August 19th 2014 by The Morung Express

C M Y K

www.morungexpress.com

The Morung Express

Dimapur VOL. IX ISSUE 226

“

www.morungexpress.com

180 dead as floods wash away homes in Nepal, India [ PAGE 8]

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

”

Open your eyes, look within. Are you satisfied with the life you’re living?

MEC conducts survey on Govt Sponsored Loans in Mkg

Britney Spears under Fire for Using Sia Vocals [ PAGE 11]

Tuesday, August 19, 2014 12 pages Rs. 4 –Bob Marley

[ PAGE 2]

Jayawardene ends test career in near-perfect style

[ PAGE 9]

[ PAGE 12]

Pope leaves South Korea after urging peace

Dimapur’s ‘illicitly open’ liquor industry Imti Longchar

bribes landing in the hands of syndicates, trucks after trucks of liquor enter Nagaland gate unrestrained. These consignments not only go to the Armed forces, but flows directly into the general market, the source claimed. “But who can prove what when everyone- the excise, police, State government officials, politicians, church members, public- from the top rung to the bottom, are equally involved in the making of this industry?” he said, implicitly pinpointing the reason why the NLTP Act has not been a success or will never be.

Dimapur | August 18

I want to be the first Naga politician to join facebook. Btw how much are members paid? When will I get my first pay?

The Morung Express POLL QUESTIOn

Vote on www.morungexpress.com SMS your anSwer to 9862574165 Is the unresolved Assam-Nagaland border issue affecting the local market?

Yes

Others

Arunachal BJP demands deleting ‘any Naga tribe’ Itanagar, august 18 (PtI): The Arunachal Pradesh unit of BJP has demanded a constitutional amendment to delete the words “any Naga tribe” suffixed after the Nocte, Tangsa, Wancho, Tutsa and other tribes in the Scheduled Tribes list of the state. In a representation to the Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram recently in New Delhi, the party had stated that the tribes, residing in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts, were facing identity crisis and were inconvenienced in various official works as they were not recognised by the Centre as separate entities from “any Naga Tribe”, a party release said here today. The youths of these districts while appearing for UPSC and state Public Service Commission examinations were also facing problem because of the name, the representation said. “The government of Arunachal Pradesh has recommended for a constitutional amendment to the Constitution (Scheduled Tribe) Order, 1950 for deletion of the words “any Naga Tribe” from the ST list of Arunachal Pradesh in the larger interest of the people and recognition of the Nocte, Wancho, Tangsa, Tutsa, and other tribes in the ambit of “any Naga tribe” to Scheduled Tribes (STs) list of the state,” the party said.

APPEAL

C M Y K

As appealed to by Watinaro A Imsong, Against Corruption And Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) Nagaland once again appeals to all civil societies, Students, Teachers, Faculty Members, Principals of Colleges/university and right thinking Individuals from all walks of life to come and assemble for a Gandhian sit-in protest agitation on 19th August 2014 Tuesday 9.30AM, Secretariat junction, Kohima to show solidarity in her struggle for justice and fight for the future of the student community. It is time Naga people show resentment at the sad state of affairs. Media Cell, ACAUT

C M Y K

Amidst zealous and earnest debates flooding newspapers, social networking sites and road side liquor joints on the fallacy that Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act (NLTP) 1989 is or not, a less perturbed illicit liquor industry continues to rise to humongous proportions in commercial hub Dimapur. Under the guise of mineral water wholesale shops and patently placing them under food restaurant industry on their registration licenses, the spurious liquor business is rising extraordinarily in all stretches of Dimapur. Keen observers point out how the commercial hub might have the highest number of wholesale shops selling mineral water in the whole of North East, coupled with an abnormal number of Indian cuisine hotels - most of which does not offer even a plate of chapatti. More ironically, amongst all the businesses dotting Dimapur, these shops are diligently the first to open shutters in the morning (by 5 am), and the last to close at night (11 pm) for its ‘customers.’ People in the know (and who does not know?) counted nearly 500 illegal wine shops in Dimapur and along NH 29 and rising. This figure does not include restaurants which have liquor on their menu, or home/residence based IMFL businesses inside the numerous colonies. To cite instances, a year or two ago, there was only one wine store, a very renowned one, near Dhobi Nullah traffic point intersection. Of late, it has tripled, flanking each other on the left and right of the road. Or along the neglected Signal road, where setting up business was deemed a bad idea (except for a Punjabi hotel prospering in mineral water business)

A group of people are seen drinking liquor in one of the many clandestine establishments which sell alcohol in Dimapur. Photo by Caisii Mao

because of the deplorable road condition or so, nearly half a dozen wine stores have cropped up and is doing brisk business. Likewise, be it City Tower, Nagarjan junction, Purana Bazaar, Burma Camp, 4th Mile and elsewhere, the sprouting liquor hotels with its trademark mineral water cartons and cold drinks decorated cupboards can hardly miss our sight.

a year into the business. “After that, its snapping fingers for you,” he quipped. His bold declaration holds water. A personnel of the Intelligence Branch revealed how during one of the recent routine closure of liquor stores by authorities, a single wine shop could earn a whopping profit of Rs 16 lakh by selling liquor to alarmed imbibers from 4 pm till 9 pm.

THE EARNINGS Lure of quick and highly dividend earnings and unemployment can be attributed for people venturing into the illicit liquor business, despite the knowledge of prohibition. No regard for the law because everyone else is breaking the law of prohibition can be another issue. Owner of a paan shop cum liquor joint was candid enough to reveal how one can become a ‘lakhpati’ if one lasts

THE GANG The stretch of Shillong and Guahati night bus boarding station (Blue Hill station) decorated with high rise hotels, lodgings, and bus counters is infamous for its alleged distinction of being a ‘syndicate’s haven,’ – meaning a hotspot from where most networking of illicit liquor supplies allegedly originate. A source, working in the police department explains how the illegal chain

NSDZ clauses are open ULFA seeks to discussion, says CM clarification from

Morung Express news Dimapur | August 18

Nagaland state Chief Minister, TR Zeliang today informed that the public consultation for setting up of Nagaland Special Development Zones (NSDZ) and other issues related to land policies has been tentatively slated for September 12. “As per government policies and programmes, we have announced the Nagaland Investment Board, and also the NSDZs, which have become a hot topic of discussion and controversies in the market,” said Zeliang. All the clauses that have come under question with regards the NSDZs, as per the CM, are mere proposals—it’s not an act yet— and are “open to discussion.” Identifying areas for the NSDZs will be done in consultation with people, landowners, government

representatives and other stakeholders, informed Zeliang. “We will issue a public notice for the public consultation tentatively to be held on September 12 where organizations like the Naga Hoho, ENPO, NSF, ENSF, etc. will be invited,” he added. Zeliang also intimated that some companies have approached the Government for making investments vis-à-vis NSDZs, but are yet to identify and highlight where investments are possible—only then will modalities be worked out. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister will meet the Kyong Students’ Union on August 29 to discuss issues around oil in Changpang, Wokha. He said that Memorandums of Understanding have been signed between the landowners and the company concerned in the presence of village representatives.

‘Naga leadership’

guWaHatI, august 18 (Ians): The ULFA has asked “aggressors” from Nagaland to withdraw from Assam and sought clarification from the Naga leadership. A statement issued by Abhizeet Asom, Chairman of the ULFA faction that opposes peace talks, asked Naga leaders to address the issue as a “matter of urgency”. “It is with greatest of anxiety and horror on the unfolding of the massacre of people of Assam at Uriamghat, a bordering area of our respective nations, I, as the executive head of ULFA, implore the Naga leadership to explain without ambiguity why such a horrific conflict could take place leading to loss of lives of innocent citizens of Assam,” he said

North East CMs’ to decide roadmap for development

agartala, august 18 (Ians): DoNER Minister Gen. (retd) V.K. Singh would meet the chief ministers of all eight northeastern states in Guwahati Aug 21-22 to decide a roadmap for the development of the region, an official said here Monday. This would be the Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) minister’s first meeting with the chief ministers of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland, Manipur and Sikkim. “The meeting would discuss and resolve various strategies and plans on ag-

riculture, roadways, education, power, transport, tourism, industries and health sectors of the region,” an official of the North Eastern Council (NEC) told IANS. He said various expert groups and specialists would also make presentations highlighting the scope and available resources of the region. The meeting would also discuss the ongoing projects of the NEC. After assuming office in May, V.K. Singh held several meetings with top officials of both the DoNER ministry and the NEC in New Delhi and Guwahati to familiarise himself about the

northeastern states and functioning of his ministry and the council. A Tripura government official said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also agreed to convene a meeting soon of the eight chief ministers to resolve various problems of the region. Modi’s assurance came on Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar’s request when he met the prime minister in New Delhi recently. The official said Sarkar and Modi discussed issues such as connectivity, policy intervention, infrastructure, agricultural, educational, health service and tourism.

of the liquor industry is segregated into four components – syndicate, wholeseller, retailer and home business makers. Syndicates are the main suppliers to the whole-sellers, who, then sell to retailers and home business makers. Illicit liquor is also supplied directly by kingpins at Lahorijan and Khat Khati under Assam which, according to this source, is more cumbersome and risky for the bootleggers. One key factor on how syndicates manage to operate the illicit liquor business full swing may also be directly linked with the license awarded by the State government to individuals or groups for bonded ware house to supply liquor to Armed forces stationed in Nagaland and Manipur, says the source. With these licences, purportedly bought with ludicrous amounts of

NEW BREED OF LOCAL BREWERS The roaring illicit liquor industry in Dimapur has also witnessed the rise of a new breed of apprentice in the brewing business. There was a time when local beer made of rice were mostly brewed and sold by local women as means to survival and livelihood. And also with their contention that drinking rice beer was Naga traditional way of life. A walk around Westyard (Rail bazaar) area or Dhobi Nullah would reveal otherwise. At the bustling stretches of rice beer joints, swift and business minded non locals sell local brew kept in large basins along with plates of dry fried fish, fried blood cakes, mutton heads and innards. Many of these versatile non local businessmen have learnt the art of brewing rice beer as means to employment. They also buy the fermented rice from locals. In a reverse scenario, local women mostly widows or those with unemployed husbands have turned to sale of IMFL instead of the local brew. “This is more lucrative and hassle free than selling rice beer,” a woman who was into rice beer business, but now sells rum, remarked. That’s prohibition in Dimapur.

Assam-nagaland Border row • Protestors attack Tarun Gogoi’s convoy • 9 persons from Nagaland remain detained Ashikho Pfuzhe Dimapur | August 18

The illegal detention of nine members of the entourage of Nagaland Parliamentary Secretary for Transport, Paiwang Konyak, in Assam by an Adivasi mob is snowballing into a major human crisis issue. The nine persons, including the personal secretary, five bodyguards and three drivers of the Parliamentary Secretary, have been held hostage since Independence Day after their convoy was waylaid near Golaghat junction by an Adivasi mob while proceeding to Jorhat to pick up Paiwang Konyak. Sources informed the convoy, consisting of three vehicles (Innova, Bolero and Escort Gypsy), along with the nine occupants, has been held hostage at the roadside and the occupants not allowed to move out from their vehicles except to answer nature’s call. With the hostage situation entering the fourth day, passions are reportedly running high among Paiwang’s entourage members, especially the body guards who have their arms and ammos intact. Enduring for four days inside the vehicles without proper food and sleep and without changing their clothes, the unbearable heat during daytime and the indignity of being subjected to stares and jeers in the open street, is proving too much for some escort personnel. “Some (escort personnel) have reportedly told authorities back home that they are running out of patience. They said they are even willing to risk their lives and confront the mob

Assure security, we’ll lift blockade: AAttsA Imkong Walling

Dimapur | August 18

The All Assam Tea Tribes Students Association (AATTSA) has asserted that it will continue the road blockade against Nagaland until security and peace is restored in the disputed Assam-Nagaland (Golaghat-Wokha) inter-state border. The AATTSA is spearheading imposition of the blockade, which entered its fifth day, and was called by a conglomeration of Assam-based organisations. AATTSA president, Prohlat Gowla speaking to The Morung Express asserted that the violence must stop. The ceasing of violence and assurance of security (from Nagaland) of Adivasis living along the border will pave the way for lifting the blockade, Gowla said. “We are willing to talk but assurance should come first from Nagaland that there will be an end to the killing of innocents and that it will not recur,” said Gowla. For dialogue, he said that organisations instead of suffering the indignity”, sources said. With Assam government remaining a mute spectator to the whole drama, Nagaland state Chief Minister, TR Zeliang, has sought immediate intervention of the Centre to secure the release of the hostages. Talking to the Morung Express here at his private residence on Monday after an emergency meeting with his cabinet colleagues, the Nagaland CM hit out at the manner in which the Assam government was handling the issue. “I had talked to Tarun Gogoi on August 15, the day they were detained, and last night also. On both occasions, Gogoi assured that he would take care of the matter and secure the release of Paiwang’s entourage, but so far nothing has been done”, Zeliang said. He informed that on Monday, after Gogoi was prevented by Adivasi mob

imposing the blockade are willing to sit with the civil society from Nagaland. He however reiterated that for talks to happen, security should prevail in the border. On the inquiry committee set up by the Nagaland government, Gowla said that it is normal government procedure. He further informed that volunteers have blocked vehicular traffic to and from Nagaland on five important routes: Namtola and Haluating in Sibsagar district; Mariani in Jorhat; Rangajan in Golaghat and Bokajan in Karbi-Anglong. Several hundred goods carriers, including passenger vehicles remain stranded in the said locations. Gowla said that an NST bus, alongwith its passengers was stopped at Golaghat but assured that the passengers will not be harmed. Meanwhile, the Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti staged a rally in front of Nagaland House, Guwahati on Monday. The rally was organised in protest against alleged violence committed by Nagas in the Golaghat-Wokha inter-state border.

from visiting the area to negotiate the release, the Assam chief minister on his way back to Dispur had informed his Nagaland counterpart that he would ask the police to act and release the nine persons. Alluding that this was a hostage issue, the Nagaland CM also disclosed that the Adivasi mob and organizations behind the detention of Paiwang’s entourage were demanding money from Nagaland government for their release. “They are demanding Rs. 15 lakhs as ex-gratia to every Adivasi killed in the recent clash in border areas (Ralan and adjoining villages), Rs. 5 lakhs to every injured Adivasi and Rs.7 lakhs per every house burnt down for reconstruction purpose”, Zeliang informed. Terming the demand as “unfair”, he said the issue of ex-gratia payment and compensation should

be done at the government level. Stating that Assam government had already announced ex-gratia payment to the Adivasi victims, Zeliang also hinted that the question of ex-gratia would come up only after the Enquiry Committee set up by the Nagaland state government submitted its report. “This is purely unlawful detention and Assam government is paralyzed. Such incidents will create a bad precedence”, Zeliang said and added that if the Centre doe not intervene immediately, there is bound to be ramifications in Centre-State relations. He further informed that the Nagaland government is in touch with the PMOs office, the Union Home Secretary and the Union Minister of state for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju. The Nagaland CM is scheduled to meet his Assam counterpart on August 21.

C M Y K

Dimapur

Tuesday

LocaL

19 August 2014

TR Zeliang inaugurates Hotel Lake Shilloi

Chief Minister of Nagaland, T.R. Zeliang inaugurates Hotel Lake Shilloi in Dimapur city, near the Clock Tower on August 18. Morung Express News Dimapur | August 18

Popular with tourists for its rich culture and biodiversity, Nagaland has vast investment potential in the sector, of which hotels are a major component. Chief Minister of Nagaland, T.R. Zeliang acknowledged this today while inaugurating

Hotel Lake Shilloi in the heart of Dimapur city, near the Clock Tower. Touted to be a luxury hotel, it borrows its name from Lake Shilloi in Phek district. “Accommodation is the top most requirements for tourists in our State, followed by security, hospitality and management, which this hotel is in a po-

MEx File ANPH(R&B) REU informs

Kohima, august 18 (mExN): The All Nagaland PWD Housing Roads & Bridges and Mechanical Employed Union with effect from Ist June 1998 will hold an emergency general meeting on August 21 at 10:00 AM at PWD Conference Hall, Kohima to discuss the important issue. In this connection, all the members have been requested o attend the said meeting positively.

ETSU Jubilee Editorial Board meeting C M Y K

Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): Emlo-To Students’ Union Jubilee Editorial Board and Pioneers Joint Meeting is scheduled to be held on August 23 at its Union Banker Akheto Chophi’s Residence Purana Bazar, Dimapur at 2:00 pm. All the Jubilee Editorial Board Members and Pioneers Yeshito Chishi, Khetovi Chishi, Atoshe Chishi and K. Hoshito Chophi have been requested to attend the meeting.

Gov calls to build up a strong country

Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): Governor of Nagaland PB Acharya met the spiritual leaders and public from various communities and requested them to take a pledge irrespective of the community “to build up a strong/secular Country.” PB Acharya, Governor and Kabita Acharya, wife of Governor paid a visit to Bharat Sangh Seva Ashram, Dimapur and attended Krishna Janma Astami function. Governor also offered puja at Hindu Mandir Society, PWD, Kohima, Nepali Mandir, Kohima and Lord Krishna Mandir, New Reserve, Phesema, Kohima on this occasion. This was stated in a press release issued by Deputy Secretary to Governor SK Sahoo.

Kohima College 48th freshers’ day

C M Y K

Kohima, august 18 (mExN): The 48th freshers’ day –cum-social gathering of the Kohima College, Kohima will take place on August 22 at 11:00 AM at the college auditorium hall. Commissioner and secretary for higher and technical education F.P. Solo will grace the occasion as the chief guest. Chubatola Longkumer, principal Kohima College, will deliver welcome address. Seyievinuo will chair the function. The occasion will also witness declaration of Mr & Miss Kohima College 2014 and launching of annual magazine 2013-14.

KUD appeals to CM

Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): The Konyak Union Dimapur has appealed to the government of Nagaland and Assam to release those detained convoy of Paiwang Konyak, parliamentary secretary transport & communication and IPR on August 15 at Golagat, Assam. The KUD in a press release issued by its president T Wocknyei Yanlem has requested the CM TR Zeliang to “send high level official team to rescue them without any delay.”

Leo Club of Dimapur celebrates Janmashtami

Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): Leo Club of Dimapur celebrated Janmashtami, on Sunday, August 17 under the Chairmanship of Leo Krishna Rai and Reshi Sharma. Krishna Rai, PRO, Leo Club of Dimapur in a press release said that the inaugural lamp was lighted by Lions Neeraj Kala, Lions, Leo's & Blue Vanda Members, which was followed by a fancy dress competition for small kids and the 'Matki Phod' contest which was won by Nepali Boys Club for the sixth time.

Lotha HoHo Dimapur meeting

Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): The Lotha HoHo Dimapur (LHD) has convened its general meeting on August 23 at HoHo ki, DC court junction Dimapur at 9:00 AM. Chairman’s of Lotha organisation’s such as Purana Bazar, Diphupar - A,B, Chumukedima and Medziphema are also requested to attend the meeting positively.

sition to provide,” said Zeliang at the inaugural programme at the Hotel. He termed the venture an “investment achievement” for Nagaland State. Informing that more than 1,68,000 tourists visited Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival last year, Zeliang noted that the State could not accommodate a

lot of them, who had to put up as far as in Guwahati or Jorhat to attend the Festival. “Let us dream of the hotel and tourism industry—there is lot of potential there,” said Zeliang. Rev. V.K. Nuh offered the invocation prayer at the inauguration and a vote of thanks by the chief promoter of the hotel, N.

Kezo. Hotel Lake Shilloi has 34 rooms on offer, starting from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 4000 (exclusive of taxes). Guests will be able to access a multi-cuisine restaurant, basic modern amenities, business amenities, a coffee house, salon and spa, a travel desk, and later, a gym, lounge and swimming pool as well.

DWT on Foothill Road

Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): “The Foothill Road should be looked upon as an infrastructural necessity which will eventually benefit all the Nagas when it is completed,” the Dimapur Watsu Telongjem (DWT) made an appeal today, while adding that it will be the corridor of economic linkage and support which will enable us to be

self-directed and self-reliant people. DWT president Alila Wai Jamir and general secretary Aoinla Jamir in a press release called upon all concerned citizens to pray and support the construction of the foothill road under the initiative of the NFHRCC. The DWT also acknowledged CM TR Zeliang for his initiative in

NSCN-K notifies commercial vehicle owners Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): In order to ensure efficient and smooth administration, all the concerned commercial vehicle owners within Dimapur District have been asked to pursue taxation related issues with the authorised official through Ph.No.8974440525. The NSCN (K) statement reminded that vehicular taxation has been separately allocated to other official apart from the Military Finance In-charge Col. Akaho Zhimo, Military Finance NSCN/GPRN.

Opioid Substitution Therapy at Jakhama inaugurated Kohima, august 18 (mExN): The Nagaland State AIDS Control Society conducted a Sensitization cum roll out of the Opioid Substitution Therapy (OST) Centre at Primary Health Centre, Jakhama on August 13. The introduction of the OST program was shared by Dr Rose, State Program Officer, HIV/TB, NSACS, who informed that this was the 28th centre in the state where an OST centre has been launched. This new OST program was launched with a strategy for harm minimisation in IDUs and improving their

quality of life. Dr Rose requested all present to support the program and to spread the news among the masses that OST program exists for IDUs and to avail the services free of cost. Jim from the Kohima User’s Network shared his experiences as a former drug user and an OST client. He shared about how OST helped him to clean up and start a new life, improved his relationship with family members and friends and requested the local bodies and villagers to share about the OST services to others once they go back after the program.

settling the misunderstanding between the NFHRCC and the PWD (R&B). The DWT also appreciated the effort of the cabinet sub-committee, headed by Home Minister Y Patton, agriculture minister Dr. Benjongliba, power minister Kipili Sangtam, health minister P Longon and Parliamentary secretary CL John.

The Morung Express C

MEC conducts survey on Govt Sponsored Loans in Mkg

moKoKchuNg, august 18 (mExN): Recognising the immense role played by banks and other financial intermediaries in the development and sustenance of any economy, especially in the form of providing credit facilities or loans to enterprising firms, Mokokchung Entrepreneurs Consortium conducted a survey on the status of government sponsored loans through various banks in Mokokchung. Government sponsored loans under various schemes channelized through banks is the most visible prospect of raising capital for entrepreneurs in the state. As such, the survey was confined to such loans alone in order to find out their impact on the economy and to know and assess the extent of success rate as far as the objectives of the government is concerned. The survey was limited to the quantum of loans extended by the banks under the various Government Sponsored Schemes and their recovery status thereof. Selection process of beneficiaries and implementation of the beneficiaries’ respective projects were not covered under this survey. It was found out that recovery rate of loans provided through various Government sponsored schemes is dismally low in Mokokchung. As remarked by the Branch Manager of

Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): ‘Carzspa’, India’s largest chain of professional world class car grooming centres, launched its 56th car’s beauty clinic in the country in Dimapur at Walford Road, on Monday. Managing director of Carzspa India, Anckur Sama, handed over the franchisee certificate to Noklem C Jamir at the launching programme of 'Nan's Carzspa', which was attended by prominent businessmen and public leaders. Besides cars, all services are also available for two wheelers. The services offered by Carzspa include: Exterior steam wash Hi-tech steam-jet technology to give your car a “sparkling new look.” Intensive interior cleaning - UV protection dressing to all vinyl, plastic and rubber, giving your car spotless, shiny and glossy interior. Ozone treatment Car is treated with ozone air purifier after interior cleaning, making it germ free. IIt also sterilizes interior and

Managing director of Carzspa India, Anckur Sama (right) handing over the franchisee certificate to Noklem C Jamir at the launching of Nan's Carzspa car beauty clinic in Dimapur, Monday. (Morung Photo)

help purify the air quality. Paint correction/refinement treatment – gives new look to painted surfaces by repairing the scratches, swirl marks, dullness etc. Paint protection with polymer nano technology sealant – nano technology based polymer paint sealant creates slippery, slick barrier that protects the paint finish, reduces fading

is important for development, he said and urged the people to support and cooperate with the government, stating that he would continue to focus on development. He lauded the 45th A/C NPF for organizing the programme. Yemwang Angh Chen Moho, Kamnyei Angh C/Chingha, Pongthra Angh Wangti, NPF President Mon division, Village Council Chairman, Chaohachingnyu, Village Council Chenloishu, K.U President, many well wishers also spoke on the occasion. The 45th A/C NPF

Party lauded the Chief Minister, T.R. Zeliang for the elevation of C.L John to Cabinet Minister. They also wished CL John to work hard with higher responsibility with sincerity and honesty not only for the benefit of the constituency people but also for Nagaland as a whole. Tolei Angh Chenwetnyu delivered welcome address. Sheilao and friends & Chingkai presented special number. R. Phowang Pastor Chenwetnyu led prayer for Minister and his family members. L. Wangnok, NPF President 45th A/C, chaired the programme.

Y K

defaulted leaving the loan recovery rate at 33% on an average. Owing to the low recovery rate, the bank did not sanction any loan for the fiscal 2013-14, even though 22 beneficiaries have already been selected for loans amounting to Rs. 3,92,44,841/-. A look at the same scheme during the fiscal 2010-11 to 201213 through the Allahabad Bank depicts a worse scenario. There were 52 beneficiaries who availed a total sum of Rs. 4,82,55,000/- as loan out of which 45 defaulted in repayment making the average rate of recovery to be 12% only. No loans were sanctioned during 2013-14 although 26 beneficiaries have been shortlisted. During the survey, data was collected from four major banks in Mokokchung pertaining to government sponsored schemes like PMEGP, CMCF, PMRY and SGSY. Detailed reports of the survey and the findings, which policy makers could find helpful, were published in the Progress Report 2014 of the Mokokchung Entrepreneurs Consortium. It is safe to conclude that the vision and objective of the government for implementing such schemes have not been achieved and that the whole process of implementation of these schemes needs a complete overhaul. The reasons for such dismal loan recovery rate must be analyzed and corrective measures taken.

Carzspa: car’s beauty clinic in Dimapur launched

‘Unity and cooperation is important for development’

moN, august 18 (Dipr): The 45th A/C NPF Unit organised a felicitation programme in honor of C.L. John Minister of RD & REPA Nagaland for elevation to the position of cabinet Minister. The programme was held on August 13 at Namchong Morung, Chenwetnyu Village. Addressing on the occasion, Minister said that the cabinet Minister was a God’s blessing and expressed gratitude to all party members, NGOs in the constituency for reposing their faith and support. Unity and cooperation

the Bank of Baroda, Mokokchung Branch, most of the loans under government sponsored schemes were found to be static in terms of repayment. “The beneficiaries are availing the loans for the sake of enjoyment and personal purpose… the projects proposed for which the loans are availed is only for the selection process and project implementation is almost 95% on the negative trend as found out after the loan is being disbursed. The recovery is almost less than 10% in actual terms as observed,” he remarked. His remarks were supported by the Senior Manager of the Mokokchung Branch of Allahabad Bank. “Considering the high number of defaulters under PMEGP Schemes and rising amount of NPA (Non-Performing Assets), our higher authority has advised us to desist from sanctioning further loans under the above mentioned schemes. Therefore, the Bank has not sanctioned any loan under PMEGP Scheme for the Fiscal Year 2013-14,” he said. A look into the PMEGF scheme disbursed through Bank of Baroda during the last five years depicts a pitiful picture. From fiscal year 2009-10 to 2012-13, the total number of beneficiaries were 72 persons wherein, the total loan amount was Rs. 6,08,03,500/- out of which 49 beneficiaries

and oxidation of paint. Under body polymer coating treatments - long term protection against corrosion/rusting, effective dampening of sound and vibration and fire retardation properties. Anti-rust treatment/protection - a wax based treatment that protects unpainted surfaces and recessed cavities where rust can oc-

cur. Head light restoration – a new, innovative system of refinishing weathered and scratched plastic and polycarbon lenses. Nano glass coating – it acts as water and dust repellant and improve visibility during rain. Antiglare glass treatment – This treatment largely improves the quality of night vision and overall visibility, cuts glare of oncoming headlights.

M Y K

C M Y K

Workshop for community facilitators

Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): Mobility India in collaboration with Prodigals' Home is organizing a State level workshop for community facilitators on ‘Disability, Development & Rehabilitation Therapy Service’ at AIDA Training Center, Don Bosco, Dimapur from August 19 to 21. About 90 participants comprised of People with Disabilities, Parents, Teachers, Angawadi Workers, ASHA Workers, CBR Workers and Care givers are expected to attend the workshop.

ZSUK annual conference

Kohima, august 18 (mExN): The Zeliangrong Students’ Union Kohima (ZSUK) will hold its annual conference on August 23 at the State Academy Hall, Kohima. All the Zeliangrong students residing in Kohima have been asked to attend the programme positively. Further, parents and well wishers have been requested to support the students by attending the programme. The Union also requested everyone to come in one Zeliangrong traditional attire.

NFESA meeting on August 23

Kohima, august 18 (mExN): The Nagaland Forest Executive Staff Association (NFESA) will hold an emergency meeting on August 23 at 11.00 AM at SEFTI, Dimapur to discuss various important issues pertaining to the Association and other service matters. All the office bearers of NFESA, including unit presidents and other members whoever can make, have been requested to attend the same.

NSAP payment information C M Y K

Kohima, august 18 (mExN): District Welfare Officer (DWO) Dimapur Tosheli has informed that payments for OLD AGE pension/Widow/Disabled/ Blind under NSAP, Department of Social Welfare for the year 2013-14, for Dimapur District would be made as per payment schedule, date and place for payment given project wise, which would be notified to all Village councils through their respective CDPOs and Anganwadi Workers which would start from August 22. Beneficiaries are to collect their pensions from the nearest place of payment.

C M Y

Rachülie Vihienuo, pastor Union Baptist Church Kohima dedicating “Aurora” a new restaurant & lodging at Dr. Satuo Sekhose’s building, opposite Rutsa Bakery, Old NST on Sunday. With Aden & Anuo Lemtur as proprietor, this hotel will have a combination menu of Indian, Naga and Chinese. Anuo said she want to promote work culture through this establishment where it would focus on offering job opportunity to the local youths only. “Aurora,” meaning "Dawn" in Latin, has 16 rooms. One room is reserved for missionaries at free of cost. (Morung Photo)

REgional

The Morung Express

Tuesday

19 August 2014

Border trade comes as boon for land-locked Tripura state AGARTALA, AUGUST 18 (PTI): The border trade between India and Bangladesh has come as a boon to people in land-locked Tripura, who were at a disadvantageous position compared to people in other states when it comes to availability of goods. Kolkata is 1,700 km from Agartala, while Dhaka and Chittagong are within 140 km range of Tripura. Goods from these two cities are made available in Tripura through Land Customs Stations. "We can take the advantage of proximity and therefore reduced transport cost to get the commodities here easily," Prashanta Bhattacharya,

President of Indo-Bangla Chamber of Commerce, Tripura Chapter, said. Despite the fact that there is a huge trade imbalance between the two countries in favour of India, the picture is totally different when it comes to trade between Tripura and Bangladesh. Bangladesh exported goods worth Rs 342.65 crore to Tripura last year, while it imported goods worth just Rs 0.41 crore only, according to Union Ministry of Commerce data. "The trade gap between Bangladesh and Tripura is huge, but still we gain because the products are being available in

the state market," Bhattacharya said. The trade will get a further boost when the 15 km railway track connecting Agartala and Akhaura in Bangladesh is completed by 2015, facilitating construction of four more border markets, he said. Not only availability of goods, the enhanced border trade has led to employment generation as well, Secretary of Tripura Chamber of Commerce M L Debnath said. Tripura is bound by Bangladesh on three sides constituting 85 per cent of the state’s total border. It has seven Land Custom Stations which

are Agartala, Srimantapur (Sonamura), Khowaighat (Khowai), Manu (Kailashahar), Old Raghnabazar (Dharmanagar), Belonia (South Tripura) and Sabroom (South Tripura). Informal trade through some points of the border has also contributed its part in the goods availability, Pabitra Kar, former chairman of the Tripura Industrial Development Corporation, said. "Earlier before Partition, the border was open and people-to-people contact was close. So, informal trade continued due to proximity and virtual absence of linguistic and cultural differences," Kar said.

There is no Land Custom Station in many areas of the border, where informal trade flourishes. "Now we need to formalise the informal trade so that trade occurs legally and government also earn revenues. The only option remaining with us is formation of border haat," Chowdhury said. One border haat (market) is completed at Srinagar in Sabroom which may be inaugurated any time and another border haat is being erected at Kamalasagar in Sipahijala district, he said. The decision to set up border haats in different parts of the Northeast was taken in a meeting be-

tween the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, and her Indian counterpart Manmohan Singh in January, 2010. The objective of setting up of such markets on the border to encourage selling and buying of locally produced goods. The haat which was constructed at Srinagar this year would be officially inaugurated after getting permission from the Ministries of Commerce of India and Bangladesh. Altogether four border haats will be constructed in Tripura. The two others are at Kamalpur in Dhalai district and Dharmanagar in North Tripura district.

Business in the haat would take place once a week among the people living within 5 km radius of the border who would sell and buy locally produced goods and crops. No local taxes would be imposed on the items to be sold in the haats and currencies of both the countries would prevail. Initially 16 items are shortlisted which include agricultural and horticultural crops, spices, minor forest products excluding timber, fish and dry fish, dairy and poultry products, cottage industry items, wooden furniture, handloom and handicraft items etc.

India-Bangladesh to discuss NE insurgency issue NEW DELHI, AUGUST 18 (PTI): India is likely to ask Bangladesh to flush out North East insurgents hiding in its territory and check cross-border movement of smugglers and illegal migrants during the forthcoming parleys between the two border guarding forces here. A delegation of the Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) is set to arrive in India on August 20 for the bi-annual talks with their counterparts in the Border Security Force (BSF). The two delegations, to be led by their Directors Generals (DsG), are expected to raise issues related to border security, safety of border residents and illegal activities taking place along the over 4,000 km frontier. The BSF is also expected to brief the BGB about measures it has taken to secure the border including deployment of more non-lethal weapons to bring down casualty figures along this open frontier. Both the forces are also expected to sign a joint record of discussions after their talks later in the week which would also witness the customary exchange of classified data on smugglers and their activities by both the sides. The talks will be held at the BSF headquarters in the national capital here.

Flood affected villagers travel with their belongings towards higher ground in Ashigarh village, about 70 kilometers (44 miles) east of Guwahati, Assam. Heavy rainfall for the past few days has affected several districts of Assam state, flooding dozens of villages and displacing thousands. (AP Photo/Anupam Nath)

KNO Leader met MoS for Home Affairs Suspension of Operation likely to be extended Newmai News Network New Delhi | August 18 Defence Secretary of Kuki National Organisation (KNO) T.S. Haokip met Union Minister of State (MoS) for Home Kiren Rijiju on August 16 in New Delhi and discussed on the commencement of the political dialogue between the two parties in the near future. Sources informed Newmai News Network in New Delhi that the Union

MoS for Home had assured the KNO leader to engage in the political dialogue soon. "Yes, we got a positive response from the Union Minister of State for Home in this regard," disclosed a well placed source from the KNO. Today's meeting between the KNO leader and the Union Minister was the first after the NDA came to power. The current term of Suspension of Operation (SoO) ends on August 22. "We have decided at least to give one year to the new government," stated the KNO source, adding, "We will be definitely signing for the extension of the SoO on August 22." According to the sourc-

es, KNO Defence Secretary highlighted the failures of the previous UPA government to implement its assurances to the KNO. "Recently, Union Home minister Rajnath Singh had told in the Parliament that the NDA will engage in dialogue with the North East underground organisations. The same commitment was also given by former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh but those assurances did not become a reality and so these were told to the Union Minister of State for Home by our Defence Secretary Mr T.S Haokip," the KNO sources added. "TS Haokip met Kiren Rijiju at South Block, New

Delhi on August 16. Political dialogue with KNO, for which purpose a tripartite Suspension of Operations was signed with Government of India and the state Government of Manipur in 2008 - a good eight years ago - was the main focus of discussion at the meeting," the sources stated. The response of the MoS for Home to the KNO Defence Secretary’s appraisal was positive. "He (MoS) agreed that SoO should not be an end in itself; that Government should be accountable and engage KNO in an honourable and meaningful dialogue to find an amicable political solution within the Constitutional framework of India,"

the sources added. Appointment of the Government's interlocutor was also discussed. The current one year SoO expires on August 22. "With regard to the next extension due on August 22, the KNO stated its stand in the affirmative, i.e. to sign, in view of the fact that the present dispensation needs some time to digest the issues concerning KNO's political objectives and demands," the sources further disclosed. The KNO sources further added that, the Kuki public and the cadres have become very impatient as no political dialogue has been started even though the SoO was signed way

Serpent goddess revered in Meghalaya village SHILLONG, AUGUST 18 (TNN): Almost every house in the heritage village of Nartiang in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya has a portrait of Goddess Bishohori or Monosha, who is worshipped as the mother of serpents. The temple of Bishohori was built by the ancient Jaintia Kings. Bishohori literally means one who takes away poison. "The Jaintia kings had

inculcated this ritual from the plains of erstwhile undivided Bengal bordering their kingdom of Jaintiapur," said Naba Bhattacharjee, working president of the Central Puja Committee. "The kings had integrated this borrowed ritual with their own traditional form of worship, which can be witnessed even today among the followers at Nartiang,

patronized by the Doloi (traditional village headman) and performed by Lyngdohs (the priests)," Bhattacharjee, who had witnessed the traditional puja of Bishohori, added. In fact, the Bishohori puja is performed in almost every household in this historic village with much more pomp and grandeur than the annual Durga Puja. Nartiang is a noted

tourist destination for it houses the summer palace of the Jaintia King whose capital was Jaintiapur. It celebrates the Durga puja every autumn in a unique way. It is a fusion of the culture of Bengal and that of the Khasi-Jaintia Hills. In conformity with the Khasi custom of not using figurine images of gods and goddesses, the image of Durga is represented by

a plantain trunk decked with marigold flowers. The Nartiang Durga temple is considered as a Shakti Peetha, one of the most revered shrines of Shaktism. The Shakti Peethas have originated from the mythology of Daksha yagna and Sati's self immolation. Shiva carried the corpse of Sati and body parts of the corpse fell in the path he wandered. There are 51 Shakti

ment of the BSF," he told reporters here after returning from a relief camp at violence-ridden Uriamghat in Golaghat district. Since 1979, Assam-Nagaland border is divided into six sectors -- A, B, C, D, E and F -- falling under Sibsagar, Jorhat, Golaghat and Karbi Anglong districts. The police of both the states cannot be present there and normal day-today security is given by a "neutral force". The Chief Minister said he has already written to the Prime Minister and Union Home Minister in this regard and urged them to resolve the border dispute at the earliest.

People are now also asking for deployment of Assam Police along the border "which proves that though a section criticises me but they also have faith in me and in my government". The state government would take up initiatives for development along the border areas, particularly construction of roads, he said. Altogether, nine people were killed on August 12 allegedly by miscreants from neighbouring Nagaland and nearly 10,000 people fled their homes in seven villages of Golaghat district and took shelter in relief camps set up by district administration.

ITANAGAR, AUGUST 18 (PTI): Faulty planning process, non-release of funds to the executing agencies and inadequate monitoring has cost Arunachal Pradesh to a great extent in undertaking projects under Non Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) and North East Council (NEC) sponsored by the union DoNER ministry. The ministry of DoNER during 2008-13 had approved 53 roads and bridges projects (NLCPR-51 and NEC-2) for Arunachal Pradesh involving a total cost of Rs 892.28 crore. Criticising the government for delay in releasing fund (3 to 48 months) to the executing agencies against various projects, the report said that the state government did not contribute its share of Rs 12.15 crore towards implementation of 25 NLCPR projects. "Against the total amount of Rs 403.15 crore released by the ministry till 2012-13 under NLCPR projects, utilisation certificates for Rs 111.50 crore were pending as of March 2013," the report pointed

Two NE women harassed by landlord in Delhi NEW DELHI, AUGUST 18 (PTI): Two young Manipuri women were allegedly harassed and abused by the 42-year-old landlord of one of the two in South Delhi's Mohammadpur area here this evening, police said. The accused, identified as Mahender Tokas alias Pappu, was arrested by the police after it registered a case under various sections of the IPC and the SC/ST Act at R K Puram police station on the victims' complaint. Police got a call around 6:15 PM by one of the women who alleged that they were molested by the landlord, who barged into their room. According to one of the woman - who was Pappu's tenant, the other woman was her friend who had come to meet her. "When the victim's friend was headed toward her room, Pappu questioned her and then followed her into the room where she got into an argument with his tenant. He questioned her over alleged misuse of water and her friend's visit. He abused them and passed some derogatory remarks," said a senior police official, quoting the victims' complaints. They have also alleged that Pappu was drunk when he misbehaved with them and they made a PCR call as they were frightened, he said. "In their statement, the duo have said that Pappu had threatened them and made remarks on their caste and origin. However, they have not alleged that they were physically touched.

LOST NOTICE I, Ms. Zubeni Ezung am applying for a duplicate copy of HSSLC (2003) Marksheet as I have lost it. Name: Zubeni Ezung F/Name: Shanchothung Ezung Roll No: 311148 Regd.No: A-101921 College: SD Jain Girls College, Dimapur

CHRISTIAN BOOK FAIR

l Retai Date: 11th -23rd August 2014 Time: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Venue: City Tower Junction Circular Road, Dimapur

ST. JOSEPH’S COLLEGE, JAKHAMA VACANCY WALK-IN INTERVIEW Applications are invited for a teaching position in B.Sc.Chemistry. Qualifications: M.Sc. For info contact 9436437544 or email to stjosephc@gmail.com

Peeths linking to the 51 letters in the Sanskrit alphabet. Each temple has shrines for Shakti and Kalabhairava. The "Shakti" of Nartiang Devi shrine is worshipped as "Jayanti" and the "Bhairava" as "Kamadishwar". It is believed that Sati Devi's left thigh had fallen here. Close by, is a Shiva temple, which also houses remains of ancient cannons, used by the tribal kings.

Tarun Gogoi to set up Border Faulty planning hits DoNer Development Council, protection force projects in Arunachal: CAG SARUPATHAR (ASSAM), AUGUST 18 (PTI): Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today said his government would set up Border Development Council and Border Protection Battalion to ensure development and security along the state's borders. These would be done as "we are not happy with the functioning of the neutral force, CRPF, which has not performed their duty with responsibility along the Assam-Nagaland border," Gogoi said. "Nobody had asked for removal of neutral forces for the last 35 years but now I am asking for it and will also ask for deploy-

back in 2008. "The SoO should not be an end in itself. The Government must fulfill its obligation," the KNO sources stated.

Dimapur

out and added that in 22 projects, the executing agencies incurred inadmissible expenditure of Rs 10.16 crore against NLCPR fund. The report also highlighted that an amount of Rs 5.26 crore had been diverted from three NLCPR/NEC projects by the executing agencies to other projects. Stating that the completion rate of projects under NLCPR/NEC was far from satisfactory, the report further pointed out that out of 49 projects due for completion by March last year, only 11 projects involving an expenditure of Rs 105.44 crore have been completed. Even completed projects have time overruns ranging from 12 to 24 months, it pointed out adding, no evaluation study was conducted to assess the impact of projects created. "Adequate transparency and publicity besides dissemination of information relating to NLCPR and NEC projects was not ensured by the state government through local media and display boards," the report alleged.

OFFICE OF THE

MEZOMA WELFARE FORUM KOHIMA: NAGALAND

FELICITIES The Mezoma Welfare Forum extends our heartiest congratulations to our members for successfully qualifying and bringing laurels to the Village in the recent NPSC Examination 2014. 1. Mr.Phutheguo Khawakhrie son of Mr.Kuolelie Khawakhrie to the post of Sub-Divisional Officer under Irrigation and Flood Control Department. 2. Er.Diethoketou Kehie son of Lt.Neingulakho Kehie to the post of Junior Engineer (Civil) under Public Work Department. The Forum further wish them all success in their future endeavour. Sd/Vicavor Krose President

Sd/Kedoroko Casavi Statistical Secretary

Dimapur

public discoursE

Tuesday 19 August 2014

Danger of absolute majority government

emocracy conventionally is understood as a government of majority. In parliamentary system, for government formation and stability majority is mandatory but there is sharp difference between ideal majority and unrealistic majority. Ideal is simple majority government with strong opposition; unrealistic is absolute majority government without considerable force of opposition. Simple majority government is cautious, accountable and responsible; absolute majority government is just the opposite. In unconventional manner absolute majority government becomes absolutism. Where and when such situation exist the end conclusion is always one- self destruction within. The danger of absolute majority government come in when unlimited mandate is given and is misused as a licence to do at will in total disregard of dire consequences that may follow. In such situation the existence of dissenters or critics is hardly felt. One need not go far beyond the State to authenticate the danger of absolute majority government. The 1998-2003 Government is an exception because the absolute majority government was not elected by the electorate due to boycott of the election. With popular protest against the formation of government it was not a comfortable government. The immediate consequence proved disastrous for the Congress in the successive elections but the long term consequence thereafter for the public is being felt heavily today. Comparatively DAN I was lesser damaging with fewer track record; NPSC scam, superannuation issue and Rs. 365 crore scam but with DAN II & III countless scandals and unsolvable problems have been generated. Correspondingly the descending numerical strength of Congress declined from below 30 to below 20 to below 10 in

the last three Assembly respectively. What I am trying to drive home the fact is that when the mass of electorate intentionally elected absolute majority government they themselves created sort of Frankenstein’s monster beyond their limited power to control. Therefore, Congress defeat is not just self-creation but it is more of public rejection for some dangerous dream. So today despite public hue and cry against the misrule of the absolute majority government we have NSDZ, oil exploration, border dispute related war, tribe recognition, NLTP Act, financial debt, unpaid salary & other payments, unauthorized taxation, price rise and many many more. In as much as such unconditional unrestricted mandate is given, the absolute majority government is emboldened to become arrogant and autocratic day by day. Then we have another absolute majority government of BJP-led NDA in the centre. What we see in the 3 months Modi government is just the tip of the ice berg and there is certain truth in the saying; “Morning shows the day”. The arrogance of BJP was openly demonstrated even during election campaign for which much hullabaloo was generated then and it continues up to this day and will continue for many years to come. This is so because BJP is not just another political party. The choice of leadership, the party manifesto or the manner of running the government are all entwined with the RSS, whose only mission is to convert India/Bharat into a true Hindustan or Hindu State. In a land where Hindus are absolute majority this has somehow proved the biggest bonus to the BJP; not that all Hindus endorse the communal politics of the BJP or RSS. Whereas BJP commands absolute majority in Lok Sabha it is just otherwise in Rajya Sabha for which even insignificant allies

like NPF is given recognition. BJP needs allies because it requires requisite votes in the upper House to get all bills passed. Once this is achieved the next target will be President after Pranab Mukherjee. Perhaps with this in mind Modi has reserved Advani for the post. This way BJP intents to take full control over the Parliament within few years time. Thereafter, even the Constitution can be rewrote or revised. For those with BJP/NDA each single member will be counted as part and parcel of whatever is coming and later no one of them can say he/she is or was not a party to it. The consequence of absolute majority government in India is yet to be tasted. But the price can be beyond recovery. One can only say, hope for the best and prepare for the worst. Multi-party is intrinsic feature of parliamentary system and multi-party government becomes appealing where multiethnic, multi-culture, multi-religion and multi-language predominate as in the case of India- a land of unity in diversity. Of course there are evils of multi-party or alliance government considering the durability of government and integrity of the government composition as is observed in the national level over the years. But the choice for a party or government representing every section of the community or a communal party or government representing a dominant community at the mercy of the minority largely depend on how people decide or rectify at opportune time. Similarly Nagaland is a multi-tribal state and due consideration should have been given, not just for the sustenance of leadership but more so for the unity and integrity of the tribal structure. Arrogance on the basis of tribal dominance will only generate, if not now, far reaching consequence. Fact is fact. Congress is a victim of its

appeasement and tolerance. It has not and will not endorse that India should be called Hindustan or citizens should be called Hindus or Hindi should be imposed or those who refuse to be Hindus should go to Pakistan or elsewhere. It has not and will not advocate like the BJP leader Subramanian that minority Muslims and Christians do not deserve special privileges or the way he reacted to their protest: “You do whatever you like; we are bringing Uniform Civil Code”. Although media played a major role in the defeat of the party it will not curtail the freedom of media as BJP is contemplating now. Congress maintains the reality that India is a land of unity in diversity and accordingly each citizen is respected for what he/she is, where he/she is and what he/she believes in. Unfortunately for what it supported all these years it got defeated, badly defeated and the RSS backed BJP gained everything out of it. Likewise the Congress has not reacted to the demand to solve the Naga problem outside the present constitutional provision or appointed Interlocutor objected by the negotiating faction or betrayed the latter by inviting other factions for talk before settling the problem firstly with the NSCN(IM). But today with absolute majority government we have a retired Army General as DONER Minister, a disagreeing Ceasefire Monitoring Chairman, an Interlocutor despite protest and a Union Home Minister stating that that NE insurgents’ problem will be settled “under the purview of the constitution”. Yet most glorify the defeat of Congress and the victory of BJP. For sure Congress will come back but by then many dirt will flow below the bridge. That will be the saddest moment for you and me. Vaprümu Demo Kohima

In solidarity with the stand of the Kohima Lhisema and Pfiichatsuma youth organizations

his is just to express a word of appreciation to the Lhisema and Pfiichatsuma Khel Youth Organizations of Kohima village for their stand against BRO/ BRTF in connection with the road repair works between Tin Pati and BSF camp at Kohima. (Local papers dated 17th August 2014). I too saw the protest march of the five schools and public, as well as read the BRTF rejoinder. As far as the rejoinder is concerned, I also felt that the write up was too technical and arrogant with not the slightest tone of apology for dereliction of duty and sympathy over public anger. On August 14, I also plied on the same road and while rushing towards Chedema village

for the Naga Independence day function. I was horrified when I came across a thirty metre stretch of- what I can only call as a “Road Lake”- stretching on the main road right in front of me. What struck me then was: “I need a boat and not a Bolero to cross this lake.” To turn back and go all over town again to take the alternative route via Chotobosti would mean missing the whole Independence Day function. So I drove through the road lake and somehow made it to the other side by sheer good luck and thirty five years of driving experience behind me. However, I am still not sure whether “I drove across” or” sailed across” or whether the whole experience was just a bad dream?

LEISURE

Simple Rules - There is just one simple rule: “Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.”

SUDOKU Game Number # 2969

PASSOVER ORDINANCES CHILDREN ISRAEL EGYPT FIRST RESTING PILLAR CLOUD FIRE PHARAOH PASSAGE REDSEA DESTRUCTION HOST PASCHALFEAST NISAN NEHEMIAH ESTER SACRIFICE HOUSEHOLD REMEMBRANCE PREDICTION ABRAHAM GENESIS CANAAN LAMB GOAT BLEMISH MALE EVENINGS SINAI PALESTINE ANCIENT CLEANSING PSALM EXODUS

M L A S P T G N I T S E R F B L O O D H

Z J X J R S C L O U D V S G N I N E V E

G L E P E R F S A C R I F I C E E I Z R

cannot do even such a small maintenance job, then what is the use of maintaining such a huge organization at such huge cost to the Indian exchequer? One last shot while we are still under the shadow of the Monsoon season. Every year, during the dry seasons, electricity problems always crop up. The explanation from the Power department is always the usual excuse that during the dry seasons, due to drop of water level in the dams, electricity generation drastically drops in production. Now the monsoon this year has been very good but there is still IRRITATING POWER cuts going on in the midst of the monsoon downpour. The question therefore

is: “Why is there power scarcity in the midst of this Monsoon abundance? Is this because the monsoons have broken down all the dam walls in the North East India this year? To wrap up, what the Naga public would like to know from the Government and its various departments is precisely this query: “Today in Nagaland, why are there lakes where they should not be there and also why are the lakes that should be there not doing what they should be doing?.” Is this present mess due to the fact that corruption has reached such levels where even our dam walls and drain pipes have become victims of its insatiable appetite? Kaka D. Iralu

DAILY CROSS WORD

CROSSWORD # 2976

Answer Number # 2968

D E T R C I Z T D L O H E S U O H V N B

The point I want to make is this: This is the monsoon season and that “Road Lake” was there because the BRTF had not done any maintenance work on the blocked drainage pipe that had resulted in a small stream depositing all the silt and mud right across 50 or so metres of the road surface. Now by “maintenance work not done on that stretch of road”; I am not talking about a “Profile correction” job or a “Resurfacing” job which may involve lakhs and crores of Rupees. What I mean is just ordinary and simple maintenance work of “Monsoon damage rectification” which would involve just a truck load of BRO staff to clear the blocked drain in just a few hours. But if the BRO/BRTF

F H B E I F G S L E Y P C F A O E P O S

C M D D O H O A R A H P N S L A M B I H

K A P I U X A E U N D R A P A L I E T A

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

N E D T E X S L B I E W B R Y P H A U S

P G V I C O I A I N V N M I F O S U R O

P R B O N D N H T G X L E F A L D X T H

F K L N A U A C T G K P M I J L M A S D

I F E E N S I S E N E G E C A U A N E I

R A M G I L E A R S I O R A P T H C D Y

E R I Y D O G P I L L A R T I E A I D J

T H S P R I N K L E D C H I L D R E N J

S R H T O N E V A E L D L O G S B N I I

E G A S S A P A L E S T I N E G A T S J

N G R E D S E A Y J E H O V A H B P A Z

L V U P A S S O V E R O N A A N A C N Q

ACROSS 1. Canvas shelters 6. Highest point 10. Historical periods 14. A religion based on sorcery 15. Midday 16. Brusque 17. Lying facedown 18. Not false 19. Hodgepodge 20. Composer 22. Close 23. Connecting point 24. Shiny 26. Canines 30. Soak 31. Sweet potato 32. Again 33. Bit of gossip 35. Settles 39. Estate 41. Lewd 43. Something of value 44. On the left or right 46. Operatic solo 47. “___ the season to be jolly” 49. Cup 50. Plenty 51. Orb 54. Winglike

56. Part of a comparison 57. Characterized by habitual skepticism 63. Unusual 64. Narrow opening 65. Specialty 66. End ___ 67. Feudal worker 68. Whip 69. Untidyness 70. Views 71. Ringworm cassia

DOWN 1. Spinning toys 2. River of Spain 3. A noble gas 4. A tart spicy quality 5. Shown (archaic) 6. Counterpoisons 7. Procession 8. Pout 9. Power 10. Frugal 11. Governs 12. Operatic solos 13. Tale 21. Kino gum 25. Young girl 26. Early 20th-century art movement 27. 1 1 1 1 28. Precious stones

29. Enticements 34. Varies the frequency 36. Roman emperor 37. Make a sweater 38. Oceans 40. Blend 42. Sired, biblically 45. Envisage 48. Detects 51. Play a guitar 52. Stage 53. Rabbits 55. Skating areas 58. If not 59. A climbing plant 60. Computer symbol 61. Cold-shoulder 62. Anagram of “Meat” Ans to CrossWord 2975

The Morung Express

Kohima-An Oasis

he road outside my house in Lower Forest Colony, Kohima, is unlike any other road: it leads to nowhere and everywhere! Just after a few meters walk down the road from my house, it stops at a dead-end. I remember I used to find this fascinating as a boy ’cause I always thought that roads must lead somewhere. That way deadends are rare, they signify something conclusive, and this particular one near my house continues to excite me even now, for beyond it lies a mystical place which my sister and I, inspired by a Robert Frost poem, call ‘The Woods’. Many an evening I find myself ambling through these woods, forgetting the day’s troubles and the world outside for a while. Often, I trek among the cavalcade of lush green pines that covers the hill, occasionally stopping to watch the birds fly back to their nests as the sun prepares to set. Then, during the day when the children are off to learn, the fathers earn, and the mothers gracefully go about performing their chores, I venture deep into the woods—down the stream to the rocky ravine where I can sit for hours and experience the tranquil unity of nature. The changing hues of the sky and the diverse symphony of the forest never fail to amaze me. I look at the small stream unquestioningly fulfilling its purpose, i.e., to feed a bigger river and provide shelter to the plants and animals living in and around it, and I can’t help but think that I too have a purpose to fulfill. ’The Woods’ has a mystical allure that beckons me and, of late, a walk in the woods has become a ritual. I first visited Kohima fifteen years ago, and my recollections are somewhat cloudy. Among the dying embers in my memory of that visit, I remember going to the zoo, which was then brimming with all kinds of birds and animals. Today, only a few dilapidated grey structures remain as grim reminders of the various animals they once sheltered. Everything looked different back then. The streets were cleaner and less congested. There were fewer people, fewer houses, and fewer problems. Yes, time changes everything and Kohima is no exception. Yet, its soul still speaks out to the people—it has passed the test of time and remained intact, and the indomitable spirit which withstood the British empire’s onslaught for nearly four decades—that is the essence of our land, and I pray it remains so forever. Even as a child I felt the warmth of this place but never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that this beautiful city of warmth and kindness will one day become my sanctuary. But then, Kohima, with its mysterious force and natural purity, draws you towards it and embraces you with its warmth, which I believe is its true charm. Perhaps, by now, you might have guessed that I am unemployed. A recluse with no job, no money, and no car; I rarely go out. When I do have to go to town, I walk, negotiating the ubiquitous, and at times humongous, potholes along the BOC stretch from where I catch a bus. A pothole, according to Wikipedia, “is a type of failure in an asphalt pavement.” Well, Wikipedia is wrong. POTHOLES ARE A REMINDER OF OUR POLITICIANS’ FAILURE TO FULFILL THEIR PROMISES. But coming back to my story: shoes muddied and clothes dirtied, I somehow blend in with the motley crowd of punks, emos, metalheads, office goers, elegant couples, school kids, old folk in traditional attire, and happy shoppers who fill the city streets during the day. As I walk along the littered and cracked lanes I cannot help but notice the lack of civic sense in the otherwise wonderful city. As for the few popular hangouts and joints that I have been to, one worth mentioning is the famous, or rather infamous, Secretariat: a small patch of jungle surrounded by gigantic office buildings near the New Secretariat complex. A precious retreat in a city where there is limited space for youngsters. I had heard a lot about this place, but when I finally landed here, I was appalled by the mess of papers, polythene bags, chips packets, empty bottles, and what not. There and then, I vowed to never even throw a toffee wrapper on the street again. The way I see it, we Nagas are generally a clean lot, and since Kohima is a small city we don’t really need any path breaking ideas to keep the city clean. Of course, the government and the municipal body could help by installing a few more dustbins around the city, but in the end, it’s simple: DON’T LITTER! It’s been just five months since I moved to Kohima, but how I love it! Every day feels like a repetition of the best day of my life. In this calm and bucolic part of the city where I live, the morning air feels like ambrosia, refreshing mind and body, invigorating soul and spirit. Waking up early used to be a task, a constant struggle, a failed resolution, but now, it forms the highlight of my day. Whether it is the mesmerizing view of the land flooded in gold on a sunny morning, or the cold and foggy mornings when the city wakes up engulfed in mist, Kohima never fails to captivate. The unpredictable but pleasant weather, the majestic landscape, the breathtaking greenery, the calm and cheerful people, the small but busy markets, the belching blue-and-green buses, the snarling traffic, the narrow, serpentine and sloping roads—everything about Kohima seems magic! As for the young ones, they are a fashionable lot and their clothes add a lively touch of colour to the city. Life here is a perpetual bliss. Then, on to the night: everything comes to a standstill and the city goes to sleep. The colourful houses are replaced by bright lights forming a protective halo around them. Sitting on my terrace, a thousand thoughts in my head, I watch the procession of headlights on a distant highway, losing myself to the melancholy of the night. An owl hoots menacingly from the woods, as if to warn me of the impending dawn. On the way down, I see the distant light emanating from the cross on top of Pulie Badze peak—looking over us, protecting us, and guiding us through the night. I smile when I realize that, at last, my soul has found its oasis. O Mhathung Jami Lower Forest Colony Kohima, Nagaland

birThday grEETings Dear Vikati ! Wishing you health, love, wealth and just everything your heart desires, You have been the greatest gift we could ever have received, May you have a life full of love and joy, and a blessed life.... Happy Birthday ! Loving Mom, Dad, Afo Avity and Achi Wishing you a very happy born day, you have enlightened us with full of joy and happiness and brought you a big smile in our family. May God continue to guide you and grant al your wishes From Dad, Mom And Sis

Public SPace

The Morung Express

uNTaba apprises cM on border issue Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): A delegation of United Naga Tribes Association of Border Areas (UNTABA) today met Nagaland state Chief minister, TR Zeliang in Dimapur and submitted a representation relating to the border issue between Assam and Nagaland. A press note from UNTABA informed that the UNTABA memo demanded for restoration of all Naga lands “arbitrarily transferred by the then British Government as reflected in 9 Point Agreement and reiterated in 16 Point Demand and further resolved time and again in

the Nagaland Legislative Assembly…” It added that the process to this end “should be pursued more vigorously either through appointment of Boundary Commission or any other efforts for settlement without compromising the rights of the original land owners.” UNTABA stated that all the bilateral and tripartite Interim Agreements made in 1972 onwards must be strictly reviewed and implemented in letter and spirit by all the parties concerned. It also urged that the Border Affairs Department must be revamped

A delegation of the UNTABA with Nagaland state Chief Minister, TR Zeliang in Dimapur on August 18.

and a Border Co-ordination Centre should be established in Dimapur with Border Police and Border Affairs Department so as

to co-ordinate amongst the law enforcing agencies in the day today administration and monitoring in the border areas.

The UNTABA memo demanded immediate set up of Border Police and Village Guards; and post the same in all the border vil-

lages so as to strengthen the security arrangement as well as to act as a deterrent to large number of Assam Village Protection Forces and Assam Police Forces. It also urged the Nagaland state government to provide all the essential services and infrastructures such as road communications, electricity, water supply, schools and health care to all the recognized villages in the border areas. Former additional chief secretary, TN Mannen, who accompanied the UNTABA office bearers also briefed the chief minister on the border issue.

Contemporary Christian music contest Kohima, august 18 (mExN): Naga Feed Entertainment, a private group of six members from different professions in Wokha Town will be organizing Battle of the Bands in Contemporary Christian Music with the theme “Rock for The King”. The event will be held on August 23 at Likya Yankho Community Hall, Wokha Town. Winner will get a cash prize of Rs. 50,000, while the second and third winners will pocket Rs. 20,000 and Rs. 10,000 reMuslim Welfare Society Kohima along with the staff of Naga Hospital Authority Kohima spectively. A gift hamper and youth leaders during their visit to the hospital during Independence Day celebra- will also be awarded to the tion on August 15. ‘performers of the day’ se-

lected from each round. Bands interested to be a part of the competition can either contact +91-8729932987, +9182557849698 or download the details and entry forms from the Facebook page Contemporary Christian Music “Rock for the King”. The last date for entry is August 21. A press release received here informed that Naga Feed Entertainment is formed by likeminded, young enthusiastic group of social reformers, who aim to uplift the talents of Naga people by providing unique platform. The

group activities will be available on YouTube by the end of this year. The functioning of the group is not just limited to organizing events, shows, and competitions for the Nagas to perform, but aims to promote talents in various fields and feed creative energies to those who are in need of platforms, the release added. Naga Feed entertainment is a special channel formed for every budding talent in Nagaland and beyond. The channel’s main focus is feeding the whole population with “Anything- which is Naga”, it added.

Tuesday

Dimapur

19 August 2014

MEx FILE

GPRN/NSCN clarifies

Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): Apropos the news item "AR apprehends 4 persons with arms", which appeared in a local daily on August 18, GPRN/NSCN through its MIP has clarified that one of the accused, Ghileto Zhimo from VK Town was “misreported” to be a cadre of GPRN/ NSCN. The MIP in a clarification note stated that there is no such person either in the GPRN/NSCN 'Army' or 'Civil' setup. "We positively confirm that the accused in question is not a member of GPRN and asks to rectify the error." While requesting NGOs/ unions or any agency to confirm first before releasing any issues “haphazardly” in the print media in order to avoid any such error/s in future, GPRN/NSCN has issued “stern warning” to any person/ individual etc. against “deliberately dragging our name in any kind of mess and for which we will not tolerate any such action/s that is pertinent to tainting the image of the GPRN.”

Gov visits Gorkha Singhadevi Mandir Complex Kohima, august 18 (mExN): Governor of Nagaland, PB Acharya and his wife, Kavita Acharya visited Gorkha Singhadevi Mandir Complex on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami, August 17, and offered prayers at the Lord Krishna Mandir. A press release from the general secretary of Gorkha Singhadevi Mandir Committee, Jivan Limbu informed that the Governor lauded the Gorkha community for preserving the century-old mandir and extended warm wishes to the community. Further, he stated that India being a secular country, there was complete freedom to practice one's religion and no religious discrimination. He also recalled his first visit to Kohima in the early 1960s, and said he was happy to be here again. The Governor and his entourage, the release said, listened to bhajans presented by the female members and Kavita Acharya also presented a bhajan.

AR apprehends three with arms

Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): Based on information regarding presence of a suspected NSCN (K) cadre at Officer’s Hill Colony, Kohima, 19 Assam Rifles along with a police representative apprehended one Sgt Abei, for illegal possession of weapons. One .22 pistol with 10 live rounds and extortion notes were recovered from the individual. The cadre was handed over to Kohima Police Station (South) for further interrogation and investigation, a defence release informed. In another operation in Dimapur Faith Hospital area, troops of 29 AR apprehended two armed individuals named Chumben Murry (39) and Y Wopan Lotha (46), both residents of Wokha and recovered one 7.65 mm pistol and one.22 pistol along with magazines. A defence release inand Nagaland to take pre- formed that the individuals along with the recovered items cautionary measures, the were handed over to West Police Station, Dimapur. BJYM cautioned the people in Assam-Nagaland border Dimapur police arrests habitual thief against going on the offensive. It stated that there are Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): Personnel of West legal provisions in any form Police Station, Dimapur arrested one habitual thief, who of dispute and it should be used to steal bags and mobile phones from hospitals, railsettled amicably through way station, and bus stations on August 16. According to dialogue. “Killing and a press release from OC, West Police Station, the accused chasing one another would identified as Govind Bordoloi of Morigaon, Assam disnot bring any solution,” the closed that he had stolen nearly hundred mobile phones from various hospitals in and around Dimapur and railrelease stated. way station. The stolen mobiles are sold at booze joints at throw away prices, informed the release, adding that efforts are on to recover the stolen phones.

DWT and ASTD urge to BJYM condemns Assam-Nagaland border situation august vicinity, alleged that the ity concerned did not take restore Watinaro’s seat Dimapur, 18 (mExN): The Bharati- “anti social elements” Adi- any action. Dimapur, august 18 (mExN): The Dimapur Watsu Telongjem (DWT) has condemned the “act of blatant nepotism” and “outrageous misuse of official authority” resulting in the denial of admission to Watinaro A Imsong into B.Sc (Horti) programme at Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan (HP). In a press release, DWT president, Alila Wai Jamir and general secretary, Aoinala Jamir stated that the particular B.Sc (Horti) seat was allotted to the Government of Nagaland, and the Directorate of Technical Education, as the legitimate nodal department, through rigorous process of selection based on merit, nominated Watinaro A Imsong. However, till date, she has not been able to join the institution because the seat she was allotted “has been hijacked by someone who has managed to hoodwink the cardinal principle of merit and fair play,” DWT stated. Therefore, DWT has requested the Government of Nagaland to immediately solve the situation and restore to Watinaro her rightful seat.

Meanwhile, Ao Senso Telongjem, Dimapur (ASTD) has expressed pain that Watinaro A Imsong, who was nominated to study B.Sc Horticulture at Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture & Forestry, Solan by the Government of Nagaland vide No. NEC/MPD/VI-3/2014/ VOL.III dated 6-5-2014, “has been denied the admission for no faults on her part.” In a statement issued by its president, Supu Jamir and general secretary, C Onen Walling, ASTD expressed surprise that another person has been admitted against Watinaro’s seat. “Admittedly, such kind of acts thoroughly annihilates the spirit of healthy competition among the students’ community.” Therefore, it asserted that “under any circumstances the authority concerned should get Watinaro amitted to the very university/ institute wherein she has been nominated.” In the event of any additional seats provided, it stated, “the same can be occupied by others and not by Watinaro or in other words, the perseverance and hard works made by Watinaro cannot be buried under the knee of injustice.”

ya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) Nagaland unit has condemned the ongoing Assam-Nagaland border situation. A press release from Mathew K Janger, general secretary (organisation), cautioning the Congress-led Assam government for creating fear atmosphere in the border

vasis National Liberation Army (ANLA) was getting shelter in Assam. It further alleged that ANLA carried weapons in civilian populated places “threatening innocent public kidnapping, harassing, and burned down several houses even in the past days,” and added that the author-

NTC to launch poster campaign today Kohima, august 18 (mExN): The Nagaland Tribes Council (NTC) will launch poster campaign from August 19 onwards “to create awareness and sensitize the people on the grave implications of the issues confronting the Nagas of Nagaland, particularly the Rongmei Tribe recognition in the State of Nagaland and Nagaland Special Development Zone (NSDZ).” In a press release, NTC general secretary, Nribemo Ngullie and acting president, Lendi Noktang stated that the two “antipeople decisions” of the State government are the two sides of the same coin

posing serious threat to the citizens of the State. “Recognition of more tribes from non-indigenous communities of the state is an infringement of our rights, privileges and status and the NSDZ is an attempt to parcel out our land to non Nagas and outsiders to eventually take control over the indigenous people of the State.” Further, it stated that “the adamant attitude of the State government on the acts of incursion against the wishes of the people despite several appeals, representations, public demonstration to review the unpopular decision of the State could

Orgs condemn August 14 incident Kohima, august 18 (mExN): The Chizami Range Public Organization Kohima (CRPOK) has condemned the “dastardly and heinous crime” of assault and “murderous kidnapping” of Pelo Letro and Neizeko Mekrisuh on the night of August 14 at Paramedical colony, Kohima. A condemnation note issued by CRPOK Secretary Khrope Tsuhah and President Liengute Doulo stated that the accused Neingumelie Dzuvichu, Ruokuovituo Sote, Mhalelhoulie Mepfu-o have “maliciously dishonoured” the Naga National workers by claiming to be from Naga Political Group and “disgraced the sacred August 14, the Naga Independence Day and the good image of Southern Angamis.” Further, it asserted that the “ghastly and appalling intent of damaging the good image of Naga National Workers and Southern Angami is treachery of the highest order and deceitful,” adding “Only

habitual criminals can perpetrate such horrific denigration and execute such devilish and nefarious routine attacks on innocent citizens of Nagaland.” Meanwhile, the organization thanked the Police for their timely intervention and arrest of the accused and also the “good Samaritans” for saving the life of Pelo Letro. It also requested the law enforcing agency to punish the accused, “who not only kidnapped to murder but also tried to create dangerous situations by posing to be Naga National Workers.” CHK appeals not to grant bail to accused The Chakhesang Hoho Kohima (CHK) has also condemned the “most barbaric and heinous crime” committed on Pelo Letro and Neizeko Mekrisuh “merely for failing to give way side immediately to the Bolero bearing registration No. NL-01H-0036.” The Hoho in a statement appended by its pres-

Accusing the Assam government of being responsible “for the loss of many lives and public properties,” the BJYM stated it was the authorities which failed to provide proper security. Urging the Union Ministry of Home Affairs and the governments of Assam

ident, Zhonyi Rhi and vice president, Vethikhoyi Khamo questioned the intention of the perpetrators for assaulting the victims after identifying they were from Chakhesang community. CHK stated that after assaulting the victims below Paramedical colony, the accused dragged Pelo Letro to their Bolero. “His hands were tied and eyes blind folded and continue to stab him in a moving vehicle and reached the road which links Nagaland Civil Secretariat road and Merema High Court Road Junction.” He was then taken to a place below the road and assaulted till he was unconscious, it alleged. The Hoho while appreciating the prompt action of the police, Chakhesang community and right thinking citizens in rescuing Pelo and nabbing the accused, has appealed for condemning and fighting against “such abominable action of senseless criminals.” It also urged the authority concerned to

arrest the absconding accused at the earliest. Further, the Hoho requested the authority not to grant bail to those arrested, rather award severest punishment. CWOK urges for justice Meanwhile, the Chizami Welfare Organization Kohima (CWOK) has also condemned the “physical assault” on Neizeko Mekrisuh and “attempted murder” on Pelo Lekro by Neingumelie Dzuvichu, Ruokuovituo Sote, and Mhalelhoulie Mepfu-o. Lauding the law enforcing agencies and concerned group of people for apprehending the accused on time, the CWOK has appealed to the authority concerned not to release them, but deliver justice as per the law of the land. Further, the CWOK through its president, Dr. Kewe Kohe and vice president, Rovi Wazah requested the authority to arrest the fourth person involved in the incident.

not evoke any favourable response leaving us no other options but to take the issues to the bonafide citizens for democratic remedy.” The poster campaign is aimed at reaching to the people at the grassroot levels to disseminate information and create awareness to rise on the occasion and to defend, protect, and determine its own destiny for posterity, the release added. The NTC, stating that “it will resort to various democratic exercises and take all the citizens of the State on board to prove the supremacy of the people’s will on all the issues confronting the people and to translate our dreams in to real-

ity,” has urged the support of all concerned and asked the State government to “respect the feeling and wishes of the people which is paramount for any democratic government.” The posters, according to the release, will read: 1. Revoke Rongmei tribe recognition, Rongmeis are our brethrens, but not indigenous tribe of Nagaland. 2. Don’t impose NSDZ against our rights, indigenous people without land have nothing left. 3. Nagas of Nagaland are protected by Article 371(A), BEFR (ILP) Act, 1873 and Nagaland Land & Revenue Regulation (Amendment) Act, 1978. Demanding permanent campus, the students of Nagaland Don’t destroy our protec- University, SETAM, Dimapur on August 18 put up placards tive laws. and banner at the gate of the School. (Morung photo)

Public SPace KLCU dismayed over Horticulture Department

t is really surprise to learn about the illtreatment and discrimination to Watinaro A Imsong by the Department of Horticulture in depriving her legitimate candidature awarded by the Nodal Department, Directorate of H & TE, Nagaland. The Union dismay over the Horticulture Department for not delivering justice to the deserving candidate where Watinaro A Imsong was selected with merit for B.Sc. (Horti) course under Dr. YSP University through open competitive exam by Nodal Department. Success belongs to the hardworking people, therefore the hard work of Watinaro A Imsong should not be substitute by Imnatemsu who is nominated by the Director Horticulture. Such act of alienating the right of a deserving candidate is not acceptable which is illegal. Students

are the future of the society justice is expected from the government but when nepotism, favouritism and illegal practices prevail in the government department, where is the future for the deserving students for the allied course? What is the point of conducting open competitive exam by the H & TE department when there no justice? The Union is pained by such unprofessional conduct by the Horticulture Department with the issue involve here does not only effect Watinaro A Imsong but every students in general, mentally, socially and economically. The call for uprooting corruption and to voice against it should be made much stronger and firmer through this issue and it should be followed to the strictest terms without bowing down to it. The KLCSU extend its solidarity and support to

Watinaro A Imsong who have been victimised by the evils of nepotism and corruption whereby, her legitimate aspiration to pursue a course in B.Sc. (Horticulture) have been deprived and snatched away by so called powerful individual at the top office of a state run machinery. It is dismayed that such practice are rampant in our state behind closed doors. It is high time to deal corruption with a firm hand and it should not be tolerated any longer. The prevailing system of corruption in our state in any manner be it backdoor appointments, political favour, nepotism or favouritism should be eradicate. The Union appeals the concern competent authority to resolve the current issue and delivered justice to the aggrieved candidate without any further delay. The

Union morally support the genuine candidate Watinaro A Imsong for her example towards the cause of the students and society as a whole by way of her Gandhian agitation at secretariat junction at 9:30 a.m. August 19th, 2014. The students future career should not be disturbed with such injustice treatment. It is high time the right thinking citizens and fellow students friends to stand together and fight for justice. The Union stated it is high time that Nagaland state should introduce Lokayukta which is anti-corruption through which corruption and illegal practice by the public servant can be eradicate.

The Morung Express is introducing “Public Space” as part of our intention to provide deliberate space for the opinions of the people to be expressed and heard through this newspaper. Nonetheless, The Morung Express points out that the opinions expressed in the contents published in the “Public Space” do not reflect the views and position of the newspaper or the editor.

(Wekhrope Marhu) President Kohima Law College Students' Union (KLCSU) (Keyigabuing Ndang) General Secretary KLCSU

IN-FOCUS

The Power of Truth

The Morung Express TuEsDAy 19 AuGusT 2014 volumE IX IssuE 227

Words

oday the Naga public space is filled with allegations and counter-allegations, rejoinders and counter-rejoinders, posturing and counter-posturing; positioning and counter-positioning and assertions and justifications of one’s self-interest. The hyper reactivity is generating an endless flurry of words which is self-perpetuating and possibly drowning the voices of reason in the chaos. So much time and energy is sapped by the ongoing parade of negative words and no one seems to be listening to each other anymore. Will these words choke and destroy the Naga realm...

... Perhaps in the midst of all the noise, we should pause for a moment and listen to the voice that is seeking to free itself. Maybe the sound of silence is what the Naga heart needs to center itself, in order to start on the path again.

lEfT wiNg |

Ken Thomas Associated Press

Hillary's break with Obama on Syria - So what's next?

illary Rodham Clinton's split with President Barack Obama over a foreign policy "organizing principle" is not likely to be the last time differences emerge between the two. How she handles those breaks could be among her biggest challenges to a successful run for president in 2016. While Obama and Clinton share similar views in many areas, the former first lady's interview with The Atlantic offered her most significant break with her onetime campaign rival in 2008 when each sought the Democratic nomination. She said Obama's "failure" to back the rebels in Syria led to the rise of Islamic State militants in Iraq. She appeared dismissive of Obama's approach to foreign policy, saying "'don't do stupid stuff' is not an organizing principle." Clinton will likely seek some separation from Obama if she runs for president — especially if Obama's approval ratings stay near 40 percent. Here's a look at a few areas where Obama and Clinton's views will be closely watched as 2016 approaches. Foreign policy: How Obama handles a series of foreign crises — Iraq, Gaza, Ukraine and Syria — could directly influence a future Clinton campaign. The president's decision to launch airstrikes in Iraq comes only two years after he campaigned for re-election on a record that included ending the Iraq war. In her book "Hard Choices," Clinton wrote that she "came to deeply regret" her vote to authorize the war, a decision that Obama used as a foil in the 2008 campaign. Clinton has not yet commented publicly on Obama's latest moves in Iraq. The book includes instances in which she and Obama shared divergent views. In Egypt, she wrote that she was concerned about the U.S. being seen as pushing out a long-term partner in Hosni Mubarak without a clear picture of the region's future. But Republicans say Clinton will be hard-pressed to draw such distinctions, since she was an integral member of his team as secretary of State. "It's certainly hard to see how she doesn't own the foreign policy record of this administration," said GOP strategist Ralph Reed. Economy: Clinton often talks about the challenges faced by many Americans who haven't benefited from the economic recovery. Obama has presided over steady job growth during the past six months but it remains to be seen whether Clinton could run on an economic comeback story. In a July interview with the German magazine Der Spiegel, Clinton said the research of economist Thomas Piketty showed that income inequality is "threatening to democracy." "Even during the Great Depression people in the streets believed that they could make it and they would be better off. Now the relative wealth is much higher, but the disparity makes people believe that they're stuck," said Clinton, who has pointed to her husband's economic record as a model. The Great Depression took place in the 1930s Immigration: Clinton has kept a close line with Obama on immigration — both on the need for a comprehensive overhaul and the influx of unaccompanied minors from Central America across the U.S.-Mexican border. Clinton said last month she supported creating a refugee screening process for the children in their home countries to discourage the dangerous journeys to the U.S., an approach that is similar to a pilot program under consideration by the White House. Obama is expected to announce executive actions to address immigration, which could include a plan to give work permits to millions of immigrants living in the country illegally. Climate change: Clinton told college students in March she hopes for a "mass movement" on climate change, signaling the issue could figure prominently in a campaign. Obama plans to attend a United Nations summit on climate change next month and speak at the Clinton Global Initiative meeting, where one session is entitled, "Confronting Climate Change is Good Economics." Environmentalists are awaiting a decision by Obama on the Keystone XL pipeline, which would carry oil in western Canada to refineries on the Gulf Coast. Environmentalists oppose the pipeline, and Obama has said he would allow it to be built only if it doesn't exacerbate carbon pollution. Clinton has avoided directly commenting on the project, citing the ongoing review.

THE EDIT PAGE

C O M M E N T A R Y

Bram Dijkstra

No victory without struggle

or the African National Congress (ANC), May’s general elections in South Africa brought both victory and defeat. The results mark the ANC’s lowest electoral performance in the history of democratic South Africa, continuing the slow but steady decline in voters’ support from an all-time high in 2004, when it held an absolute majority in parliament. Yet, to take over 60 percent of the total vote is a mammoth victory by any standard. In the sphere of party politics the ANC may still be seen as the best option for progress. And with a difference of less than one percentage point from the historic 1994 victory that ended apartheid, the 2014 outcome can only affirm the political dominance that the ANC still holds after 20 years in government. But social transformation is increasingly sought outside the party-political field. In this light, the ANC's victory should be qualified. The sustained electoral support for the ANC cannot be taken as an unreserved vote of confidence. That would not only invalidate considerable inroads made by an increasingly credible opposition, it would also falsely assume that in liberal democracies political realities consist of electoral performances alone. The relatively stable and predictable distribution of parliamentary seats masks a much messier and more complex situation outside the party-political arena. Deep-seated concerns over people’s position in the ‘new’ South Africa, compounded by a long series of political and private crises within the ruling party, evoke powerful expressions of indignation, frustration and outrage through labour strikes and other kinds of protest action. This growing sense of discontent, however, has not found its reflection in the election results. We are then left with something of a paradox in South African politics. Reports of the 2014 elections cannot help but give an impression that indeed there is in the first instance, something surprising and confusing, even illogical and irrational, about the voting behaviour of the South African electorate. This no doubt has much to say about the public culture our media forms part of, imbued as it is with liberal assumptions about what political behaviour and democratic participation should look like. But since that is a space we all inhabit, we should seek to unpack that paradox and examine the bases of tension which make the ANC’s victory seem unlikely. Sources of instability The ANC and its leaders have never been exempt from public and private scandal, but in recent years accounts of corruption, incompetence and mismanagement have intensified. The Nkandla debacle, in which President Zuma has been accused of misleading parliament on publicly funded ‘security upgrades’ to the tune of 246 million rand (23 million US dollars) on his private homestead in Nkandla, stands out as a particularly controversial case. Zuma, with a by now characteristic mix of denial, ignorance and indifference, shrugged off accusations with the same opportunistic ‘swart gevaar’ (black threat) strategies used in apartheid days to undermine the ANC. Nkandla may be the most recent, prolific and politicised scandal, but it is far from an isolated event. Against the President alone, over 700 cases of corruption and fraud have been filed. These charges have been dropped on technical grounds, but the blemish on Zuma’s already dubitable integrity is not as easily erased. More worrying sources of instability are rooted in a set of deep-seated structural cleavages in South African society. More than half of the population live below the national poverty line. A quarter of the total labour force is without work and South Africa’s youth unemployment ranks third highest in the world. In

With rampant corruption and widening inequality, South Africa has become the epicentre of global protest. Social transformation is increasingly sought outside the party-political field. But the political resilience of the ANC is nowhere near played out

fact, the use in these statistics of a narrow definition of unemployment, which excludes discouraged work seekers and the underemployed, renders these rates conservative. Inequality also remains one of the highest in the world, and the gap between rich and poor has only widened since the transition to democracy. The brutal reality of these numbers is found in the squalid living conditions in the underdeveloped rural areas and urban townships, where basic infrastructure and services are commonly deficient or wanting, and violent crime is rampant. Popular anger over these conditions has made South Africa an epicentre of global protest. Over a 90-day period, from 2013 to 14, nearly 3000 cases of protest action were reported. The violence arising at these protests draws attention to more spectacular forms of public mismanagement, with a government taking increasingly repressive measures to clamp down on dissent and protest. The Marikana Massacre of 2012, in which police shot and killed 34 protesting miners, stands as the most dramatic example of postapartheid state violence, but tense labour relations have become commonplace across and beyond the country’s economically strategic mining belt. The legacy of struggle These pressures give ample reason, one could assume, to think an ANC victory unlikely. And yet, as we have seen, the ANC has comfortably secured another term in Pretoria. Any explanation must start with the idea that in South Africa, democracy and its most basic practical manifestation, the act of voting, come with a powerful emotive force. Voting is as much a symbolic, deeply emancipatory act of affirming the 1994 victory - a celebration of democracy itself - as it is the expression of a rationally informed choice made by an independent individual in a marketplace of political positions, as a liberal democrat would have it. The cracks and weaknesses in the moral and political legitimacy of the ANC and its leaders do not outweigh the sentiment, the affect of liberation and democracy that the ANC remains able to instil, and the deep reservoir of collective memory and imagination that it

can generate electoral support from. The value of that shared history of oppression, discrimination and exploitation is, of course, not lost on the ANC itself. South Africa can with justification be called a country obsessed with nation-building, and politicians do not shy away from using their ‘struggle credentials’ as a form of political legitimation. It is easy to read in this explanation of ANC success a culturalist argument of blind loyalty or political apathy. A particularly tenacious tendency views democracy in South Africa as still reaching for full maturity. This line of reasoning is not only evidently paternalistic and Afro-pessimistic, it is based on a misplaced evolutionist assumption about the teleological progression of all political systems towards liberal democracy, regardless of their specific cultural histories. Until it has reached that stage, it is implied, political behaviour remains mired in all sorts of vague and less-than-valid sentimental attachments of race, ethnicity, language, history or any other dimension of social difference. Should we assume that South Africans are ‘stuck’ in their nostalgic memory of liberation? Do they really close their eyes to the current crises? Obviously, the answer is no. Government support in the voting booth, but fierce and frequent protest outside of it, are thereby not considered contradictory, but both as legitimate means of political engagement. This may have a lot to say about a general mistrust of party politics, but this is not synonymous with a lack of political agency on the electorate’s behalf. It should also be noted that ‘liberation sentiment’ as an explanation for the ANC victory does not do justice to the myriad ways people connect to and associate themselves with the ANC and its struggle legacy, coming from their own life histories and experiences, and informed by their own projects, dreams and expectations. But grouping them together does draw attention to a crucial element of the powerful imagery of the apartheid struggle, namely that it is framed as a collective national history which can be transmitted relatively freely across class positions. The sense of solidarity, of shared experience, of being ‘proudly South African’ that is generated is central to the affective politics of the ANC. High risk The struggle legacy remains a vital element of the electoral success of the ANC. But it is a tricky strategy too. The ANC is becoming increasingly dependent on those segments of the population which in objective terms have benefited least from the fruits of freedom and democracy. Its power base thereby moves even more strongly from the cities to the poor and underdeveloped rural areas, where liberation sentiment has widespread popular currency. But among that same group of people there is a growing realisation that the symbolism and rhetoric of the new South Africa has been surpassed by its reality. Some eager commentators have already claimed the 2014 elections to have been the last ones based on liberation sentiment, thereby seeming to forget that these elections were already predicted to be about ‘real issues’. Five more years of ANC rule will surely come with increased oppositional pressure, threats from new extra-parliamentary formations, and a further politicisation of protest movements. And a political strategy that is parasitic on the bases of its own support has by definition an expiry date. But we should not be surprised if the ANC is able to regenerate its power base; it has over the years demonstrated a remarkable resilience. One thing we can say with certainty is that the political role of the ANC is nowhere near played out.

Letters to the editor A Reflection On Naga Independence Day

o the erstwhile subjugated nations, Independence Day is a great day of national celebration. From the historical point of view, the day marked the end of colonial rule and the subsequent beginning of a new era as a free nation. Each year, the sequence of this historic event is reflected and re-enacted on this day, honoring the fallen heroes who had made the supreme sacrifice at the altar of freedom while at the same time the incumbent government takes on new programs with a renewed zeal and commitment to the people. On all counts, the day indeed is worth commemorating, celebrating and consolidating. To the Nagas however, this special day is filled with mixed feelings: of pride and shame; pleasing yet incensed; grateful and perhaps regretful too. That our forefathers had the audacity to declare independence on August 14, 1947, a day ahead of India is a matter of phenomenal admiration. We feel proud when we look back at the wisdom of our visionary leaders of that time, and we are grateful to them for this landmark achievement. At the same time, we are filled with indignation when we realize that we have been subjugated, humiliated and terrorized all these years just because we wanted to be ourselves. We have been denied the right to self determination. 67 years of struggling and 68times celebrations of Independence Day has brought us nowhere near the reality. Sadly, ours is a self professed independent nation, with too many overlapping governments totally dependent on the host. We are a parody of a distant glitz. In fact, one feels if we are degenerating already. And with the record number of Independence Day Messages this year from nearly a dozen heads of independent bodies, each claiming to represent the cause, uneasy feeling looms large. Could this be a joke, or a drama? Now, this reminds me of high school days when we used to have a ‘mock parliament.’ Our teachers, in order to inculcate social and

political consciousness encouraged us to constitute a school parliament, by electing a leader from each class and choosing the president from among the representatives. On the special occasion of ‘School Parliament Day’, the president takes the chair and conducts the session. The teachers, including the headmaster all fall under the supervision of the parliament on that day. The next day, however, teachers are teachers, and students remain students. Back to the point of discussion, what is more embarrassing is the content of our so called Independence Day speeches. I do not mean to insult anybody in particular, but our leaders could do much better than parroting the same rhetoric every year, chanting more or less the same slogan in all occasions. Take a look at the P.M of India, making such a long, powerful, uninterrupted, spontaneous and down to earth speech. From manufacturing to toilet sanitation, Modi rakes up every snag and calls upon the people from top brass to daily wager for a change. This is governance at its height. What I am saying is our leaders too certainly need Modi-fication. Think and start planning today, what changes you would like to bring and how you would like to celebrate the Independence Day next year. Leaders! Hear me say, I implore: please do something concrete, something beautiful, that we younger generation could emulate and always look up on you with admiration. Do not leave us in this maze of confusion, suspicion, hatred, vengeance. Do not be too selfish: Give us a space too to participate in nation building; we too will prove our love for our motherland and make you proud. For the sake of posterity, grant this wish: Let us celebrate our Independence Day together at one place, in one spirit. Work on it, don’t think it’s impossible. Remember, August 14 declaration is the foundation of our national struggle on which all factions should come together as one toward our common future. KUKNALIM

Will they ignore or consider?

veryone In Nagaland Understands the one to three Hour cut off of electricity because it is nothing unusual. But there has been unreasonable power cut off for more than 22 hours or 12 hours or even more in a day in Kohima Science College campus, Jotsoma which really amazes me. In fact recently, we experienced a 48 hour continuous black out and to what I know, there were no reasonable explanations for that nor were there any inquiries from the public side. So my question now is: What is going on???? And it was not the first time. Everyday we have two to three hours cut off but I am not complaining there. What irritates me is the continuous hours and hours of black off many times apart from the daily off period. Knowing how inconvenient it is to live without electricity in a 21st century, taking up such actions makes me wish to go back to the stone age. And the funny thing is, as we waits to catch a glimpse of the electricity, I could see some parts of the town being all filled up with lights every night. I don't doubt the fact that Nagaland is of power shortage but is continuous 10 to 12 hours blackout really necessary??? How does people expect us to keep up with our daily routines without electricity when everything in today's world depends on electricity?? Not to mention, candle business is really successful in the college campus and its not easily affordable when you buy it for the whole month. I even remember cancelling out science practical in the college many times because there is no current and we all know how important current is in practical. Nagas expect a lot from their students but is this the attitude the elders need to show to their students?? I have no idea on whom to blame for this matter but it is my utmost request to take a look into this matter for whoever is responsible. The 21st century Nagaland atleast hopes to have proper supply of electricity despite all the corruption and weaknesses. Let us not be asleep forever. Development begins with road, electricity, water Yurkhan Kapai and equality. Arenjungla Kichu Wungram Colony

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 Catalonia vs Spain, a clash of two nationalisms

TuEsday

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

19 August 2014

NEWS ANALYSIS, FEATURE AND DISCOURSE

Patrice de Beer ill 2014 be the year of Catalonia as it might be that of Scotland, whose voters will decide by referendum on September 18 if they want to regain their independence after three centuries within the United Kingdom ? Five days earlier, Catalans will have taken to the streets en masse to commemorate the 300th anniversary of their own battle of Culloden, i.e. the fall of Barcelona into the hands of Spanish and French armies on September 11, 1714, and the end of their traditional self-rule and national identity. In 2012 and 2013 between one and two million people marched for independence from Spain, out of a population of 7.5 millions, slightly larger than Denmark. And, on November 9, the autonomous government has vowed to organise a referendum on Catalan residents' “Right to decide” whether they want to become a State and, if they do, whether they would choose independence or remain in the fold of the Spanish monarchy. A vote which is bitterly opposed – as unconstitutional – by the right wing PP's (Popular Party) government in Madrid as much as by PSOE (Socialist) opposition in the name of Spanish unity. For the moment, according to recent opinion polls, over two thirds of voters would vote “yes” at the first question and a small majority would opt for independence. But this “yes” could well turn into a “no” if the Spanish head of government Mariano Rajoy agreed to stop tampering with their linguistic and cultural rights – education is conducted in the Catalan language in the Autonomous Region – and grant a “Fiscal Pact” to Barcelona, like the one already in place in the Basque Country, allowing them the right to collect taxes. As a rule, Catalans distrust the behaviour of Madrid politicians who, they feel, want to curtail their linguistic rights while milking the richest economy of the peninsula. Even if they are opposed to independence or in favour of a federal Spain ( the “Third Way” advocated by the Socialists – who remain short of details on their new proposal – but firmly rejected by Rajoy). They stress that the “Estatut” (status) approved by referendum and validated by the Spanish Cortes in 2006 has been stripped of its fundamental rights by the Constitutional Court, at the request of the PP, then in opposition, and of some PSOE leaders. And that, since it was returned to power in 2011, the PP has been eating away what Catalans consider to be their prerogatives. In a democratic country there is nothing which could not be solved through negotiations. Provided there is a common will to negotiate, i.e., to give and take. The Catalan government, led by Artur Mas, head of Convergencia I Unio (CiU), the moderate nationalist party which spearheaded the fight for autonomy after Franco's death and who has long kept alive the hope of negotiating a better status with Madrid, is now advocating the “Right to decide”. He has announced for November 9 a referendum considered as illegal by the PP and PSOE, both of whom have vowed to oppose it by all legal means. Mas is also keeping up his sleeve the option of holding “plebiscitary” elections to the Barcelona Parliament, which would bring in a wider nationalist majority. While Madrid politicians, and media are staunchly opposed to a referendum which, for them, would mean secession – some having gone so far as to compare Catalan nationalists to Nazi national-socialists, portraying Mas with a Hitler-like moustache and advocating sending the army in to restore rule of law in Barcelona – the two main Spanish parties, PP and PSOE, have all but vanished from the Catalan political scene. At the same time, moderate nationalists, who have failed to bring negotiations forward, are now threatened by the rise of the old radical anti-monar-

he United Nations delivered a searing rebuke to the digital mass surveillance practices of the United States in a report that systematically picks apart many of the legal justifications employed by government officials defending US and UK spying activities. The secret Five Eyes spying alliance, which enables the US and UK share vast amounts of surveillance with Australian, Canadian and New Zealand intelligence agencies, faces an existential threat if some of the conclusions in the report gain traction in national courts and legislatures. The report, commissioned by the UN General Assembly in response to the political fallout of Edward Snowden’s revelations of American and British mass surveillance programmes, is the strongest condemnation of modern surveillance techniques that any international authority has appropriated to date. The release of the report couldn’t be more timely; the US is in the midst of debating surveillance reforms, and in the UK, emergency legislation granting government new spying powers was rammed through Parliament in the same week the courts considered challenges to surveillance laws.

A line in the sand For more than a year we have listened as officials in the US and UK defended the mass surveillance programs revealed by Edward Snowden. No one is reading your email, they’d say. No one is looking at the content of your communication. Don’t worry, it’s only the bad guys over there that we’re interested in. We are completely in compliance with international law. Navi Pillay, the UN High Commissioner of Human Rights, disagrees. She has issued a salvo of attacks on the legal excuses advanced by States that have sought to justify bulk collection under international law. Even if the government isn’t actually reading emails, they are tampering with individuals’ privacy. The very existence of a bulk collection program, such PRISM in the United States or the United Kingdom’s TEMPORA program, fundamentally interferes with privacy. Even where bulk collection programs

“Arena of Mind” portrays a space for idea germination, a field where ideas from multi-disciplinary viewpoints fertilize the world of intelligence. The writers aspire to envision a new future by exploring the mind, discovering new seeds of insights and unleashing them to enlightenment.

Empowering Women for Social Progress and Community Development “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).

Catalans hold a large banner reading 'Catalonia is not Spain' as the Catalan anthem played prior to the start of the international friendly match between Catalunya and Argentina at the Camp Nou stadium on December 22, 2009 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Jasper Juinen/Getty Images/File)

chy nationalists of Esquerra Republicana de Catalunya (ERC), which has overtaken CiU in latest polls. Thus both sides are being radicalised. The moderate Catalan bourgeoisie, traditionally ready for compromise which would protect their business interests – and who remain, on economic and social issues as conservative as the PP – could soon be replaced by a less pliable ERC. Thus making a compromise less easy to reach, or even more unlikely. So Spain is now facing a confrontation between two conflicting nationalisms, Spanish/Castilian and Catalan. This is precisely what the Catalan business community, as committed to their cultural values as to their economic interest in remaining part of a larger Spanish market, desperately want to avoid and are trying to act as a go-between between Madrid and Barcelona. They have, according to the daily El País (17 July 2014), pleaded with Mr. Rajoy to do away with his strategy of “immobility”, of sweeping the Catalan question under the carpet in the vain hope that it will eventually fade away, and to open negotiations on three fundamental issues which would rebuild confidence, cut the grass from under the pro-independents’ feet and make irrelevant the “Right to decide”: recognizing Catalonia as a nation, full control on linguistic and cultural issues, and fiscal autonomy. So far to no avail. As the head of Barcelona's Economists Circle, Antón Costas said, “the temptation of doing nothing is only leading us towards the extremes”. By targeting the Mas government, widely portrayed as extremist and irresponsible, and by refusing to negotiate on key constitutional, economic, social, cultural issues, Mr. Rajoy has – willingly or not – been playing into the hands of radicals like the ERC or social organisations like Omnium Català and ANC (Catalan National Assembly), who are behind the latest massive demonstrations. New local elections would probably bring to power a coalition led by ERC. Specially as a significant number of neo-Catalans – immigrants from the rest of Spain and abroad – have recently joined the traditional independence camp. While, at the same time, neither the PP nor the PSOE want to be seen by their traditional Spanish voters as giving away to “separatists”. Rajoy knows that his party's radical wing, influenced by his predecessor Jose Maria Aznar, could threaten his leadership. While PSOE leaders are well aware that no Socialist government could be returned to the Cortes without the Catalan votes.

The contrast with the more realistic position of the British government is glaring, which has accepted the Scottish referendum, while campaigning – like the Labour Party – for a “no” vote on independence. And moreover letting it be understood that this “no” vote could be followed by devolution of more federal powers to the Scots. Of course, both London and Madrid have been trying to frighten away voters by threatening them with expulsion from the European Union, exclusion from their present currency – the Pound or the Euro – and dire economic and social consequences if they make the wrong choice. This is fair game. But, as well as independence – especially on unfriendly terms – meaning serious economic difficulties for sure, and long negotiations with Brussels on access to the EU, it could also be costly to Spain. And perhaps more. The Kingdom would, in effect lose its richest region, its second city and its main port, but also one of its only road and rail connections to the rest of Europe, (the other being through the Basque Country, also tempted by greater autonomy, or more). The EU, meanwhile, has rejected Rajoy’s plan to open up a new route to France through the central Pyrenees. All this could strip Spain of its place among EU major powers and reduce it to the humiliating status of a “middling” country. Hard for a nation which has, for centuries, considered herself a world power. For their part, a spectacular scandal has just marred the image of Catalan nationalism when it was made public that the charismatic father of Catalan's autonomy and long-time head of the Barcelona government, Jordi Pujol, had squirrelled away millions of family money into foreign banks. This scandal, front-paged in all the media, is seen by many, in Spain as in Catalonia, as a nail in the coffin of the proindependence crusade. It is true that the very image of Catalanism has been tarnished, this time by the moral failure of its major icon. Yet, Sr. Pujol is far from being the most corrupt of Catalan, or Spanish (left or right) politicians, who took advantage of the last economic bubble to enrich themselves or to illegally finance their parties. Some have been sentenced to jail while judiciary enquiries are dragging on for others. Who could realistically believe now that independence would necessarily mean a cleaner or more efficient government? But maybe Catalans prefer being ruled – for better or worse – by their own kith and kin!

The UN privacy report: Five Eyes remains Carly Nyst serve a legitimate aim and have been approved through clear legal framework, they may still be unlawful because of the disproportionate impact of collecting metadata upon privacy rights. And, perhaps most significantly, laws which discriminate between the protections given to US and non-US persons have been shot down. Where the US interferes with communications infrastructure, by tapping cables or demanding access to data held by US internet services, they are obliged to consider the human rights of any person whose privacy they interfere with, and cannot discriminate against foreigners on the basis of their nationality or location–counter to the entire premise upon which FISA is based. Taken to its logical conclusion, this stance may spell the end of the carefully crafted legal loopholes that the NSA relies on to maintain foreign surveillance activities. An end to unaccountable intelligence-sharing? The report also creates an existential crisis for intelligence-sharing arrangements, such as the Five Eyes alliance of the US, UK, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. In providing some of the most robust analysis by any authority to date on the relationship between foreign intelligence and human rights, Ms Pillay suggests that any effort by governments to coordinate surveillance practices in order to “outflank the protection provided by domestic legal regimes” is unlawful. As a British court heard last week in a case against UK foreign intelligence agency GCHQ, this is precisely the purpose of the Five Eyes arrangement. There is no clear and accessible legal regime that specifies the circumstances in which, Five Eyes authorities can request access to signals intelligence from,

or provide such intelligence, to another Five Eyes authority. Each of the Five Eyes states have broad, vague domestic laws that purport to warrant the sharing of and access to shared signal intelligence, but fail to set out minimum safeguards or provide details of or restrictions upon the nature of intelligence sharing. Moreover, the domestic legal frameworks implementing the obligations created by the Five Eyes agreement are carefully constructed to provide differing levels of protections for internal versus external communications, or those relating to nationals versus non-nationals. These frameworks attempt to circumvent national constitutional or human rights protections governing interferences with the right to privacy of communications that, states contend, apply only to nationals or those within their territorial jurisdiction. In the UK, the Intelligence and Security Committee–in charge of overseeing the actions of the UK intelligence agencies, including GCHQ–responded to the Snowden leaks remarking “It has been alleged that GCHQ circumvented UK law by using the NSA’s PRISM programme to access the content of private communications […] and we are satisfied that they conformed with GCHQ’s statutory duties. The legal authority for this is contained in the Intelligence Services Act 1994.” Yet the chair of the ISC has in fact admitted to confusion about whether “if British intelligence agencies want to seek to know the content of emails can they get round the normal law in the UK by simply asking an American agencies to provide that information?” When the head of the committee charged with overseeing the lawfulness of the actions of intelligence services is unsure as to whether such agencies have acted lawfully, there is

plainly a serious dearth in the accessibility of law, calling into question the rule of law. The UN’s report also takes umbrage at the “secret rules” and FISC-like “secret judicial interpretations” of laws. Any legal framework that gives executive authorities–such as security and intelligence services–excessive discretion will be unlawful under international law, according to the UN. It is difficult to imagine how the Five Eyes intelligence sharing arrangement could ever pass muster if this is the threshold. The original Five Eyes agreement demanded secrecy, stating “it will be contrary to this agreement to reveal its existence to any third party unless otherwise agreed” resulting in modern day references to the existence of the agreement by the intelligence agencies remaining limited. The existence of the agreement was not acknowledged publicly until March 1999; it was not until 2010, that the US and UK declassified numerous documents, including memoranda and draft texts, relating to the creation of the agreement. Generally the Five Eyes States and their intelligence services have been far too slow in declassifying information that no longer needs to be secret, resulting in the absence of the arrangement on any government website until recently. All eyes on the Five Eyes This report should inform every debate on surveillance being held in the public domain, government assemblies or court. It debunks every legal excuse advanced by the US and UK governments to justify the activities revealed by Edward Snowden, and undermines the flimsy idea that bulk collection is entirely legitimate given the nature of the security threat. It fundamentally changes the discourse around digital surveillance and raises numerous questions that the Five Eyes must front. The world’s leading authority on international law and human rights reviewed all the justifications the US and UK make to protect their surveillance practices and swiftly denounced these processes and the self-serving legal frameworks propping them up. It would be an even greater wrong if we do not take heed of their findings.

omen constitute nearly half of the world population. The constitution of India grants equality to women and empowers the state to adopt measures of positive discrimination in favour of women. Yet, women have been compelled to play the second fiddle in every sphere, be it in family, religion or public life. The word ‘empower’ literally means to give the power or authority to do. Women need to be empowered in order to take up new challenges for the building up of the family and society. The progress of the society depends upon the educated women. Women empowerment is essential for national development. There can be no development unless the needs and interests of women are fully taken into consideration. Social transformation which is the need of the hour can be realized only through women empowerment. Higher Education of women plays a very important role in realizing their energy and creativity and enabling them to meet the challenges of the present world. In acknowledging them as potential human resources, investment must be made in developing their capacity in terms of education. Late Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, said, “To be liberated, a woman should feel free to be herself, not in rivalry to man, but in the context of her own capacity. Women should be more interested, more alive and more active in the affairs of the society, not because they are women, but because they comprise half the human race.” The Government of India has taken special care concerning the welfare of women. Few relevant articles of the constitution concerning women in India are mentioned and stated below. Article 14 says, the states shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the equal protection of laws within the territory of India. Article 15 (1) enumerate; state shall not discriminate against any citizen on grounds only of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth or any of them. Article 51 (A) (e): to promote harmony and the spirit of common brotherhood amongst all the people of India transcending religious, linguistic and regional or sectional diversities; to renounce practices derogatory to the dignity of women. Article 243 T (3) Not less than one-third (including the number of seats reserved for women belonging to the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes) of the total number of seats to be filled by direct election in every Municipality shall be reserved for women and such seats may be allotted by rotation to different constituencies in a Municipality. Article 39 (a): that the citizens, men and women equally, have the right to an adequate means of livelihood. Article 39 (d): that there is equal pay for equal work for both men and women. MK Gandhi in his book titled, “Women and Social Injustice”, wrote, “I am uncompromising in the matter of women’s rights. In my opinion she should labour under no legal disabilities not suffered by man. I should treat the daughter and sons on a footing of perfect equality. As women begin to realize their strength, as they must in proportion to the education they receive, they will naturally resent the glaring inequalities to which they are subjected. The root of the evil lies much deeper than most people realize. It lies in man’s greed of power and fame, and deeper still in mutual lust. Man has always desired power. And the ownership of property gives them this power”. It is a universal phenomenon that women are underrepresented in formal political institutions and decision making bodies. Women comprise 50% of the total population of the society but their representation is disproportionate to their number in all societies. Let me point out that the situation in Nagaland is not different. The participation of women in political spaces is still negligible in Nagaland. The Indian Constitution guarantees the participation of women in electoral politics through the 73rd and 74th amendments passed in 1992 and 1993, whereby a total of 33 percent of seats have been reserved for women candidates in Panchayati Raj and Municipal institutions. Nagaland legislative Assembly is not represented by a single woman. The government constructed a plethora of policies in Nagaland towards empowerment of women which were both social and economic. Some of these policies include the Department of Women Development, Nagaland State Commission for Women, Nagaland State Social Welfare Board, Financial assistance to destitute women, Establishment of rehabilitation-cum-support centre and implementation of acts like the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act. 2005, through which the state government has approved the designation of EACs as protection officers and the Nagaland State Social Welfare Board as the service provider under the act. Ref: PAULA BANARJEE, ISHITA DEY, WOMEN CONFLICT AND GOVERNANCE IN NAGALAND, (PUBLISHED BY MAHANIRBAN CALCUTTA RESEARCH GROUP, P- 12, 13, 14) Even though there are many policies and programs for women, the situation of women in India or in the North East shows that in times of crisis, women are controlled/ offended not merely by power structures from outside but also by power structures/ system of their own communities. Unless there is an effort to change such structures and customs with gender-just policies it will only result in superficial changes. My suggestion to women folk around the world is to come out and defeat the inner fear that breeds within every woman. Women are in no way behind men in areas that call for responsibility and capability. “We are born to make and manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us, it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” Sr. Dr. Ranit Vellilamthadam Vice-Principal, St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama

Dimapur

NATIONAL

Tuesday 19 August 2014

The Morung Express

180 dead as floods wash away homes in Nepal, India

KAtMANDu, August 18 (AP): The death toll from three days of flooding and torrential rain in Nepal and India rose to more than 180 people Monday, as relief teams sent food, tents and medicine to prevent any outbreaks of disease. The worst-hit areas were in western Nepal and northern India, where swirling floodwaters submerged hundreds of villages and swept away homes made of mud and straw. Four helicopters with relief supplies and medical workers were sent to cut-off villages in western Nepal, said Jhanka Nath Dhakal of the National Emergency Operation Center. Most roads into the area are submerged or damaged by flooding, preventing vehicles from passing. Thousands of people are without shelter in 10 flooded districts, and local officials on Monday distributed rice and lentils and cooking pots to people who lost their homes. The area is mainly farmland where the poor live in mud and straw huts that wash away easily. At least 100 people have died in Nepal and 84 in neighboring India since Thursday due to torrential rains, authorities said. The situation in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh worsened after dams were opened in Nepal, said Alok Ranjan, a top official in Uttar Pradesh. Along with incessant rain,

Flood affected Indian villagers sit in country boats as they try to move to safer places in Harinarayanpur village in Barabanki district of Uttar Pradesh state, India, Monday, Aug. 18, 2014. The death toll from three days of flooding and torrential rain in Nepal and India rose to more than 180 people Monday, as relief teams sent food, tents and medicine to prevent any outbreaks of disease. (AP Photo/Sanjay Sonkar)

the rising waters caused several rivers to breach their banks, he said. Officials in the state reported 10 more deaths overnight, pushing its toll to 34 over the past three days. Also in northern India, at least 50 people have died in Uttarakhand state, many of them washed away as rivers overflowed, submerging villages and fields. People in the worst-affected villages were being evacuated to re-

lief camps set up in government and school buildings, Ranjan said. State authorities said paramilitary soldiers in about 400 boats were helping to evacuate people from their homes after entire villages were marooned in northern Uttar Pradesh. Vinod Kumar, a resident of Karonda village in Uttar Pradesh, said flood waters moved in so swiftly that they barely

were able to escape. “Late Friday we saw the water level of the Saryu River rising and by Saturday it had inundated our homes. We left the house with whatever we could manage,” Kumar said. Schools and government buildings were hastily turned into makeshift relief camps, and officials were struggling to provide food and other necessities to thousands of people in

the camps, said an official who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media. In the remote northeastern Indian state of Assam, flood waters submerged large swathes of Kaziranga National Park, a wildlife reserve, forcing animals to cross a highway to escape to higher ground, said M.K. Yadava, the park’s director. The Ka-

India calls off talks with Pakistan

NEW DELHI, August 18 (IANs): In a tough move, India Monday called off the Aug 25 foreign secretary-level talks with Pakistan after the latter’s envoy held a meeting with a separatist Kashmiri leader here. Islamabad’s interference in India’s internal affairs was “unacceptable”, it said. External Affairs spokesperson Syed Akbaruddin conveyed the government’s decision following Pakistan High Commissioner Abdul Basit’s meeting with separatist Kashmiri leader Shabir Shah in the capital Monday for consultations before the foreign secretary level talks. “Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh’s visit to Islamabad for talks on Aug 25 stands cancelled,” Akbaruddin said. He said the talks have been called off as “no useful purpose will be served” by her visit to Islamabad. “It was underlined that Pakistan high commissioner’s meeting with the so-called leaders of the Hurriyat undermined constructive diplomatic engagement initiated by the prime minister (Narendra Modi) on his very first day in office,” Akbaruddin said. “The Indian foreign sec-

retary, therefore, conveyed to the Pakistan high commissioner today (Monday) in clear, unambiguous terms that Pakistan’s continued efforts to interfere with India’s internal affairs were unacceptable,” he said. “The only path available to Pakistan is to resolve outstanding issues with peaceful, bilateral dialogue within the framework and principles of Simla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration,” Akbaruddin added. The Congress, which had questioned the move to hold talks in the wake of Pakistan’s invitation to separatists, said

are not only happening on the Line of Control (LOC) but also along the international border. I am sure that our soldiers will give a befitting reply to these ceasefire violations,” he told media here. “With these kind of provocations like the ceasefire violations and, more seriously, invitation to separatists to meet the (Pakistan) High Commissioner, it’s for Pakistan to decide what kind of relationship it wants with India,” said Jaitley. Accompanied by army chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag and Western Army Command chief Lt.Gen. K.J. Singh, Jaitley visited forward posts along the international border.

that the Modi government needs to explain why it decided to have talks with Pakistan in the first place. “I think the government needs to explain why in the first place it decided to go ahead (with talks),” Congress leader Manish Tewari said. Congress leader Amarinder Singh said the Modi government had not done its homework before proceeding with talks with Pakistan. “While it (meeting with the Kashmiri separatist leaders) was a diplomatic indiscretion on part of Pakistan, the government of India also

MotIHArI, August 18 (PtI): Twenty people, including eight children, were killed on Monday when a speeding train rammed into a packed autorickshaw at a railway crossing between Semra and Sugauli stations in Bihar’s East Champaran district, the police said. The accident took place at a manned railway crossing at Chinauta village when Dehradun-bound Rapti Ganga Express hit the autorickshaw at full speed, superintendent of police Sudhir Kumar said. Two other passengers suffered serious injuries. Some bodies were mutilated beyond recognition while some others were dragged by the train to some distance as the vehicle was tossed several metres away under the impact of the collision. The dead and the injured all belonged to a single family from Chiknauta village, the SP said adding the injured persons had been admitted to a government hospital in Motihari where they were battling for life. Meanwhile, the ECR Samastipur division’s divisional railway manager (DRM) Arun Kumar Malik has left for the spot by a special train to supervise rescue and relief work. The superintendent of railway police (SRP) Muzaffarpur Vinod Kumar has also rushed to Motihari to assist in the relief work. In Patna, chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi has expressed heart felt grief over the loss of lives in the accident and announced Rs 1.5 lakh compensation to the kin victims. A report from Motihari said that the train service on Sugauli-Semra section has been disrupted after the incident. Efforts were on to remove the mangled remains of the autorickshaw from the railway track to restart train services on the route, they said. A crowd of villagers gathered on the spot and raised slogans demanding Rs two lakh compensation for each of the victim. The SP intervened to calm the agitators.

Man runs car over 13 people sleeping on divider

NEW DELHI, August 18 (IANs): A 30-year-old man was arrested for running his vehicle over 13 labourers sleeping on a road divider, killing one of them, in the capital, police said Monday. Rishi Kumar’s car climbed onto the road divider and injured the 13 labourers sleeping there. Police said the accused was in an inebriated state while driving his car from west Delhi’s Jahangirpuri area to West Vinod Nagar in east Delhi. Rishi Kumar, who was accompanied by his sisterin-law, is a property dealer and a resident of west Vinod Nagar. All the 13 labourers were rushed to three hospitals - Bara Hindu Rao Hospital, Sushruta Trauma Centre and Aruna Asaf Ali Hospital - where one of them, 20-year-old Iqraj, died of his injuries.

India has 2 Hitlers, God save India: Digvijaya

Pak’s ceasefire violations deliberate: Jaitley AMrItsAr, August 18 (IANs): Talking tough on Pakistan, Defence Minister Arun Jaitley Monday said that ceaserfire violations by the neighbouring country in recent days were deliberate and Indian soldiers will give a befitting response. Justifying the calling off of foreign-secretary level talks with Pakistan, Jaitley, who was here Friday and visited forward posts along the international border with Pakistan, said: “The ceasefire violations by Pakistan are deliberate. Pakistan and some forces there do not want normalization of relations between both countries.” “The ceasefire violations (in recent days)

ziranga reserve is home to more than 2,500 of the 3,000 one-horn rhinos left in the wild. “Some parts of the park are under five feet of flood water from the Brahmaputra River which flows along one side of the park,” Yadava said. Nepal Prime Minister Sushil Koirala appealed to domestic and foreign agencies to help flood victims. The main opposition party, the Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist, disrupted parliamentary proceedings and demanded that the government declare a national emergency. Dhakal said the government was trying to send medical teams and supplies to prevent diseases such as cholera that can follow flooding. It was also distributing tents and plastic sheets to make temporary shelters, utensils to cook food, and clothes for those who lost their belongings. The June-September monsoon season often brings flooding to Nepal and India. The rains caused a landslide earlier this month that covered an entire village near Katmandu, killing 156 people. Last year, more than 6,000 people were killed as floods and landslides swept through Uttarakhand state during the monsoon season. Heavy deforestation over the last few decades has made the area more vulnerable to landslides.

20 killed, two injured as train hits autorickshaw

appeared not to have done its homework properly before deciding to go ahead with such high-level talks,” he said. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Siddharth Nath Singh, meanwhile, said that provocation and peace cannot go together. Abdul Basit had invited Kashmiri separatist leaders, including hardline Hurriyat Conference leader Syed Ali Geelani and moderate group leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, for consultations ahead of foreign secretary level talks in Islamabad. The meetings were to be held Monday and Tuesday.

NEW DELHI, August 18 (IANs): RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat today came under attack from political parties including Congress and Samajwadi Party for his controversial remarks that India is a Hindu nation and Hindutva is its identity. Coming down heavily on Bhagwat, senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh, in a series of tweets, described the RSS chief as “Hitler” and said the Sangh should stop “fooling” innocent people by using religion in politics. “I thought we had one Hitler in making but it seems now we have Two ! God save India !,” Singh, also a known detractor of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, tweeted. A day after the RSS chief made the controversial remarks in Mumbai, Singh asked, “A question to Mohan Bhagwat - Is Hindutva a religious identity ? What is its relationship with Sanatan Dharma ? Is a person who believes in Islam, Christianity, Sikh

Budhism, Jainism or any other religion also a Hindu ? Would Mohan Bhagwatji pl clarify ?” Wondering “does word Hindu or Hindutava figure in any of our Veda, Upanishad, Gita, Puran or any other of our religious scripture ?, Singh also tweeted. “RSS should stop fooling the innocent people by using religion in politics.We are proud of our Sanatan Dharm and its tolerance towards others,” he said. Also hitting out at Bhagwat, the Samajwadi Party accused the Sangh of practising politics of “hatred and separatism.” “They use such words and language to fan social tension,” SP spokesperson Rajendra Chaudhary said. Referring to various controversial statements from union ministers and leaders of BJP and VHP, Congress leader Manish Tewari alleged that there was a “concerted efforts” to polarise the country on religious lines.

Six UP brides leave in-laws’ homes over lack of toilets

LucKNoW, August 18 (IANs): Six newly-wed women in Uttar Pradesh walked out of their in-laws’ homes rather than walk into the fields to ease themselves. Taking their cue from Prime Minister Narendart Modi’s call in his Independence Day address for a toilet in every household, especially in rural areas, the young brides protested to their husbands and in-laws over lack of such a facility. These brides from Kushinagar district returned to their parents within weeks of tying the knot, a non-governmental organisation said.

Neelam, Kalawati, Shakina, Niranjan, Gudiya and Sita of Khesiya village protested when they found there were no toilets attached to their houses. After spending a couple of days, they returned to their parental homes over the past two months. Sulabh International, an NGO working for providing low-cost sanitation, has announced it would build toilets free for the brides. Terming the brides’ rebellion as a “bold and extraordinary step”, Sulabh founder Bindeshwar Pathak told IANS that such incidents clearly show the changing

mindset of girls over modern toilets. Sulabh spokesman Madan Jha said the NGO would construct the toilets free of cost without any delay so that the brides can return to their in-laws’ place soon. He also said the six women would be honoured for their bold stand. Two years back, Priyanka Bharti, a bride from Maharajgunj, was honoured for taking a similar step. Bharti now works as a Sulabh motivator and has also appeared with Bollywood actress Vidya Balan in a sanitation advertisement of the union government.

Indian poachers threaten lesser-known animals

NEW DELHI, August 18 (AP): Wildlife poachers, hindered by India’s efforts to protect majestic endangered animals including tigers and rhinos, have begun to think smaller. And activists say scores of the country’s lesser-known species are vanishing from the wild as a result. The Indian pangolin and the star tortoise are just two of the species that are being killed or smuggled in increasing numbers while conservation efforts focus on such iconic animals such as tigers and elephants. “The problem is that we were turning a blind eye to all lesser-known species and suddenly this very lucrative trade has been allowed to explode,” said Belinda Wright, director of the Wildlife Protection Society of India, an advocacy group. Wildlife specialists say the growing affluence of

China, Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries has helped drive the demand for exotic animals. Some are kept as pets, while others are eaten for their purported but questionable medicinal or aphrodisiacal properties. The pangolin trade was once obscure in India, with an average of only about three a year reportedly killed by poachers between 1990 and 2008. Wright said that soared to an average of more than 320 per year from 2009 to 2013. That only covers confirmed seizures. Customs officials and wildlife experts estimate that seizures form only 10 percent of the total illegal trade. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature estimated in a report last month that more than a million pangolins have been poached from habitats in Asia and Africa. Star tortoise seizures

by airport and port customs officials also have increased dramatically, from an average of less than 800 per year from 1990 to 1999 to more than 3,000 per year from 2002 to 2013, according to the protection society. Similarly, the growing demand for lizard skin, meat and bones has led to the near-disappearance of the monitor lizard in the Indian countryside, said Tito Joseph, a program manager for the society. Monitor lizard meat, especially the tongue and liver, is mistakenly believed to have aphrodisiacal properties, while lizard skin finds use in high-end bags and belts. Such animals became more attractive to poachers as the Indian government strengthened the tiger conservation program it began nearly four decades ago. Vast swathes of forests and hills have been turned into tiger reserves and national

parks. Indian officials deny neglecting lesser-known species. Creating the tiger reserves also helps protect smaller species in these areas, they say. “The focus on tigers does not mean that other species are not taken care of,” said S.B. Negi of the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau, a government agency. But the bureau has only just begun efforts to collect data on many smaller species now in peril, including the pangolin, reflecting the scant attention they have received so far. Kamal Datta, a director at the bureau, said the agency has asked wildlife departments in India’s 29 states to collect the data, but some have yet to begin. “The trade in lesser known species cannot be ignored, else entire species, such as the Indian pangolin, are in danger of being

wiped out,” said Wright. Pangolins, often described as “walking artichokes” on account of their coats of overlapping scales, were once found across India. When threatened by predators, the animal protects itself by curling up into a scaly ball, but that makes it easy for poachers to bundle them into sacks for transportation. Most of the illegal trade in pangolins and other species takes place across the porous border that India shares with Nepal, Myanmar and Bangladesh, experts said. Activists say efforts to stop the illegal trade are hampered by a lack of knowledge among customs officials and border guards about the species they are supposed to protect. “We’re talking here of the threat of pangolins being wiped out. But most of-

In this July 9, 2014 photo, Indian star tortoise huddle together at the Bannerghatta National Park on the outskirts of Bangalore. (AP File Photo)

ten the officials set to catch the poachers don’t even know what the animal looks like, let alone who are the people involved in catching them, or those involved in the trade,” said Shekhar Niraj, India director of TRAFFIC, a wildlife

trade monitoring network. The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List, generally considered to be the most comprehensive of its kind, lists 374 species in India that are vulnerable and 274 others that are endan-

gered, or critically endangered, and at risk of becoming extinct. “This is a huge tragedy in the making,” Wright said. “We must act before it is too late, or many of these spectacular animals will disappear.”

InternatIonal

the Morung express

Tuesday 19 August 2014

Dimapur

Pope leaves South Korea after urging peace

SEOUL, AUgUSt 18 (AP): Pope Francis wrapped up his first trip to Asia on Monday by challenging Koreans —from the North and the South — to reject the “mindset of suspicion and confrontation” that clouds their relations and find new ways to forge peace on the war-divided peninsula. Before boarding a plane back to Rome, the pope held a Mass of reconciliation at Seoul’s main cathedral, attended by South Korean President Park Geun-hye as well as some North Korean defectors. It was the final event of a five-day trip that confirmed the importance of Asia for this papacy and for the Catholic Church as a whole, given the church is young and growing here whereas it is withering in traditionally Christian lands in Europe. Francis’ plea for peace came as the United States and South Korea started a joint military drill that North Korea warned would result in a “merciless pre-emptive strike” against the allies. In a poignant moment at the start of the Mass on Monday, Francis bent down and greeted seven women, many sitting in wheelchairs, who were forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese military during World War II. One gave him a pin of a butterfly — a symbol of these “comfort women’s” plight — which he immediately pinned to his vestments and wore throughout the Mass. Francis said in his homily that reconciliation can be

brought about only by forgiveness, even if it seems “impossible, impractical and even at times repugnant.” “Let us pray, then, for the emergence of new opportunities for dialogue, encounter and the resolution of differences, for continued generosity in providing humanitarian assistance to those in need, and for an ever greater recognition that all Koreans are brothers and sisters, members of one family, one people,” he said. During his trip the pope reached out to China, North Korea and a host of other countries that have no relations with the Holy See. The pope will visit the Philippines in January, along with Sri Lanka. In Seoul on Monday, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, the archbishop of Manila, said Francis is offering “a friendly hand to the other countries, and assuring the countries we are not here for any worldly ambition, we are not here as conquerors, we are here as brothers and sisters.” Francis laid out these themes from the start of his visit, which was clouded by the firing of five rockets from Pyongyang into the sea. North Korea later said the test firings had nothing to do with Francis’ arrival but rather commemorated the 69th anniversary of Korea’s independence from Japanese occupation. The U.S.-South Korean military exercises starting Monday and involving tens of thousands of troops are described by the allies as routine and defensive, but Pyongyang sees

them as invasion preparation. A spokesman for the North Korean army’s general staff said in a statement Sunday carried by state media that a “most powerful and advanced merciless pre-emptive strike will start any time chosen by us.” Such rhetoric is typical from the North and direct strikes by Pyongyang are rare, although attacks blamed on the North in 2010 killed 50 South Koreans. Before the Mass, Seoul Cardinal Andrew Yeom Soo-jung dedicated a “crown of thorns” to the pope made from barbed wire taken from the heavily fortified demilitarized zone separating the two Koreas. “Ut unum sint” reads the inscription “That they may be one” — a phrase usually invoked when praying for unity among Catholics, Orthodox and other Christians but given an entirely new meaning in the Korean context. In his homily, Francis said the Korean people knew well the pain of division and conflict and urged them to reflect on how they individually and as a people could work to reconcile. He challenged them to “firmly reject a mindset shaped by suspicion, confrontation and competition, and instead to shape a culture formed by the teaching of the Gospel and the noblest traditional values of the Korean people.” When he was a young Jesuit, the Argentine-born Francis had wanted to be a missionary in Asia but was kept home because of poor health. He used his trip to South Korea to rally

Pope Francis, right, greets Ja Seung, a Head of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, during a meeting with religious leaders prior to the start of a Mass of reconciliation at Seoul’s main cathedral, in Seoul, South Korea on Monday August 18. (AP Photo)

young Asians in particular to take up the missionary call to spread the faith. He also used the trip to console Koreans: He met on several occasions with relatives of victims of the Sewol ferry sinking, in which 300 people were killed in April.

Throughout his trip, he wore a yellow pin on his cassock that was given to him by the families. On Monday, he received the butterfly pin from Kim Bok-dong, one of the “comfort women” who attended his

Mass. These elderly South Koreans, many of whom regularly appear at rallies and other highprofile events, are looking for greater global attention as they push Japan for a new apology and compensation. In an interview with The As-

sociated Press before the Mass, another one of the women, Lee Yong-soo, who often speaks to the media, said she hoped the meeting would provide some solace for the pain she and others still feel more than seven decades after they were violated.

assange intends to leave Ecuadorian embassy Brazil makes progress on saving forests, Indonesia risks setbacks

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange speaks during a press conference inside the Ecuadorian Embassy in London, where he confirmed he “will be leaving the embassy soon”, Monday August 18. The Australian Assange fled to the Ecuadorian Embassy in 2012 to escape extradition to Sweden, where he is wanted over allegations of sex crimes. (AP Photo)

Risky situations fuel anxiety among women NEw YORk, AUgUSt 18 (IANS): Risky situations in any setting increases anxiety among women, leading them to perform worse under stressed circumstances, finds a new study. Increased anxiety in risky settings is problematic for women because it may depress their ability to achieve. “Women have worse task performance than men in risky situations, even when they have the same ability in a non-risky setting,” said Susan. R. Fisk, a doctoral candidate in sociology at Stanford University. In her study, Fisk relied on three experiments. The first experiment was conducted online among US adults aged 18 to 81 to determine whether risky workplace situations increased the anxiety of women and men. After participants finished thinking and writing about their scenario, they took an anxiety test. Fisk found that when scenarios were framed in a risky way, women were more anxious than when the scenarios were framed in a non-risky way. Women who received risky scenarios scored 13.6 percent higher on the anxiety test than those who received non-risky scenarios. In the experiment that used the verbal SAT questions, participants were given 20 questions to complete and were told that they could bet money on each answer, making the situation risky. Women answered about 11 percent fewer questions than men in this risky situation involving betting. A similar effect was seen when using grades data from an undergraduate engineering course. “People frequently encounter high-risk, high-reward situations in workplaces, and if women avoid these situations or perform more poorly in them because they are more anxious, they will reap fewer rewards than men,” Fisk said. Furthermore, the research suggests that failure in a risky situation is more costly to women as it may reinforce or create self-doubt about their own competence. Women’s anxiety and poorer performance in risky situations “may be an unexplored contributor to the dearth of women in positions of leadership and power, as success in these kinds of circumstances is often a precursor to career advancement and promotion”, researchers concluded.

LONDON, AUgUSt 18 (REUtERS): WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange, who has spent over two years in Ecuador’s London embassy to avoid a sex crimes inquiry in Sweden, said on Monday he planned to leave the building “soon”, but Britain signalled it would still arrest him if he tried. Assange made the surprise assertion during a news conference alongside Ecuador’s Foreign Minister Ricardo Patino. But his spokesman played down the chances of an imminent departure, saying the British government would first need to revise its position and let him leave without arrest, something it has repeatedly refused to do. The 43-year-old Australian fled to the embassy in June 2012 to avoid extradition for questioning in Sweden over sex assault and rape allegations, which he denies. He says he fears that if extradited to Sweden he would then be handed over to the United States, where he could be tried for one of the largest information leaks in U.S. history. Assange would be arrested if he exited the Lon-

don embassy because he has breached his British bail terms. “I am leaving the embassy soon ... but perhaps not for the reasons that Murdoch press and Sky news are saying at the moment,” Assange told reporters at the embassy in central London. Britain’s Sky News, part owned by Rupert Murdoch’s 21st Century Fox, had earlier reported that Assange was considering leaving the embassy due to deteriorating health.

‘Call off the siege’ WikiLeaks began releasing thousands of confidential U.S. documents on the Internet in 2010. That embarrassed the United States, and some critics say it put national security and people’s lives at risk. Ecuador later granted Assange political asylum. But he was unable to leave Britain and has ended up living in the embassy’s cramped quarters in central London. His comments briefly raised the possibility of his leaving imminently. But Kristinn Hrafnsson, his spokesman, told reporters that he could only do so if the British government

“calls off the siege outside”. Assange had no intention of handing himself over to the police, he added. Ecuador’s Patino said he would try to hold talks with his British counterpart to resolve the case. Recent changes to British extradition laws may mean Assange would not be facing extradition if his case had just started. Britain’s Foreign Office said it remained as committed as ever to reaching a diplomatic solution to the problem, but reiterated that Assange still needed to be extradited. “As ever we look to Ecuador to help bring this difficult, and costly, situation to an end,” a spokeswoman said. The Assange issue has put Britain and Ecuador at odds, with London angered by the decision of Ecuador’s socialist President Rafael Correa to grant him asylum and Quito unhappy at the British refusal to allow him safe passage. Asked about his health, Assange said anyone would be affected by spending two years in a building with no outside areas or direct sunlight, a complaint he has made several times before.

OSLO, AUgUSt 18 (REUtERS): Brazil has made good progress in safeguarding the Amazon rainforest but Indonesia’s plans for its forests could face setbacks under a new government, a report commissioned by top forest aid donor Norway said on Monday. Norway, rich from offshore oil and gas, paid 10.3 billion crowns ($1.7 billion) to slow tropical deforestation from 2008-13, according to the report by the state-funded Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (Norad). “Brazil’s deforestation rate and corresponding greenhouse gas emissions have strongly decreased,” the report said of progress in protecting the Amazon, the biggest tropical forest. Projects funded by Norwegian cash in Brazil were “paving the way for future reductions”, it said. Norway has paid Brazil 4.6 billion crowns ($720 million) to help back up domestic programmes, it said. Norway promised Brazil up to $1.0 billion in 2008 to slow deforestation, depending on its performance. Under a similar deal in 2010, Norway pledged up to $1 billion to Indonesia, which has the third-largest rainforest after the Amazon and Congo basins and has cleared large areas to to make way for palm oil plantations. Indonesia had made “good progress” in planning to protect forests, Norad said. But it said that “upcoming govern-

mental change and weaknesses in the legal basis” for forest protection “present a serious risk that achievements may be lost”. President-elect Joko Widodo takes over form Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in October. “There could be new priorities,” Ida Hellmark, who coordinated the report at Norad, told Reuters, pointing to risks of a further shift to palm oil plantations. So far, Indonesia has so far got just 2 percent of Norway’s total payments, Norad said. Forests soak up carbon dioxide as they grow and release it when they rot or burn. Deforestation, mainly to clear land for farms, accounts for up to about a fifth of all man-made emissions of greenhouse gases, according to U.N. estimates. Cash promised by Norway accounts for more than 60 percent of all funds pledged by rich nations linking forests and climate change, the Norad report said. Norway’s money has also gone to international agencies and nations such as Guyana and Tanzania. Dag Hareide, head of environmental group Rainforest Foundation Norway, said Norway’s aid had helped put a focus on forest losses and climate change at a time when many donors were facing austerity at home. Still, he told Reuters that Norway could do more, especially to ensure that its $880 billion sovereign wealth fund avoided investing in companies that stoke deforestation.

Ebola ProblEm: Finding its natural source Mike Stobbe & Marilynn Marchione

AP Medical Writers

scary problem lurks beyond the frenzied efforts to keep people from spreading Ebola: No one knows exactly where the virus comes from or how to stop it from seeding new outbreaks. Ebola has caused two dozen outbreaks in Africa since it first emerged in 1976. It is coming from somewhere — probably bats — but experts agree they need to pinpoint its origins in nature. That has had to wait until they can tame the current outbreak, which has claimed more than 1,100 lives in four countries — the worst toll from Ebola in history. “First and foremost get the outbreak under control. Once that piece is resolved, then go back and find what the source is,” said Jonathan Towner, a scientist who helped find the bat source of another Ebola-like disease called Marburg. Towner works for the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Others say finding Ebola’s origins is more than a downthe-road scientific curiosity. “Confirming the source would definitely be important,” said Dr. Richard Wenzel, a Virginia Commonwealth University scientist who formerly led the Interna-

This undated photo made available by the Antwerp Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp, Belgium, shows the Ebola virus viewed through an electron microscope. As of mid-2014, Ebola has caused two dozen outbreaks in Africa since the virus first emerged in 1976. (AP File Photo)

tional Society for Infectious Diseases. Throughout history, some of the biggest wins against infectious diseases have involved not just limiting person-to-person spread but also finding and controlling the sources in nature fueling new cases. Plague was halted after the germ was tied to rat-riding fleas. With the respiratory disease

SARS, civet cats played a role. With typhus it was lice, and with bird flu, live poultry markets. Efforts to control MERS, a virus causing sporadic outbreaks in the Middle East, include exploring the role of camels. In the case of Ebola, health experts think the initial cases in each outbreak get it from eating or handling infected animals. They think the virus

may come from certain bats, and in parts of Africa, bats are considered a delicacy. But bats may not be the whole story or the creature that spread it to humans. The World Health Organization lists chimpanzees, gorillas, monkeys, forest antelope and porcupines as possibly playing a role. Even pig farms may amplify infection because of fruit bats on the farms, the WHO says. “It’s not clear what the animal is. It’s going to take a lot of testing,” said Dr. Robert Gaynes, an Emory University infectious disease specialist who worked for the CDC for more than 20 years. Part of the puzzle is how long the virus has been in West Africa. Previous outbreaks have been in the east and central regions of the continent. The current outbreak began in rural Guinea, and the first suspected first case was a 2-year-old child who died in Gueckedou prefecture in December, researchers wrote in the New England Journal of Medicine in April. They did not speculate on how the child may have become infected. Scientists in the United States and Sierra Leone looked back at hundreds of blood samples that were sent to a testing laboratory in eastern Sierra Leone from 2006 through 2008. The samples initially were checked only for Lassa

fever, which is common in West Africa. But when the scientists recently went back and tested for other infections, they found nearly 9% was Ebola. One or more types of Ebola virus have “probably been there in the mix” for some time but for some reason didn’t explode into a widespread epidemic in West Africa until this year, said Stephen Morse, a Columbia University infectious disease expert. Ebola’s jump from animals to people is thought to be rare. Experts say there may be a large degree of bad luck in becoming infected — in a cave associated with a Marburg outbreak, Towner found the virus in only 3 percent of bats he tested. Even if an animal source is clearly identified and people are warned, “there is always likely to be an occasional exposure — someone who drives off the highway, in essence,” Morse said. But with other diseases, control measures have paid off. In 2003, when civet cats were tied to SARS, “you could just see the potential for animal-to-human spread” in live animal markets where they were sold and butchered for food, and control of those markets in southern China helped limit the outbreak, said Dr. Jeffrey Koplan, an Emory University professor and former head of the CDC.

LOCAL/SPORTS 10 Dhoni hints at quitting after series defeat Dimapur

Tuesday

19 August 2014

The Morung Express

MS Dhoni and India fined by ICC for slow over-rate during Oval Test

MS Dhoni (AP Photo)

LONDON, AuguSt 18 (IANS): India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni hinted at stepping down as the captain following his team's 1-3 Test series loss to England. India lost The Oval Test by an innings and 244 runs here Sunday, triggering questions over Dhoni's future as the India captain. Asked if he has taken the team as far as he could, Dhoni said: "Maybe, yes." "You'll have to wait and watch. If I'm strong enough or not strong enough, you'll have to wait and get the news," Dhoni was quoted as saying by BBC Test Match Special. Dhoni, 33, took over the Test team in 2008 after leading India to an emphatic win in the inaugural

LONDON, Aug 18 (IANS): India were fined for maintaining a slow over rate during the fifth and final Test against England at The Oval here Sunday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said Monday. Match referee Ranjan Madugalle imposed the fines after Mahendra Singh DhoniÂ’s side was ruled to be three overs short of its target at the end of the match

World Twenty20 in 2007. He has led the team in 58 Tests with a record 27 wins. Under Dhoni, India topped the world Test rankings from late 2009 until the summer of 2011, a period in which he also led the team to

when time allowances were taken into consideration. The penalty was accepted by India without contest so there was no need for a hearing, the ICC said in a statement. In accordance with ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel regulations governing minor over-rate offences, players are fined 10 per cent of their match fees for every

India took a 1-0 lead by winning the Lord's Test. But from then on things worsened for the visitors, who suffered three consecutive losses, including two innings defeats. They failed 200 in five consecutive at-

IndIa's last fIve test serIes July-August 2014: England (away) - lost 3-1 (5 Tests) February 2014: New Zealand (away) - lost 1-0 (2 Tests) December 2013: South Africa (away) - lost 1-0 (2 Tests) November 2013: West Indies (home) - won 2-0 (2 Tests) February-March 2013: Australia (home) - won 4-0 (4 Tests) victory in the World Cup. But India's slide started with surrendering their No.1 Test rankings with a 4-0 whitewash in England in 2011. In the current series,

tempts that ended with them being bowled out for 94 inside 30 overs at The Oval here Sunday. "The last three Tests, we were not up to the mark," said Dhoni,

over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, with the captain fined double that amount. As such, Dhoni was fined 60-per-cent of his match fee while his players received 30-per-cent fines. If Dhoni is found guilty of one more minor over rate offence in Tests over the next 12 months, he will receive a one-match suspension as per the provisions of the ICC Code.

who has scored 4,808 runs in 88 Tests. "We never competed. Today's batting was a reflection of a loss of confidence. It's disappointing." "Right from the start, our batsmen haven't performed - it was the lower order. Later on in the series, when the lower order didn't perform, we saw there wasn't enough runs on the board," said Dhoni. Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar also blasted the team for the tame surrender. "I don't know what to say. What can you say? You can get angry, say harsh things, but what good will it do? If you do not want to be playing Test cricket for India, quit. Just play limited-overs cricket. You should not be embarrassing your country like that," said Gavaskar.

As part of the Independence Day 2014 celebrations, the Nagaland Civil Service Association (NCSA) visited Eden Gardens, Khuzama during which members of the Association interacted with the children and staff. The Association, while appreciating the yeoman service provided by Father Raymond and his team, also made a contribution to the institution in cash and kind. Eden Gardens is a Children’s Home located at Khuzama, run by the Nagaland Jesuit Educational and Charitable Society where 225 destitute children, a majority of them orphans, call home. The institution provides clothes, board and lodging, school books, medicines and education for children ranging from class 3-4 to class 10. If children display aptitude and interest, they are also provided higher education.

The Department of Fisheries conducted a training programme on value added fish products for women SHGs, students and housewives at town hall, Tuensang town on August 5 and 6. The training was headed by DFO Tuensang Amenla and staff along with resource person from Dimapur.

Criticism for India's capitulation in England

NEW DELHI, AuguSt 18 (AP): Sunil Gavaskar described India's capitulation against England as traumatic, embarrassing and jelly-like, while Sourav Ganguly called for "harsh decisions" to be made on team selections. The former India captains were just two of the many harsh critics of Mahendra Singh Dhoni's test team after it was bundled out for 94 in the second innings at The Oval, losing the test by an innings and 244 runs and surrendering the five-match series 3-1. Players, analysts and the public questioned the team's resolve after it lost consecutive tests inside three days. India led the series after

winning the second test at Lord's, but lost the third test by 266 runs and the fourth by an innings and 54 runs. "If we do well in the ODIs, the test series will be forgotten and that will be a tragedy," Gavaskar told the NDTV news channel. "The tragedy of Indian cricket is that a lot of the defeats are swept under the carpet." World Cup-winning captain Dhoni's record crept up to 14 away test defeats. Batsmen Virat Kohli and Cheteshwar Pujara failed time and again. Ganguly urged selectors to take some tough decisions, saying the team had shown "no effort, no heart, no fight." "There have to

be some harsh decisions," Ganguly told the Headlines Today news channel. "The selectors' outlook has to change — when you pick your players, when you identify talent, these are the things you have to look for: who gets runs for you in difficult circumstances, who gets runs for you when the chips are down, who gets runs for you when you are 50-5." Former chief selector Krishnamachari Srikkanth wondered what India coach Duncan Fletcher had been doing. "Some of the strategies adopted, field placements and even the batting order for instance could have been handled better," Srik-

kanth wrote in a column in The Times of India. "The coach definitely has a say in all these. Either he is not ready to question the authority of Dhoni, else he wants to collect his pay check till the World Cup before waving goodbye." Indian newspapers ran banner headlines and television channels ran programs dissecting the defeat. "Team India uprooted" read the headline in The Times of India, which went on to give statistical details of India's third biggest innings defeat as well as dwelled on Dhoni's poor captaincy, lack of batsmen's technique and shoddy slip catching

among other things. "Nightmare ends with a horror show" screamed the Hindustan Times headline. Social media, too, was abuzz with comments and tongue-in-cheek remarks as the Indian innings lasted just 29.2 overs on Sunday. "There you are," noted international commentator Harsha Bhogle posted on his twitter page after England completed a third consecutive test series win over Rev Kilang Jamir speaking at the ImIndia in quick time. "Our manuel College crusade held on August post game show was as long 9 with the theme ‘Abundant life.’ Youth as the Indian innings." Eng- Kohima Science College observed 53rd Fresh- Harvest ministry team led the praise and land beat India 4-0 at home er’s Social on August 6 at college auditorium. worship and testified through songs and Kohima Science and College observed 53rd Fresher’s Social onstudents August of 6 at college Colauditorium. Sangtiba Longkumer Mhayoni Murry were skits while the Immanuel in 2011 and then came fromCaption: crowned Mr and Miss Fresher respectively for lege also participated through song andfor the yea behind to prevail 2-1 in aSangtiba Longkumer and Mhayoni Murry were crowned Mr and Miss Fresher respectively the year 2014, informed a press release. choreography. four-test test series in India2014, informed a press release. the following year.

WCup buildup begins now for Australia

BRISBANE, AuguSt 18 (AP): The continent-hopping buildup to the cricket World Cup will start this week for Darren Lehmann and his Australia squad, who'll test themselves against five countries in six months. The Aussies head to Zimbabwe on Wednesday to take on the hosts and South Africa in a limited-overs series. Next stop after that is in the Middle East against Pakistan in October, then limited-overs matches at home against South Africa in November before a test tour by India and a tri-series against the Indians and England that will finish just ahead of the World Cup which Australia is co-hosting with New Zealand. "It's a good little tournament leading into obviously a pretty big 12 months for us," Lehmann said of the Zimbabwe trip, where Australia will play at least four ODIs.

"It's good to have all the lads back together. They all look fit and firing." Openers David Warner and Shane Watson aren't traveling to Zimbabwe, with top-order batsman Phillip Hughes earning a recall after scoring a pile of runs for Australia A and Nathan Lyon getting another chance as Lehmann looks for an attacking spinner for the one-day format. The Australian team has had time off since April after a heavy schedule that included a 5-0 Ashes sweep of England and a test series win in South Africa. Skipper Michael Clarke said some of the Australian players were at breaking point before the rest, but were now recharged and prepared for the long haul. Lehmann said the squad picked for the Zimbabwe tour — Australia's first to the African country in a decade — was part ex-

periment, part building on combinations with up to 20 ODIs to play between and around two test series before the World Cup. "A bit of both. Have a look at some young guys, get prepared for February, but still we've got to win the series over in Zimbabwe," he said. "That's our primary focus at the moment." Lehmann emphasized his desire for Australia to play positive cricket in all formats leading up to the World Cup. That's something India and Pakistan have struggled with in recent series. India was humbled in a 3-1 series defeat in England, skittled for 94 in the last match at The Oval in an innings and 244-run on Sunday. It sparked heavy criticism from the likes of India great Sunil Gavaskar, who described the performance as "jelly-like" and said it embarrassed the nation. Pakistan

was swept in a two-test series in Sri Lanka. Lehmann said India was "obviously having a bit of a form slump" but still had a lineup of class players and he expected them to rebound in Australia. "They're still a good side ... the wickets were quite, ahh, sporting over there," Lehmann said of the seaming pitches in England. "The last couple of test matches — The Oval, I can't remember that sort of wicket being produced for an Australian test match over (in England in) the last 50 or 60 years. I'm looking forward to those wickets next year" for the Ashes. The former test batsman said Australia had trouble adapting to Indian conditions at times — being swept 4-0 in a test series on the subcontinent last year — so India's problems in England weren't unique.

'Rigid Cross' Nagaland organized a summer camp cum trekking to Dzukuo valley from August 13 to 15 under the theme 'Trek for peace'. Nine persons from various professions, from Pastors to Teachers participated. The team has thanked all who helped in making the programme a success.

Beach boy Bolt wins Copacabana 100m 2 players from Nagaland selected

RIO DE JANEIRO, AuguSt 18 (AgENcIES): Usain Bolt has set the pace for Rio 2016 with a 10-second 100m win on Copacabana beach two years before the Olympics. The world's fastest man was in Rio de Janeiro for the Mano a Mano sprint against British sprinter Mark Lewis Francis, American Wallace Spearmon and Brazilian Jefferson Liberato Lucindo. Bolt, 27, thrilled crowds on a specially-built track on the famous beach with a time of 10.06, dancing samba after his win. His World Record stands at 9.58 seconds.

Team GB sprinter Mark Lewis-Francis, from Birmingham, came second with a time of 10.43 in his last race of the season. He said racing against Bolt was like nothing else. 'I've known Bolt for a long time,' he said. 'It's different from racing against anybody else because he makes you feel calm and you do better when you feel calm.' Lewis-Francis, 31, who has recently moved back to Birmingham to train for 2016 after missing out on London 2012 through injury, said he hoped to be back for Games in Rio. 'It felt good, this was a great opportunity to come out here and race, it's my first time in Rio,' he added. 'Things are looking good, I'm a bit older now, I'm focused, so let's hope I'll be here.' Meanwhile, Bolt confirmed he had delayed his retirement for a year after his sponsors asked him to keep competing for another year. 'I think my sponsors have asked me to do one more year, so I'll do 2017,' he said. 'Then I want to try professional football to see if I'll be any good. I think I will be but you never know. 'When it comes to being a coach, no, I've seen what I've put my coach through. I don't want to go through that with another athlete. I just want to be a lazy person. 'I'm looking forward to coming to Rio. Every country has a different ways, you did an extremely good job for the World Cup so it should be easier now because you've done a big event now.

for 17th Asian Games Incheon 2014

DIMAPuR, AuguSt 18 (MExN): The Sepaktakraw Federation of India (SFI) has informed that two players from Nagaland state have been selected to participate in the 17th Asian Games Incheon 2014. The players include V Koso in the mens category and Kenieleno Nakhro in the women’s category. They were accompanied by Coach Holshe Khreio.

Brendan Rodgers pleased by post-Suarez Liverpool

Youths working at a social work organized by Tent Making Ministry at Civil Hospital, Tuensang on August 9.

LIVERPOOL, AuguSt 18 (AFP): Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers said he was encouraged by the manner in which his side have responded to life without Luis Suarez following their 2-1 win over Southampton. Uruguay striker Suarez departed Liverpool for Barcelona during the close season and there were question marks over how Liverpool would cope in his absence. Liverpool were far from their best against Southampton in their opening Premier League game of the season at Anfield on Sunday. But victory was secured courtesy of Daniel Sturridge's winner 11 minutes from time after Nathaniel Clyne had cancelled out Raheem Sterling's first-half strike. "Our ambitions here at Liverpool have to be bigger than one player," Rodgers said. "Luis sent us a lovely text (message) this morning wishing us all the best, which was a great gesture. He is a friend now of Liverpool. He's a great boy, but he is gone now. "We are bigger than any player. We do still want another striker, but that will depend on the availability. It was all about winning against IPM officials with B.SC Agri final year students during IPM/ FFS training at Deukwaram VilSouthampton and we got there. lage, under Jalukie Sub-division on August 7.

Tuesday

Entertainment

The Morung Express

19 August 2014

Simon Cowell predicts one DireCtion Split

C M Y K

Dimapur

Oren Mozhui records album titled

C M Y K

‘For a Naga lady'

usic mogul Simon Cowell has predicted that pop band One Direction will break up eventually to pursue solo careers. The band consisting of Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson was formed in 2010 and Cowell was the mastermind behind it after putting them together on The X Factor Britain. And he says while he thinks they will make two more albums as a group, their future isn't certain after those records have been released, reports contactmusic.com. Bands don't stay together forever. I think they will make at least two more albums together and they are in the middle of one right now, he said.

JaCkie Chan blasts violence in movies ‘R

ush Hour' actor and martial arts legend Jackie Chan has blasted the use of violence in movies and insisted he is trying to reduce its presence in his own films. Jackie Chan doesn't want violence or ''dirty comedy'' in his movies. The 'Around the World in 80 Days' actor considers the films he directs to be like his children, and he has a very strict set of guidelines he makes sure he adheres to when working on a project and it includes stripping them of unnecessary fighting despite his martial arts background. He told The Observer Magazine ''When I direct, the film is like my baby. I have to make sure there is

C M Y K

comedy but no dirty comedy and a positive message. ''I like people to believe the stunts are real - it's not like 'Spider-Man' or 'Iron Man' where a 20-minute scene can be pure CGI. I only use a tiny bit of special effects. ''I want it to be believ-

able, so where I used to do a triple kick, I now just do one. Eventually there will be no kicks. There has to be plenty of action, but not violence.'' Meanwhile, Chan admitted even though his fame has come from starring in action films based on his martial arts skills, he actually has a real problem with ''violence''. He explained ''I have a dilemma. I love action, but I hate violence. There is so much violence in the world, from video games and from other movies. ''I want my movies to have a message of peace, and helping each other ... You have to keep working and keep learning. If children are playing video games or lying in bed they won't.''

Beyonce, Jay Z sued by woman claiming to be Blue Ivy's surrogate mom

eyonce Knowles and Jay Z have been sued by a woman who claims to be their daughter Blue Ivy's real mother, it has been revealed. The homeless surrogate, Tina Seals, who has allegedly filed a federal lawsuit in New York City after giving her eggs to the 32-year-old singer and her rapper husband, had asked the judge for

ChriStina aguilera

Korean-Amer ican author and journalist, Euny Hong, has predicted that K-Pop stars like G-Dragon and Psy might take over Western markets for its popular culture. In the book 'The Birth of Korean Cool', Hong has explained the term Hallyu which meant a wave of South Korean popular culture

Miley Cyrus desperate to play

C M Y K

even though Cyrus has been bombarding her with audition tapes. Cyrus is concerned the role will go to Scarlett Johansson, reports contactmusic.com. Miley is bugging Dolly for the role, said a source. This movie is her legacy,

Vevoto Ringa and Abotoli Shohe crowned Mr & Miss title respectively of the Mount Olive College Kohima 2014 during 23rd freshers’ day at the State Academy Hall, Kohima recently.

C M Y K

flooding other airwaves in the form of K-Pop, the Independent reported. Hong said that G-Dragon, who was the frontman for the boy band Big Bang, used surprisingly idiomatically correct English in his cool and catchy music. She further added that with his continental, colourful, highly edgy and vaguely

dandy-esque look that reminds of Elton John, Bowie's Ziggy Stardust, and the Sgt Pepper look, the 25-year-old Korean rapper might be able to have an influence in fashion world. Hong continued that the 'Missing You' singer has an androgynous look, which was quite typical of the K-pop boy band.

Britney Spears under Fire for Using Sia Vocals

Dolly Parton!

op star Miley Cyrus is so keen to play country music legend Dolly Parton in a movie about her life that she is doing everything she can to convince the Jolene singer. But Parton refuses to play favourites,

group, Oren has added a little bit of "Heyohey" in one of his song. It also includes a Sumi song "Ilokeu”. His favourite song from the album is "Queen of Beauties", which his fans will soon see him performing this song at the fashion shows. Oren has worked on this album for more than two years. The album was recorded at Cleff Ensemble Studio Kohima with studio engineer John Pfukrelo. Vetolu Daweh, former Miss Nagaland also features in the album CD cover.

Are K-Pop stars Psy, G-Dragon the next big thing?

welcomes baby girl

op star Christina Aguilera has welcomed a baby girl with fiance Matthew Rutler. This is the first child for Rutler and the second for Aguilera, who has a 6-yearold son Max with her first husband, Jordan Bratman, reported Us magazine. Aguilera, 33, gave birth on August 16 via a C-section at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

financial compensation, Radar Online reported. Seals, whose earlier similar outrageous lawsuits against Kim Kardashian and Kanye West and Michael Jackson were dismissed, has demanded for a DNA testing on Blue Ivy and wants to have the 'Halo' singer's music label, Sony, endorsing her music.

ren Mozhui’s 3rd album 'For a Naga lady' promises a variety for his fans. He has done a cover version of a popular song "Oh Carol" by implementing acoustic jazz pop, previously recorded by Neil Sedaka. It includes a Lotha number "Loroeyo" which is dedicated to all the Kyong ladies. Timothy Gomez, a skilled rapper from Hawaii also features in one of his Song. The songs are acoustic guitar based except for two songs, which are Ukulele set up. With a Naga traditional

and she told Miley she doesn't have the acting chops to pull it off. Dolly is holding out, though, and isn't 100 percent on Scarlett either. She'd consider Kristin Chenoweth or even Jessica Simpson, added the source.

ritney Spears is under fire yet again for using backing vocals by Sia during her Las Vegas residency. The Womanizer hitmaker is currently in the middle of her two-year Britney Piece of Me stint at the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino, and during a recent performance, a fan recorded her singing a new version of her song Perfume, and posted a clip on Instagram.com. However, Billboard.com points out that it was songwriter Sia's vocals the crowd mostly heard, and not Spears'. While Sia is one of the co-writers on the

track, a few non-official demo versions of the Chandelier hitmaker singing Perfume can be found online, and her vocals are the ones used by Spears to lip sync over in her Sin City show. Editors of the music site suggest Spears uses Sia's track as an in-monitor guide when she sings, however the backing vocals were accidentally used as the house mix which the audience heard. The gaffe comes weeks after Spears came under scrutiny when a raw clip of her 2013 song Alien surfaced online, prompting critics to mock the singer's out-of-tune vocals.

C M Y K

Sri Lanka sweeps Pakistan series 2-0 Mahela Jayawardene ends test career in near-perfect style

Kyle Larson exits his car after catching fire after a crash in Turn 4 during the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Pure Michigan 400 auto race at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Mich., Sunday, August 17. (AP Photo)

Federer, Serena win titles at Cincinnati

Sri Lanka’s Mahela Jayawardene, center, is carried by teammates Chanaka Welegedara, left, and Dhammika Prasad as they celebrate winning their second cricket test match against Pakistan by 105 runs, in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Monday, August 18. (AP Photo)

COLOMBO, August 18 (AP): Mahela Jayawardene ended his illustrious 17year test career in near perfect style in the whitewash win for Sri Lanka against Pakistan on Monday. A half-century at his home ground, another century stand with his friend and favorite batting partner Kumar Sangakkara, capped with his teammates carrying him off the field on their shoulders. In retirement he will be preparing a special place in his trophy cabinet for his 15-year test cap as he turns his attention to playing at next year's World Cup, before quitting international cricket altogether. He will also be giving more time to his work with the players' trade union and a cancer hospital project close to heart in memory of his late brother. In 149 tests since making his debut in 1997, Jayawardene retired Monday on the final day of the second test at the Sinhalese Sports Club with 11,814

career runs at an average of 49.84. He has 50 half-centuries and 34 centuries. Jayawardene made his debut against India in 1997 as a 20-year-old and scored a half-century in his first innings which largely went unnoticed because of Sri Lanka's record breaking 952-6 with Sanath Jayasuriya (340) and Roshan Mahanama (225) in a 576-run partnership. Later, he himself scored 374 in a record-breaking 624-run partnership with Sangakkara who scored 287 during a test series against South Africa in 2006. "The decision to retire was something I have been thinking for some time and came to a point I felt that for me the right time was right," Jayawardene told reporters after the match. "It was just a gut feeling, but have I always gone with my gut feelings." "Given the fact that we don't have test cricket for another 12 months it's time for a new generation to take over. I will try and help that rebuilding pro-

cess as I could." In retirement from tests Jayawardene has some plans one which will be to start a cancer hospital project in the southern province through a charity that he is part of. The organization has built a $ 4 million hospital in northern Jaffna, affected by the country's quarter-century civil war. Another would be to make room in his trophy cabinet for his test cap which he has worn for 15 years. "It has a huge value, I have stitched it and managed to wear it for such a long time," Jayawardene said pointing at his cap which he wore for a last time. "It's been with me for 15 years now, the first two years we had a different cap. I think this will go in my trophy cabinet at the top, have a nice place I have already planned that." "It's not an easy thing to let it go but I think there will be a lot of talent who are waiting to wear this cap which is a great thing," he said.

MAsON, August 18 (AP): Roger Federer won an unprecedented sixth championship in Cincinnati, overcoming one bad set. Serena Williams dominated for her first title. Federer extended his record of finals perfection in Cincinnati, beating David Ferrer 6-3, 1-6, 6-2 in the Western & Southern Open on Sunday. He's won all six times he's reached the tournament's title match. The latest came against an opponent he has dominated throughout his career. Federer improved to 16-0 against Ferrer, who has won only five sets off him overall. It ended a bit of a slump for Federer, who finally got the large winner's trophy after losing his last four Masters title matches. He was the runner-up to Jo-Wilfried Tsonga in Toronto a week earlier. "I've been bringing home some smaller ones," Federer said. "I'm happy to get the big one." Earlier on Sunday, Williams finally got the one that had always slipped away. And she did it so convincingly that she came away thinking another title could be coming soon. Williams needed only 62 minutes to beat Ana Ivanovic 6-4, 6-1 for a personal breakthrough. She'd never even reached the finals in Cincinnati until last year, when she fell apart and lost to Victoria Azarenka on a third-set tiebreaker. No wobbles this time. After getting broken in the first game, she took control

(LEFT) Serena Williams poses with the championship trophy after defeating Ana Ivanovic, from Serbia, 6-4, 6-1, in a final match at the Western & Southern Open tennis tournament, Sunday, August 17 in Mason, Ohio. (RIGHT) Roger Federer, from Switzerland, holds the championship trophy after defeating David Ferrer, from Spain, 6-3, 1-6, 6-2, in the final match at the Western & Southern Open tennis tournament, Sunday, August 17 in Mason, Ohio. (AP Photos)

with her serve and took advantage of Ivanovic's sloppy play, improving to 5-0 in finals this year. "Definitely my best performance of the summer," she said. "Hopefully not the last. "This is definitely a level that can take me to the (U.S. Open) title. I still have a lot of work to do. It's definitely a better level than I've played all year, to be honest." Ivanovic was treated for a stomach ailment during her nearly 3-hour win over Maria Sharapova

20th Classic Cup makes colorful start in Kohima

in the semifinals Saturday night. She didn't have much left against Williams, who dominated with her serve. Williams had 12 aces. "Only?" Ivanovic said. "It felt like way more." The only other event that Williams has played six times without a title is Sydney. She finally got her win in Cincinnati with the help of a good matchup. Williams is 7-1 in her career against Ivanovic, with the only loss coming at the Australian Open this year. Although

their last three matches have been close — all going three sets — this one was one-sided after the first few games. "I felt like she was dominating," Ivanovic said. Williams developed a stiff back that limited her serve in the semifinals Saturday night. She moved stiffly at the start Sunday, doublefaulted in the first game and was broken — an ominous sign. But she started moving better and took control with her serve, pulling even at 3-3. She clinched the set

when Ivanovic double-faulted twice in a row. The back problem came into play in the second set. Williams winced after a serve in the opening game and arched her back. She stretched her back a few times between points and played through it. And Ivanovic couldn't take advantage. "I felt it a little bit in the second, but I just was so excited for this final and to be in the final," she said. "I just really felt like I had nothing to lose. So I was able to relax."

NLA speaker Chotisuh Sazo and others with players of the first match between Kohima Bible College and Khwüma FC on Monday. (Morung Photo) C

Our Correspondent

DAY 1 (AUG 18) RESULT

Kohima | August 18

The 20th Classic Cup 2014 under the aegis of Classic Club Kohima with the theme “Touching lives, through football” got underway here today at the Kohima Local Ground with Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) speaker Chotisuh Sazo as the chief guest. Sazo maintained this tournament as a platform to train the youth in sports especially in the field of football, to mould the character of the youth, to discipline the youth for their future, to explore their talents and to build relationship with others and maintain peaceful co-existence in the society. He, however, regretted that even though “ we have many inborn talented and gifted sportsper-

Ist Match: Kohima Bible College defeated Khwüma FC 2-0 2nd Match: New Market B beat Alianza FC 2-0

DAY 2 (AUG 19) FIXTURE

Ist Match (10:00 AM): Akiu FC vs New Reserve Youth Org. 2nd Match (11:40 AM): Tiema Khe, Kidima vs Fennec FC 3rd Match (01.30 PM): Status Quo FC vs Arsenic FC 4th Match (03:30 PM): Twenty 14 FC vs Gideon Chandmari United sons,” many talented sports persons could not explore their talents to its best during its prime time due to lack of basic sports infrastructure and inspite of the government’s effort to create basic sports infrastructure.” He also stated that our youth are not sincere, devoted and do not have patience; otherwise we have gifted talents and capability. Sazo stated that Dr. T. Ao, Chek-

rovolu Swuro etc. had already shown their capability in the international arena. He, however, regretted that till date, Nagaland could not produce any international football player after Dr. T. Ao the first Naga Olympian who captained Indian football team. Challenging the youth to become a professional sports person, he said “To become a professional one in any field you require hard

work and patience.” Asking the youth to keep away from drug, alcohol and other social evils, NLA speaker said “Don’t let them kill your future and your talents.” Further, Sazo wishes this tournament be a different one with excellence. Earlier, Classic Club president K. Neibu Sekhose delivered welcome address. Rev. Moa Longchari pronounced invocation prayer while Chiethonü Hibo & Zulutila Pongen from St. John’s School Kohima presented special song. The inaugural function also witnessed honouring the former champions of Classic Cup. Xavier Rutsa compered the function. The tournament, to go on till September 6, will witness 54 teams vying for the coveted champion title. The champion will pocket a cash prize of Rs. 1,50,000 while runner-up will receive Rs. 70,000.

C M Y K

Published, Printed and Edited by Aküm Longchari on behalf of Morung for Indigenous Affairs and JustPeace from House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur at Themba Printers and Telecommunications, Padum Pukhuri Village, Dimapur, Nagaland. RNI No : NAGENG /2005/15430. House No.4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur 797112, Nagaland. Phone: Dimapur -(03862) 248854, Fax: (03862) 235194, Kohima - (0370) 2291952

For news email: morung@gmail.com and for advertisements and circulation contact: (03862) 248854, Fax-235194 or email : morungad@yahoo.com

PO Reg No. NE/RN-722