April 10th, 2015

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The Morung Express

Dimapur VOL. X ISSUE 96

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www.morungexpress.com

Friday, April 10, 2015 12 pages Rs. 4

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The keys to brand success are self-definition, transparency, authenticity and accountability Satyam Case: Ramalinga Raju, nine others sentenced to 7 years in jail [ PAGE 8]

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

Cop who shot man in back had prior excessive force complaint [ PAGE 9]

Naga singers make India proud

[ PAGE 10]

[ PAGE 11]

Rs.10,000 Crore for power Weaving through history transmission in NE region Y Merina Chishi Dimapur | April 9

Delhi-Nagaland direct flight from April 15 NEw DElhi, april 9 (iaNS): DoNER Minister Jitendra Singh on Thursday announced a direct daily flight from Delhi to Dimapur in Nagaland from April 15 onwards. Addressing the 64th plenary meeting of the North Eastern Council (NEC), Jitendra Singh said the government was trying to start direct flights to many other parts of the northeast.

Senior NSCN (IM) leader Kedutsu Tsuzuh passes away DiMapur, april 9 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) today informed that member of its Collective Leadership, Kedutsu Tsuzuh passed away on April 9 after a prolonged illness. A press note from the MIP of the NSCN (IM) invited well wishers to pay their last homage to the NSCN (IM) leader at a state condolence service at Hebron CHQ at 8:00am, Friday. After the condolence service, late Kedutsu Tsuzuh’s remains will be laid to rest in his village, Thetsiimi in Thizami Sub-division of Phek District.

She might be in the twilight of her life, but for this nonagenarian, age is just a number. 90 year old Khezheli Chishi, a traditional weaver, has been weaving for the past seven decades and she shows no sign of slowing down. Her passion for work is still alive and she can weave about five shawls/mekhalas in a month. She suffers no health problems and effortlessly slides a thread through a needle without wearing spectacles.

“People are amazed that I can still weave,” she says.

But Khezheli’s story is not one without hardship. Her wrinkled but firm hands speak volumes about the hard work she has put into weaving all these years. Khezheli was born in October, 1925 at Sastami village in Zunheboto district. After studying up to class 2 at Impur in Mokokchung district, she returned to her village and became the local church woman leader. In 1943 she married Yetozu Chishi, a school teacher from Naghuto village. Unfortunately, she was widowed early and was left to fend for her seven children.

Undeterred by the adversity, Khezheli used the only weapon she had to move ahead in lifeweaving. She applied for a weaving licence at Mokokchung and

Khezheli Chishi

thereafter started her own unit at Naghuto village. She began to participate in annual exhibitions that were held during Republic and Independence Day at Kohima. In 1985, her work was chosen from among the 16 Naga indigenous tribes at an exhibition held at Calcutta and New York. The same year she received a National Award from the Government of India. She has also won a total of 45 awards from the Nagaland state government.

Over the years, Khezheli has trained hundreds of young women

to weave. During the initial years, the state government offered her a monthly stipend of Rs. 3000 for imparting training to girls at Zunheboto. She moved to Dimapur in 1986, where she set up another training unit at Chekiye village.

Apart from the regular supply of traditional (Sumi) and contemporary Naga attires to the Department of Industry and Commerce, she also takes orders from clients.

Her work is renowned and marketed not only in India but across the world. She uses the traditional technique for weaving and all her

designs are very elaborate.

Khezheli is credited to have created six new designs - namely: Ahuna, Tsulichepu, Ghile, Aghile, Kiyepu and Tiqhi (mekhalas worn

by Sumi women). She was also “chosen” and “entrusted” to weave the “Michiphi”, a shawl that was produced out of a vision revealed by the “Holy Spirit” to Isak Chishi Swu, Chairman of the NSCN (IM).

She is currently the oldest surviving weaver in the Sumi community having in-depth knowledge about traditional patterns and motifs.

Khezheli’s pays extreme importance to keeping traditional knowledge alive. And that is why she has engaged her daughtersin-law and granddaughters in her work. “I want to make sure that our tradition doesn’t fade away,” she says. Concerned about the present generation’s lack of interest in weaving and traditional attires, she says: “People spend lakhs of rupees buying traditional clothes during their daughters’ weddings but they don’t teach them the importance of it.”

Apart from weaving, Khezheli keeps her mind active by involving herself in the church. “Whatever I have is God’s blessing. I owe Him everything,” she says. And though age may have caught up with her, Khezheli aims to keep spinning her yarn. “She will weave as long as she lives,” her daughter in- law said.

Guwahati, april 9 (iaNS): The union power ministry has rolled out a Rs.10,000 crore project to strengthen the transmission and distribution network in the the eight northeastern states of the region, Power Minister Piyush Goyal said here on Thursday.

The minister was participating in the two-day all-India power ministers conference, being held at the Administrative Staff College here.

“The Rs.10,000 crore project will boost the power transmission and distribution network. The Power Grid Corporation of India Limited (PGCIL) has started work. The 6000 MW Biswanath CharialiAgra transmission will be ready in another three to three-and-half months,” Goyal said.

He said the stalled projects on the Teesta river in Sikkim were expected to be completed by 2015.

The central government will consider the interest of Assam while taking the final resolution on the 2000 MW Lower Subansiri hydro power project along the AssamArunachal Pradesh border,

he said.

Work on this hydro power project has been stalled since 2011 following massive public protest from anti-dam groups, particularly in Assam, who say the project will lead to environmental disaster in downstream states like Assam.

“The power ministry together with people and technical experts will resolve the concerns regarding the Lower Subansiri project. We will look after the interest of the people of the region,” he assured.

“We have started the Teesta hydro electric project. Investment of over Rs.12,000-13,000 crore has already been made,” he said. The ONGC’s first power venture 2x363.3 MW Combined Cycle Gas Turbine at Palatana in Tripura has already been commissioned, he said.

Another 100 MW capacity addition has been done to the North Eastern Electric Power Corporation’s (NEEPCO) Monarchak project in Tripura.

“The transmission line between Silchar and Imphal has also been completed with an investment of Rs.500 crore,” he said.

Sovereignty belongs to the people: NSCN (R) Neil Zaza set to begin India

DiMapur, april 9 expelled from the NSCN (K) out keeping them informed (MExN): The NSCN (Refor- for giving their attendance in on the abrogation of ceasefire mation) today stated that Naga the ceasefire meeting on the and thereby, putting the life of sovereignty is “not a private invitation of the GOI.” It clari- two leaders at risk raises a seproperty of any individual” but fied that Wangtin and Tikhak rious question on their inten“belongs to the people.” A press had attended the meeting be- tion and their character,” the note from the MIP of the NSCN cause both the leaders were NSCN (R) said.

Refuting allegations that (R) asserted that “the most im- members of the CFSB on beportant thing to ponder at this half of NSCN (K) and appoint- Wangtin Naga has colluded juncture is not to see if We are ed by SS Khaplang, Chairman with IB and MHA officials, with the people but, to see if the NSCN (K). The NSCN (R) fur- the NSCN (R) said that “meetther affirmed that any dispute ing the representatives of the people are with us.”

It further called upon Lt can be resolved through talks GOI is a part of the ceasefire General Niki Sumi and Lt Col and negotiation and “not sud- process.” It further listed out Isak Sumi to “stop befooling den outburst of anger through various raids and actions carried out by Indian authorities themselves” and questioned: the barrel of a gun.”

“There are many ways to against Wangtin Naga and “How long will they keep on takMorung Express News ing the Naga people for ransom say good bye but, the way ad- Tikhak and said that the two opted by Khaplang and Niki NSCN (R) leaders have faced in the name of sovereignty?”

Dimapur | April 9 The NSCN (R) further by attacking the security forc- “this level of physical and A 50 year old woman was alleged that both Kilonser es and the other NPGs on the mental harassment…” arrested with opium in Wangtin and P Tikhak “were eve of ceasefire meeting, withFull text on Page 10 her possession by the Excise Narcotic personnel in Dimapur. The woman was transporting the contraband to Mon from Churachandpur, Manipur when she was arrested at the Chumukedima Excise DiMapur, april 9 as per records, 80% of the KOhiMa, april 9 (NEpS): Tricheck post on April 8 at (MExN): Expressing con- failed business persons has partite talk between the Nagaland around 6:30 pm. The opi- cern over the pressures blamed “illegal taxation” as state government and representatives of the Chang and the Yimcum weighed 2 ½ kgs and faced by local entrepre- the reason for the failure. was concealed in a poly- neurs in the state, the BusiBAN further said that the hungru communities were held on thene bag containing dried success of a business estab- April 7 and 8 at Kohima, wherein a chillies, informed Deputy ness Association of Nagas 5 Point Resolution to bring peace in Commissioner (Narcotic (BAN) has appealed all lishment can be ascertained the region was adopted.

Cell), Lanuwati Jamir. The Naga Political Groups to only if it can be sustained The talk was attended by leadwoman, a mother of five, “exempt genuine local en- and passed on to the next re- ers of the Chang Khulei Setshang was identified as Hatnu trepreneurs from any form sponsible generation with a (CKS), Yimchungru Tribal Council well accumulated profit.

Kuki hailing from Tuibong of taxation.”

(YTC) and top government officials.

“More than 90% of the The resolution said CKS and YTC BAN media cell in a village, Churachandpur.

She was transporting the press release stated that Naga business persons are would communicate regularly and contraband in a Dimapur- most of the registered gen- yet to see and experience carry out “search operation and debound taxi from Imphal uine local entrepreneurs such success. In fact a lot of fuse landmines/IEDs/booby traps” when the Narcotic Cell was were running businesses young Naga entrepreneurs’ along with the civil administration, alerted of opium transiting without any support from worry is how to keep the police and Assam Rifles.

Dimapur. According to the the government nor are business going for the curThey also resolved that any woman, she was handed they given any protection or rent month,” stated BAN. firing of guns with a motive to inover the opium by one Mizo securities, in case of any unIt urged all NPGs to sup- timidate or threaten/provoke any woman in Churachandpur. fortunate incidents. port local entrepreneurship person or group of persons by any Street value of opium is esBAN informed that about by tax exemption to every timated at Rs. one lakh per 10-20% of the businesses Naga business house and individual or group would not be kg. Jamir further stated that run by local entrepreneurs further reaffirmed its com- allowed. Further, unauthorized the maximum number of close down within two years, mitment “towards strength- checking and frisking of people on roads by any individual or group drugs and illicit liquor are being seized, while in tran- 40-50% shuts down within 5 ening and encouraging gen- would not be allowed.

Both CKS and YTC resolved to sit at Chumukedima Excise years time, while more than uine Naga entrepreneurs check post. On April 7 alone, 70% has been reportedly re- around the globe to take cooperate and assist in maintainJamir said that 3 drug-relat- corded “out of business” after strong stand of creating a ing law and order in the district. In ed offences were detected “being in business” for more new Nagaland by building a regard to land disputes in “Yakor firm economic foundation.” and Chendang village areas,” it at the check post. 47 kgs of than 5 years.

It further called upon said necessary modalities would While stating that it ganja were confiscated in 2 separate incidents, while was hard for local busi- government departments, be worked out jointly by CKS and 660 Spasmo Proxyvon ness community to survive companies and citizens to YTC initiated by government auand 56 Nitrosun pills were and run business in the buy goods from Naga entre- thority, within 30 days of adopting the resolution. seized on the date. state, BAN informed that preneurs.

Woman with opium arrested

Exempt local entrepreneurs tuensang crisis: from taxation, urges BAN tripartite talk held

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–Simon Mainwaring

Messi, Suarez score as Barca beat Almeria

90 year old Khezheli Chishi wants to make sure that traditions don’t just fade away

Don’t worry, you`re safe.

The CBI will not take up a case involving only 50-60 Crores.

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tour from Dimapur on April 10 Morung Express News Dimapur | April 9

Renowned American guitarist Neil Zaza has been in touch with his fans in India on Facebook, but after 6 flights and 24 hours of travelling from the United States, he is finally ready to meet his music lovers here on April 10.

Zaza begins his first ever tour of India from Dimapur, and it is difficult for him to hide his excitement. “I’m really excited, and can’t wait to start with the concerts,” said Zaza, addressing a press conference at Aier’s Enclave here as a precursor to his tour. He will play at 5 gigs starting April 10 from Dimapur, then at Wokha (April 13), Kohima (April 14), Senapati (April 15), ending with Imphal (April 16). In Dimapur, he will play at the IMC Hall from 5:00pm on Friday, April 10.

Opening musicians for the gigs will include young Naga guitarists like Atsa Rang Roths and Asa Vero.

“You don’t have to be a guitar player to enjoy my music,” explained Zaza, enthusiastic that he is going to play for an audience here that is passionate about music. From the time he picked up the guitar as a young boy, inspired

by Van Halen (especially Runnin’ with the Devil), till now, he feels the same love for the guitar. “I love what I do! There are 10,000 players better than me, but I try to sound like myself, not like anyone else— as a guitar player, that’s the most important part—not to be able to play like someone else, or the fastest riff, but like oneself.”

Talent, for Zaza, is not the most important thing for a musician and performer. It is also the ability to work hard enough to connect with the audience. “When you begin to love what you do, you start to have a conversation with the listener through your music,” he noted, adding that it is easy to write a song but very hard to write a “good song.”

And what is a good song? One that we want to hear repeatedly; one that makes us feel something.

To young upcoming musicians, Zaza has a piece of advice: play anytime, anywhere, for any-

Neil Zaza (in a Naga jacket) seen here at a press conference along with the organisers of his first ever India tour set to begin from Dimapur on Friday, April 10 (Morung Photo)

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Neil Zaza – A Profile

n 1987 Neil Zaza formed the rock band Zaza, which quickly became one of the hottest US touring bands at that time with the albums Just Get It (1989) followed by Party With The Big Boys (1991). After a successful run and a hit song “Maybe Tomorrow”, the group disbanded and he went on to start a brilliant solo career.

In 1992, Zaza released his first solo album, Two Hands One Heart, which was followed by Thrills & Chills (1993), Sing (1996), Staring at the Sun (2001), One Silent Night Vol-1 (2002), One Silent Night Vol-2 (2002), Melodica (2004), When Gravity Fails (2006), 212 (2011) and Clyde the Cat (2012).

Zaza has shared the bill with guitar gods like Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Dweezil Zappa, Steve & Mike Porcaro (Toto), Yngwie Malmsteen, Vinnie Moore, and Andy Summers.

He has performed on albums by Dweezil Zappa, Eric Carmen, Michael Stanley and also supplied guitar tracks for a Stewart Copeland-produced movie soundtrack.

During his visit to Dimapur, Zaza will be playing his monster hit “I’m Alright”, “Definition” and “Melodia” besides a host of other popular songs from his albums.

Sky Entertainment will be managing Neil Zaza during his visit to the North East with his lined-up shows on April 10-Dimapur, 13-Wokha, 14-Kohima, 15-Senapati and 16-Imphal.

In February 2003, Zaza founded Melodik Records, which is based at his hometown of Akron, Ohio. He has also become one of the guitar world’s most sought-after educators and now maintains a worldwide year-round clinic tour schedule.

Recent tours include China, Taiwan, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, The Netherlands, Poland and Italy to name a few. body. And make sure the crowd thinks you love what you’re doing, and be the best you can be each time you play.

Zaza is looking forward to his date with his fans on April 10 at 5:00pm, IMC Hall, Dimapur. Tick-

ets for the concert will be available at the venue from 4:00pm onwards, alongside Neil Zaza merchandise that include CDs, DVDs and guitar picks. Fans will get a chance to get them autographed by Zaza after the concert.

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Wetland garlic cultivation reap rich harvest

Yingshikiur Villagers find success with intervention of IWMP implemented by department of Land Resources Morung Express News Kiphire | April 9

Few Kilometers away from Kiphire town, Yingshikiur village is located in a hamlet, which fed the district with her clean water sources. Like most Nagas villages, the Yingshikiur villagers depend on agriculture for livelihood. Along with Jhum field, the villagers depend on terrace cultivation, as rice is the main stable food for them.

However, with the intervention of IWMP implemented by the department of Land Resources, 75 households of Yingshikiur Village have ventured into growing diverse crops in their jhum and wet terrace fields. The local garlic (Allium Sativum) is also one of the crops grown for household consumption.

The villagers have taken up this crop cultivation

is a very impressive manner. They apply indigenous methods to improve the quality and production.

Cultivating garlic on dry land is laborious for weeding. In order to reduce the labour-cost, they tried growing it on wet land terrace fields where the duration and depth of flooding water can be managed to suppress weed growth.

Having been closely associated with this crop for more than a decade, the Villagers know the rich return that this crop.

However, there was no support from any quarters until the intervention of the IWMP. Contented with the harvest of “Alliaceae family Garlic (Allium sativum)” and the return he received, Setsapi, a farmer said, “We knew the technique but we were not able to produce enough quantity at

Plots of wetland garlic cultivation at Yingshikiur village. The villagers tried growing garlic on wet land terrace fields where the duration and depth of flooding water can be managed to suppress weed growth.

the same time. We did not tivity for us, but the depart- the cultivation that we Today, almost 75% of know this will become an ment of Land Resources practiced and supported the villagers are cultivating garlic along with other alternative livelihood ac- came to our village, found us.”

Effective implementation of housing scheme in Nagaland

Our Correspondent Kohima | April 9

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The Indira Awaas Yojana (IAY) is a centrally sponsored scheme for providing housing of the BPL households in the rural areas. The scheme is funded on the cost-sharing basis between the Centre and the state in the ratio of 90:10.

The objective of the programme is to ensure that

the shelter-less poor people in the villages are provided with permanent shelter. The state’s rural development department has been implementing the programme through the Village Development Boards (VDBs) in Nagaland.

“This programme is found to be one of the most successful schemes being implemented by the department till date with a high level of social accep-

tance in the diverse society of the state and has attracted wide community participation in its implementation,” according to the annual administrative report 2014-15 of the rural development department..

The department has been implementing the housing programme through VDBs providing durable shelter to the rural people in the villages. The selection of the beneficia-

ries is done by the VDBs of the respective villages from the IAY waitlist. The construction of the house is done by the beneficiaries themselves, the report stated.

The community contributes labour and materials that are locally available such as baily post, timber, bamboo etc. at free of cost for the construction of house.

It may be stated that

during 2009, due recognition was received by the state from India Today by way of receiving Bharat Nirman Award under small state category for effective implementation of housing programme.

During the current year 2014-15, an amount of Rs. 4575.011 lakhs has been received from the Ministry of rural development, GoI as central share of assistance for 11

DRDAs in the state. The state government has also released amount of Rs. 390.040 lakhs being the back-logged pertaining to 2013-14.

As against the target of 7541 numbers of houses to be constructed during the current year, a total of 3828 numbers of houses have been constructed and 3713 numbers of houses is under construction, the report added.

Model Colony Council issue directives

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Dimapur, april 9 (mExN): The Model Colony Council has informed business establishment of hazardous factory and industries like steel fabrication, furniture mechanise etc and fish, chicken, meat stalls are strictly prohibited within its jurisdiction in order to maintain clean environment and hygienic. Therefore, any one failing to comply the order, will take necessary action as per the Model Colony Council’s Constitution.

All the business establishment, institution and member residence of Model Colony are directed to keep surrounding neat and clean especially Road and

Drainage. If anyone found throwing Garbage, wastage on the Road and inside the drainage any time, will impose fine Rs 500/- as penalty against defaulter. All the business shop, institutions and residence nearby road and drainage must keep clean your side in order to avoid penalty.

The Council requests all the citizens of Model Colony to make space of 2 sqft at the corner of your plot to burn garbage for the clean and fresh environment. It appeals to all the concerned citizens of Model Colony of those having plot or Residence adjacent at common development area especially road and drain-

NSF 26th general conference from May 13 to 16

Kohima, april 9 (mExN): The 26th general conference of the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) is scheduled from May 13 to 16, to be hosted by the Angami Students’ Union (ASU) at Khonoma village, Kohima and to be held under the theme ‘Towards a just society.’ Apart from the dignitaries and prominent personalities from Nagaland, guest speakers from Malaysia and United States will attend the forthcoming general conference. There will be a panel discussion basing on the theme of the conference and a debate session on the topic, “The GOI is serious in solving the Indo-Naga political issue” wherein, the Interlocutor of the Indo-Naga political talks R N Ravi will be invited as the session’s guest.

The NSF officials in a press release informed that around 2000 delegates from the various Federating Units and Subordinate Units of the NSF will attend the 26th General Conference.

Nagaland COSMETIC SURGERY CARNIVAL 11-04-2015 to 12-04-2015 Caring for the body, mind & spirit for both Men and Women

Dr. Kh. Palin, MS, MCh, FICS, Consultant Plastic & Aesthetic surgeon from Shija Cosmetic Centre, Imphal will be available for the Cosmetic Surgery Camp to be held at Oking Hospitals and Research Clinic (P) Ltd, Kohima.

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Redefine your self esteem through: • Asian eyelid surgery • Ageing eyelid surgery • Face & neck lifting • Hair transplantation • Abdominoplasty • Breast surgery • Fat injection • Liposuction (fat removal) • Tattoo, mole and scar revision • Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) • Cosmetic Genital surgery

For prior registration please contact: Oking Hospital and Research Clinic (P) Ltd, Kohima  Phone No: 0370 - 2290080, Mobile: 9774043322

tee and further sought the help from the citizen to keep the town clean. Various speakers presented their views on how to keep Medziphema town clean, awareness creation programmed through mass media to promote people’s participation, explore solution with regard to defacement of public properties and to streamline the maintenance and cleanliness in all work places and public areas along with rest of the country.

The meeting fixed the date on April 18 for the social work from 7 a.m. For any necessary information, contact Superintendent Medziphema town committee Murali on Mobil number 943643349

Dimapur Aoli Mongsen Mungdang meeting Dimapur, april 9 (mExN): The Dimapur Aoli Mongsen Mungdang has called for a meeting on April 11 at the residence of its treasurer, Er Supongtemsu Walling (Sungratsu) in Nepali Kashiram, Dimapur at 1:00 pm.

Dimapur Aoli Mongsen Mungdang officers, executive members and executives from respective villages are requested to attend the meeting without fail. Those member villages that are yet to submit the membership and ‘kilen saru’ collections are requested to submit the same during the meeting. Along with others, the Aoli Mongsen general meeting will be the main agenda of the meeting. Therefore, all concerned are requested to attend the meeting without fail.

For further information contact: Bendang Imchen @ 8014483602 and Tongpang Longchar @ 9436600021.

MEx File

Disaster preparedness prog at NU Kohima, april 9 (mExN): A one-day programme on disaster preparedness will be organized on April 10 at Nagaland University, Kohima Campus, Meriema in collaboration with Civil Defence and Home Guards, Government of Nagaland. A press note issued by Prof.

Lanunungsang, Pro-Vice Chancellor has requested all the HoDs/Sections to depute three representatives (1 faculty and 1 student from each class for the Academic departments) for attending the introductory function at the Ladies Common Room at 10 am and thereafter Hands-on training post mock drill. It has further requested all the faculty, students and staff to participate in the mock drill.

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111 BN BSF organise free medical camp

DC Zbto informs BLOs ZuNhEboto, april 9 (Dipr): Deputy Commissioner Zunheboto, Temsu Longkumer has informed all the BLOs of 31 to 36 A/Cs under Zunheboto district to collect the remuneration from the Election department.

Mass social work at Medziphema on April 18

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pungency and taste of wet land garlic cloves are twothree times stronger compared to the normal garlic grown in Jhum fields.

Cloves of garlic are planted approximately 1215 cm apart in the field, which is covered partially with soil. When the plant grows almost half feet above the soil, weeding is done and the field is filled with water again, which is retained for another 3-4 weeks. After this process, water is retained and the field is dried till the soil cracks open. Water is released in the field again.

This process is repeated till the plant matures. The quality and size of the garlic will depend on how the farmers control the flow of water in the field.

The farmers said that there is no problem for market as there is heavy demand and reaches Dimapur market.

It may be mentioned that the department of Land Resources Kiphire has also released a leaflet on the practice of wetland garlic cultivation.

ZuNhEboto, april 9 (mExN): 111 BN BSF organised a free medical camp at Gukhuyi and Kisheshe Sukhai Villages under Zunheboto in collaboration with NGO, NUN (Non Users Network), PHC Satakha, Unit MO, GBs of Villages on March 29. Dr M Mahesh Goud, MO along with his medical team of 111 Bn BSF and Dr.Mahashe along with PHC Team Satakha carried out health check-up of 47 Villagers and at the same time they were made aware of various diseases and preventive measures. During this civic action programme, grocery items as well as items from the Unit canteen were made available to the inhabitants of the two villages. A press release said that the Villagers appreciated the efforts of 111 Bn BSF and requested to hold such camps cum essential services stall at frequent intervals.

It has been a constant effort of Border Security Force to forge a healthy relationship with the local population and it was a small but right step in that direction.

age shall inform to the Council before any construction works take place for the necessary verification to avoid dispute in future.

Further, the Council will be strictly monitoring all round development and surprise checking will be conduct time to time for unhygienic environment within its jurisdiction.

Model Colony Council Chairman David Zhimomi in a press release stated that the directives have been issued as per the resolutions made during the Model Colony Council meeting held on April 2 at its Chairman’s Residence David Zhimomi.

mEDZiphEma, april 9 (Dipr): A coordination meeting was held at ADC’s conference hall Medziphema on April 8 relating to “Swaach Bharat”.

All Heads of Departments under Medziphema Sub-division, GBs, President MTYC, Chairman Village Council, President Medziphema Student Union, President Chamber of Commerce Medziphema, Representatives from 37 Assam Rifle, Members from SASARD and Representatives from various school from Medziphema town attended the meeting.

The meeting was chaired by Superintendent Medziphema Town Committee Murali who highlighted the problem faced

by Medziphema town commit-

crops. “The village earned around 6.5 lakh rupees last year just by selling garlic and we are hopeful that it will bring in more returns in the years ahead,” Setsapi added. Villagers also says, “Earlier when we grew paddy in the wet terrace field, the harvest was just 10-15 tins of paddy which fetched us 1000 to 1500 rupees. But today in the same plot of land we are fetching around 15000-20000 by selling garlic.”

Explaining the local technique, Pitcholi, a farmer who has first tried this wet land garlic cultivation said, “The field is ploughed and pulverized two to three weeks ahead and made free of clots and rocks before the sowing. After this, the field is drenched with water, making the field ready for sowing.”

Sharing the sowing technique, Pitcholi says garlic is propagated as vegetative. The well-developed cloves are selected as the clove size is more important that bulb size and it determines the future of the bulb size. He said that

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Electors of 31 TO 36 A/Cs under Zto informed ZuNhEboto, april 9 (Dipr): Deputy Commissioner Zunheboto, Temsu Longkumer informed all the electors of 31 to 36 A/Cs under Zunheboto district that a special camp will be organised at the polling station and VRECs on the 12th of April (Sunday) 2015, therefore all are informed to approach the BLOs and BAGs for correction, photo replacement, submission of ADHAAR information and any other query on electoral roll.

Kohima Watsu Unit to organise social work Kohima, april 9 (Dipr): The Kohima Watsu Unit will be organizing a social work on 10th April 2015 from 6 a.m. onwards from Mezhur School footbridge to SKV Petrol Pump. The social work is being conducted under the yearlong theme of the Watsu Mundang “Lim Yasenmong” (Renewing our Land).

An old woman returns home after fetching water in ‘indigenous water bucket’ cut out of large bamboos, which she carries in a basket made of bamboo cord at Lungwa in Mon district. Lungwa is one of the biggest villages in Mon district. The village straddles an international boundary line, one-half of the Angh's house falls within Indian territory, whereas the other half lies under Myanmarese control. (Photo by Aden Jamir)

Public grievances redressal committee in Mokokchung moKoKchuNg, april 9 (Dipr): As per directive given by the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Nagaland, a six member Public Grievances Redressal Committee has been constituted in Mokokchung district with Chief Medical Officer, Dr. S. Akaba as Chairman and Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Kibangkumba as Member Secretary.

According to a press note issued by the office of CMO- Mokokchung, the Committee was set up to strengthen the grievances redress machinery and to make the administration more respon-

sive to the needs of the people.

Other members include Bendanglila, ADC, Mokokchung, Achila Imsong-President, Watsu Mungdang, Dr. Takusunep-Honorary Secretary, IRCS, Mokokchung and Imchawati-Director, Care and Support Society, Mokokchung.

The press note informed that every Wednesday will be left free and there will be no any official meeting to enable public to lodge their grievances with regard to health care delivery system on this day in the Office of the Chief Medical Officer from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Malayali Samajam Kohima meeting Kohima, april 9 (mExN): Annual General Body meeting of the Malayali Samajam, Kohima will be held on Sunday, April 12 at 2:00 pm at Capital Tuition Centre, TCP Gate, Kohima. Malayali Samajam General Secretary Sasidharan in a press release has requested all the members to attend the meeting without fail.

Rachü Union Kohima meeting on April 11 Kohima, april 9 (mExN): The Rachü Union Kohima will be organizing its general meeting and a picnic at Kisama on April 11 at 11:00 am for all Rachümi residing in Kohima to foster better understanding among the Rachü brethren. The main speaker will be Dr. Hovithal Sothu while Vizosül Neikha will exhort the gathering. Greetings will be delivered by Eyongol Neikha, Chairman Rachü Khel Panchayat, Viswema and Akho Neikha, President, Chakhro Rachü Union.

A press note issued by Videsül Neikha, President and Krovo Lcho, Secretary has requested all Rachü members living at Kohima to attend the program. Buses will be provided at 10 am at P.W.D junction and BOC.

SDO (C) Sadar Kohima informs GBs Kohima, april 9 (Dipr): SDO (C) Sadar, Kethosituo Sekhose has informed all GBs under Kezocha Administrative Circle and Kohima Administrative Circle (KMC Areas and Kohima/Chedema Model Village) who have submitted the Annual House Tax for the year 2015 to personally collect their commission from the office of the Deputy Commissioner Kohima during office hour.

C M Y K

REgional

The Morung Express

Friday

10 April 2015

Dimapur

Dispute with India over Arunachal Pradesh an ‘undeniable fact': China BeijiNG, April 9 (pTi): China on Thursday said its “huge dispute” with India over Arunachal Pradesh is an “undeniable fact” even as it echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s views that the two countries should create favourable conditions for a mutually-acceptable settlement of the vexed boundary issue.

“There is a huge dispute in the eastern border of China-India border.

This is undeniable fact,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hu Chunying told media here when asked about Indian Government extending controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in Arunachal Pradesh.

“China always holds consistent and clear position on the China-India boundary question. The two sides should make joint efforts to maintain peace tranquillity of the border area and create favourable conditions for the negotiation of the boundary question,” she said.

Arunachal Pradesh shares a 1,126 km border with China and 520 km border with Myanmar. China claims Arunachal Pradesh

as part of southern Tibet.

China calling the border issue a “huge dispute” and “undeniable fact” is seen as an attempt by Beijing to flag its stand on Arunachal Pradesh ahead of Modi’s expected visit to China next month.

Her comments came as the top defence officials of the two countries are meeting here ahead of the Annual Defence Dialogue (ADD) scheduled for tomorrow.

Hua sounded positive while reacting to Modi’s remarks on the border issue made in an interview to an Indian newspaper and endorsed his views that maintaining peace at the border is important in order to create conditions to arrive at a mutually-acceptable solution.

“We have taken note of remarks made by Prime Minister Modi. China has always taken a positive attitude on the China-India boundary question,” she said.

“Last September while visiting India, President Xi Jinping said publicly that China is confident to resolve the boundary question together with the Indian side though

Northeast Briefs

Meghalaya to host NE Fest in Delhi New Delhi, April 9 (pTi): In a bid to bring Northeastern India closer to the rest of the country, a day-long Northeast festival, featuring food, costumes, music and dance among other features is being organised at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium on April 11 here. Hosted by the Meghalaya government and sponsored by the North East Council, the festival titled "Songs and Dances of the North-East" is scheduled to be inaugurated by President Pranab Mukherjee, organisers said here today. "The purpose of the festival is to connect the unique way of life of North eastern people with the rest of the country," M War Nongbri, Director Art and Culture, Meghalaya government said. Both budding and eminent bands and artistes from across the 8 states will showcase their rich, vibrant, cultural ethnicity and diversity through an array of music and dance performances. Among the popular names are bands like Shillong Chamber Choir (Meghalaya), Imphal talkies (Aizawl), Tetseo Sisters (Nagaland) and the acclaimed "Indian Idol" winner Amit Paul.

Anti-corruption body slams Mizoram govt AizAwl, April 9 (pTi): A leading anti-corruption watchdog in Mizoram on Thursday slammed the state government for the its proposal to declare the north eastern parts of the state adjoining Manipur as 'disturbed area'.

If placed under disturbed area, armed security personnel would terrorise the innocent civilians of the area, where the Hmar community are concentrated, Ngursailova Sailo, general secretary of People's Right to Information and Development Implementing Society of Mizoram (PRISM) said today. It could harm the unity of the Mizos as it could be conceived in the area as targeting the Hmar community. PRISM urged the state government to take steps to improve the security of the people and work for the development of the area, he said. The government has been mulling to declare area as a disturbed area after the ambush of the state assembly committee on government assurances team on March 28 by suspected Hmar Peoples Convention (Democrats) militants near Mizoram-Manipur border at Zokhawthiang hamlet in which three policemen were killed.

Gogoi urges Power Ministry GuwAhATi, April 9 (pTi): Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today urged the Union Ministry of Power to take appropriate action for allocation of 500 MW of power from three projects in Bhutan.

The Assam government had applied for power from the Bhutan project, but it was pending with the Ministry of Power for appropriate action, Gogoi said in his speech, read in absentia, at the Conference of Power, Renewable energy and mines of Ministers of states and Union Territories here. “The application of Assam has already been recommended by the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), but no confirmation in this regard has been received from the Power Ministry till date,” he said. Gogoi urged the Centre for sympathetic consideration in this regard and came down heavily on NEEPCO for poor generation of power in its existing projects and inordinate delay in the project execution of some of its projects.

friendly negotiations and maintaining peace and tranquillity of the border area,” she said.

“It is a common responsibility of common aspiration of the India and China to resolve the boundary question. We have made enormous efforts to this end,” she said, highlighting 18 rounds of Special Representatives talks to “exchange views”.

“Progress has been made in this regard. We are willing to work with India to press ahead with the negotiations process to reach a comprehensive and reasonable solution that is acceptable to both the parties,” she said.

Showing its sensitivity on Arunachal Pradesh, China had recently strongly protested to India over Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the border state.

China says the border dispute is confined only to 2,000 kms mostly in Arunachal Pradesh whereas India asserts that the dispute covered the western side of the border spanning to about 4,000 kms, especially the Aksai Chin area annexed by China in 1962 war.

School children attend a class under a tree outside a school in east Gagolmari village about 70 kilometers (44 miles) east of Guwahati, on Thursday, April 9.

According to the UNESCO Education for All Global Monitoring Report 2015, only half of all countries have achieved the most watched goal of universal primary enrollment. The report launched Thursday says, India has reduced its out of school children by over 90% since 2000. (AP Photo/ Anupam Nath)

NBW against Cong MLA Siddeque Ahmod in assault case GuwAhATi, April 9 (pTi): The Assam Police today searched the official residence of former minister and Congress MLA Siddeque Ahmod, against whom a non-bailable warrant has been issued in an assault case by a court in Karimganj district.

The Karimganj police team, which also conducted searches at other locations in the city, could not find Ahmod.

"After the Additional Chief Judi-

cial Magistrate Court issued a nonbailable moving warrant against the MLA regarding an old assault case, our team went to Guwahati last night. "Since this morning, the team has conducted searches at his MLA Hostel residence and many other places. However, we have not been able to find him yet," Karimganj SP B P Rabha told PTI. The case was registered in 2011 and the trial was currently going on at the Court, he said. "The origi-

nal charge sheet of the case did not contain the name of Ahmod and the complainant objected to this. Then the Court issued summons to the MLA for appearing in case, but he did not come," Rabha said. He said before this non-bailable warrant, the Court had issued another non-bailable warrant, for which Ahmod got temporary relief from the Gauhati High Court, and later was admitted in a hospital after his recent accident.

Asked if Ahmod was abscond-

ing, Rabha said, "That I can't say. If necessary, the Court will declare it. We usually declare a person absconding only after searching for a long time and do not find the person." When contacted, Assam Assembly Principal Secretary Gauranga Prasad Das said a police team from Karimganj came this morning seeking permission to search Ahmod's quarters at the MLA Hostel."The Speaker has given the permission accordingly," he added.

President greeted with banner against frequent shifting of governors AizwAl, April 9 (pTi): 'Seven Governors in nine months is not acceptable', read a banner that greeted President Pranab Mukherjee on his arrival here on first state visit to Mizoram.

The north-eastern state has witnessed a virtual parade of gubernatorial appointees being sworn-in and shown the door since the Narendra Modi government came to power in May last year, with West Bengal Governor K N Tripathi becoming the seventh Raj Bhavan occupant recently.

Mukherjee was accorded a

warm reception on his arrival here this afternoon with people lining the entire 20 km stretch from Thuampui helipad to Raj Bhavan. Mukherjee was seen happily waving at the crowds as many captured the moment on their mobile phones.

As the motorcade passed through the narrow roads of the scenic hill station that rivals Shimla and Mussoorie, some people raised placards that said 'seven Governors in nine months in not acceptable'.

Tripathi, the latest Raj Bhavan occupant, already holds additional charge of Bihar, besides

being the Governor of West Bengal.

The Raj Bhavan here has seen a string of swearing-in ceremonies since the Modi government took office in May last year.

It all began when V Purushothaman resigned after being transferred to neighbouring Nagaland, saying he was not consulted.

Gujarat Governor Kamla Beniwal, with whom Modi had several run-ins as chief minister, was then shifted to Mizoram.

87-year-old Beniwal took over as 12th Governor on July

6 but her tenure was cut short when she was sacked for alleged impropriety, a charge denied by her, a month later.

This was followed by the transfer of Maharashtra Governor K Sankaranarayanan to Mizoram. He refused to take over and quit soon after his transfer order was issued on August 24 last.

Former Union Home Secretary V K Duggal also exited and after him former Delhi Police Commissioner K K Paul was given the additional charge of Mizoram along with Meghalaya till his transfer to Uttarakhand

M'laya ADCs may get Rs 4,500 crore aid from Centre ShillONG, April 9 (pTi): Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Nihal Chand, today said that the Centre is contemplating providing financial aid of Rs 4,500 crore to the three autonomous district councils (ADCs) in Meghalaya to strengthen these tribal bodies. He announced this while talking to reporters here on the sidelines of a meeting with officials of the three autonomous district councils. "The purpose of my visit to the state is to review the panchayati raj system besides further strengthening it," he said.

The Union Minister also empha-

sised the need for equal opportunity vis-a-vis women's participation in local bodies in the state. "Women should be given maximum participation in the local bodies of the state," he said.

Although Meghalaya's is a matrilineal society where women are highly respected, women's rights in terms of participation in local institutions are being curtailed, the minister said.

There will be more development in the state if the three- tier panchayati system is implemented instead of the current two-tier arrangement, he said. According to the minister, the

state government has submitted a proposal in this regard and the ministry will consider it.

Stating that there is no move by the Centre to abolish the district council system in the state, he promised full cooperation in terms of support and funds to panchayats in Meghalaya. The minister arrived here to review developments related to issues concerning the three district councils -- Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council, Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council and Garo Hills Autonomous District Council.

Assam moots special court for witch-hunting trials GuwAhATi, April 9 (iANS): Assam might set up a special court for the trial of cases related to witch-hunting, a social evil in some parts of the state that has claimed the lives of 82 people in the past five years.

A draft bill prepared by the state home department proposes punishment ranging between three years to life imprisonment for those found guilty of branding someone a witch and abetting suicide, apart from setting up a special court and taking care of such victims.

The Prevention of and Protection from Witch

Hunting Bill, 2015 that is likely to be tabled in the next session of the assembly, proposes jail terms between three to seven years for those performing witchcraft or any other superstitious practices with intention to harm others.

"The special court will conduct the trial of witchhunting cases, offences of which will be cognizable, non-bailable and noncompoundable. The fines realized as punishment for an offence under the act shall be paid to victims as compensation," said the draft bill.

The draft was prepared

after a Public Interest Litigation was filed in the Gauhati High Court by lawyer Rajib Kalita in 2013.

It sought a law to prevent witch-hunting, strict punishment for those involved in such crimes and assistance and rehabilitation of victims.

Police have registered 98 cases since 2009, particularly in the rural areas of Assam where people, mostly women, were held responsible for any malaise or illness of others and branded as a witch.

NGOs and civil society groups have been demanding a strict law to deal with witch-hunting as 17 of the

27 districts have reported such crimes.

Some victims committed suicide after being ostracized by villages or communities.

Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha and Maharashtra are among the few states having similar laws to tackle witch-hunting.

The draft bill also proposes punishment for a public servant wilfully refusing to register a case or neglecting the investigation or trying to withhold facts and evidence with the intention to minimise the gravity of the offences. Such public servants will face the charge of abetment.

Apocalypse Now: Meghalaya families cut ties with world for 'doomsday' GuwAhATi, April 9 (The iNDiAN expreSS): Altogether nine tribal families, all residents of a remote village in West Khasi Hills district in Meghalaya, have secluded themselves from the society, quit jobs, withdrawn children from schools and also emptied their bank accounts, after a self-styled ‘prophet’ convinced them that “doomsday” was near and there was no point pursuing worldly pleasure.

Confirming this West Khasi Hills district deputy commissioner S Kharlyngdoh said he was aware of the incident but

3

was unable to take any action “because there was nothing illegal or criminal about it.”

“We are aware of the incident. But where is the question of taking any action by the government? Is it a crime under any provision of the law? How can we interfere? It is a religious matter and would hurt religious sentiments,” deputy commissioner Kharlyngdoh told The Indian Express over the telephone from Nongstoin, the district headquarter on Thursday.

According to reports carried by a section of the local media in

Shillong, the nine families included those of two government employees and three school teachers, all of whom had resigned from their government jobs and are reportedly waiting for the world to come to an end any time.

Residents of Nongthhliew village under Mairang block, they have been waiting for about two years now, reports said.

The families have come under influence of an un-named preacher who arrived in their village about two years ago and told the people that there was no point holding on to wealth, jobs and cash because

the world was coming to an end at any moment. While most villagers did not bother to believe, these nine families thought the ‘prophet’ was right, following which they have withdrawn from the society and have been living a secluded life, reports said.

Reports quoting village headman Spotting Mawlong said the nine families, all belonging to a particular Christian denomination, had also withdrawn their children from school, withdrew all the money they had in banks, and have also refused to accept foodgrains provided by the gov-

ernment under the public distribution system. They have also thrown away their electronic voter identity cards (EPIC) and other documents.

The families have apparently also stopped going to Church and have taken to ‘internal prayers’ in their respective homes. “Efforts by some village elders and church officials to bring them out of their strange belief have not yielded any result,” the headman was quoted as having said.”They only told us that they trust in the Holy Spirit after we tried to intervene,” the headman reportedly said.

to replace Aziz Qureshi, who was sacked on March 28.

Mizoram students body Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) had picketed in front of central government offices to protest against the frequent change of Governors in the state, which it called a 'gubernatorial dumping ground of unwanted governors'.

The students body is planning to hold demonstrations during the two-day Presidential visit that began today.

Mukherjee is here to attend the convocation of Mizoram University.

Happy Birthday Hi! Sandeep May this day bring countless happiness and endless joy.

Happy Birthday.

The Morung Family

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TRAI reduces ceiling tariffs for national roaming

NSE builds capacity for financial market course for Nagaland KoLKATA, AprIL 9 (pTI): National Stock Exchange has begun the process of capacity building for financial markets management course in Nagaland. The leading bourse is conducting a 5-day teachers training program at Kohima in partnership with the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE). A NSE release said it had entered into a partnership with the Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE) last year to offer a Financial Markets Management course for students of class XI and class XII. “It is very important to understand the concept of financial planning from a young age. This initiative will help the students of to become aware about the financial markets and plan their future. We have taken various educational initiatives across india, “ Ravi Varanasi, NSE’s Chief - Business Development said in a statement. Highlighting the investors awarness campaigns, NSE said during 2014-15 those were spread to all 13 states/union territories covering about 135 districts in the country’s eastern region and reaching out to more than 20,000 participants including about 8000 college students. This included major states like West Bengal, Odhisa, Jharkand and Bihar.

‘India not out of inflation woods’ mumbAI, AprIL 9 (rEuTErs): India’s central bank will continue to focus on targeting inflation and cannot drop guard, Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan said in an interview to CNBC-TV18 on Thursday. “This is where we cannot relax our guard quickly, we cannot say we are out of the inflation woods,” Rajan said, referring to the central bank’s achievement over bringing down retail inflation sharply from double digit level. “This is the time we have to consolidate and ensure that the disinflationary perception is entrenched.” India’s consumer prices index fell to 5.37% in February from a high of 11.16% in November 2013, a few months after Rajan assumed office. Appreciating the government’s efforts on fiscal consolidation over medium term, Rajan said the government was collaborating on the central bank’s inflation target. The RBI targets inflation at 6 percent by January 2016 and 4% for 2017/18.

Reliance Jio launches instant messaging application NEW DELHI, AprIL 9 (IANs): Reliance Jio Infocomm, the telecom firm of the Mukesh Ambani-led group, has launched its instant messaging application on iOS and Android mobile phones, which went live on April 7, according to sources. The application, Jio Chat, is similar to other chat applications like WhatsApp, Line, Hike and Wechat. The Jio Chat description in the Google play store says it connects for free across any mobile data connection or WiFi, “no matter where in the world you are”. Along with “voice, video, conferencing, messaging, instant video, sticker, doodles, and emoticons” facilities, the application also offers location-sharing and status-sharing.

Facebook rolls out Messenger web version WAsHINgToN, AprIL 9 (ANI): Facebook has recently launched a web version of its messenger, in a bid to make it easier for users to chat from a browser tab on a desktop. To access the standalone web page for messaging, users need to login with their Facebook account at the link Messenger.com, The Verge reported. However, the company has no plans to remove messaging from its main site. The sole purpose of the Facebook Messenger is “messaging” and its web version is just a “blown-up” mobile version of the same. The new messenger is not a proper desktop app but has a barebones settings menu through which users can enable or disable sound effects and desktop notifications. All other account activities, which could distract users while chatting, like, viewing news feed, visiting someone`s profile, blocking a contact or making any privacy settings changes, would be done through the primary site itself.

Lower call rates effective from May 1 NEW DELHI, AprIL 9 (EcoNomIc TImEs): The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) on Thursday cut ceiling tariffs for national roaming calls and text messages and mandated operators to bring the changes into effect from May 1, 2015. It also asked carriers to offer a special roaming tariff plan.

TRAI has set the ceiling for outgoing local calls at 80 paise minute from Re 1 a minute while it reduced the calling rate to Rs 1.15 per minute from Rs 1.5 a minute for STD calls.

Incoming calls on roaming will be charged at most 45 paise per minute, down from 75 paise charged earlier, while a maximum of 25 paise per will be charged for a local SMS sent compared to Rs 1 charged before, and to 38 paise per for STD SMS sent, down from Rs 1.50.

“All subscribers will benefit from the reduced ceilings, competitive pricing below the new ceiling levels is expected,”

the regulator said in a statement.

With the new structure, call charges will fall by 20% while messaging rates will decline by 75%, benefitting millions of subscribers who make calls or send messages while travelling

NEW DELHI, AprIL 9 (IANs): Global ratings agency Moody’s on Thursday enhanced India’s sovereign rating to positive from stable, expecting positive steps from policy-makers to spur growth and put the country ahead of peers -- a development that finance ministry said was significant.

“Moody’s decision to revise the ratings outlook to positive from stable is based on its view that there is an increasing probability that actions by policy-makers will enhance the country’s economic strength and, in turn, the sovereign’s financial strength over coming years,” Moody’s Investors Service said in a statement.

“India has grown faster than similarly-rated peers over the last decade due to favourable demographics, economic diversity, as well as high savings and investment rates,” it said, adding these, along with global developments, will keep India’s growth higher than that of its peers.

Reacting to the development, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said: “Moody’s has changed rating outlook to positive from stable and affirms bBaa3 rating. The up-

Game Number # 3190

policies were seen as harming growth. “India’s Baa3 government bond rating incorporates credit strengths, such as its diversified economy, robust growth prospects, relatively high domestic savings rate and high international reserve buffers,” it said.

“It also reflects India’s weaker performance, relative to peers, on fiscal, inflation and infrastructure-related metrics. And while policies are beginning to address each of these factors, the extent of likely improvements is as yet unclear,” it said.

“Moreover, India’s banking system’s asset quality, loan loss coverage and capital ratios are relatively weak,” it said, and added this posed credit risks because of the financial sector’s role in financing growth and the government’s deficits.

“In the absence of any improvement in bankingsystem metrics over the coming months, India’s sovereign credit profile will remain constrained.”

‘India has grown faster than similarly-rated peers over the last decade..’

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

outside their home circles.

The regulator also mandated telcos to provide a special roaming tariff plan, where incoming voice calls while on national roaming will be free, and telcos may levy a fixed charge, if any. But TRAI added that tel-

cos need not provide two rate plans to their roaming customers - one with an option of free incoming calls and another in which each incoming call was billed - which were made mandatory back in July 2013.

TRAI though has increased

the ceiling tariffs for outgoing local and STD calls from 65 paise a minute and Rs 1 per minute, respectively, tariffs that it had proposed in February this year. Leading telecom companies had asked the regulator to consider raising the ceiling price on outgoing local calls during roaming, ET had reported on March 12.

However, the mandate will still impact top carriers. As per TRAI data, about Rs 8,000 crore, or 6% of the industry’s total revenue, comes from roaming, most of which goes to Bharti AirtelBSE -2.97 %, Vodafone and Idea, which have more affluent customers, brokerage Credit Suisse had said.

It estimated a 34% hit (on 65 paise a minute call rate ceiling) on revenue if the drop in tariffs is not compensated by an increase in usage or volumes and quipped that customer behaviour would not allow this arbitrage to continue.

Moody’s now positive on India, Renault rolls out Lodgy Arun Jaitley promises more Price starts at Rs. 8.19 lakh

grade in outlook is significant, but we’ve got to do more.”

The Baa3 rating incorporates the risk that higher levels of growth and infrastructure development will be accompanied by higher leverage.

Sovereign credit improvements over the next 12-18 months will depend on the extent to which growth, policies and buffers can contain risks, it said.

The agency, however, did not raise the sovereign credit rating due to some factors.

Some 16 months ago, when the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government was at the helm, it had warned of a downgrade if government

_

LEISURE

The Morung Express

NEW DELHI, AprIL 9 (pTI): French auto major Renault today forayed into the multi purpose vehicle (MPV) segment in India with the launch of ‘Lodgy’ at an introductory price starting at Rs. 8.19 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

The vehicle will compete with the likes of Toyota’s Innova, Maruti’s Ertiga, Honda’s Mobilio and General Motors’ Enjoy, which are priced in the range of Rs. 5.99 lakh to Rs. 15.8 lakh.

“Lodgy would fuel our next phase of growth in India. With this vehicle, we will define multi purpose vehicle segment in the country,” Renault India Country CEO and MD Sumit Sawhney told reporters here.

The vehicle will come in seven variants, priced between Rs. 8.19 lakh and Rs. 11.79 lakh. Besides Lodgy, the company also plans to introduce a small car this year, a move aimed at achieving 5 per cent market share in India by the end of next year, Sawhney said.

The company had a market share of just over two per cent in the country last year.

At present, the Duster is Renault’s volume driver and a key pillar for its growth in the country. Renault India has so far sold 1.25 lakh Dusters in the country. The company is also looking at expanding its sales network across the country with a target of over 200 touch points by the end of this year. “As of today, we have 157 outlets across the country. By the end of this year we aim to have 205 sales outlets and 280 touch points by the end of next year,” Sawhney said.

The company is also getting into the used car business in order to fuel growth in the country.

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G O L G X V S G I H Q E W I Z Q U Y O L

ACROSS

1. African virus 6. Aspersion 10. Exuviate 14. Celebrate 15. Not a single one 16. Pitcher 17. Pilfer 18. Does something 19. Short skirt 20. Beginner 22. Savvy about 23. African antelope 24. Very slow in tempo 26. Photographic necessity 30. 8th Greek letter 32. Convex molding 33. Communicator 37. Arid 38. Black birds 39. Plunge 40. Quavering 42. Whines 43. Blow up 44. Concrete 45. A fabric resembling velvet 47. Gorilla 48. Words 49. Driven by lust

56. Murres 57. Arab chieftain 58. Absurd 59. Teller of untruths 60. Location 61. Stripes 62. Friend 63. Back talk 64. Legions

DOWN

1. At one time (archaic) 2. Mend (archaic) 3. Baking appliance 4. Its symbol is Pb 5. Lively tempo 6. Foul-up 7. Mentally irregular (slang) 8. “Do ___ others...”

9. Fidgety 10. Note 11. Unpaid 12. Slowly, in music 13. Threesome 21. Ribonucleic acid 25. Consumed food 26. Outlay 27. Affirm 28. Not less 29. Primary 30. Anagram of “Tutor”

31. Chops 33. Brace 34. Scrabble piece 35. Not odd 36. A musical pause 38. Uninformed 41. A large vase 42. Cranky 44. Consumer Price Index 45. Risk 46. Lengthways 47. Units of land 48. A city in western Russia 50. Dogfish 51. Seats oneself 52. Within 53. Paddles 54. Module 55. Oceans Ans to CrossWord 3199

Police Control Room: North Police Station: South Police Station: Fire Brigade: Naga Hospital: Oking Hospital: Bethel Nursing Home: Northeast Shuttles

STD CODE: 0370 100/2244279 2222222 2222111 2222952 2222916 2243339 2224202 08974997923

CHUMUKEDIMA: 03862 282777/101 (O) 9856158740 (OC)

MOKOKCHUNG: 0369 2226225/ 101 (O) 9436012949 (OC) PHEK: 8414853765 (O) 9862130954(OC) ZUNHEBOTO: 03867 280304/ 101 (O) 9856156876 (OC)

MON: 03869 251222/ 101 (O) 9436208480 (OC) KipHire: 8414853767 (O) 8974304572 (OC)

Toll free No. 1098 childline

Police Station 1:

DIMAPUR: 03862 232201/ 101 (O) 9436017479 (OC)

TUENSANG: 8414853766 (O) 8414853519

CHILD WELFARE COMMITTEE

MOKOKCHUNG:

KOHIMA: 0370 2222952/ 101 (O) 9402003086 (OC)

WOKHA: 03860 242215/101 (O) 9862039399 (OC)

Chumukedima Fire 282777 Brigade Nikos Hospital and 232032, 231031 Research Centre

KOHIMA

FIRE STATIONS

STD CODE: 0369

2226241

Police Station 2 :

2226214

Civil Hospital: Woodland Nursing Home:

2226216 2226263

Hotel Metsüpen (Tourist Lodge):

2226373/2229343

TAHAMZAM (formerly Senapati) STD CODE: 03871 Police Station: Fire Brigade

CURRENCY NOTES

222246 222491

BUY(Rs)

SELL(Rs)

US Dollars Sterling Pound Hong Kong Dollar Australian Dollar Singapore Dollar Canadian Dollar Japanese Yen

60.87 90.77 7.6 46.88 44.82 48.79 50.46

63.62 95.17 8.46 49.20 47.01 51.20 53.72

Euro

66.12

69.32

1.81

2.02

Thai Baht Korean Won New Zealand Dollar Chinese Yuan

0.0538

0.06

45.72

47.98

9.49

10.57

LOCAL Wild elephants damage properties in Wokha

Friday

The Morung Express

Wokha, april 9 (MExN): Within a span of a year, wild elephants has run riot again in New Wokha Village damaging properties and crops on April 4. It destroyed 3 houses, one totally ripped into two right from the middle.

The Lotha Youth Hoho, which visited the village yesterday, inspected and interacted with the village officials and passed the information to Forest officials who also came to visit the village.

According to a LYO press note issued by its president, Nchumbemo Ezung during the interaction the Chairman of the village, Khyolamo Humtsoe and his council members while thanking the organization also lamented that the invasion of the wild Elephants has become a real threat to the villagers as apart from eating up the crops (Banana farms & other fruits) of the farmers, they have started destroying houses.

They further regretted that despite giving much information to the government regarding the danger

LYO appeals for assistance

of the elephants, neither the state nor central government has responded with any tangible solution.

He also informed the LYO that so far the department has given Rs. 9,000/to 10 affected families/villagers whose houses and

MEx FILE NERPAP special camp on April 12 DiMapur, april 9 (MExN): The first special camp in connection with the National Electoral Roll Purification and Authentication Programme (NERPAP) for Dimapur will be held on April 12. All the BLOs under Dimapur district are directed to be present in their respective polling station locations along with the relevant register and electoral roll in order to facilitate the electors to submit their Aadhar and EPIC numbers. All the AEROs and Supervisors are informed to inspect the polling stations under their jurisdiction and submit report.

Consultative workshop on Swine Flu kohiMa, april 9 (Dipr): A consultative workshop on Swine Flu and other emerging infectious diseases has been convened by the Ministry of DONER at Shillong on April 24 and 25. All State Nodal Officer (IDSP) of the North East Region along with the professors of medicine community medicine, TB and respiratory diseases of medical colleges are expected to attend the workshop.

Phisami’s general annual session DiMapur, april 9 (MExN): All the office bearers, adviser members of Phisami living in and around Dimapur are informed to attend the general annual session 2015 on April 18 at residence of the banker, Shitovi Kiba at 10:00 M without fail. New Members can come and register their names upon their arrival. This was stated in a press release issued by KPKD chairman Kashito Kiba.

Community fishing DiMapur, april 9 (MExN): The Doyang Union of Philimi and Tsungiki villages will be organising a community fishing on April 14 at Doyang River for the inhabitants of the two villages. Informing this on a press note, the Doyand Union Chairman, Wobemo and Secretary, Khekivi said that a while similar event was held on March 31 inviting everyone irrespective of tribe and villages, this time since the villages would be discussing private matters, the invitation is not send to all but only members of the two villages.

farms were destroyed in December 2014.

The Wild Life Trust of India also donated twenty (20) bags of Rice but the council refused to take as it was “not a joke” to distribute 20 bags of Rice to the villagers whose properties

worth several Lakhs have been destroyed. The WTI also seemed to have promised to construct three Watch Towers in the village, the press note added.

Further, the village council maintained that the ‘immediate’ need of the

Western Area Chakhesang Baptist Church Council (WACBCC) has inaugurated its office building foundation plaque. It was inaugurated by Rev. Dr. Nuvocho Dzudo, chairman of WACBCC, who exhorted the members to look on God, the source of all gifts, citing Prov. 19:21 and Haggai 1:7-8. The total area of the land measuring 67,300 square feet was donated by 7th Mile Village for Mission Centre, a press release informed.

Dimapur

5

Freak storms damage houses, properties at Merangkong Village Morung Express News Mokokchung | April 9

Around 47 houses were damaged, including 2 residential abodes which were completely shattered beyond repair, in an abrupt storm this evening around 3-3:30 PM at Merangkong Village , under Mokokchung District, Speaking to The Morung Express, Sub-Divisional Officer (C) Arikumba informed that, the windy storm lasted for only few minutes accompanied with light rain.

The administration under his lead, EAC Tuli and OC Tuli rushed to the spot for verification, he added.

No casualties were reported till the filling of the report.

The SDO (C) handed a sum of Rs. 5000 for immediate relief to the victim through the council chairman. The damage is roughly estimated to be costing around 80 lakhs, he stated.

The SDO (Civil) has appealed to the Government,

Loss estimated at around 80 lakhs

the NGOs and the public to extend all possible assistance to those affected families and individuals.

The wind speed that hit

the area is yet to be ascertained by the MET Department and the exact cost of damage are also to be assessed.

NPCB conducts pollution awareness at PCC Sensitisation seminar on POSCO Act

DiMapur, april 9 (MExN): The Nagaland Pollution Control board (NPCB), Dimapur conducted a pollution awareness drive at Patkai Christian College (Autonomous) on April 8 where the participants were imparted knowledge on quality of air in the environment.

Under the supervision of member secretary of NPCB , Rusovil John, the awareness campaign was led by Akangmeren Imchen, a scientist; Yanathung Kithan and Abishik Chetri, a senior scientific assistant and field assistant respectively.

They demonstrated the technique to monitoring instrument like Fine Particulate Matter APM 550 MFC, Airrex Automotive Emission AnalyzerHG-540 and Mars Smoke Meter SM-05 for ambient air and vehicular pollution.

According to R Ramkashem, the HOD of the chemistry, the campaign was also initiated for the PG students of environmental science and to act as guide for a dissertation of a students, Sovino entitled, ‘Estimation of Ambient Air and Emission of Air Pollu-

tion at Patkai Campus’ by different automobiles.

As per the report, the air quality falls in the category of ‘clean air’ while traffic volume study shows that the 3 wheelers are the major contributors of pollutants. The health effect was also evaluated using doseresponse coefficient and the results showed that the mortality and morbidity effects were safe.

The principal and the respective department also expressed gratitude to the NPCB for the valuable services rendered to the college.

DiMapur, april 9 (MExN): A one day district level sensitization camp on Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 organized by National Institute of Public Cooperation & Child Development (NIPCCD) Regional Centre, Guwahati with support from department of Social Welfare Nagaland was held today in the premises of Development Association of Nagaland, here.

Khehoto Sema, Joint

Director, Social Welfare Nagaland graced the inaugural function of the programme as chief guest while Sunita Sashadri, Assistance Director, NIPCCD Guwahati who was one of the resource persons chaired the function. Chelium Khiamniungan, Advocate DSLA Dimapur was the other resource person of the sensitization programme.

The attendees of the programme were sensitized on an analysis on sex-

ual violence/abuse against children in India and on an overview of Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POSCO) Act 2012.

The topics that were during the day-long programme were provisions and mechanisms POSCO Act and role of stakeholders in implementation of POSCO Act 2012.

More than 50 people including DWO, DPOs, CDPOs, Anganwadi workers and representatives of NGOs attended the programme.

Wangyuh Aghoto Kupu at Baimho Village Training on Nagaland condoles ZuNhEboto, april Village in Zunheboto. The release has acknowl- services discipline held 9 (MExN): Much to the Aghoto Kupu (Bridge) edged Er Hotovi Aye, deof the people of was constructed with partment of irrigation kohiMa, april 9 (Discipline & Appeal) Lt. Shaiza relief Tizu River Area, which is sole contribution of Ag- and flood control and Er (Dipr): One-day train- Rules, 1967 to other deDiMapur, april 9 (MExN): Ex- Members of Parliament (MP), Lok Sabha from Nagaland and ExNLA Member, W Wangyuh Konyak has expressed his extreme shock and sadness over the demise of ‘Aunty’ Ranu M Shazia, the sole women MP from Nagaland, at Kohima on April 1.

Offering his condolences in a press note received here, Wangyuh said that her deeds in many capacities would be remembered by younger generation in days to come and further called upon the Naga women to ‘copy the footstep’ of Lt. Shaiza and participates in all election like her. "I and my family convey condolences to bereaved family. Let her soul rest in peace,” he added.

popularly known as the ‘Rice Bowl’ of Zunheboto district, a suspension bridge was constructed from Kashika to Lochuu area. The bridge, measuring approximately 120 feet is located at Baimho

kohiMa, april 9 (MExN): Kohima College held its 48th social parting on April 2, at college auditorium hall with Rovilato Mor, Deputy Commissioner Kohima as the chief guest.

Aseno Terhuja chaired the programme, invocation prayer was pronounced by Ase Yalie Asst professor,

DiMapur, april 9 (MExN): The residents of the CIHSR (Christian Institute of Health Sciences & Research) has strongly condemned the alleged “rape and murder” of a minor girl belonging to a construction worker on April 4. The crime was allegedly committed by one a fellow construction worker.

Empathising with the bereaved family, the Chairman of the CIHSR Resident Committee, Dr. Athikho Nepun and Secretary, Dr. Zekolo Koza in a press note said that it would stand with the family in their fight for justice.

The committee also appealed the Hospital authority and the contractors to put in place policies and safeguards against such criminal activities in the future.

Workshop on Hepatitis C kohiMa, april 9 (MExN): Hepatitis Coalition of Nagaland (HepCoN) and Nagaland Users’ Network (NUN) conducted a workshop on Hepatitis C treatment literacy to generate Treatment Preparedness among people infected and affected by HCV on April 7 at LCS Building, Kohima. The workshop, which was supported by IDUF and ANPUD, was attended by 28 representatives from various District Drug Users Network, NNP+, FPAI, Zydus Heptiza, a press release informed.

Abou Mere, Ketho An-

hoto Yepthomi, head GB of Baimho village with the physical help of the villagers. Hollohon Yepthomi, SDO (Civil) Zunheboto on March 31, inaugurated it. The Baimho village head GB in a press

Tia, department of power, Zunheboto for extending support. Meanwhile, the Head GB added that the Aghoto Kupu would help the people in crossing the River Tizu especially during rainy season.

Kohima College 48th parting social held

CIHSR residents condemns

One day Workshop on “Basic Research Methods for Social Sciences and Management Researchers” was conducted at ICFAI University Nagaland on April 2. The resource was person Oinam Bhopen Singh.

village is to have a Range office set up within the effected village, deployment of forest guards, construction of Watch Towers.

The LYO raised these concerns in their meeting with the forest officials led by Imti Wapang DFO Wokha & Zuthunglo Patton DFO, Doyang, the press note informed adding that the the organisation was made to understand that it takes a corperative effort between the people and the government to tackle the situation. Various possible steps of solving the problems & possibilities about alternative arrangement for helping the effected village were discussed.

Meanwhile, the offices of the Lotha Youth Hoho appealed to the concerned department, state and even the centre to seriously consider the situation faced by the effected the villages and extend any form of help.

The organisation also requested the elected representatives from Wokha district to take necessary action in helping the effected people.

10 April 2015

gami and Suman from Zydus Heptiza facilitated sessions on Test and Diagnosis, Treatment (with Peg + Sofosbuvir and other DAAs), and Zydus present and plan of Treatment with Sofosbuvir.

The workshop also discussed making HCV treatment more available, accessible and affordable, to which, the house voiced out the need for further reduction in price of sofosbuvir based treatment. The programme was followed by few people volunteering to undergo antibody test, the release added.

welcome note was delivered by Chubatola Longkumer, principal Kohima College, where special number was presented

by Mughalevi Sumi, followed by annual report by Zensinlo Tep, General secy.

KCSU. Speeches on behalf of outgoing students and remaining students were de-

livered by Kevisenuo Rupreo, and Hutulo Chuzho respectively. Choir was presented by the Economics Dept. of BA 2nd semester, and vote of thanks was delivered by Phumrili, Asst General secy.

It was followed by entertainment session where students presented dance, song, musical piece etc.

ing on Nagaland Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1968, Nagaland Services (Discipline & Appeal) Rules, 1967 for all the officers and staff was held at IPR conference hall on April 7. Director, ATI, Lithrongla G. Chishi and State Coordinator (Disaster Management) Dr. Hovithal N. Sothu were the resource persons.

In her introductory note, Lithrongla said that IPR has been chosen as the first directorate to be imparted the training since the department is considered as the mouthpiece of the government, which could disseminate the importance of the Nagaland Government Servants Conduct Rules, 1968, Nagaland Services

partments. She also mentioned that the training would cover 60 departments with the resource persons from ATI going personally to all the directorates.

During the day long training programme, Dr. Hovithal highlighted on the important issues relating to employment of near relatives of government servants in private undertakings enjoying government patronage, use of government vehicles, discussion of the policy or action of government, acceptance of employment during leave, consumption of intoxicating drinks and drugs etc.

He further elaborately explained the Nagaland Services Discipline and Appeals Rules 1967.

Civil registration, a vital source of information and statistical surveys: DSO DiMapur, april 9 (MExN): A two day the awareness programme on civil registration successfully concluded here today with the participation of more than 90 village Council chairmen, VDB secretaries and registrars from Dimapur district.

The programme, an initiative of the District Statistical Office (DSO) and Addl. District Registrar of Births & Deaths, was held at separately for two different Blocks - Kuhuboto RD block at DSO office on April 8 and another at ADC conference hall for Nuiland RD Block on April 9.

According to a DSO press note, during the programme, the District Statistical Officer, Lithungo Lotha briefing the trainees urged them to be sincere and careful while issuing the Births & deaths certificates to the people.

Stressing that the civil registration is a vital source of information and statistical surveys undertaken

Village Council Chairmen and Registrars attending awareness programme for Nuiland Block RD on Thursday, April 9.

by the state and the central government for planning and developmental activities in the country, he encouraged the trainees to help the inhabitants of their respective villages in obtaining the Births & deaths certificates.

Undertaking the train-

ing procedure, DPA Ethel Rengma disseminated the subject matter thoroughly amongst the trainees. Civil registration in the states and districts level plays an important role both in the socio and economic development of the state in general, the DPA further noted

while interacting with the trainees.

The awareness programme on civil registration is a part of by the Directorate of Economics & Statistics annual initiative across the state with an objective to create awareness on the civil registration.

6

IN-FOCUS

The Power of Truth

The Morung Express FrIDAy 10 APrIl 2015 volumE X IssuE 96

Guest editorial Dr. sao Tunyi

Tobacco lobby, Cancer, Cow urine

F

irst, a BJP MP in the parliamentary committee looking into rules regarding tobacco sales said that there is no Indian study linking tobacco to cancer. This was followed by another member saying that a lot of chain smokers do not develop cancer. Another BJP MP, again a member of the committee remarked that there is no fool proof evidence that smoking causes cancer.

The context is that the government had planned to increase the size of pictorial warnings on tobacco products from 40% to 85% by April 1 this year. Increase in pictorial warnings is shown to bring down tobacco prevalence. But because the committee brought out these statements, the deadline is crossed without any action being taken. What is going on here? There is no dearth of global and local evidences that tobacco causes cancer. The Indian government’s own study showed that there is a very strong link. But why are these parliamentarians making these statements which are against flood of scientific evidences? It shows how strong the tobacco lobby is, that they have the power to influence not only ordinary people to use tobacco, but decision makers at the top. Incidentally against the rules, a beedi baron is made a member of the parliamentary panel. Tobacco companies have been aggressively moving into developing countries as they are facing reducing levels of smoking in the West.

Tobacco is the main cause of cancer. So, it is not a debate about some controversial factor on the sideline for which there is no concrete evidence yet. The delay in pictorial warning therefore is a serious hurdle in tackling the tobacco menace. Every 6 seconds, someone somewhere is dying because of tobacco. Half of those who smoked today will eventually die of tobacco. According to Global Adults Tobacco Survey, 34.6% of adults are current users of tobacco in India. In Nagaland, it is 57%. A more recent data (DLHS IV) shows that in Nagaland, 64.2% of men and 34.5% of women (15 years and above) use smokeless tobacco. 35% of men and 1.4 % of women smoke.

The tobacco industry’s strong resistance to pictorial warnings is also evidence that those warnings do work.

They not only deter people to start using tobacco, they also prevent relapse among former tobacco users. The increase in pictorial warning is an important move. But there are other very important steps that we can take to reduce tobacco use. There is a legislation banning tobacco sale to minors, sale near educational institutions, smoking in public places, and advertisements in any form.

Chandigarh has been declared smoke-free city since 2007. All the districts in Punjab have been declared as ‘tobacco smoke-free’. The State has also banned sales of loose cigarettes (without pictorial warnings). Raids are being periodically conducted to crack down on storage, promotion, and sales of tobacco products. It was able to raise tax on cigarettes from 20.5% to 50%. But this was rolled back after less than a year. Health NGOs allege that this roll back was due to pressure from tobacco companies. Chewable tobacco has been banned recently in Delhi which is now challenged in court.

There is no dearth of evidence. But it is an uphill task to take on the tobacco lobby. Meanwhile, it may be recollected that another BJP MP claimed that cow urine can cure cancers completely. This was said in the context of banning cow slaughter.

But there is a connection here between the two issues, that lifting all restrictions on tobacco and serving cow urine to all cancer patients may make sense to these honourable MPs.

lEfT wiNg |

Mazie Nakhro, Ph.D

Building a Nation of a Different Kind What does God say? Read 1 Samuel 8:4-22 Many nations would have nothing, or very little, to do with God in running their national affairs. In a monarchical system of government, for example, the king is the supreme head of state. Under communism or socialism, the ruling party is the supreme authority. In democracy, the people are the masters.

In Samuel’s days, the Israelites wanted to govern themselves “like all other nations.” This self-driven motivation extremely displeased Samuel because he knew that God wanted them to be a nation of a different kind.

The American Experiment The Founding Fathers of America were convinced that it was their sacred duty to fight for political freedom. Two of the Founding Fathers, John Hancock and John Adams, declared, “We recognize no sovereign but God, and no king but Jesus!”

Also, Benjamin Franklin made his argument that “Rebellion to tyrants is obedience to God.” In all, 56 leaders of the 13 colonies signed the Declaration of Independence from Great Britain on July 4, 1776. They knew the risk when they were putting their signatures and yet they stated, “With a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.”

According to a popular legend (although probably untrue), John Hancock signed his name largely and distinctly so King George of England could read it without spectacles.

What the Founders were starting was not just another independent nation. They wanted to establish a “Nation under God” who is the Giver of their Rights. Therefore, they put these words in the Preamble of the Constitution: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.” To put it another way, they wanted a democratic form of government that acknowledges God. Although the Greeks were the first to have some form of democratic government, the real representative democracy, as we know it today, started with the American Experiment in 1776 because at that time there were no other functioning national democracies in the world. Today, one-half of the world’s population lives in a democracy of some sort.

Okay, so now what?

Do we want to be like all the nations around us? Or, should we dare to be different?

Taken from the book “Breakfast with the King: The 100-Day Devotional” by Mazie Nakhro

C O M M E N T A R Y

THE EDIT PAGE

Robert Parry

obama’s Fateful indecision With Israel and Saudi Arabia siding with the Islamic State and Al-Qaeda versus Iran and its allies, President Obama faces a critical decision – whether to repudiate those old allies and cooperate with Iran or watch as Sunni terrorist groups possibly take control of a major country in the Mideast

T

he foreign policy quandary facing President Barack Obama is that America’s traditional allies in the Middle East – Israel and Saudi Arabia – along with Official Washington’s powerful neocons have effectively sided with Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State out of a belief that Iran represents a greater threat to Israeli and Saudi interests.

But what that means for U.S. interests is potentially catastrophic. If the Islamic State continues its penetration toward Damascus in league with AlQaeda’s Nusra Front and topples the Syrian government, the resulting slaughter of Christians, Shiites and other religious minorities – as well as the risk of a major new terrorist base in the heart of the Middle East – could force the United States into a hopeless new war that could drain the U.S. Treasury and drive the nation into a chaotic and dangerous decline.

To avoid this calamity, Obama would have to throw U.S. support fully behind the embattled regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, precipitate a break with Israel and Saudi Arabia, and withstand a chorus of condemnations from influential neocon pundits, Republican politicians and hawkish Democrats. Influenced by Israeli propaganda, all have pushed for ousting Assad in a “regime change.”

But the world has already had a grim peek at what an Islamic State/Al-Qaeda victory would look like. The Islamic State has reveled in its ability to provoke Western outrage through acts of shocking brutality, such as beheadings, incinerations, stonings, burning of ancient books and destruction of religious sites that the group deems offensive to its fundamentalist version of Islam.

Over the Easter holiday, there were reports of the Islamic State destroying a Christian Church in northeastern Syria and taking scores of Christians as prisoners. An Islamic State victory in Syria would likely mean atrocities on a massive scale.

And, there are signs that Al-Qaeda might bring the Islamic State back into the fold if it achieves this success, which would let Al-Qaeda resume its plotting for its own outrages through terrorist attacks on European and U.S. targets.

Though Al-Qaeda’s Nusra Front and the Islamic State have been estranged in recent months, the groups were said to be collaborating in an assault on the Palestinian refugee camp of Yarmouk, south of Damascus.

The Associated Press reported that “Palestinian officials and Syrian activists say the Islamic State militants fighting in Yarmouk were working with rivals from the al-Qaida affiliate in Syria, the Nusra Front.

The two groups have fought bloody battles against each other in other parts of Syria, but appear to be cooperating in the attack on Yarmouk.”

United Nations spokesman Chris Gunness told the AP, “The situation in the camp is beyond inhumane.”

In late March, the Saudis, working with Turkish intelligence, supported Al-Qaeda’s Nusra Front and other jihadist forces in capturing the Syrian city of Idlib, the New York Times reported.

Syria has become a frontline in the sectarian conflict between Sunni and Shiite Islam, with Saudi Arabia a longtime funder of the Sunni fundamentalist Wahhabism, which gave rise to Al-Qaeda under the direction of Saudi Osama bin Laden. Fifteen of the 19 hijackers in the 9/11 attacks were Saudi nationals, and elements of the Saudi royal family and other Persian Gulf sheikdoms have been identified as Al-Qaeda’s financiers. [See Consortiumnews.com’s “The Secret Saudi Ties to Terrorism.”]

The Israeli-Saudi Alliance In seeking “regime change” in Syria, Saudi Arabia has been joined by Israel whose leaders have cited Syria as the “keystone” in the pro-Iranian Shiite “strategic arc” from Tehran through Damascus to Beirut. In making that point in September 2013, Israeli Ambassador to the United States Michael Oren told the Jerusalem Post that Israel favored the Sunni extremists over Assad and the Shiites.

“We always wanted Bashar Assad to go, we always preferred the bad guys who weren’t backed by Iran to the bad guys who were backed by Iran.” He said this was the case even if the “bad guys” were affiliated with Al-Qaeda.

In June 2014, Oren expanded on this Israeli position. Then, speaking as a former ambassador, Oren said Israel would even prefer a victory by the Islamic State. “From Israel’s perspective, if there’s got to be an evil that’s got to prevail, let the Sunni evil prevail,” Oren said.

On March 3, in the speech to a cheering U.S. Congress, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also argued that the danger from Iran was much greater than from the Islamic State (or ISIS). Netan-

tions. Though the U.S. media has put on blinders so as not to notice the Swastikas and SS symbols festooning the Azov and other battalions, the reality has been that the neo-Nazis and other far-right extremists have been the fiercest fighters in killing ethnic Russians in eastern Ukraine. [See Consortiumnews. com’s “Wretched US Journalism on Ukraine.”]

On Saturday, German Economic News reported that the Ukrainian army appointed right-wing extremist Dimitri Jarosch as an official adviser to the army leadership as the Kiev regime – now bolstered

by U.S. military equipment and training and receiving billions of dollars in Western aid – prepares for renewed fighting with eastern Ukraine.

The problem with Obama has been that – although he himself may be a “closet realist” willing to work with adversarial countries like Iran and Russia – he has not consistently challenged the neocons and their junior partners, the liberal interventionists. The liberals are particularly susceptible to propaganda campaigns involving non-governmental organizations that claim to promote “human rights” or “democracy” but have their salaries paid by the congressionally financed and neocon-run National Endowment for Democracy or by self-interested billionaires like financier George Soros.

The effectiveness of these NGOs in using social media and other forums to demonize targeted governments, as happened in Ukraine during the winter of 2013-14, makes it hard for honest journalists and serious analysts to put these crises in perspective without endangering their careers and reputations. Over the past year, anyone who questioned the demonization of Putin was denounced as a “Putin apologist” or a “Putin bootlicker.” Thus, many people not wanting to face such slurs either went along with the propagandistic “group think” or kept quiet.

Obama is one person who knows better but hasn’t been willing to contest Official Washington’s narratives portraying Putin or Assad or the Iranians or the Houthis as the devils incarnate. Obama has generally gone with the flow, joining the condemnations, but then resisting at key moments and refusing to implement some of the most extreme neocon Obama’s Choice Increasingly, the choice facing Obama is whether ideas – such as bombing the Syrian army or shipping to protect the old alliances with Israel and Saudi Ara- lethal weapons to Ukraine’s right-wing regime or forbia – and risk victories by Al-Qaeda and the Islamic saking negotiations and bombing Iran.

State – or expand on the diplomatic opening from the framework agreement on Iran’s nuclear program Pandering to Israel and Saudi Arabia In other words, Obama has invested huge to side with Shiite forces as the primary bulwark amounts of time and energy in trying to maintain against Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State.

For such a seismic shift in U.S. foreign policy, Pres- positive relations with Netanyahu and the Saudi ident Obama could use the help of Russian President royals while not fully joining in their regional war Vladimir Putin, who assisted in brokering agreements against Iran and other Shiite-related governments in 2013 in which Assad surrendered Syria’s chemical and movements. Obama understands the enormous weapons and in which Iranian leaders signed an in- risk of allowing Al-Qaeda or the Islamic State to gain terim agreement on their nuclear program that laid firm control of a major Middle Eastern country.

Of course, if that happens in, say, Syria, Obama the groundwork for the April 2 framework deal.

In 2013, those moves by Putin infuriated Of- would be blamed for not overthrowing the Assad reficial Washington’s neoconservatives who were gime earlier, as if there actually was a “moderate opquick to identify Ukraine as a possible flashpoint position” that could have withstood the pressure of between the United States and Russia. With Putin the Sunni extremists. Though the neocons and liband Obama both distracted by other responsibili- eral interventionists have pretended that this “modties, neocon Assistant Secretary of State for Eu- erate” force existed, it was always marginal when it ropean Affairs Victoria Nuland teamed up with came to applying real power.

Whether one likes it or not, the only real force that neocon National Endowment for Democracy President Carl Gershman and neocon Sen. John can stop an Al-Qaeda or Islamic State victory is the McCain to help fund and coordinate the Feb. 22, Syrian army and the Assad regime. But Obama chose 2014 coup that ousted elected President Viktor to play the game of demanding that “Assad must go” Yanukovych. The resulting civil war and Russian – to appease the neocons and liberal interventionists intervention in Crimea drove a deep wedge be- – while recognizing that the notion of a “moderate” alternative was never realistic. tween Obama and Putin.

As Obama told the New York Times Thomas L. The mainstream U.S. news media got fully behind the demonization of Putin, making a rapprochement Friedman in August 2014, the idea that the U.S. arming over Ukraine nearly impossible. Though German the “moderate” rebels would have made a difference Chancellor Angela Merkel sought to broker a settle- has “always been a fantasy.” [See Consortiumnews. ment of the conflict in February – known as Minsk-2 – com’s “Behind Obama’s Chaotic Foreign Policy.”]

But Obama may be running out of time in his the right-wing government in charge in Kiev, reflecting Nuland’s hard-line position, sabotaged the deal halfway strategy of half-heartedly addressing the real by inserting a poison pill that effectively required the danger that lies ahead if the Islamic State and/or Alethnic Russian rebels in eastern Ukraine to surren- Qaeda ride the support of Saudi Arabia and Israel to der before Kiev would conduct elections under its a victory in Syria or Iraq or Yemen.

If the United States has to recommit a major milicontrol. [See Consortiumnews.com’s “Ukraine’s Poitary force in the Middle East, the war would have litson Pill for Peace Talks.”]

The Kiev regime is also incorporating some of its tle hope of succeeding but it would drain American neo-Nazi militias into the regular army while putting resources – and eviscerate what’s left of the constituneo-Nazi extremists into key military advisory posi- tional principles that founded the American Republic. yahu dismissed ISIS as a relatively minor annoyance with its “butcher knives, captured weapons and YouTube” when compared to Iran, which he accused of “gobbling up the nations” of the Middle East.

He claimed “Iran now dominates four Arab capitals, Baghdad, Damascus, Beirut and Sanaa. And if Iran’s aggression is left unchecked, more will surely follow. … We must all stand together to stop Iran’s march of conquest, subjugation and terror.”

Netanyahu’s rhetoric was clearly hyperbole – Iran’s troops have not invaded any country for centuries; Iran did come to the aid of the Shiitedominated government of Iraq in its fight with the Islamic State, but the “regime change” in Baghdad was implemented not by Iran but by President George W. Bush and the U.S. military; and it’s preposterous to say that Iran “dominates” Damascus, Beirut and Sanaa – though Iran is allied with elements in Syria, Lebanon and Yemen.

But hyperbole or not, Netanyahu’s claims became marching orders for the American neocons, the Republican Party and much of the Democratic Party. Republicans and some Democrats denounced President Obama’s support for international negotiations with Iran over its nuclear program while some prominent neocons were granted space on the op-ed pages of the Washington Post and New York Times to advocate bombing Iran. [See Consortiumnews.com’s “NYT Publishes Call to Bomb Iran.”]

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia – with U.S. logistical and intelligence help – began bombing the Houthi rebels in Yemen who have been fighting a long civil war and had captured several major cities. The Houthis, who practice an offshoot of Shiite Islam called Zaydism, deny that they are proxies of Iran although some analysts say the Iranians have given some money and possibly some weapons to the Houthis.

However, by attacking the Houthis, the Saudis have helped Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula regain its footing, including creating an opportunity to free scores of Al-Qaeda militants in a prison break and expanding Al-Qaeda’s territory in the east.

Letters to the Editor should be sent to: The morung Express, House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur - 797112, Or –email: morung@gmail.com All letters (including those via email) should have the full name and Postal address of the sender.

Readers may please note that the contents of the articles, letters and opinions published do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form.

PERSPECTIVE

7

Friday

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

10 April 2015

NEWS ANALYSIS, FEATURE AND DISCOURSE

Youth and Naga Diaspora: A Sociological Enquiry Introduction I would like to explore two issues; firstly, to what extent ‘youth’ of the techno-savvy generation contributes to frame the structure of the present Naga society? Secondly, what can the Naga Diaspora or NonResident Nagas (NRN) contribute in shaping the destiny of the Nagas.

There are more youth in contemporary India than rest of the world. The recent United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) demographic report said that 65% of India’s population is 35 or under, and half of it’s total population of 1.25 billion people is under 25 years of age. The UN report said that the emergence of a large youth population of unprecedented size could have a profound effect on any country. Further, the report reveals, “whether that effect is positive or negative depends largely on how well governments respond to young people’s needs and enable them to engage fully and meaningfully in civic and economic affairs.” I would like to assert that Nagaland shares a similar demographic picture. It is evident that the youth have critical responsibility to bring about a change if they possess necessary skills and are involved in the decision-making process. In simple words, the Naga youth need to take leadership roles in every sphere of life. Why am I raising questions on youth and Naga Diaspora and of their ability to contribute towards the society? The reason lies in the social fact using Emile Durkheim’s (a noted sociologist’s) perspective of an ever-increasing sense of loss, despair, frustration, and feeling of hopelessness among the majority of youth. I believe that Naga youth are increasingly encountering despair owing to the failure of the state and society. The state fails to respond to people’s needs and empower the youth. The state’s employment exchange revealed that around 60,000 educated unemployed youth have registered in 2013 but majority of them may not get government jobs even if they wait for more than a decade. Entrepreneurial and alternative skills need

to be encouraged among the youth.

The other problem is that, approach to education in school, college and university through teaching and research has been, perhaps to get a degree only, and not equipped with life and marketable skills. Annual employability reports confirm that most graduates are unemployable.

It is a fact that several colleges and universities are degree-granting institutions only except those professional oriented institutions. Let me highlight an incident where a youth met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said, “Sir, I am a graduate and I need a job.” Modi asked him as to what he can do, and the youth replied again that he is a graduate. This story shows the agony of the majority of youth in India, as they were not taught that necessary skills in the marketplace would fetch a better life chance. Dale Archer, a medical doctor, psychiatrist and Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association said, “Universities used to prepare young adults for the real world. I dare say the graduates today go in without a clue and graduate without a clue. It’s time to acknowledge the college degree is not worth what it was in the past. Times are changing, and so is the way we prepare our youth to survive in a competitive world.”

Marketable skills are required to stay relevant. It is fundamental to the emergence of the state or nation to progress. During Jawaharlal Nehru’s period, the Government of India believed in building India’s economy by placing faith in the capitalists besides emphasizing on socialism and assumed that education and research would take care of themselves and run their course.

The BJP government has not shown any progressive policies yet except a few such as to start IITs in every state across India. Their policy indicates the low priority to India’s education and research. For any state to progress, research findings should enhance the quality of people’s lives.

Basic education skills are a pre-requisite to further progress.

Subject Matters Dr. Ajailiu Niumai Why the Youth Shuns Politics?

In the context of youth and politics, many Naga youth were not seen as candidates in the Lok Sabha and Legislative Assembly. Perhaps, the older political patriarchs failed to accept an indisputable social fact that the involvement of youth in any political space or any setting begets creative and innovative ideas, which are needed for bringing about a tangible change in the society. The Constitution of India under Article 84 (b) specified a minimum age of 25 years to contest for Lok Sabha election. Similar provision exists for a candidate to the Legislative Assembly vide Article 173 (b) of the Indian Constitution read with Section 36 (2) of the R. P. Act, 1950. So far, Mr. R. Merentoshi Jamir, who is in mid-30s, remains the lone youngest elected MLA among the Nagas.

If Mr. Jamir is the only young elected male politician, my Naga young sisters have to wait for a perceptible change in the minds of the people.

In the history of Nagaland Legislative Assembly there was not a single Naga woman representative. During the 2013 general election in Nagaland, Dr. Yangerla and Mrs. Rakhila Lakhiumong contested from Mokokchung and Tuensang. However, both of them could not win the seat.

The only comfort for women in general is that these two women have symbolically challenged the existing patriarchal system in Naga politics.

What the Naga society should aspire is to promote and encourage the committed, techno-savvy, honest and humble youth to join

in the decision making process in every field such as politics, religion, business, entrepreneurship, sports, media, music industry and the like. The youth are the force behind a change in several cultures. Their innovative and creative ideas, known as “social and cultural capital” in sociological perspective, may revolutionize the society. Some conscious Naga youth have successfully demonstrated their power to challenge the system of governance in a strategic manner. For instance, Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT Nagaland) attempts to cleanse the demonic system of corruption, illegal taxation and the like and demonstrates the power of Naga youth. It also indicates that the structure of Naga society could be influenced positively by the youth. There is no dearth of intelligent youth among the Naga people.

Naga Diaspora or Non-Resident Nagas (NRN) It is also worthy to mention the efforts of Overseas Naga Association (ONA) that was formed with the vision to encourage youth to compete in the international arena with their skills and gifts. Like the Indian Diaspora or Jewish Diaspora whose mounting influence in their country of origin have been remarkable, the Naga Diaspora/Non-Resident Nagas (NRN) could also do the same or if not, better for the Naga society. How can the young Naga Diaspora contribute to the Naga so-

ciety meaningfully? If the inspiring works of the first generation Naga Diaspora could impact the lives of some people in their host country or in their native village in Nagaland, how much more can the youth change the larger Naga society? Dr. Sanyo Konyak from Nagaland who lives with his American wife Marsha Konyak and four sons in Tulsa, Oklahoma said, “My Naga culture of helping those in need imbibed from childhood has shaped my present involvement in philanthropic activities especially among the Burmese refugees, Meitei (Manipuri) diaspora, and Kuki diaspora at the International Mission Fellowship in Tulsa. Being a doctor, I am hard pressed with time, hospital calls at any time of the day and night. I wish to have plenty of time and resources to give back a large amount to society.” Similarly, Dr. Wungreiso Valui and his wife Margaret Valui, Pastors at Fort Wayne Baptist Church in Fort Wayne, Indiana work among the underprivileged children in their native Tangkhul Naga village in Ukhrul district, Manipur.

They focus on education, spiritual growth and holistic development of children and made annual visits to their village with American volunteers and sponsors. Another Naga couple (names withheld for confidentiality) based in Chicago shared that their vision is to teach and train the villagers throughout Nagaland rather than work in the mainstream Church or big organizations. These three examples illustrate that young Naga Diaspora are keen to involve in improving the quality of people’s lives in their native places. There are innumerable strategies in which the Naga Diaspora could intervene effectively in healthcare, education, social entrepreneurship, climate change mitigation, and poverty alleviation. The very fact that Naga people occupy position as intellectuals (Professors) in colleges and universities, hospitals, and elsewhere in several parts across India, USA, Europe, Japan, Australia and the like is proof of it.

While at the Methodist Church in Washington, DC, we were pleasantly surprised to hear the speaker of the service Prof./Rev. William B. McClain, who worked with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in Alabama in 1960s and taught at Harvard University (He is the President of the Committee that put together the Hymnal “Songs of Zion” that sold 2.5 million copies across the globe) shower praise on young choir boys, proclaiming them to be the future of their country.

Conclusion There is an urgent need to include youth in all walks of life. The powerful institutions such as family, kinship, church and the like have to overhaul the structure of the society and mindset so that we do justice to thousands of youth yearning for peace, progress and qualitative change in their everyday lives. Undoubtedly, the youth holds power to transform the society. For instance, when Aam Admi Party (AAP) came to power in Delhi, it was the youth who led the movement. I would like to emphasize that we need youth (including Naga Diaspora) who are positive thinking and hard working generation to bring about a desirable change in the Naga society by involving in all spheres of life. We would like our youth to acquire admirable qualities of ability with knowledge and skills, stability by upholding principles, ethics and values and mobility to adapt to any situation and location in this globalized world.

The author, Dr. Ajailiu Niumai is an Associate Professor, Centre for the Study of Social Exclusion & Inclusive Policy (CSSEIP), Joint faculty, Centre for Women’s Studies, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, Telangana, India. She was also the CARTHA Fellow (2006-07), USA and UGC Raman Fellow & Visiting Scholar (2013-14) in the Department of Gender, Women’s & Sexuality Studies, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA. She can be contacted at anss@uohyd.ernet.ac.in or ajainiumai@gmail.com

‘Subject Matters’ is a weekly column featuring Naga academicians and Naga Scholars on issues concerning the Naga Society. This Column seeks to stimulate minds and encourage fresh perspectives and thinking on issues that are crucial for the progress of the Naga Society.

Bangladesh: Contempt of What if we based borders on nature?

Bioregionalism is one court vs freedom of speech possible vision of a future A blogger was convicted in Dhaka for his writing. A group of people who backed him in the press now faces the same charge. Why is this happening in Bangladesh?

A

delwar Hussain

court in Bangladesh has initiated contempt of court charges against twenty-three people who had signed a letter in support of British journalist and blogger David Bergman, who himself was convicted of contempt of court in December 2014.

The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), a specially convened court in Dhaka, was set up by the government in 2009 to investigate people accused of carrying out war crimes in the Bangladesh's bloody war of independence in 1971. It pledged to bring to justice those found to have been involved in what is widely believed to have been genocide. At its start, people across Bangladesh supported the court in the belief that finally there would be restitution for the injustices of the past. To date, the ICT has prosecuted several men for crimes against humanity, sentencing them to life in imprisonment and in some cases death, as well as carrying out an execution.

In 2013, the ICT accused Bergman of hurting the “feelings of the nation” for three blog posts he had written. These supposedly questioned the evidence upon which the official death toll during the war is based. The judgment stated that “freedom of expression can be exercised in good faith and public interest. David Bergman neither has good faith nor an issue of public interest.” He was given a 5,000 taka fine (£40) as well as a sentence of imprisonment "till the rising of the court", meaning he had to remain in the courtroom until the judges left their seats.

David Bergman, who lives in Dhaka, told reporters afterwards that the ruling was a matter of “great concern to those interested in freedom of speech and the proper scrutiny of state institutions.”

Following his conviction, a group of journalists, academics and activists made a statement which was published in the largest circulated newspaper in Bangladesh, Prothom Alo (First Light). I was one such person.

The letter expressed concern regarding Bergman’s conviction and the use of

the law of contempt of court to curb freedoms of speech and expression in Bangladesh. Very soon afterwards, the statement-makers, as well as Prothom Alo and the New York Times (which had also published the letter), found ourselves in the ICT's line of fire.

What is most worrying is that the charge against twenty-three of the signatories of the statement comes in the very week that a blogger was brutally killed on the streets of Dhaka. It is widely believed that 27-year-old Washiqur Rahman was targeted on 30 March by members of an Islamist extremist group who took offence at the contents of his blog which expressed opinions of a secular and atheist nature.

This is the second such gruesome murder of a liberal blogger in Bangladesh this year. On 26 February, Avijit Roy, the founder of Mukto-Mona (Free Mind), a popular website which critiqued religious fundamentalism was hacked to death. His wife was seriously injured in the attack.

For many years, Roy had received death threats from islamist extremists for his writings and views on secularism and gay rights. On 15 February 2013, Ahmed Rajib Haider, another Dhaka-based atheist blogger, was murdered in a similar attack on the streets of Dhaka.

A month before Rajib’s murder, the atheist blogger Asif Mohiuddin, had been brutally stabbed in the neck. He survived the assault, but was arrested by police after he came out of hospital, charged with blasphemy and imprisoned. When I interviewed Asif Mohiuddin in 2014 for a book that I am writing about the city of Dhaka, he said that the authorities, in a sadistic act, had incarcerated him in the same prison as his and Rajib Haider’s attackers. When he met the young men, they gloated about what they had done and threatened to finish him too. Asif Mohiuddin now lives in a constant state of fear from both state persecution and islamist extremist violence.

Of the twenty-three people who signed the letter in support of Bergman now facing charges, most have in someway worked towards bringing greater recognition of the atrocities which occurred during the independence war which the ICT was set up to investigate.

Four of the so-called “contemptors” are even recognised freedom fighters. One of them has just toured with a successful one-woman show about the “birongonas”, the hundreds of thousands of women who were raped during the war.

Another is a well known authority and

academic on the history of 1971 and has written extensively about the victims. In 1995, Bergman himself was involved in making an award-wining film about it for Channel 4. In 2009, I wrote a piece for the Guardian which drew attention to some of those accused of war crimes who fled to the UK after the war.

The wider background What all of this adds up to is a public space within contemporary Bangladesh which is increasingly intolerant, a frightening, dangerous place for advocates and proponents of free speech and ideas. It is one where alternative opinions, minority beliefs and practices are gradually being silenced and muted. Whether these are voiced or conducted by those who are critical of the ruling party, of ideas of the past, about god and religion, or by essentially rebels against the status-quo - all find themselves between a rock and a hard place. That is, between the future offered by the state and its paramilitary functionaries, and those with an extremist interpretation of Islam. Neither version is what the majority of Bangladeshis need or want.

This malaise reflects a marked narrowing of the political culture in Bangladesh. Over the years the independence of the judiciary has been gradually eroded by consecutive governments, both under democratic regimes and military dictatorships. The elections in 2014, for example, were described even by the most sober of observers as a “farce”. The largest opposition party boycotted them, there was large-scale election-related violence, continuing disappearances and illegal detentions of opposition activists, burned-down polling booths, and untold numbers of deaths. The fact that the media is still able to operate freely within the country is something to be thankful for.

It might be expected that the most recent murder of a blogger would be followed by the state of Bangladesh sending out a clear message that it believes in freedom of speech and expression.

These, after all, are values enshrined in its own constitution, ideals it should protect, that the war of liberation was fought for. Instead, there are now fears that such rights will be further curtailed through a questionable course of action, charging twenty-three people with contempt of court. Bangladeshis pride themselves on having a modern democracy, however imperfect it is - increasingly, it is looking like something else.

that works for people and for the Earth

rachael Stoeve here’s little natural about the boundaries that divide states and countries. They’re often imaginary lines that result from history, conflict, or negotiation. But imagine what the world would look like if borders were set according to ecological and cultural boundaries.

Bioregionalism says that’s the only logical way to divide up territory: Let watersheds, mountain ranges, microclimates, and the local knowledge and economies that exist in them guide the way we set boundaries. That way, life within those boundaries is tied together not by arbitrary decisions but by common interests.

For instance, in the United States, there are many cases where ecologically and economically distinct areas are encompassed in one state, which makes for political difficulty.

Oftentimes, no matter who wins in elections or policy, someone is left out or disenfranchised. Governing ourselves in smaller, naturally-bounded regions might ease those tensions.

Bioregionalism was first advanced in the early 1970s by poet-ecologist Allen Van Newkirk and popularized by thinkers and activists, such as environmental advocate Peter Berg and conservation biologist Raymond Dasmann.

Today, bioregional thinking is expressed in the many climate justice groups that organize on a local or regional scale, such as Tar Sands Blockade and Rising Tide. These groups are community-based efforts that empower local residents to take action on the environmental issues that directly affect their lives. Big environmental nonprofits typically fight for laws to limit or mitigate environmental destruction, while treating our current political and economic systems as legitimate. But bioregional thinkers see those systems as part of the problem—and suggest that restructuring our society along smaller ecological lines will empower communities and help shift our relationship to the Earth to one that is sustainable.

One way to begin that shift involves recognizing the rights of nature. On August 30, 2012, the Whanganui River in New Zealand was granted legal standing as an entity with rights. New Zealand is only the third country in the world to grant rights to nature, after Bolivia and Ecuador.

Under an agreement between the New Zealand government and Maori tribal groups, the Whanganui is recognized as “an indivisible and living whole, from the mountains to the sea, incorporating its tributaries and all its physical and metaphysical elements.”

The agreement is a step in ongoing negotiations between the Maori and the government to resolve longstanding grievances related to the Treaty of Waitangi. This treaty helped establish

T

British control over New Zealand. But there is disagreement between the Maori and the British about the interpretation of the treaty, and many Maori have made claims for redress. The New Zealand government has gradually been addressing these claims.

The 2012 agreement also mandates the development of a “Whole of River Strategy” to integrate input from all of the groups that use the river, including the Maori, the local and federal governments, and recreational and commercial users. In a press release, New Zealand Attorney General Christopher Finlayson wrote that “the goal of the strategy will be to ensure the longterm environmental, social, cultural, and economic health and wellbeing of the river.”

Almost exactly two years later, on August 5, 2014, a second agreement was signed, reaffirming the first agreement and including a financial settlement of $80 million for the tribes and $30 million for improving the river’s health. In addition, the Maori and the government will each appoint an advocate for the river’s rights. James Christmas, senior advisor to the Attorney General, said in an email that legislation enacting the settlement is expected early in 2015.

The Whanganui settlement process reflects bioregionalism at work. In this agreement, the river is seen not as a natural resource to be apportioned among its various users, but as an integral part of both the cultural and material life of the communities that interact with it. Maori beliefs and lifeways figure prominently in the language of the agreement, which involved a high level of consultation with tribes.

There are signs of a shift toward bioregionalism in U.S. policy as well. In November 2012, the United States and Mexico signed an agreement aimed at changing how the two countries co-manage the Colorado River. The New York Times reported that “the two countries will share in both surpluses and water shortages.”

Most importantly, in a bioregional sense, the agreement mandates that the United States, Mexico, and participating environmental organizations will all set aside water to reconnect the river to the Gulf of California, which will help restore habitat for birds and native plants. Peter Gleick, president of the Pacific Institute, a nonprofit that works on water and sustainability issues, highlighted the many people and organizations who worked hard to make the agreement happen. Though it took 20 years of advocacy for the Colorado River, and though the agreement is only in effect for five years (after which it can be renewed), it is still a big step for two nations to manage a shared resource as a whole system, instead of dividing it up at a border.

Reorganizing our political structures around ecological regions and the cultures within them could enable us to live a more sustainable, decentralized lifestyle that prioritizes participatory democracy and local knowledge over corporate control and the exploitation inherent in multinational free trade agreements. Bioregionalism is one possible vision of a future that works for people and for the Earth.

Readers may please note that, the contents of the articles published on this page do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form.

8

Dimapur

NATIONAL

Friday 10 April 2015

The Morung Express

Satyam CaSe: Ramalinga Raju, 9 others The Rise and fall of Ramalinga Raju sentenced to 7 yrs in jail

Hyderabad, april 9 (iaNS): A special CBI court on Thursday sentenced B. Ramalinga Raju, his two brothers and seven others to seven years in prison in the multi-crorerupee Satyam case, India's biggest corporate fraud.

The court also imposed over Rs.5 crore fine each on 60-year-old Ramalinga Raju, the Satyam Computer Services Ltd's founder and former chairman, and his brother B. Rama Raju and up to Rs.50 lakh each on the remaining accused, CBI counsel K. Surender said.

"Various sentences ranging from two years to seven years were imposed on all the accused but all the sentences would run concurrently. That is the reason the maximum sentence is seven years which they have to serve," he told reporters.

The other accused are Ramalinga Raju's another brother, B. Suryanarayana Raju, Satyam's former chief financial officer Vadlamani Srinivas, former PricewaterhouseCoopers auditors Subramani Gopalakrishnan and T. Srinivas, former employees G. Ramakrishna, D. Venkatpathi Raju and Ch. Srisailam, and Satyam's former internal chief auditor V.S. Prabhakar Gupta.

Police were making arrangements for all the con-

victs to serve their sentences in Cherlapally Jail here.

Special Judge B.V.L.N. Chakravarthi of the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) court announced the quantum of punishment in the afternoon, hours after pronouncing all the accused guilty on various counts.

The much-awaited judgement in the packed court hall came in the presence of Ramalinga Raju and all the other accused.

The judge did not take into account the plea by the convicts for leniency in the punishment on grounds of their age, health and the problems faced by their families.

The accused told the judge that they have already spent more than two years in jail.

Ramalinga Raju, the main accused, also sought leniency on the ground of social service he had done in the past.

"They told the honourable judge that they and their families have faced a lot of hardships due to the case. They also brought to his notice that there was no loss to people (due to the fraud)," said Venkateswara Rao, one of the defence lawyers.

The CBI, however, sought maximum punishment, citing it as the biggest corporate fraud in

the country and also on the ground of huge losses caused to the investors.

The scam came to light on January 7, 2009 when Ramalinga Raju confessed that the company's account books and profits were inflated over many years to the tune of several crores of rupees.

Police arrested him two days later on a complaint by some shareholders.

The CBI, which took up investigation in February 2009, put the loss to the shareholders at Rs.14,000 crore.

The investigating agency also charged Raju with gaining Rs.2,500 crore by selling his family shares in Satyam.

Raju was charged with floating several front companies to buy land with the scam money. He was arrested by Andhra Pradesh Police on January 9, 2009.

The CBI filed three chargesheets against Raju and the other accused, charging them with cheating, criminal conspiracy, forgery, falsification of accounts and breach of trust.

The disgraced IT czar, who even shared the dais with then US president Bill Clinton during the latter's visit to Hyderabad, spent nearly 32 months in jail.

Raju, who was released on bail in 2011, later retracted his confession and con-

Satyam Computer Services founder B. Rama Raju arrives at a court in Hyderabad on Thursday, April 9. An Indian court on Thursday convicted Raju, the founder of the outsourcing giant and nine others on charges of stealing millions of dollars in one of the largest frauds in the country's corporate history. (AP Photo)

tended that all the charges levelled against him were false.

After the scam, Tech Mahindra took over Satyam Computers in a government-sponsored auction. Mahindra Satyam later merged with Tech

Mahindra.

An economic offences court on December 8 last year sentenced Ramalinga Raju and three others to six months imprisonment in six of the seven cases filed by the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO).

Hyderabad, april 9 (iaNS): He was once considered the IT czar and the Bill Gates of Andhra Pradesh, who founded and built Satyam into one of the top IT companies in India.

B. Ramalinga Raju even shared the dais with Bill Clinton when the then US president visited Hyderabad in 2000.

A special CBI court on Thursday sentenced Ramalinga Raju, his two brothers and seven others to seven years in prison in what is described by the Central Bureau of Investigation as the biggest corporate fraud in India's history.

The 60-year-old Raju, who already spent 32 months in jail before he was granted bail in 2011, has returned to prison.

It was in 2009 that this poster boy of India's IT industry had a dramatic fall when he resigned as chairman of Satyam Computer Services Ltd. while admitting that the company's account books and profits were inflated over many years.

He was arrested and sent to jail. From the cosy environs of his posh bungalows and state-of-the-art offices to the claustrophobic confines of Chanchalguda jail in Hyderabad, life suddenly took a cruel turn for him.

The son of an agriculturist and hailing from West Godavari district in coastal Andhra Pradesh,

he launched business in textile weaving and construction in 1977.

He had no engineering background but his brother-in-law D.V.S. Raju, an engineer, inspired him to enter the IT sector by setting up Satyam Computer Services in 1987.

Proving his entrepreneurial skills, Raju built Satyam into a IT bellwether.

One of the pioneers of offshoring, it started remotely delivering IT services to some clients in the US in 1991. The success with offshoring was followed by the Y2K boom, which catapulted Satyam to the top league.

Satyam ventured into the internet business through Satyam Infoway in 1988. After surviving the dotcom bust, it started concentrating on software services. In the mid 1990s when Hyderabad was emerging on the world IT map, Satyam was the biggest name and it was no wonder that he shared the dais with the likes of Bill Clinton. Raju was also well respected for his involvement in corporate social responsibility.

Byrraju Foundation and the Satyam Foundation earned him reputation through various projects, especially the 108 medical emergency services in Andhra Pradesh and other states. Raju also had a long list of awards, including the E&Y Entrepreneur of the

Year Services award 1999, the Dataquest IT Man of the Year Award 2000, the Asia Business Leader Award 2002, and the Golden Peacock Award for Corporate Governance.

Satyam was listed on the New York Stock Exchange in 2001 and the revenues exceeded $1 billion in 2006 and $2 billion mark in 2008.

It remained the fourth largest IT services firm for a long time with operations through the parent company and subsidiaries in as many as 65 countries. A few weeks before the scam came to light, it had reported annual revenues of $2.4 billion and a total employee size of 53,000.

The trouble for Satyam began in December 2008 when it announced plans to buy two Maytas firms owned

by Raju's sons. He had to call off the deal within hours due to opposition by the shareholders. The share price started tumbling.

The same month World Bank blacklisted Satyam for eight years on grounds of data theft and bribing bank officials. After the scam, Tech Mahindra took over Satyam Computers in a government-sponsored auction and the new entity was named Mahindra Satyam.

The Satyam brand became history in 2013 with the merger of Mahindra Satyam with Tech Mahindra.

Pakistan court orders release of 26/11 mastermind iSlamabad, april 9 (iaNS): A court in Pakistan on Thursday ordered the immediate release of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack's alleged mastermind Zaki-urRehman Lakhvi.

The Lahore High Court (LHC) dismissed the detention orders of Lakhvi, one of the key accused in the terror siege and ordered his immediate release, Dawn online reported. The court was hearing a petition of Lakhvi challenging his fourth one-month detention ordered by the Punjab government last month.

The Punjab government had previously maintained the stance that Lakhvi has been detained based on "sensitive information" provided by intelligence agencies.

Justice Anwarul Haq directed the government's counsel to submit records of the information to the court, which was also presented in the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in the past based on

India terms move as ‘extremely disappointing’ NeW delHi, april 9 (pTi): India on Thursday reacted strongly to a Pakistani court's order to release 2008 Mumbai terror attack mastermind Zaki-ur Rehman Lakhvi terming it as an "extremely disappointing development" and asked Islamabad to immediately ensure that he does not come out of jail.

"This is an extremely disappointing development. Pakistan must ensure that terrorists like Lakhvi do not come out of jail," a senior Home Ministry official said.

The reaction came hours after the Lahore High Court suspended the detention of 55-year-old Lakhvi under Maintenance of Public Order after the government which the Islamabad High Court ordered Lakhvi's bail. The court upheld the stance that if this sensitive information was reliable, the Islamabad High Court would not have accepted Lakhvi's bail.

Therefore, the Lahore High Court ordered Lakhvi's release based on the lack of reliability of the sensitive information pro-

failed to present sensitive records against him in the court.

The judge ordered Lakhvi to submit two surety bonds worth Rs 1 million each for his release. "Pakistan should immediately take all legal measures at appropriate forum to ensure that justice is delivered to the victims of Mumbai terror attack," the Home Ministry official said.

Lakhvi and six others – Abdul Wajid, Mazhar Iqbal, Hamad Amin Sadiq, Shahid Jameel Riaz, Jamil Ahmed and Younis Anjum – have been charged with planning and executing theMumbai attack in November, 2008 that left 166 people dead.

vided and directed Lakhvi to pay Pakistani Rs.20 lakh ($1,962) in surety bonds to Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi where he is lodged.

Lakhvi is among the seven people charged with planning and helping carry out the 2008 Mumbai attacks that left 166 people dead. The six other men facing trial in Adiala Jail for their alleged involvement

‘Conflict in South Asia impedes poverty reduction’ NeW delHi, april 9 (pTi): Conflict and security issues in the South Asian region have impeded the pace of poverty reduction and improvement in human development, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said on Thursday.

Unequal access to productive resources as well as massive inefficiency and inequities in the "system of governance practiced" are probably important factors in explaining a discrepancy between growth and poverty reduction in the South Asian region, he said. "Conflict and security have also loomed large in this region posing a constant challenge to a common developmental agenda. Without a satisfactory resolution to the different intra and international conflicts which plague this region, the goals of inclusive development cannot be realised," he said.

Singh was speaking at the conference organised by South Asian University here. He said in spite of the robust economic growth achieved by the individual countries as well as the region as a whole, South Asia still has the largest concentration of poor, uneducated and ill-educated people in the world.

Singh further said that most discussions on the economies of the region have focused on barriers to growth including inadequate intra-regional trade, lack of physical connectivity across the region and massive energy deficit.

"While the thrust on the means to generate accelerated growth is quite legitimate, we do need to go beyond it and ask why significant growth in the South Asian countries in the recent past has not translated into rapid poverty reduction and improvement in human development of majority of the population," he said.

Singh recalled that way back in November 2005 during a 13th SAARC meeting he had mooted the creation of South Asian University. Renowned economist Jean Dreze said in his key note address that on several social parameters India lags behind South Asian countries like Bangladesh and Nepal despite having 25 years of "run away" growth. Reduction in poverty in India has not kept pace with rate of growth and the one of the reasons for that is social inequality, he added.

Dreze is Visiting Professor at University of Ranchi and Honorary Professor at Delhi School of Economics.

in the attacks are Hammad Amin Sadiq, Shahid Jamil Riaz, Younas Anjum, Jamil Ahmed, Mazhar Iqbal and Abdul Majid. At the time of the attacks, Lakhvi was believed to be the operational head of the banned Laskhar-e-Taiba (LeT).

Lashar has been accused

by India of carrying out the attacks in the country's financial capital.

School children listen to their teacher at a government-run school in Allahabad on Thursday, April 9. According to the UNESCO Education for All Global Monitoring Report 2015, two out of three countries where lower secondary education was not compulsory in 2000 had changed their legislation by 2012, including India, Indonesia, Nigeria and Pakistan. According to the report, rural India saw substantial improvement in nearly all aspects of school facilities and infrastructure between 2003 and 2010. (AP Photo)

India elected to 4 international bodies UNiTed NaTioNS, april 9 (iaNS): The UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) has elected India by acclamation to four international bodies recognizing its growing global contributions and influence. The elections Wednesday cap India's reelection to the influential UN Human Rights Council in October and the General Assembly unanimously endorsing in December New Delhi's proposal for an International Yoga Day. “India's election by acclamation is an indication of the high standing of India in the international community,” said

Asoke Kumar Mukerjee, India's Permanent Representative, who has led New Delhi's efforts to raise influence at the world body.

India was elected to all these four subsidiary organisations of the ECOSOC for which it was a candidate Wednesday: - The Executive Board of the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) for the 2016-18 term.

UNICEF runs programmes focusing on children in areas of health, nutrition, education, environment, child protection, gender issues and development.

- The Executive Board of the

World Food Programme (WFP) for the 2016-2018 term. WFP's food assistance program in 80 countries covers 90 million people.

- The Governing Council of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UNHabitat) for the 2016-2019 term. UN-Habitat is committed to providing shelter for all by promoting socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities.

- The Commission on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice (CCPCJ) for the 2016-2018 term.

The CCPCJ is in charge of the UN crime prevention programmes.

Centre freezes Greenpeace India bank accounts

NeW delHi, april 9 (bUSiNeSS STaNdard): The National Democratic Alliance government suspended Greenpeace India’s foreign-funding license on Thursday for violating financial administrative regulations and working against the ‘economic interests’ of the country. It froze all the accounts of the Indian arm of Greenpeace International with immediate effect.

The decision of the Ministry of Home Affairs in a four-page order said the Indian group had violated the norms that regulate its foreign funding license under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act. The order said, “The central government …is satisfied that the acceptance of foreign contribution by the said organisation, Greenpeace India Society..has prejudicially affected the public interests...and has prejudicially affected the economic interest of the state... which violates conditions of grant of certificate of registration.”

The suspension order is for 180 days and the organisation has been given 30 days to make a representation against the order to the MHA.

Farmers groups move SC against land ordinance NeW delHi, april 9 (iaNS): A group of farmers' organisations moved the Supreme Court on Thursday seeking the repromulgated land ordinance to be quashed on the grounds of its being ultra vires of the Constitution and restraining the government from enforcing it.

The Bharatiya Kishan Union, Delhi Grameen Samaj, Gram Sewa Samiti and Chogama Vikas Avam said, "The Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (Amendment) Ordinance, 2015, is unconstitutional, null and void

and ultra vires Articles 14 and 123 of the Constitution of India and hence void ab initio".

The petitioner organisations also sought the apex court's direction restraining the government from "acting upon" the ordinance. The petitioners contended that the action of the government in re-promulgating the ordinance was malafide and thus open to challenge.

The discretionary power of the president to promulgate ordinances has to be "exercised judiciously and with in the strict paradigm of the circumstances, circumscribing the exercise of

such discretion under Article 123", the organisations said.

The law making function under the Constitution was vested in parliament, the petitioner organisations contended.

They said, "If the executive was permitted to continue the provisions of an ordinance by issuing successive ordinances without submitting the same to the voice of parliament, it is nothing but usurpation by the executive of the law making powers of the legislature".

"Merely because it does not have numbers in the Rajya Sabha, the executive cannot be permitted

to continue the law making exercise by way of an ordinance" and "the life and liberty of citizens cannot be regulated by ordinances..."

The government "deliberately" did not move the 2015 bill for discussion in the Rajya Sabha after its passage in the Lok Sabha between March 10 and 20, "due to lack of its numbers, political will or consensus".

"The ordinance making power under Article 123 was never meant to be a substitute to overcome lack of numbers of the executive in one house," the organisations contended.

"Neither the letter of the Ar-

ticle nor the relevant Constituent Assembly Debates indicate that the device of Article 123 could be resorted to by the executive to make laws to overcome its difficulty in passing the legislation in one house due to lack of majority/political wlll or consensus", the petitioners said.

The government was "evolving a dangerous precedent for the exercise of Article 123 which is not at all envisaged by the Constitution". The petitioners said the "issuance of the impugned ordinance goes against the very purpose, intent and spirit underlying under Article 123".

InternatIonal

the Morung express

Friday 10 April 2015

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9

Cop who shot man in back had prior excessive force complaint

NORTH CHARLESTON, ApRiL 9 (Ap): The South Carolina police officer charged with murder after video surfaced of him shooting a fleeing suspect in the back was allowed to stay on the force despite an earlier complaint he used excessive force against an unarmed man.

In an exclusive interview with The Associated Press, Mario Givens recounted Wednesday how he was awakened before dawn one morning in September 2013 by loud banging on the front door of his family’s North Charleston home.

On his front porch was Patrolman Michael Thomas Slager, the same officer now charged in the shooting death of Walter Lamer Scott following a traffic stop over a broken taillight. The latest case of a white police officer killing an unarmed black man grabbed international attention this week after a video recorded by a bystander showed Slager firing eight times as Scott ran away.

Wearing only a T-shirt and boxer shorts, Givens, who is also black, said he cracked open his door and asked the officer what he wanted.

“He said he wanted to come in, but didn’t say why,” said Givens, now 33.

“He never said who he was looking for.”

Then, without warning, Slager pushed in the door,

In this April 4, 2015, frame from video provided by Attorney L. Chris Stewart representing the family of Walter Lamer Scott, Scott appears to be running away from City Patrolman Michael Thomas Slager, right, in North Charleston, S.C. Slager was charged with murder on Tuesday, April 7, hours after law enforcement officials viewed the dramatic video that appears to show him shooting a fleeing Scott several times in the back. (AP File Photo)

he said. “’Come outside or I’ll tase you,’” he recalled the officer saying as he burst in.

“I didn’t want that to happen to me, so I raised my arms over my head, and when I did, he tased me in my stomach anyway.”

He said the pain from the stun gun was so intense that he dropped to the floor and began calling for his mother, who was also in the home. At that point, he said another police officer came into the house and they

dragged him outside and threw him to the ground.

He was handcuffed and put in the back of a squad car.

Though initially accused of resisting the officers, Givens was later released without charge.

“It was very devastating,” said Bessie Givens, 57, who was awaked by her son’s piercing screams.

“You watch your son like that, he’s so vulnerable. You don’t know what’s going to happen. I was so scared.”

It turned out that the

police officers had gone to the family’s home at the behest of his brother’s ex-girlfriend, who earlier reported awakening in her nearby house to find Matthew Givens in her bedroom, uninvited. She said he left when she began screaming, and she called police.

That woman, Maleah Kiara Brown, told the AP in an interview on Wednesday that she and a friend had followed the police officers over to the Givens home and were sitting out-

side as Slager knocked on the door. The second officer had gone around to the back of the house.

She had provided the officers with a detailed description of Matthew Givens, who is about 5 feet 5 inches (1.5 meters, 12.7 centimeters) tall. Mario Givens stands well over 6 feet (1.8 meters).

“He looked nothing like the description I gave the officers,” Brown said, referring to Mario Givens.

“He asked the officer why

he was at the house. He did it nicely. The police officer said he wanted him to step outside. Then he asked, ‘Why, why do you want me to step outside?’ Then the officer barged inside and grabbed him.”

Moments later, she saw the police officers drag Givens out of the house and throw him in the dirt.

Brown said she kept yelling to the officers they had the wrong man, but they wouldn’t listen. Though Givens was offering no resistance, she said she saw Slager use the stun gun on him again.

“He was screaming, in pain,” she said. “He said, ‘You tased me. You tased me. Why?’ It was awful.

Terrible. I asked the officer why he tased him and he told me to get back.”

She said she later told a female police supervisor what she had seen.

“He was cocky,” she said of Slager. “It looked like he wanted to hurt him. There was no need to tase him. No reason. He was no threat — and we told him he had the wrong man.”

Angered by what happened, Mario Givens went downtown to police headquarters the following day and filed a formal complaint. He and his mother say several neighbors who

witnessed what happened on the family’s front lawn also contacted the police, though they say officers refused to take their statements.

The incident report from that night filed by Slager and the other officer, Maurice Huggins, provides a very different version of events. In the report, obtained by the AP through a public records request, Slager wrote that he could not see one of Givens’ hands and feared he might be holding a weapon. He wrote that he observed sweat on Givens’ shirt, which he perceived as evidence he may have just run from Brown’s home, and then ordered him to exit several times.

When Givens didn’t comply, Slager said he entered the home to prevent him from fleeing, and was then forced to use his stun gun when Givens struggled against him. According to the officers’ report, the two Givens brothers are described as looking “just alike.”

After Mario Givens filed his complaint, the department opened an internal investigation. A brief report included in Slager’s personnel file said a senior officer was assigned to investigate. After a couple

weeks, the case was closed with a notation that Slager was “exonerated.”

Brown is listed as a witness in the investigative report, but her purported statement included none of the details she said she provided about Slager using his Taser to shock Givens while he was on the ground. She said she was never contacted as part of the police investigation and had not spoken with anyone about that night until she was contacted by an AP reporter Wednesday.

The report also includes statements from Givens and another woman who was there that night, Yolonda Whitaker, said she saw Slager stun Givens “for no reason.” Efforts to reach Whitaker on Wednesday by phone and the addresses listed for her in the police report were unsuccessful.

Givens said he was never contacted as part of the internal investigation into Slager and only learned the case had been closed after he went to the station about six weeks later and asked what happened.

“They never told me how they reached the conclusion. Never. They never contacted anyone from that night. No one from the neighborhood,” Givens said.

Anti-HIV antibody shows promise in first human trial Japan emperor prays at WWII battleground on Pacific island NEw YORK, ApRiL 9 (iANS): A new anti-HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) antibody has been found safe and controlling HIV levels for about a month in early human trail, says a study.

Use of antibodies, which are part of the immune system that helps fight infections, is called immunotherapy. The new findings suggest that immunotherapy or boosting the body’s natural defense system could soon be a part of HIV treatment strategies to control, prevent and cure the disease.

The researchers found

that a single infusion of the experimental anti-HIV antibody called 3BNC117 resulted in significantly decreased HIV levels that persisted for as long as 28 days in HIV-infected individuals.

“We conclude that, as a single agent, 3BNC117 is safe and effective in reducing HIV-1 viraemia, and that immunotherapy should be explored as a new modality for HIV-1 prevention, therapy and cure,” said corresponding author Michel Nussenzweig from Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Rockefeller University, New York.

Before its first-in-human testing, the 3BNC117 antibody had neutralised many diverse HIV strains in laboratory tests and had protected mice and macaques from HIV and its simian equivalent. To determine if the investigational product would be safe and potentially effective in people, the research team conducted a small clinical trial among 29 volunteers, 17 HIV-infected and 12 uninfected individuals.

Study participants received a single intravenous dose of 3BNC117 of one, three, 10 or 30 milligrams.

The investigational product was well-tolerated by all participants. Among HIV-infected participants, 3BNC117 had the greatest effect on the eight participants who received the highest dose, resulting in significant and rapid decreases in viral load.

HIV resistance to 3BNC117 was variable, but some individuals remained sensitive to the antibody for 28 days. The investigational antibody may be used to help eradicate HIV from latent reservoirs in an infected person’s body, the authors pointed out.

WHO dietary goals can’t be met: Study wASHiNgTON, ApRiL 9 (iANS): The current World Health Organisation (WHO) recommendations with regard to daily intake of sodium and potassium do not appear to be feasible, contends a study. To reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, WHO recommends we consume no more than 2,000 mg of sodium a day -- less than a teaspoon of salt. At the same time, it says that people should consume at least 3,510 mg of potassium daily, again to lower the odds of heart disease and stroke.

That is a lot of potassium. Potatoes, for example, are considered to be a rel-

atively potassium-rich food. Yet to get to 3510 mg a day you would have to eat about six potatoes day. Or drink nine cups of milk. Or eat two and a half cups of beet greens -- a day, said the study.

“The problem is that sodium and potassium are found in many of the same foods,” explained Adam Drewnowski, professor of epidemiology at the University of Washington.

“Milk has sodium in it, so if you want to reduce your sodium intake you can drink less milk. But milk also has potassium, so if you want to increase your potassium intake, you have to drink more milk,” Drewnowski said. “So you

cannot have a recommendation that tells you to reduce the amount of sodium you eat by two thirds and to double the amount of potassium you take in,” he pointed out.

The bottom line, said Drewnowski, is that dietary guidelines, especially global health guidelines, need to set targets that are reasonable and are backed with more data from low and middle-income countries.

“The current WHO targets do not appear to be feasible. These targets cannot be met,” Drewnowski concluded. The findings appeared in the journal BMJ Open.

TOKYO, ApRiL 9 (Ap): The emperor of Japan visited a remote Pacific island Thursday to pray for thousands of Japanese and American soldiers who died during the World War II battle of Peleliu.

Emperor Akihito and his wife Empress Michiko laid bouquets of white chrysanthemum flowers in front of a seaside memorial for Japanese victims after arriving by helicopter on Peleliu island in the western Pacific nation of Palau. The couple then turned to the sea and offered a moment of silence toward a nearby island where many others also died. “Our thoughts go out to all those who went to the battlefields to defend their countries, never to return home,” Akihito said in a statement before his flight to Palau on Wednesday.

“We must never forget that those beautiful islands in the Pacific Ocean have such a tragic history.”

Akihito, who is 81, was 11 years old at the end of the war. His father, Hirohito, was emperor at the time.

Peleliu is one of several islands where Japanese soldiers fought to the death during the final year of the war. The three-month bat-

Japan’s Emperor Akihito, front left, and Empress Michiko, front right, lay a wreath in front of a memorial for American victims on Pelelilu island in Palau Thursday on April 9. The emperor of Japan visited a remote Pacific island Thursday to pray for thousands of Japanese and American soldiers who died during the World War II battle of Pelelilu. (AP Photo)

tle of Peleliu, which started in September 1944, left about 10,000 Japanese and 1,700 Americans dead.

One Japanese survivor, 95-year-old Kiyokazu Tsuchida, travelled to the island for the imperial visit. “Of the 34 survivors, sadly I’m the only one who made it back here,” he said Wednesday in an interview from the island with Japanese broadcaster NHK. The visit by the emperor highlights the slow-moving search for the remains of missing Japanese soldiers.

Only half of the 2.4 million Japanese who died over-

Iran’s top leader stops short of endorsing nuke deal TEHRAN, iRAN (Ap): Iran’s top leader on Thursday stopped short of giving his endorsement to the framework nuclear deal struck last week between Tehran and world powers, while the country’s president warned separately that Tehran’s approval of a final deal depends on the immediate lifting of all sanctions related to its controversial nuclear program.

The comments, taken together, could represent simply a tough bargaining stance by the Islamic Republic ahead of the next round of negotiations in the countdown to the final deal expected by June 30.

But President Hassan Rouhani’s demand of an immediate and full sanctions relief is likely to complicate efforts to reach a final deal.

“We will not sign any agreement, unless all economic sanctions are totally lifted on the first day of the implementation of the deal,” Rouhani said during a ceremony marking Iran’s

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, center, accompanied by the head of Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization Ali Akbar Salehi, right, and his chief of staff Mohammad Nahavandian, listens to Iran’s national anthem while attending a ceremony marking National Nuclear Technology Day, in Tehran on Thursday, April 9. (AP Photo)

nuclear technology day, which celebrates the country’s nuclear achievements.

Iran and the six world powers agreed last week in Switzerland on a framework deal, which is meant to curb Iran’s bomb-capable technology while giving Tehran quick access

to bank accounts, oil markets and financial assets blocked by international sanctions.

But the framework deal does not include the immediate lifting of punitive sanctions imposed on Iran.

Instead, it says the sanctions will be suspended

once international monitors verify that Tehran is abiding by the limitations spelled out in the agreement.

The deal also specifies that if at any time Iran fails to fulfill its commitments, these sanctions would snap back into place.

The framework agreement has received endorsement by much of the Iranian establishment, though hard-liners have overwhelmingly opposed it and described the deal as a “defeat” for Iran.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said in remarks published on his official website Thursday that he “is neither for nor against” the deal.

Khamenei, who has final say on all state matters, added that there “is no binding” agreement yet. He also said that the punitive “sanctions should be lifted completely, on the very day of deal” — something that has not been agreed on in Switzerland.

The top leader also cautioned that the six world powers — five permanent U.N. Security Council members and Germany — are “not to be trusted” and may try “to limit Iran” in further talks.

A lot remains to be done until the deal is finalized,

Khamenei said, adding it may take more than three months.

“The problems are in the details and (negotiators) should sit down and discuss them one by one,” he said.

If the deal is successfully finalized, Khamenei added it would show that negotiations are possible on other issues beyond the nuclear program. But the talks in Switzerland “are only about nuclear case,” he said. “We do not have talks with the United States on any other issue, for the time being.”

Khamenei also urged Iranian negotiators not to accept any “unconventional inspections” of Iran’s nuclear facilities — presumably meaning sudden or unannounced inspections — and stressed that inspections of military facilities would not be permitted.

“No way, we should not allow them to infiltrate security and defensive installations,” said Khamenei.

seas have been recovered.

Of those, about 300,000 are believed to be lost at sea and unrecoverable.

Officials cite a lack of documentation and geographical and political reasons for the delay. In recent years, Veterans groups and relatives of the dead have pressured the government to do more, and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has promised stepped-up efforts.

In Palau, half of the estimated 16,200 war-dead are still unaccounted for more than 60 years after the search began in 1953, according to

the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.

Six sets of remains were excavated during the latest search last month.

Palau, which lies about 800 kilometers (500 miles) east of the Philippines, was ruled by Japan for about 30 years after World War I. The emperor’s visit in the 70th anniversary year of the war’s end follows a visit to Saipan, another World War II battlefield in the Pacific, in 2005, the 60th anniversary year. He also prayed for Japanese and U.S. wardead in Iwo Jima in 1994.

NKorea deports American for plotting, making videos SEOUL, ApRiL 9 (Ap): North Korea has deported an American woman who frequently visited the country over the past 20 years, accusing her of engaging in “plotbreeding and propaganda.”

North Korea’s state media said Wednesday that Sandra Suh had traveled to North Korea “under the pretense of ‘humanitarianism,’” but that she had secretly produced and directed anti-North Korean videos and photos because of her “inveterate repugnancy” toward Pyongyang.

Suh arrived on a flight to Beijing on Thursday but made no comments to reporters there. A U.S. Embassy official in Seoul didn’t immediately have details about the report.

North Korea has occasionally detained Americans and other foreigners for what the cloistered country considered missionary work or “anti-state” activities that it sees as attempts to bring down its authoritarian government.

Analysts say past detentions have been attempts to wrest outside concessions out of Washington. Authorities in Pyongyang have also in the past staged news conferences, during which foreign detainees appeared before the media and made statements that they then recanted after their releases. However, Wednesday’s report appeared to be the first word about Suh. Pyongyang said it decided to deport the American because of her “old age” and after she apologized and admitted that she’d “seriously insulted” its citizens’ trust in leader Kim Jong Un. Last year, the North released three Americans who had been detained — two who had entered the country on tourist visas and Kenneth Bae, a missionary convicted and sentenced for “anti-state” crimes. An Australian missionary detained for spreading Christianity was also deported last year after he apologized for anti-state religious acts.

10

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SPORTS

Friday 10 April 2015

The Morung Express

ronaldo reaches 300 goals Messi, suarez score as barca beat Almeria for real in win over rayo

Real's Cristiano Ronaldo, left, scores during a Spanish La Liga soccer match between Rayo Vallecano and Real Madrid at the Vallecas stadium in Madrid, Spain on April 8. (AP Photo)

MADRID, ApRIl 9 (ReuteRs): Cristiano Ronaldo headed his 300th goal for Real Madrid in a laboured 2-0 La Liga victory at neighbours Rayo Vallecano on Wednesday that kept the gap on leaders Barcelona down to four points.

Fresh from thrashing Granada 9-1, when Ronaldo hit five, the European champions needed a win at Rayo’s Vallecas stadium after Barca strolled to a 4-0 home victory over Almeria to open a seven-point advantage over their arch-rivals. In-form Luis Suarez scored twice and Lionel Messi ended a three-game goal drought, with Marc Bartra also getting on the scoresheet at the Nou Camp.

Real struggled to exert any control over lowly Rayo

and missed a host of chances before Ronaldo netted his 37th La Liga goal of the campaign with a header from Dani Carvajal’s cross.

The prolific Portugal forward, five clear of Messi at the top of the scoring chart, is the third player after Raul (323) and Alfredo Di Stefano (307) to reach 300 goals for Real, but has needed only 288 matches, compared with Raul’s 741 and Di Stefano’s 396.

Ronaldo had earlier been booked for a dive in the penalty area and will be suspended for the La Liga game at home to Eibar on Saturday.

James Rodriguez made it 2-0 with a sharp finish from Ronaldo’s layoff to lift Real to 70 points, five ahead of third-placed champions

Atletico Madrid, who won 2-0 at home to Real Sociedad on Tuesday.

"We tried to pressure them with more intensity high up the pitch but in the first half we were not convincing," Real coach Carlo Ancelotti told a news conference.

"In the second, we were more complete, we played well and we deserved to win," added the Italian.

After edging to a 1-0 win at Celta Vigo on Sunday, Barca dominated Almeria at the Nou Camp to record their 20th victory in 22 matches this year in all competitions.

Messi, who had not scored since his double against Eibar three weeks ago, made it 1-0 in the 33rd minute when he skipped in from the right wing and whipped a left-foot effort inside the far post.

Almeria, who are third from bottom, defended doggedly but conceded again when Suarez netted an almost identical goal 10 minutes into the second half. Centre back Bartra added a third when he nodded in a Xavi corner with 15 minutes left and Pedro set up Suarez to make it 4-0 in stoppage-time.

"We know that if we don't stay focussed in the league we will not get the three points," Suarez said in an interview with Spanish television.

With eight league games left, Barca have a chance of repeating 2009's historic treble under Pep Guardiola, the only time a Spanish side has won the domestic league and Cup and Champions League in the same season.

BARCelONA, ApRIl 9 (AFp): Luis Suarez netted two goals after Lionel Messi opened the scoring to guide Spanish league leader Barcelona to a 4-0 victory over Almeria on Wednesday.

The hosts took over half an hour to make the breakthrough, but Messi did so in style as he curled home his 44th goal of the season into the far corner.

Suarez made the game safe when he fired into the top corner 10 minutes after the break and bagged his second of the evening in stoppage time after Marc Bartra headed home the third from Xavi's corner.

"It is the stage of the season where we have a lot to play for," said Suarez. "We ought to show our personality because we are Barcelona.

"In the league we depend on ourselves and we need to continue in this vein." With a tough trip to Sevilla to come on Saturday, Barca boss Luis Enrique made six changes to the side that won 1-0 at Celta Vigo on Sunday with Neymar and Gerard Pique among those rested.

And Enrique's men were given a wake up call on 15 minutes when Wellington Silva's shot across goal came within inches of giving Almeria a shock lead. Pedro Rodriguez then fired a cross from Messi wide and Xavi Hernandez volleyed straight at Julian Cuesta as the pressure began to build.

There was nothing Cuesta could do when the opener did arrive on 33 minutes as Messi found space on the edge of the area and curled brilliantly into the far corner with pinpoint accuracy.

Suarez made sure of Barca's 20th win in their last 21 games in all competitions with a little help

FC Barcelona's Lionel Messi, from Argentina, second right, duels for the ball against Almeria's Thomas Partey, right, during a Spanish La Liga soccer match at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona, Spain, Wednesday, April 8. (AP Photo)

barca riding high before crucial run

MADRID, ApRIl 9 (ReuteRs): Fired by the goals of Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, treble-chasing Barcelona are riding high before four games over 10 days that could make or break coach Luis Enrique's first season in charge. Wednesday's 4-0 La Liga victory over Almeria, which maintained their four-point advantage over Real Madrid at the top, was a more than satisfactory warm-up for Saturday's game at fifth-placed Sevilla.

The clash at the Sanchez Pizjuan is followed by the two-legged Champions League quarter-final against Paris St Germain, with a La Liga match at home to fourth-placed Vafrom Cuesta the keeper got a hand to the Uruguayan's powerful effort but couldn't keep it out.

A consistent feature of that run has been the Catalans sudden ability to score from set-pieces and they did so for the third con-

lencia in between.

Barca became the first Spanish side to win a treble of domestic league and Cup and Champions League under Luis Enrique's former team mate Pep Guardiola in 2008-09 and are well placed to repeat the feat after winning 20 of 22 matches this year. They will seek a record-extending 27th King's Cup triumph when they play Athletic Bilbao in the final at their own Nou Camp stadium in late May. Messi has been on scintillating form in 2015, while Suarez, who scored the winner in last month's 2-1 La Liga 'Clasico' win at home to Real, netted two more on Wednesday.

Forward Neymar has been off co-

secutive game 15 minutes from time when Bartra rose highest to power home Xavi's in-swinging delivery.

Messi saw a goal wrongly ruled out for offside and then forced Cuesta into a fine late save from a freekick as he had to settle for

lour recently and was rested for the Almeria game along with playmaker Andres Iniesta and centre back Gerard Pique but will surely get back to form soon. Rather than showing signs of stress, Luis Enrique says he is looking forward to the challenge. "It's an attractive phase of the season, I am not sure if it will be the most difficult," the former Barca and Spain midfielder told a news conference. "I hope that we can play even more important matches in the Champions League but it will be very attractive for the Sevilla and Valencia games. "In the Champions League we are putting everything on one card against PSG."

just the one for the evening, which leaves him still trailing Cristiano Ronaldo by three in the race to be La Liga's top scorer.

However, Suarez was gifted his second when Pedro unselfishly picked out the former Liverpool man

to roll into an empty net.

At the other end of the table Cordoba ended a 10-game losing streak, but were denied victory at fellow strugglers Deportivo la Coruna as Florin Andone scored at both ends in a 1-1 draw.

public discourse

sovereignty belongs to the people: NscN (r)

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aga sovereignty is not a private property of any individual. Sovereignty belongs to the people. Therefore, the most important thing to ponder at this juncture is not to see if “We are with the people but, to see if the people are with us”. Person like Mr. Niki Sumi and Mr. Isak Sumi should stop befooling themselves. How long will they keep on taking the Naga people for ransom in the name of sovereignty?

In their craze for money, they hatched a conspiracy against kilonser Hokato Vusshe, who was finally dropped from Chaplee ministry.

Later, they start gunning for Kughalu Mulatonu, while he was in Taga, and finally they also managed to chase him out of NSCN (K) .Now, they were emboldened and wanted to be a master of NSCN(K) in the state of Nagaland and therefore, gradually

they started plotting against Kilonser Wangtin, which was also finally realized with his expulsion from the NSCN(K) for attending the CFSB meeting in Chumukedima, Dimapur.

Both Kilonser Wangtin and P.Tikhak were expelled from the NSCN(K) for giving their attendance in the ceasefire meeting on the invitation of the GOI. Firstly, they attended because both the leaders are member CFSB on behalf of NSCN(K) and appointed by S.S.Khaplang, chairman NSCN(K). Secondly, they did not wanted the empty chair to receive the representative of the GOI. Any dispute, discontentment, or disagreement or violation can be resolved through talks and negotiation and not sudden outburst of anger through the barrel of a gun. Thirdly, they were not informed in any way, on the likelihood of the abrogation of

ceasefire by NSCN(K).

There are many ways to say good bye but, the way adopted by Mr. Khaplang and Mr. Niki by attacking the security forces and the other NPGs on the eve of ceasefire meeting, without keeping them informed on the abrogation of ceasefire and thereby, putting the life of two leaders at risk raises a serious question on their intention and their character.

On collusion with the IB and MHA officials, I would like to remind them that, meeting the representatives of the GOI is a part of the ceasefire process. You cannot expect the Prime minister of India to represent the GOI in the ceasefire meeting. It is represented by officials from MHA and MOD and therefore you are bound to meet them. Let me also inform you that, if there was any hobnobbing with the IB and MHA officials (i) Why

A Happy Thought on the Naga Peace Negotiation

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ecent report in the print media that the Government of India has decided to arrive at a final settlement to the ongoing Naga peace talks in 2015 itself, is a very glad tiding. No news than this can be better or sweeter to the ears of men and women of the generation that started the struggle more than sixty years ago. In the long journey, many precious lives were sacrificed and, as is inevitable in all political arenas, cracks and divisions appeared in the Naga family, the consequence of which again led to the loss of countless lives from infighting. Of the generation that started the movement, many were victims in the struggle and among those that survived, most have passed away, and those that are alive today have entered dotage, yet the flame of freedom still burns within them as it did in their youth, and to them, the news of the settlement is an answer to their everyday prayers.

Such is the work of God that when He ordains the happening of something, He ensures the convergence of everything favourable to its happening. Per-

haps, it is God’s will that the Nagas shall have their wish fulfilled, for when we look around today at the Naga society, we see possibilities in areas where there were none up to a recent point of time.

The State legislature across party lines, despite bickering in the maneuverings for power, is united in support of an amicable political settlement to the vexed Naga issue. Warring among the different factions have more or less ceased and the relations among them have thawed to a great extent, thanks to the patient and tireless striving of the FNR, Naga Hoho and other NGOs to bring about reconciliation, and also to the prevailing of reason among the leaders of the various factions. If only the ‘Friends of the Hill People’, the Assam Rifles, should refrain from the needless raids of residences and arrests, the environment is such as may favour a smooth and peaceful transition in the event of the anticipated settlement.

Most importantly, for the settlement to be possible, a favourable Government is in position in India. The political negotiation that was gaining positive momentum during the Vajpayee Government stalled for two subse-

quent full terms of Government during the Congress led rule in India, but this deliberate procrastination came to an end when Narendra Modi led BJP juggernaut swept aside the Congress regime, and on which promise we placed our trust, as soon as the Modi Government was installed, the talks resumed with vigour and sincerity and within the span of a few months, the outcomes have been no less than spectacular. All these positive developments must be attributed in no small measure to the broadness of vision and magnanimity of the leaders at the Centre and in particular, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It requires greatness of mind and spirit to bring about changes to the status quo, especially when one is in a comfortable position, and the BJP and its leadership has shown that they posses this virtue in ample proportion.

Now, it is up to the Naga leaders to also show the world that we too possess the attributes of greatness by shedding all differences whatsoever and move forward as on towards the future that beckons.

Bendangangshi, ExMLA

would Wangtin’s residence be ransacked and weapons seized, including two arms allotted for the red card holder, while he was in the middle of the ceasefire meeting in New Delhi. (ii) Why would Wangtins and Tikhak hotel room raided in Guwahati, Assam while the two leaders were on their way to New Delhi to raise the issue of 6 (six) NSCN (K) cadres killed in Senapati on 22.06.2013. (iii)Why Mr.Wangtin would be apprehended and detained for more than six and half long hours in Sonari, Assam on 22.06.2015. (iv)The atrocities did not stop here. Mr. Wangtin’s only account in SBI Mon along with his wife account is completely freeze, as perv section 51-A, of unlawful activities prevention act-1967, accusing him of laundering terrorist activities since September 2014, which is yet to be

de-freeze. (v) On June.04.2014, one Phulai Wangpan was arrested by a joint team of police and army with a cash amount of Rs. 1,50,000/- (one Lakh and Fifty Thousand) in Tinsukia. Mr. Tikhak who was completely unaware pleaded his innocence at all levels but, yet all charges were framed against him. When he did not surrender before the police a non-bail able arrest warrant was issued against him and his only ancestral home were his parents resides was seized under 82 crpc. This is the level of physical and mental harassment the two leaders has faced for being loyal to Khaplang.

I also wish to draw the kind attention of all the readers on the statement issued by Lt. Col.(Retd) Isak Sumi published on 31.05.2013 in Public Declaration in all the local dailies after he was expelled from NSCN(k). Where he

mentioned that, “ During my stint in service (2004-2013), I have met many friends and equally rivals too, factionalism has at times forced me to commit unreasonable actions against fellow Naga brothers but, no such action were personally motivated or dictated, all were purely circumstantial. Now that, I am to start my life anew with three children, wife and a family, I make this fervent plea to every Naga Political groups to spare me of my suspicion or connivance in favor or against any groups in the days to come. “I want to ask Mr. Isak Sumi that, how many times will he like to write the same article as above? If you have little respect for your wife and children, try to use your wisdom in building a good and better Naga society.

MIP, Secretary, NSCN –REFORMATION, Government of the People’s Republic of Nagaland.

love cow or love mankind?

That is the question

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he recent discussions and pressure by the BJPled Centre to completely ban all slaughter of cows in our country is best described as a primitive and a superstitious approach to preserve some utopian idea of a holy India.

That the BJP election manifesto has been promising the protection of cow and its progeny for the last 20 odd years is no surprise but even with all the advances of science and especially nutrition science seemingly has made no impact on our netas who are focussed to suppress everyone with their ideologies. From many scientific sources one can ascertain the fact of nutritious benefit and value of beef consumption.

And whatever religious compulsions are held towards the protection of cows it is a sad plight that the government who vouch for democracy would overlook the livelihood and sustenance of thousands of families who depend on the business of cattle and meat for their livelihood. Who will stand and support those people?

And directly or indirectly there are millions in India who enjoy beef for its taste and nutrition. Who will speak for us?

By all means create a legal and positive framework to protect the animal especially from people who abuse for selfish gains. It is definitely unwise to take a knee-

jerk approach where people are forced to look for ways to go around such bans and cause further dissension and risk to many through illegal measures.

Our Modi led government needs to take some more time out to rethink what their understanding of good governance means. The long pending need for the control and ban of tobacco and its related products require more urgent attention and action. The recent stay by the Centre on the action for larger pictorial representation of the dangers of tobacco on the covers of tobacco products are an example of misplaced priorities and serious concern for the general well being of people. Millions are at risk of cancer and death through the consumption of tobacco but the Centre has decided to turn a deaf ear to that. This dichotomy of thinking makes one seriously wonder what the Centre is really concerned about.

If the Centre is really earnest for good governance then why turn a dear ear to the cries of thousands dying every year to this deadly product. While no one likes to say it everyone understands that the revenues earned from this industry far exceeds the effects of terminal illness and deaths caused by use of tobacco.

Our government really needs to open its eyes and have a care!

Another phrase on everyone's mind and lips is MAKE IN INDIA! Why not promote cattle farming and its related industry to make it the best for India and the world?

Firstly cattle farming in the long run could be one of the best ways to help India deal with several of its long-standing thorns. Organic farming and its products help in creating a healthy environment and the success of various related industries of cattle rearing – milk and by products, leather, industries that make use of bones horns, hooves etc. and lastly but not least the meat. The collective revenues that can come from this will be some where over the tune of 100 billion dollars a year.

This in a way will also supplement the unemployment issues our country faces and even address the issue of poverty in India. Malnutrition and its shameful toll of deaths will cease to be a stigma for the country. India's position of being strong and dependable for other poorer nations will be even more established and the gains of experience and good practices will enable us to be a role model to many.

To love cows? Sure, it is good to be animals and we definitely must be good stewards to all creation -cows included. The Good Book points out in the book of Proverbs that a righteous man has regard for the life of his animal. But it is far more impor-

tant and consequential to love and care for your fellow human beings. We may be believing a serious lie if we think animals are greater than human beings.

Another quote from the Good Book says “If someone says “I love God” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for the one who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen.”

Everyone would love to see this great but perplexed country of ours rising high and shining; to see the country run with good governance after 60 odd years of poor governance.

Let us sincerely hope we can reach a day in India where there is no one dying of hunger, living in shame of insecurity or lack of care and basic needs. Let us hope one day every Indian breaths in the air of freedom, with no walls of division erected by caste, creed, colour, physical features, region, position, power and wealth.

Freedom in full bloom has no place for religious bigotry. Much less for misguided governance.

Choose respect and love for others. That is true patriotism.

True patriots will bring about good governance. One who's primary concern is the well being of fellow beings, peace and prosperity for all.

Dr. Nelson Vashum Ukhrul District, Manipur

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.

Entertainment

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Naga singers make India proud Mharhomo Kithan and Tiakumzuk Imchen to represent India at Asia Pacific Youth Choir

Mharhomo Kithan and Tiakumzuk Imchen

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fter a series of auditions, the Asia Pacific Youth Choir’s assembly of juries have chosen the final singers for their performances this year in Milan, Italy and Macau.

Two of the chosen singers are from Nagaland. For the very first time in the Asia Pacific Youth Choir’s (APYC), two of the most outstanding students from

the Nagaland Conservatory of Music are representing India.

Mharhomo Kithan and Tiakumzuk Imchen will represent India to this prestigious yearly event of the Asia Pacific Youth Choir. Both Kithan and Imchen are 3rd Year Choral Conducting Students at the Nagaland Conservatory of Music. They joined this prestigious event to

gain great experiences to further hone and develop their chosen future profession.

The Asia Pacific Youth Choir selects members each year, from as many countries representing the many voices of the region, they hope to foster and nurture the development of choirs and choral music in the Asia Pacific region. Through

bruCe JeNNer to

‘introduce himself as a female’

Friday 10 April 2015

Dimapur

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Disney ' o i h c c o n i ‘P

develops

live-action remake of

“Pinocchio 2017" has joined

the growing list of Disney's live-action adaptation projects that include "Alice in Wonderland", "Maleficent", and "Cinderella". The classic children's tale revolves around a wooden puppet and his maker Geppetto, reported Deadline.

Peter Hedges ("The Odd Life of Timothy Green") has been hired to pen a script loosely based on the original story which follows the puppet whose nose grows when he tells a lie as he goes on a quest to become a real boy. Disney's other remakes include "The Jungle Book", "Beauty and the Beast (2017)",

"Dumbo", "Pete's Dragon", "Mulan", "Winnie the Pooh (2017)", and "Through the Looking Glass".

The Mouse House is not the only one reviving Pinocchio though. Guillermo del Toro has been developing a stop-motion feature based on the beloved story for several years now. Robert Downey Jr and his wife are also working on a similar project. In the meantime, a reference to the puppet who dreams of becoming a real boy can be found on "Avengers: Age of Ultron" when it arrives in US theatres on May 1. Ultron quotes Pinocchio song "I've Got No Strings" as he goes rogue.

collaboration and exchange, they hope to learn from one another. Through music, they hope to connect with each other, to bring together as many different peoples as possible for a singular purpose - to be instruments for peace and understanding.

Thus they begin this journey of hope with the formation of the Asia Pacific Youth Choir.

Kurt CobaIN’s daughter

DGP band perform during the closing ceremony of 2nd 10th Northern Angami-I T20 Bash 2015 on April 8 at Kohima Village Ground, Ziekiezou. (Morung Photo)

talks about her father’s

’ a n a v ir N e k li y ll a e music:‘I don’t r

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t has been claimed that Bruce Jenner is set to say goodbye to his male persona for good when he appears on a special edition of ABC's 20/20 later this month.

The Olympic gold medalist and reality TV star, who is expected to address reports that he is undergoing a gender transformation, is said to be speaking to the show's host Diane Sawyer in a two-hour oneoff episode.

And it has now been further claimed by TMZ that the 65-year-old will finally bid farewell to his

male self, and will 'present himself' as a woman for the first time. But the site has stressed - after allegedly getting word from sources close to Bruce - that he will not be dressed as a female or reveal his alternative name.

For the Keeping Up With The Kardashians star, it's thought to be less about his physical appearance, and more about his mental journey throughout this period of time. It has also been claimed that he'll open up about his realisation about his gender difficulties from the

age of five, in a series of pre-recorded interviews.

MailOnline has contacted a representative for Bruce Jenner but they declined to comment.

ABC previously revealed details of the upcoming show, which is called Bruce Jenner: The Interview: it will be a twohour programme with Sawyer, and would be 'farranging and exclusive'. The revealing interview will air on Friday April 24, after months of speculation.

Freddie Prinze, Jr. releasing first Cookbook Actor Freddie Prinze, Jr. is relaunching himself as a Celebrity Chef after landing a publishing deal for his first Cookbook.

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he She's All That star has been showing off his culinary skills on Twitter.com by frequently posting photos of the fancy meals he prepares for his wife Sarah Michelle Gellar and their two kids at home, and on Wednesday the former Buffy the Vampire Slayer actress announced her husband's new project. Prinze, Jr. has since confirmed the news himself, revealing cooking has always been his first passion.

A statement issued to Eonline. com reads, "I have been cooking longer than I've been acting - in fact, if I hadn't made it as an actor, I'd probably be a chef today. I was actually enrolled in culinary school when I landed my first role, opposite Michelle Pfeiffer and Claire Danes in To Gillian on her 37th Birthday."

He continues, "Cooking has always been a huge part of my life - my mom encouraged me to explore the world through food and when I became a dad, I knew that I would do the same with my own kids. "And nowadays, when eating real food and enjoying home cooked meals is more important than ever, I'm thrilled to offer my fans (and would-be fans) some of the fresh, healthy and easy-tomake recipes my family and I love."

Back To The Kitchen will be cowritten by celebrated journalist Rachel Wharton and feature 75 of the actor's favourite recipes. Prinze, Jr. isn't the only actor to add cookbook author to his resume - Gwyneth Paltrow, Eva Longoria, Valerie Bertinelli and Stanley Tucci also have bestselling releases to their names.

urt Cobain’s daughter Frances Bean Cobain loves Mercury Rev, Oasis and Brian Jonestown Massacre but when it comes to Nirvana, she’d rather pass. “I don’t really like Nirvana that much,” the 22-year-old visual artist told Rolling Stone. “The grunge scene is not what I’m interested in.”

Regardless of the fact that she isn’t a fan of her dad’s music she does find that his song “Dumb” creates lots of emotions for her. “I cry every time I hear that song,” she tells the mag. “It's a stripped-down version of Kurt's perception of himself -- of himself on drugs, off drugs, feeling inadequate to be titled the

voice of a generation."

The stars talent eventually led to his downfall his daughter explained. "Kurt got to the point where he eventually had to sacrifice every bit of who he was to his art, because the world demanded it of him," Cobain said blankly. "I think that was one of the main triggers as to why he felt he didn't want to be here and everyone would be happier without him."

The artist recently got herself involved with a project surrounding her father when she co-executive produced a HBO documentary about his life titled “Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck,” and she was

clear she wanted the program to remain true to who her dad really was.

"When Brett (producer of the documentary) and I first met, I was very specific about what I wanted to see, how I wanted Kurt to be represented,” the daughter of the “Nirvana” member explained. “I told him, "I don't want the mythology of Kurt or the romanticism."

Even though Kurt died in the most horrific way possible, there is this mythology and romanticism that surrounds him, because he's 27 forever.” “He wanted his band to be successful. But he didn't want to be the fucking voice of a generation,” she adds.

'No Kardashian Parking' signs put up in Hollywood

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nti-Kardashians signs that read "No Kardashian Parking Anytime" have been installed in several areas of Hollywood. The idea came from a LA street artist who goes by the name Plastic Jesus, reported Ace Showbiz. The seven official-looking signs were attached onto street poles featuring official parking signs. They were posted in some areas throughout Hollywood including near The Ivy restaurant, outside the Urban Outfitters on Melrose and outside Cecconi's West Hollywood eating house, also on Melrose.

There is also one sign installed outside the Kardashians' Dash boutique. "I suppose it's a protest at the obsession with the Kardashians and every kind of move they make," the artist said. "Their lunch outings and shopping trips are media events in themselves. What can be fascinating about someone pumping gas?" Later he added, "People are shutting out real news content."

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The UK-bred artist said that the idea came after seeing paparazzi surrounding one of the Kardashian sisters on an LA street. "I guarantee that same number of paparazzi was far greater than any number of photographers chasing real news," he gushed. He further complained, "The Kardashian family has become ingrained in our culture. We've allowed mainstream media to become so profit-driven, we are sacrificing genuine news stories to satiate our vapid celebrity obsessions."

Prior to the sign, the artist was also responsible for another stunt. Last year, he installed an oversize, heroininjecting Oscar-like statue near the site of the 2014 Academy Awards as his response to Hollywood's drug problems.

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Friday, 10th April 2015

Kings XI Punjab Versus Rajasthan Royals

8:00 PM IST

MCA International Stadium, Pune

Liverpool beat Blackburn to enter FA Semis

Blackburn's Craig Conway, left, fights for the ball against Liverpool's Joe Allen during the English FA Cup sixth round replay soccer match between Blackburn and Liverpool at Ewood Park Stadium, Blackburn, England on April 8. (AP Photo)

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BLACKBURN, APRIL 9 (AP): Philippe Coutinho was Liverpool's FA Cup savior again on Wednesday, clinching a 1-0 victory over secondtier Blackburn to set up a

semifinal with Aston Villa.

After a goalless draw at Anfield last month, Coutinho broke the deadlock in the 70th minute of the quarterfinal replay

at Ewood Park. The Brazil playmaker drilled an angled low shot through a crowded six-yard box and inside the far post after a swift interchange with Jor-

Shuttlers Kashyap and Prannoy enter Singapore Open quarters

SINgAPoRe, APRIL 9 (IANS): Indian shuttlers Parupalli Kashyap and H.S. Prannoy notched up superb victories to enter the men's singles quarterfinals at the $300,000 Singapore Open Superseries here on Thursday.

The experienced Kashyap came up with a brilliant performance to oust fourth-seeded South Korean Son Wan Ho. The

Commonwealth Games champion took 46 minutes to win 21-15, 22-20 at the Singapore Indoor Stadium to register his first victory over the World No.5 in three meetings.

Kashyap, 28, will next take on French Brice Leverdez, against whom the Hyderabadi has a 1-1 record. However, the last time they met was four years back in Malaysia.

Later, World No.14 Prannoy caused one of the biggest upsets of the tournament when he downed Danish second seed Jan O Jorgensen 21-16, 21-8 in only 33 minutes.

Though the World No.2 was expected to win, Prannoy's 2-0 career advantage which he has now extended to 3-0, gave the Kerala shuttler the psychological edge going into the match.

India defeat Canada 5-3 in Azlan Shah

IPoh (MALAySIA), APRIL 9 (IANS): The Indian hockey team finally managed their first win of the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, defeating Canada 5-3 at the Azlan Shah Stadium here on Thursday.

The first quarter saw fights for ball possession but India grabbed their opportunities to open their account. Drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh made full use of his penalty corner chance and converted in the 13th minute. Canada earned two penalty corners but failed to

capitalise on them.

Making some swift moves, India earned another penalty corner but wasted it as Rupinder hit the ball way above the net.

With the change of sides and just two minutes into the third quarter, V.R. Raghunath converted a penalty corner (32nd minute) to double the lead.

By this time Canada started making some desperate attempts and their efforts finally bore fruit when Oliver Scholfield (43rd) scored.

The last quarter rained goals. Within two minutes of the restart, India extended their lead to 4-1 as Ramandeep Singh scored a brace (46th, 47th). Canada bounced back when Jagdish Gill converted a penalty corner in the 49th minute.

Only a few seconds later, India retaliated with Satbir Singh scoring a field goal. Canada added another goal to their tally as David Jameson made no mistake in netting the ball in the 52nd minute.

dan Henderson.

"Philippe's got a great football brain and the easy bit was just giving him it and he finished it fantastically well," Henderson told

broadcaster BT Sport. "That little bit of brilliance from him wins us the game and gives everyone a big lift."

The goal was less dramatic than his 90th-minute winner in the fourth-round replay at Bolton, but it ensured Brendan Rodgers will take Liverpool to Wembley Stadium on April 19 for the first time in his threeyear reign.

Winning the FA Cup would be some consolation for a disappointing season that sawLiverpool eliminated in the Champions League in the group stage and now struggling to make the Premier League's top four to return to Europe's elite competition next season. "It was a really important game for us today," Henderson said. "I think everybody has been disappointed over the last couple of weeks with performances and results.

"But I think we showed great character today. We knew when we came here they'd make it difficult for us but from start to finish we controlled the game. I Lindsey Vonn speaks to Tiger Woods during the Par 3 contest at the Masters golf tournament thought we were brilliant." Wednesday, April 8, in Augusta, Ga. (AP Photo)

Kings XI Punjab Face Rajasthan Royals at New Home Ground

PUNe, APRIL 9 (PTI): Kings XI Punjab would look to adapt quickly to their new 'home ground' when they lock horns with former champions Rajasthan Royals in their campaign opener in the Indian Premier League (IPL) here at Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium on Friday.

The Royals, who have three 2015 World Cup winners in Shane Watson, Steven Smith and James Faulkner, would look to Chris Morris, their costliest buy at Rs 1.4 crore, for a positive start. Morris was bought for his all-round skills and will be expected to partner Faulkner in that department.

(Mumbai Indians' Josh Hazlewood Pulls Out of IPL) With the ball, Morris produced a record performance for Lions in the Ram Slam T20 last year. But a big challenge for Royals would be adapting to a new home after their actual home ground of Jaipur was taken off the roster owing to the dispute in the Rajasthan Cricket Association. With captain Watson and Stuart Binny playing all-round roles as well, chief coach Paddy Upton feels Morris' inclusion gives Royals a lot of options. They have also brought in two leg-spinners in Dinesh Salunkhe and Pardeep Sahu, and could play decisive roles for the team in this format. (KKR Very Hungry for Glory, Says SRK) Smith, meanwhile, comes in

away Mitchell Johnson leading the pacers pack. "Last year was a good season for us and we would want to carry on the winning spree this season as well," coach Sanjay Bangar said on the sidelines of KXIP's pre-season camp here. "We have a well balanced team and the entire coaching staff is positive about the team’s performance. As a part of this camp, we will focus towards working on the strengths and improvement areas of the players and look forward to a great tournament." (CSK's Irfan Pathan to Miss DD Clash due to Injury)

to the IPL on the back of an aweinspiring performance in the year gone by. He has scored 2096 runs in 31 international matches across all formats at a brilliant average of 69.86, which includes eight hundreds. During this period, he captained Australia's Test side and was their leading run-scorer (402 at an average of 67, including an unbeaten fifty in the final) in a winning World Cup campaign. Kings XI Punjab captain George Bailey, who did not get to spend much time in the middle last season, aggregated 257 runs at a strike rate of 135.26.

But it was Glenn Maxwell - 552 runs at a strike rate of 187.75 - who was the team's trump card in the previous IPL. In the company of South African dasher David Miller and the Indian trio of Virender Sehwag, Manan Vohra and Wriddhiman Saha, Maxwell could well be the key to the team's fortunes this season as well. (Will Never Compromise my Swing for Pace: Bhuvneshwar) That intimidating batting order has been further beefed up by the addition of Murali Vijay.

The bowling department also looks solid with Australian tear-

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Teams

Photo of RR's captain Shane Watson (left) and Kings XI Punjab captain George Bailey (right)

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Kings XI Punjab: Axar Patel, Anureet Singh, Beuran Hendricks, David Miller, George Bailey, Glenn Maxwell, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Karanveer Singh, Manan Vora, Mitchell Johnson, Parvinder Awana, Rishi Dhawan, Sandeep Sharma, Shardul Thakur, Shaun Marsh, Shivam Sharma, Thisara Perera, Virender Sehwag, Wriddhiman Saha, Murali Vijay, Nikhil Naik, Yogesh Golwalkar

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Rajasthan Royals: Shane Watson, Abhishek Nayar, Ajinkya Rahane, Ankit Nagendra Sharma, Ben Cutting, Deepak Hooda, Dhawal Kulkarni, Dishant Yagnik, James Faulkner, Kane Richardson, Karun Nair, Pravin Tambe, Rahul Tewatia, Rajat Bhatia, Sanju Samson, Steven Smith, Stuart Binny, Tim Southee, Vikramjeet Malik, Chris Morris, Juan Theron, Barinder Singh Saran, Dinesh Salunkhe, Sagar Trivedi, Pardeep Sahu.

Spurs hot streak continues with win over Rockets

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SAN ANToNIo, APRIL 9 (AP): San Antonio stretched its streak of double-digit victories to nine with a 110-98 win against Houston on Wednesday, leaving the top three teams in the NBA's Southwest Division separated by just half a game as the regular season enters its last week.

The defending champion Spurs moved onto the tail of Houston and also Memphis, which drew level with the Rockets atop the division by inflicting New Orleans' heaviest defeat of the season.

In the Eastern Conference, No.1 playoff seed Atlanta had a narrow win over a Brooklyn team that still has its postseason hopes in the balance, and Cleveland secured both the Central Division title and No.2 seed in the conference by defeating Milwaukee.

San Antonio's Tony Parker scored 27 points and Kawhi Leonard added 20 for the Spurs who overcame a slow start to lead by as much as 22 points before easing up.

Jason Terry led Houston with 22 points, while the Rockets got only three points from James Harden

Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) drives around San Antonio Spurs guard Cory Joseph during the first half of an NBA basketball game, on April 8 in San Antonio. (AP Photo)

over the final three quarters. The Rockets and the Spurs meet again on Friday in a game that will be a key to determining the Southwest title.

Memphis pulled even with Houston by routing New Orleans 110-74.

Zach Randolph had 15 points and 13 rebounds while Jeff Green and Marc

Gasol also each had 15 points for the Grizzlies, who rediscovered their best form after a rocky patch.

Anthony Davis scored

12 points for the Pelicans, who dropped back into a tie with Oklahoma City for the Western Conference's final playoff spot.

Atlanta completed a season sweep of Brooklyn by winning 114-111 at the Nets, with Al Horford making the go-ahead basket on a dunk with 19 seconds remaining.

Playing without injured All-Star Paul Millsap and further undermanned after Pero Antic and Thabo Sefolosha were arrested early Wednesday at the scene of a nightclub stabbing and didn't play, the Hawks recovered after blowing a 12-point, fourthquarter lead.

Horford scored 24 points and Mike Scott had 20 points for Atlanta, which won its third straight.

Brook Lopez had 26 points and 10 rebounds for the Nets, who are level with Boston in seventh and eighth in the East.

Cleveland's Kyrie Irving scored 27 points to lead the Cavaliers to a 10499 victory over Milwaukee to clinch the Central. LeBron James scored 21 points with nine rebounds and eight assists for the Cavs, including 10 points in the fourth quarter.

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