this time sidelined by injury, when Chelsea beat Benfica 2-1 in the 2013 Europa League final in Amsterdam. Earlier that season Lampard went past Bobby Tambling's club record tally of 202 goals when he
struck twice in a 2-1 Premier League victory at Aston Villa. "He achieved everything with Chelsea," former midfield partner Michael Ballack told Sky Sports. "He's a legend there and also for England. "I think he has had a lot of offers so he can choose what he wants. He's experienced enough to make the right decision now," added the former German international. Ballack believes Lampard could one day return to Chelsea as a member of the coaching staff. "Maybe he leaves just for a few years and then he can come back," said Ballack. "He is a player who will always be involved in such a club. "He's really well connected with Chelsea and there will always be a place in the future there for him."
'Probe in WCup bids to be over by June 9' PARis, JuNe 3 (AFP): FIFA announced on Monday its probe into the 2018 and 2022 World Cup host bids would be completed by June 9 as the corruption row over Qatar's controversial winning bid intensified. Confirmation that the long awaited report was imminent came against a mounting clamour to hold a new bid for 2022 after accusations that a top Qatari official made slush fund payments to secure support. The chorus for a revote was led by Australia, who lost out to Qatar, who declared that corruption accusations against Qatar were a "serious development". British government and football officials have also said a new vote should be held if the accusations in The Sunday Times newspaper were proved accurate. The 2018/2022 World Cup bid probe is being chaired by Michael J. Garcia. The former United States attorney confirmed: "After months of interviewing witnesses and gathering materials, we intend to complete that phase of our investigation by June 9, 2014, and to submit a report to the Adjudicatory Chamber approximately six weeks thereafter." "The report will consider all evidence potentially related to the bidding process, including evidence collected from prior investigations," his statement on FIFA's official website added. FIFA has not yet
commented on reports by the Sunday Times newspaper that Mohamed bin Hammam, a former FIFA vice president from Qatar, paid more than $5 million to football officials around the world before the 2010 vote that awarded the 2022 contest to the Gulf state. Qatar has strongly denied the allegations and vowed to "defend the integrity" of its bid. Some reports have said Garcia was to meet Qatari officials in Oman on Monday. The encounter has not been officially confirmed however. Football Federation Australia (FFA) said Monday it may re-submit its bid to host the 2022 tournament after the corruption allegations. Australia was one of the defeated candidates, along with South Korea, Japan and United States at the FIFA vote in December 2010. "It's a serious develop-
ment, they're serious allegations and we're looking to see what the response to that will be," FFA chief executive David Gallop told Australian radio. Gallop said the FFA had been "heavily involved" in FIFA's corruption investigation and had provided documents and interviews to Garcia. In the first FIFA executive vote on the 2022 contest, Qatar received 11 votes, South Korea four, the United States and Japan three each and Australia one. Qatar went on to beat the United States 14 votes to eight in the fourth round. US officials have not yet commented. South Korea said it would wait for "confirmed facts" before deciding its position. Asia Football Confederation (AFC) President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, meanwhile, expressed his grave concern over the media reports call-
ing into question Qatar's hosting of the 2022 tournament. "The Asian Football Confederation stands by Qatar when it defends its rights to host the World Cup of 2022," Sheikh Salman told journalists in Manama. "The insistence of certain media outlets on how the organisation of the 2022 World Cup was awarded is part of a campaign (against Qatar)," he added, "That leads us to question the real reasons behind this campaign and to ask whether certain people are not trying to stop the World Cup being organised in an Asian country." The choice of Qatar shocked many people because of the searing heat that any summer matches will be played in. FIFA president Sepp Blatter wants the 2022 event moved to the northern winter. Critics have also highlighted the Qatar's lack of a football tradition.
Entertainment
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Mary-Kate and ashley Olsen
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wins CFDA's Accessories Designer Award
Cock-a-doodle-shoe! Dramatic stilettos inspired by roosters feature claw heels and feathered tails. The creations, made by Japanese shoe designer Masaya Kushino, known for his (creative designs is too vague, say something like ‘known for his wild sense of style), will lend his creations to the Brooklyn Museum's Killer Heels: The Art of the High-Heeled Shoe, opening on September 10.
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hey won the Accessories Designer of the Year Award for their collaborative efforts on their luxury label The Row. So it only seemed natural for twins MaryKate and Ashley Olsen to coordinate their chic ensembles as they attended the 2014 CFDA Fashion Awards at the Lincoln Centre in New York City
on Monday. Fitting for their honour, the 27-year-old mini moguls kept it simple in long-sleeved, black ankle-length dresses in order to showcase their elaborate Sidney Garber jewellery for the night. Displaying their distinct tastes, MK showed her funkier flair by sporting multicolored acces-
sories and tall lace-up stilettos, while Ashley sported slip-on kitten heels and more monochrome extras. After posing for pictures, the Full House stars were later seen accepting their honours at the podium. High-end collection The Row was founded by the Olsen twins in New York City in 2006.
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A spokesperson for the band said at the time the issue was in the hands of their lawyers. Liam started his Twitter chat by referring to an article in a paper he'd read about the band after the video emerged of Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik last week. "We all have a lot of growing up to do in an extreme circumstance.... I'm not making excuses but it's fact we are gunna [sic]
ence, and of course that's where my career began. ''I was always bilingual. I wrote a lot in Spanish, so now that we're well and truly in the digital era, I thought it was time. Having songs in both languages keeps me on our toes. It means that
live, I can do a set list that's very eclectic, it can move from one style to the next. ''That for me is what keeps me going. I have number ones in France or Spain that have done nothing in the UK or America and vice versa. No matter how glo-
balised music has become, you can still go into each nations' iTunes charts and see differences.'' Enrique also revealed he writes most of his music in the middle of the night when he can't sleep. The 39-year-old singer - the son of Julio Iglesias - insists many of his most inspired moments come during his nocturnal songwriting sessions. The 'I'm a Freak' singer said ''That's how a lot of my music comes to me. It can be frustrating, that waiting process - you can't push it. I'm an insomniac still, even when I'm not songwriting. But the best things always come at night.''
Saif plays peacemaker between Karisma, Sunjay Kapoor
One Direction member apologises after 'joint' video ne Direction's Liam Payne has apologised after a video showing some band members appearing to smoke "a joint" appeared online. Writing on Twitter, the singer said things had "gone a little sideways". It's the first time a member of the group has made a comment since the footage emerged from the Peru leg of their world tour.
In 2012, Mary-Kate and Ashley won the CFDA award for Womenswear Designer of the Year, so this year marks their second big win. The annual CFDA Fashion Awards recognises the outstanding contributions made to American fashion by individuals from all areas of the industry and related arts.
nrique Iglesias says singing in both English and Spanish keeps him on top of his game as an artist. The heartthrob pop star claims the best thing about his latest record 'Sex and Love' is its bilingual tracks which are fun to perform during his ''eclectic'' live gigs and allow him to top the charts in different countries. He explained in an interview with the Daily Star newspaper ''I'm excited about my new album 'Sex and Love' as it's only the second time I have released a mixed record in both Spanish and English. There is such a big Spanish-speaking audi-
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fall short somewhere". He also thanked fans for sticking with the band. "I love my boys and maybe things have gone a little sideways I apologise for that". Payne added: "We are only in our 20's we all do stupid things at this age." "Hopefully we stand the test of time an get it right in the end I don't take this for granted and I'm extremely grateful to be here doing this."
ollywood splits warring couple may not tend to be venom- have signed the divorce paous but according pers at all. Reveals the source, to a source present in the judge's chamber on Saturday where Karisma Kapoor and Sunjay Kapoor signed their divorce papers, theirs could be "the ugliest". The couple had longdrawn arguments while in family court but finally agreed on `divorce by mutual consent', thanks to some well-timed intervention from Karisma's brother-in-law Saif Ali Khan.The source tells Mirror that had it not been for the actor, the proceedings, which lasted six hours, might have ended in an impasse and the
'That's where you finish'
"Karisma and Sunjay started hurling accusations at each other from the word go. The couple arrived at
the Bandra family court at 11 am and by afternoon, things went out of hand." The scene became so ugly by 2.30 pm that it was assumed that the couple would get a date for another hearing. Seeing that matters were becoming worse, Saif, who was accompanied by wife Kareena Kapoor, decided to take charge. "He had a meeting with Lolo and then spoke to Sunjay too," the source revealed. And what did he tell them? Said the source, "He told Sunjay and Lolo that there was no point in dragging the fight and they need to move on with their
lives. He categorically told them to ease their tempers as anger will not help the process. He spoke to them about the similar situation (with his ex-wife Amrita Singh) that he had gone through." Saif married Amrita in October 1991 and 13 years and two kids later, the two parted ways in 2004. Lawyers Mahesh Jethmalani and Kranti Sathe represented Karisma while Aman Hingorani and Priya Hingorani from Delhi argued for Sunjay. Jalaja Nambiar, Narayan Suvarna and Radhika Mehta who form Sunjay's Mumbai legal team were also present. C M Y K
Jolie reveals Gwyneth Paltrow Criticized By Angelina she's in talks to play but it could be Real Soldier for War Comments Cleopatra... her last ever acting role
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n an open letter to the Hollywood actress, Green Beret Bryan Sikes tells her A long line at Starbucks, your driver being 3 minutes late, a scuff mark on your $1,200 shoes and a mean tweet do not constitute difficulty in the eyes of a soldier. Gwyneth Paltrow received lots of criticism as of late for her recent controversial comments, comparing online abuse she sustains to fighting in a war. The Hollywood actress has already been publically slammed by Cindy MCCain, the wife of former U.S. Presidential candidate and Vietnam War vet John MCCain, but now an actual soldier wants his say. When speaking about being subjected to daily abuse online, Paltrow said It's almost like how, in war,
you go through this bloody, dehumanising thing, and then something is defined out of it. My hope is, as we get out of it, we'll reach the next level of conscience. Green Beret Bryan Sikes did not appreciate this comparison at all, and in response he wrote a lengthy open letter to the 'Iron' actress. Let me be the first to burst your bubble, Sikes wrote on Clash Daily. A long line at Starbucks, your driver being 3 minutes late, a scuff mark on your $1,200 shoes and a mean tweet do not constitute difficulty in the eyes of a soldier. I could see how you, and others like you in 'the biz,' could be so insecure and mentally weak that you could pair the difficulty of your life on twitter to my brothers who have
had their limbs ripped off and seen their friend shot, blown up, burned and disfigured, the angered soldier continued. You know what is really 'dehumanizing,' Miss Paltrow Sikes added. The fact that you'd even consider that your life as an Alist celebrity reading Internet comments could even compare to war and what is endured on the battlefield. You and the other A-listers that think like you are laughable. Sikes' letter concluded by stating, Understand me when I say this war does not define me. It is a chapter in my life that helped shaped me. Being a husband and father is what defines me. Remember, sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never. be close to what war is.
ngelina Jolie hinted that she may end her acting career after taking on the epic story of Cleopatra. The 38-year-old actress currently stars in the Disney dark fantasy film Maleficent that debuted over the weekend at the top of the box office with a haul of $69.4 million. The Oscar-winning actress confirmed in a radio interview that a biopic of the popular historical figure Cleopatra, most famously rendered on celluloid by Elizabeth Taylor, has been in development. 'We've been working on it,' Jolie told BBC Radio 5 Live in a recent interview. 'There have been lots of different ideas of directors and lots of different discussions,' she added. Angelina said that writer Eric Roth, 69, has written a screenplay about the ancient Queen of the Nile. Roth also wrote the scripts for Forrest Gump, The Horse Whisperer and The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button that starred Angelina's 50-year-old husband Brad Pitt. Angelina said the huge undertaking could serve as her swan song from acting. 'It's one of those that you feel like well, maybe that's the one you put everything into and that's where you end it, that's where you finish,' Angelina said. 'In a great way, what could you do beyond that one?' she added. Angelina also recently told USA Today that she became an actress because her late mother wanted her to and she's more passionate about directing and her philanthropy work. 'I actually wanted to write and direct and be more involved in politics and humanitarian issues. I'll do a few more films and enjoy it...but I've never loved it like I love other things,' she said. The actress recently directed the biopic Unbroken about Olympic runner Louis Zamperini who was taken prisoner by Japanese forces during World War II. The film is scheduled for release on Christmas Day.
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9 Days to go... Aguero and Napoli's Gonzalo Higuain as Sabella is likely to go in with a more conservative 5-3-2 formation that he had used for away qualifying matches. But the formation also offers little defensive protection, making it unbalanced and v u l - nerable. In fact, it is defence that is Argentina's primary concern. Goalkeeper Sergio Romero was forced to move back to Sampdoria after he struggled to get a single game for Monaco. Left-back Marcos Rojo, of Sporting, and Napoli centre-back Federico Fernandez also have little experience at the international level. In 2010, the World Cup was remembered more for Diego Maradona's theatrics as Argentina crashed out of the quarterfinals with a 0-4 thrashing by Germany. This time Argentina surely will have little distractions around. Bosnia-Herzegovina are the debutants but they surely have some history to inspire. This was evident from their qualifying campaign during which they scored 30 goals and conceded just six. They were level on points with Greece, but advanced as group winners on the basis of a far superior goal difference. Their key player will be Manchester City striker Edin Zeko, who will be pitted against his clubmates Aguero and Pablo Zabaleta in the group stages. Zeko is also the highest scorer for the country with 35 goals at the international level. Of those 35, 10 were scored during the World Cup qualifying campaign. In the midfield, a lot will depend on playermaker Miralem Pjanic and at the back goalkeeper Asmir Begovic is solid. The 24-year-old Pjanic, who plays for Roma, is also excellent from dead-ball situations and Begovic stamped his authority as the country's undisputed No.1 goalkeeper during the qualifying campaign. Bosnia-Herzegovina might find Iran and Nigeria tough. Under Carlos Queiroz, Iran have one of the best trainers in world football. Iran did well in the Asian qualifying stage and finished ahead of South Korea. Ever since he took over in 2011, following his sacking as the Portugal coach, Queiroz, a former assistant to Alex Ferguson and ex-Real Madrid coach, had infused young blood in the Iranian team. With several Europebased players in the side, Iran have a lot of top level international experience. For Ashkan Dejagah, who had represented Germany at the youth level, committing his future for his country of birth was an obvious choice after he failed to get a call for the German national team. For this Fulham striker it will be an opportunity to get noticed by top flight clubs after the London club were relegated to the Championship. For Javad Nekounam, who will be leading the side, this would be his last World Cup. The former Osasuna midfielder, who turned 34 in September, is the fourth highest scorer for Iran and also emerged as the country's top scorer in the qualifying campaign with six goals. Another player to watch out for is Reza Ghoochannejhad, who spent his youth in the Netherlands. He was not prolific at Charlton Athletic but has been consistent while scoring for Iran. Since his international debut in October 2012, Ghoochannejhad scored nine times in his 11 appearances. Nigeria also had a good qualifying campaign and can surely throw a few surprises. Manager Stephen Keshi had played for the Super Eagles in the World Cup and now he has a major challenge in hand. He made an instant impact on his appointment, guiding the team to the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
Can Messi do a Maradona at World Cup?
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wo-time former champions Argentina, loaded with some of the world's top stars, are the clear favourites in Group F while debutants Bosnia-Herzegovina will be looking to make an impact in the 2014 World Cup. Also in the group are Iran, who have failed to go beyond the group stage in their three appearances in 1978, 1998, 2006, and Nigeria, who did well to reach the last 16 in 1994 and 1998 but failed to cross the first hurdle in 2002 and 2010. But the spotlight in the group will be on the star-studded Argentina. If they have to win their third World Cup title, a lot will depend on the quartet of Lionel Messi, Angel Di Maria, Sergio Aguero and Gonzalo Higuain. Coach Alejandro Sabella has brought some stability in the side since he took over from Sergio Batista after the team's dismal show in the Copa America in 2011. They had an easy qualifying campaign, beat Colombia at home, won both the matches against Chile and had comfortable home victories against Uruguay and Ecuador. Sabella will be a newcomer in terms of World Cup experience but he has spent a long time as an assistant to Daniel Pasarella with the national team. So when he took over, Sabella's first task was appointing Messi as the captain. It worked wonders for the Barcelona star. Messi, who had a dry spell in 16 matches before Sabella's appointment, found his mojo and scored 20 goals in 21 games. Messi, who had an unimpressive season with Barca, will be key to Argentina's success. He has often been criticised for not replicating his Barca success with La Albiceleste. This is his chance to make the World Cup his own like Diego Maradona did in 1986. Messi will be playing behind Manchester City's Sergio
The 2014 World Cup trophy sits on top of a glass podium before the start of a ceremony at the Planalto presidential palace where FIFA President Sepp Blatter was to present the trophy to Brazil's President Dilma Rousseff, in Brasilia, Brazil on June 2. (AP Photo)
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Nadal and Murray eye semifinal blockbuster
(LEFT) Kim Sears, long-time girlfriend of Britain's Andy Murray, watches Murray during the fourth round match of the French Open tennis tournament. (RIGHT) Britain's Andy Murray celebrates winning the fourth round match of the French Open tennis tournament against Spain's Fernando Verdasco at the Roland Garros stadium, in Paris, France, Monday, June 2, 2014. Murray won in three sets 6-4, 7-5, 7-6. (AP Photos)
PARIS, June 3 (AFP): Rafael Nadal and Andy Murray can set up a French Open semifinal blockbuster on Wednesday but standing in their way are warhorse David Ferrer and flamboyant French star Gael Monfils. Nadal, the eight-time champion and bidding to become the first man to capture five Roland Garros titles in succession, takes a 21-6 career record into his quarterfinal with fellow Spaniard Ferrer, the man he beat in last year's final. The world number one, who turned 28 on Tuesday, has had an untroubled path to the last-eight, facing his biggest challenges off the court with a steady stream of questions over his pretournament form and the state of his troublesome back. His 6-1, 6-2, 6-1 win over Serbia's Dusan Lajovic in the fourth round, where
he allowed his oppponent just 15 points on his serve, took his record in Paris to 63 wins and just one loss. But still the questions remain over whether or not he will have the staying power to lift the Coupe des Mousquetaires for a ninth time on Sunday and claim a 14th Grand Slam title which would put him just three behind the record held by a declining Roger Federer. "My back can be pretty unpredictable," said Nadal. "In Australia (where he needed treatment in the final) I felt some pain, and here in Paris I try to co-exist with this pain. But sometimes it changes. I'm not lying." Nadal also believes that his almost perfect record in the French capital as well as his dominance over Ferrer will count for nothing on Wednesday. Twelve months ago, Nadal allowed his Davis Cup
teammate just eight games in a desperately one-sided final while, in 2012, Ferrer claimed a meagre five games in their semifinal. "The past is past. I can think about the past in a few years when I will be in Mallorca fishing or playing golf," said Nadal. Ferrer will be playing in a 10th successive Grand Slam quarterfinal on Wednesday. He has little time for the critics who wrote off Nadal on the eve of Roland Garros after his countryman endured his worst European claycourt season in a decade. "He's No. 1 in the world. Rafael won the Masters in Madrid, reached the final in Rome (against Novak Djokovic) and that was a close match. Rafael is always the favourite and it is always difficult to beat him." Like Ferrer, Monfils is also searching for a first Grand Slam title. The personable
27-year-old, a semifinalist in 2008, faces Wimbledon champion Murray in the latest episode of a rivalry which began when they were children. "It's been a long time I've known him, and it's always fun to play against him," said Monfils who was 11 while Murray was 10 when they first met in the renowned Les Petits As junior tournament in the French town of Tarbres. Murray can recall his first sight of Monfils. "He used to play with glasses. He had shaved hair, but like quite a high cut. Yeah, he was the same as he is now. He was just a great athlete, moved unbelievably well, smiling on the court," said Murray. "He's always been a great entertainer, and he's great for the sport." Murray is bidding to make the semifinals for the second time after also reaching the last four in 2011.
Bouchard to face Sharapova in French Open semifinals PARIS, June 3 (AFP): Eugenie Bouchard became the first Canadian woman to reach the French Open semifinals on Tuesday with a thrilling 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 7-5 win over Spaniard Carla Suarez Navarro. It is only the third time that a Canadian has made the women's semi-finals at any of the four majors after Carling Bassett reached the US Open semi-finals in 1984 and Bouchard herself went to the last-four at this year's Australian Open. The media-friendly Bouchard, who trailed badly in all three sets, has a chance to go one better now and will face Russia's 2012 French champion Maria Sharapova for a place in Saturday's final. Sharapova defeated Suarez Navarro's doubles partner Garbine Muguruza 1-6, 7-5, 6-1 to reach her fourth straight French Open semifinal. "I am just so happy right now, thanks to everyone, this is just completely unbelievable," Bouchard told a raucous crowd, many with Canadian flags on court Suzanne Lenglen. Suarez Navarro carried a 2014 record of 9 and 1 in tie-breaks into the decisive game but the Canadian carved out a 4-1 lead before converting her first set point to take the all important opening frame 7-6 (7/4) in one hour. The Montreal resident broke immediately to start the second set as Suarez Navarro wobbled under the deep ground strokes Bouchard was burying in the corners. However the Barcelona-based player again forged ahead 5-2 in the second set and this time Bouchard was unable to fight back with the Spaniard converting her second set point to take it 6-2 and force a decider. Suarez Navarro again began the stronger to start the third as the nerves and the occasion got to both players. However, Bouchard again charged back from 4-1 down to level the match and then creep 5-4 in front. The Span-
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Canada's Eugenie Bouchard celebrates winning the quarterfinal match of the French Open tennis tournament against Spain's Carla Suarez Navarro at the Roland Garros stadium, in Paris, France, Tuesday, June 3. (AP Photo)
iard held a tense service game but Bouchard went back ahead 6-5 as victory came within her grasp. She double faulted on her first match point but converted her third chance before sinking to her knees in celebration.
Sania-Cara ousted from French Open quarters PARIS, June 3 (PTI): Sania Mirza and Cara Black crashed out of the French Open after being humbled yet again by their nemesis Su-Wei Hsieh and Shuai Peng in the women's dou-
bles quarterfinals on Tuesday. The 2-6, 6-3, 3-6 defeat for the fifth seeded Indo-Zimbabwe pair, was their third at the hands of Su-Wei and Peng in the current season. Sania-Cara had lost to the world No. 1 team at the Indian Wells summit clash and in the quarterfinals of the Madrid event early this season. In the two-hour contest, Sania and Cara could convert only three of the eight break chances and lost their serve five times. At the Australian Open also, Sania and Cara were ousted at the same stage. With Sania's defeat, the Indian challenge at the Roland Garros ended on Tuesday.
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