C M Y K
www.morungexpress.com
ThursDAY • December 01 • 2016
DIMAPUR • Vol. XI • Issue 330 • 12 PAGes • 5
T H e
ESTD. 2005
P o W e R
o F
T R u T H
In matters of conscience, first thoughts are best. In matters of prudence, last thoughts are best — Robert Hall
Petrol hiked by 13 paise a litre, diesel cut by 12 paise reflections
By Sandemo Ngullie
PAGE 02
PAGe 11
supreme court orders playing BUilDinG GooD BriDGes Kohima Village-Tuensang Village friendship treaty a call for Naga unity of national Anthem at theatres Chizokho Vero Kohima | November 30
Festive season is already here, I wish we had some old notes to exchange.
Curtain raiser for Hornbill festival today Our Correspondent Kohima | November 30
The 17th edition of the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland will start from today. In Naga Heritage village Kisama, Nagaland’s Governor PB Acharya will be the chief guest at the inaugural function at 10AM while Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, US ambassador to India Richard Verma and Justice Ajit Singh, Chief Justice, Gauhati High Court, Guwahati will act as guest of honour. Chief Minister TR Zeliang will be the chief host and parliamentary secretary for tourism C. Apok Jamir as the host. Sangyusang Pongener of Ungma village will pronounce traditional blessing. Hornbill Festival is an annual tourism promotional event to display traditional and rich cultural heritage of Nagaland in all its ethnicity, diversity and grandeur. The festival is a collaborative celebration of all Naga tribes at one venue and has been coined as “Festival of Festivals.’ The festival is a tribute to the great “Hornbill”, which is the most admired and revered bird for the Nagas, for its qualities of alertness and grandeur. The festival will go on till December 10.
ANEFWA serves reminder to State power department
C M Y K
DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 30 (MExN): The All Nagaland Electricity Field Worker Association (ANEFWA) has served a reminder to the Department of Power and the Government of Nagaland to fulfill the demands made on June 2, 2015 last. A press release issued by the Association stated that most of the power and distribution transformer are overloaded due to non-upgradation of transformer resulting in heavy load shedding. It pointed out that most of the HT and LT transmission lines, the conductors are unable to withstand the load due to non-replacement of old conductors creating short circuit during peak hour, which in turn directly affects the transformer. Subsequently, this leads to harassment meted to field staff by the public for no of their fault of their own, the Association said. It also blamed the delay in restoration of power supply during breakdown due to non-creation of sufficient numbers of post. In view of the given circumstances, the Association has urged the concerned authority to take up the complaint / reminder promptly for necessary action and implementation. It also cautioned that any future harassment by the public arising out of non-implementation of the demands made shall be taken up by the association seriously.
KK to perform in Dimapur today
In Conversation with SCAD
In a heartening demonstration of unity and brotherhood, the Kohima village and Tuensang village on Wednesday came together and made a friendship pledge between them by exchanging spears, which in Naga tradition is a symbolic representation of camaraderie-ship. “I believe this is the will of God Almighty that we stand together as friends and brothers to act as role model in fostering unity among Naga societies and tribes,” said Kohima Village Council chairman Medoselhou Keretsii at the Friendship Foundation Day celebration between Kohima village and Tuensang village held at Kohima Village Council Hall today. “From today onward, let this be a good bridge for us and it is not only between our two villages but between the Angami tribe and Chang tribe,” said H. Wongto, president Tuensang village. He added that the “treaty alliance stand for good friendship, a means to rescue each other, and not to shed of blood among us. It will be firm declaration that there exists a mutual peace of mind between us from today.”
Leaders exchange spears as a sign of friendship treaty between Kohima Village and Tuensang Village at the Kohima Village Council Hall on November 30. (Morung Photo)
Vipralhou Kesiezie of Kohima village said that the friendship foundation day between the two is timely, as the present Naga society unfortunately remains badly divided. Stating that Naga society is divided by divisive forces, tribalism, groupism, he said, “Today the biggest challenge for the Naga society is to rise against the divisive forces which have posed as the biggest threat to the unity and survival of Naga society.” He believed that such a friendship treaty between the
two should work as an agent to create understanding, tolerance, forgiveness and unity of the Naga society.” Thepfulhouvi Solo said the day was of great importance as the people of two village entered into a perpetual friendship, goodwill and mutual respect for each other. “This is not specifically a political treaty or agreement but a general understanding of goodwill friendship and honour, all the coming generations of the people of two villages will have each other as traditional kith and kin
Aadhaar not mandatory for availing Subsidy and benefits: Centre affirms Individuals without Aadhaar can offer alternate means of identification for availing government subsidies, benefits and services, the IT and Electronics Ministry has informed the Lok Sabha. NEw DElhI, NOVEMBER 30 (PTI): The government on Wednesday said it is strictly adhering to Supreme Court’s order that production of Aadhaar will not be a condition for citizens to obtain any benefit due to them. Individuals without Aadhaar number can offer alternate means of identification for availing government subsidies, benefits and services, it added. “Section 7 of the Aadhaar Act provides that if an Aadhaar number is not assigned to an individual, the individual shall be offered alternate and viable means of identification for delivery of the subsidy, benefit or service,” Minister of State for IT and Electronics P.P. Chaudhary informed the Lok Sabha. The Supreme Court, in its interim order dated August 11, 2015, had directed that the production of Aadhaar will not be
a condition for obtaining any benefits otherwise due to a citizen. The apex court directed the government that Aadhaar will not be used for any purpose other than PDS scheme, kerosene and LPG subsidy, which was later extended to include schemes of MGNREGS, National Social Assistance Programme pensions (old age, widow and disability pensions), PMJDY and EPFO, through its interim order dated October 15, 2015. Mr. Chaudhary added that the Supreme Court, through its October 15, 2015, had also ruled that the Aadhaar scheme is purely voluntary and cannot be made mandatory till the matter is finally decided by the Court. The government had introduced the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Bill, 2016, in Parliament on March 3, 2016, and it was passed by the Parliament on March 16, 2016. The Bill received the assent of the President on March 25, 2016 and has been published in the Official Gazette on March 26, 2016, as Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016.
and help each other in times of needs,” Solo said. Expressing optimism that the friendship treaty will go a long way for the benefit of the younger generation to live together in mutual understanding, N. Yemjong, GB from Tuensang village said, “Friendship treaty will convey a strong message of brotherhood to the rest of the fellow Nagas.” Pheluopfhelie Kesiezie of Kohima village also stressed on the need to strengthen the social capital, which, he said, will actinstrengtheningNagaunity.
NEw DElhI, NOVEMBER 30 (IANS): The Supreme Court on Wednesday directed cinema halls to play the National Anthem before the start of movies, saying it will instil “constitutional patriotism as well as committed patriotism and nationalism”. The playing of the anthem will be accompanied by an image of the Tricolour on the screen, the court said while barring its commercial exploitation, dramatisation or playing of an abridged version. The order shall be given effect to within a period of 10 days. The court said when the National Anthem is sung or played, it is imperative on the part of everyone present to show due respect and honour by standing up. “It is because when the National Anthem is sung, the concept of protocol associated with it has its inherent roots in national identity, national integrity and constitutional patriotism,” the court said. “All cinema halls in India shall play the National Anthem before the feature films start and all present in the hall are obliged to stand up to show respect,” said a bench of Justice Dipak Misra and Justice Amitava Roy. It said before “the National Anthem is played or sung in the cinema hall on the screen, the entry and exit doors shall remain closed so that no one can create any kind of disturbance which will amount to disrespect to the National Anthem”. The doors to cinema halls can be opened after the National Anthem is played or sung. The order was passed on a public interest litigation filed
by Shayam Narayan Chouksey who sought guidelines on playing the National Anthem. Justice Misra said: “The directions are issued, for love and respect for the motherland is reflected when one shows respect to the anthem as well as to the National Flag.” Referring to Article 51 of the Constitution regarding the Fundamental Duties of the citizens, the court said: “... it is the sacred obligation of every citizen to abide by the ideals engrafted in the Constitution. And one such ideal is to show respect for the National Anthem and the National Flag.” “... The citizens must realise that they live in a nation and are duty bound to show respect to National Anthem which is the symbol of the constitutional patriotism and inherent national quality.” The court prohibited commercial exploitation of the National Anthem. “There shall be no commercial exploitation to give financial advantage or any kind of benefit,” the court said. Barring any dramatisation of the National Anthem or its inclusion as a part of anyvarietyshow,thecourtsaid:“Tothink ofadramatisedexhibitionoftheNational Anthem is absolutely inconceivable.” The court directed that the National Anthem or part of it shall not be printed or displayed in a manner or at places “which may be disgraceful to its status and tantamount to disrespect”. The court recorded Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi’s statement that the Centre will communicate the order to the Chief Secretaries of the states and union territories.
DAN govt surviving on oxygen given by BJP led NDA govt DIMAPUR, NOVEMBER 30 (MExN): The BJP Nagaland has taken offence the comments made by NPF legislators during the Central Executive Meeting (CEC) criticizing the Nagaland Governor on his stand on corruption and the jibe made against the BJP legislators. At the CEC meeting on Tuesday, NPF legislators had criticized the candid statement made by Governor to the media that the present government is a “corrupt government.” Another legislator had questioned the visit made by the Governor to villages “uninvited” and “just to find faults.” Questioning why NPF is defending corruption by blaming BJP, Spokesperson to BJP Nagaland Yanghose Sangtam in a rejoinder on Wednesday said the party stands behind the clarion
call given by the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi to provide corruption free and good governance to the people. It also pointed out that the Governor as the constitutional head of the State can visit any places where he can meet the people of the State to know the ground realities. It therefore wanted to know why NPF is questioning the tour programme of the head of the State. It added that any NGOs, organisation, political parties can call on the Governor of the State in the Raj Bhavan where they can address their grievances. BJP Nagaland also said it is for the people of the State to know whether the so-called “good portfolio” given to the BJP legislators are actually important portfolios. This comes as a response to a NPF legislator hitting out at “BJP for
complaining of step motherly treatment by NPF.” In contrary, the BJP argued that the same portfolio were re-allotted within the three BJP legislator after dropping one Parliamentary secretary Mmhonlumo Kikon on October 28, 2016. The portfolios are Labour and Employment, Transport and communication, Cooperation, Skill up gradation, Treasure and Accounts, IT and Border Affairs, the BJP maintained. Whereas, the BJP president and vice chairman of DAN was accorded status of Parliamentary Secretary the CEC meeting confirmed that the cabinet status was accorded to the BJP State president. Hence, the BJP has asked the Government to regularise to this effect and issue the Cabinet status to the BJP State president with immediate effect.
Further, on the statement that “BJP is surviving because of the NPF,” the party reminded that the present DAN Government is surviving on the “oxygen given by the BJP led NDA Government.” “BJP and NPF were alliance partner from 2003 to 2009, but in 2009 the alliance was broken where two BJP MLAs joined NPF, the present Home Minister was one of them and there was no more alliance. The DAN alliance was only revived in 2013,” it pointed out. Meanwhile, the State BJP Nagaland reaffirmed the resolution passed in the 2nd State BJP Executive meeting held at Mokokchung on June 24, 2016 on the “open door policy” that any political parties can join the party without any pre-condition including the NPF.
Dimapur gets integrated solid waste management
Nagaland is the first in India to implement municipal solid waste project under the ‘Make in India’ programme
Morung Express News Dimapur | November 30
Coming as a breather for Dimapur residents, particularly those at Burma Camp colony, the commercial hub may soon see the humongous putrid smelling waste accumulated at the DMC dumping site and other areas disappear. A project- ‘Integrated Solid Waste Management, Production of Bio-fuels with Organic Farming, Skill Development and Waste & Drinking Water Management’ was launched on
Wednesday at Hotel Acacia by Parliamentary Secretary for Economics & Statistics and Municipal Affairs, R. Tohanba. The project is being undertaken by a Hyderabadbased company, Newwaves Bio-fuels India Pvt. Ltd with its head office in New Delhi. Managing Director of the company, Krishna Prasanth informed that Nagaland was the first state in India to implement this municipal solid waste project under the ‘Make in India’ programme. He said that the output from municipal solid waste would be used in organic farming and assured of making the state an organic farming destination. The company also assured that the construction for the project would start by December 15 this year and appealed for cooperation. It was mentioned that the
Parliamentary Secretary, R. Tohanba along with state government officers and officials of Newwaves Bio-fuels India Pvt Ltd during the project inauguration programme in Dimapur on Wednesday. (Morung Photo)
technology of the project was being transferred from UK and USA and the machines would be manufactured in India and the same technology has been approved under ‘Make in India.’ Expressing the govern-
ment’s keen interest to see the results of the project, Parliamentary Secretary, R. Tohanba assured all logistic support and cooperation and appealed the company to start the project at the earliest.
With the implementation of the programme, Tohanba was optimistic that the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) would be able to manage wastes in a proper manner and earn revenue for taking up
more developmental programmes. DMC Administrator, H. Atokhe Aye said that the project was the first of its kind in the state since it is not only about waste management but includes production of bio fuels, organic farming, skill development and water and drinking water management programme. “The growing waste generated from Dimapur is almost becoming unmanageable leading to huge health and environmental hazards. It is hoped that the ‘Newwaves’ will bring in innovative and sustainable waste reduction and its recycling,” he added. Atokhe offered full support and cooperation to the company, which he believed would revolutionize the solid and municipal waste usage and fulfil the principle of sustainability and treating
natural resources carefully and responsibly. The Administrator also appealed the public to lend their utmost support and cooperation to the implementing authorities in the interest of a healthy environment. Chairman of Newwaves Bio-fuels India Pvt Ltd, Poonam Singh highlighted on the activities to be undertaken in the project in Dimapur. Chief Scientist of the company, Dr. S.M. Misra presented a power point presentation of the project and answered queries from the audience about the programme. Commissioner & Secretary, Municipal Affairs, Menukhol John also spoke at the programme, which was attended by departmental officials, leaders of NGOs, and colony leaders of United North Block, Burma Camp, Dimapur.
2
ThursDAY 01•12•2016
NAGALAND
Vishü Rita Krocha Kohima | November 30
As the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), the University for Creative Careers reaches out to North East India, the young, creative minds of Nagaland can also look forward to personally experiencing SCAD at an exclusive event scheduled to be held at The Maple Tree, Dimapur on December 3, 2016. The one of a kind event will provide glimpses of the highly rated American university with two key persons from SCAD including Executive Director of International Recruitment and Relations, SCAD, Maken Imcha Payne and Associate Director of International Admissions, SCAD, Pelesino Ane Kevichusa. Prior to the December 3 Event, The Morung Express caught up with the two-member visiting team to learn about what’s in store for students who wish to study at SCAD. As an alumna of the university, Executive Director of International Recruitment and Relations, SCAD, Maken Imcha Payne strongly feels that
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
In ConversatIon wIth sCaD SCAD is an environment where they will realize their identity and that, students will experience an education that fully exercises their creative minds, abilities and unearth talents that they didn't even know they had. Speaking from her personal experience at SCAD, she also asserts that, “when you learn to define your identity through your experiences, nothing can stop you from achieving what you want to do in life.” Also putting across that the educators who earlier visited SCAD Atlanta during October saw that there is absolutely no creative institution in the world that can match the opportunities and facilities that SCAD offers, she emphasizes that Nagas have a need for SCAD and what it offers to truly realize their worldly potential. “Additionally experiencing an education at all of SCAD's five locations (Atlanta, Hong Kong, Savannah, e-learning and Lacoste) results in students being more marketable for career prospects”, she enlightens. She also impresses upon that students who want to come to SCAD will
have to be open minded, hard working and ambitious while elucidating that “these are three qualities that you will need to survive and be successful at SCAD.” “Skills and talents can be learned because the curriculum at SCAD is specialized for individuals even without an art background to excel - but these attributes are essential for the kind of student we are looking for at SCAD,” she underlines. It may be noted here that SCAD has started receiving applications from Northeast India and will be choosing the top 5 students to join in the fall quarter, which starts in September 2017 for both undergraduate and graduate students. SCAD is also looking to introduce the weeklong summer programs to Naga Educators to help them gain the relevant foundational understanding of art and design, which can be used to shape the young students. Apart from this, there are summer programs for students in all the 5 locations that SCAD has, enabling students to experience university life, work on projects, and meet other
(Left) Executive Director of International Recruitment and Relations, SCAD, Maken Imcha Payne and (Right) Associate Director of International Admissions, SCAD, Pelesino Ane Kevichusa. (Morung Photo)
students from all over the world. The program runs for 5 weeks and students get to choose whether they want to do it for 1 week, 2 weeks or for the whole 5 weeks. In this regard, Maken Imcha Payne feels that primarily the Hong
Kong campus being nearest to India would be a great option for the students. Associate Director of International Admission, SCAD, Pelesino Ane Kevichusa feels that “SCAD is a perfect fit for Nagas because there are too many talented
young (and old) people who have spent too many years not being able to realise their creative potential and SCAD offers this possibility of exploring almost every possible creative field that one could ever imagine.” Referring to the facilities, the care and guidance that SCAD gives the students as witnessed by the Naga Educators who visited SCAD Atlanta earlier, she says, "There’s so much to gain for every Naga who comes here." "At SCAD, one of the greatest missions is to ensure that all our graduates are marketable and employable when they graduate and I think this is one of the most needed things in our society right now," she conveys. Highlighting that SCAD visit to Nagaland is like an extension of the Retreat for Educators from Nagaland and Northeast organised in October, she expresses, "we were thrilled with overwhelming response that we received and because we want more people from Nagaland and around to be involved, we decided to have an event here in Nagaland and share a part of SCAD
with everyone who’s interested." She further reveals that SCAD is looking at identifying talent as well as building relationships with schools and colleges as well as artists, entrepreneurs and other influencers from the visit. “The December 3 Event is being organized to mainly tell people what SCAD is all about and with the interest shown by them, the event will also address whatever questions they may have”, she divulges. What the SCAD event means for Schools in Nagaland As the host school for the SCAD event, Sashikala Imchen, Academic Director of The Maple Tree School, Dimapur while expressing her excitement, states, “I think it is really good for Nagaland that a college like SCAD is coming all the way here, which, I believe would bring a lot of awareness for students and parents, not just about college but it will open a lot of options for students to think about.” Maintaining that the kind of programs and career options that are there at SCAD would open up a lot
of avenues for our children, she affirms that “we have so many children who are really talented but sometimes they are stuck with the limited options that are there and feel kind of lost.” She stated this specifically referring to studies in the area of humanities and further asserts- “I think it will bring a lot of awareness on what is available for children and they will be able to make better decisions about their life.” Also expressing that she is looking forward to the SCAD event, Sashila Ozukum, Administrator of Hope Academy, Dimapur states that “it is such an opportunity for our Naga people that SCAD has come all the way to show us what Art and Design is all about” and further extends her gratitude to the SCAD Visiting Team for this great initiative. Echoing similar sentiments, Managing Director of G. Rio School Kohima, Khrienuo Moa also feels that it is a wonderful opportunity for Naga students in the field of art and design while touching upon the unique and creative ways with which SCAD grooms its students for the future.
Dr. K&T Keditsu Foundation ‘Success of anti tobacco campaign lies with responsible persons’ organises medical camp in Phek
dimaPur, November 30 (diPr): The District Level Co-ordination Committee (DLCC) review meeting for the 3rd quarterly 2016-17 was held at West City Building, Dimapur on November 30 with Deputy Commissioner Dimapur, and Chairman DLCC Dimapur District, Kesonyu Yhome as Chairman. Addressing the gathering, DC felt that the success of anti tobacco campaign lies with responsible persons leading by example The medical team and others during the free medical camp organized by the Dr. K&T Keditsu and to ensure that children Foundation held in Phek District Hospital on November 26 and 27. in their formative years do Phek, November 30 accompanied by 5 nurses, tractions were performed. not start using tobacco. He The Dr. K&T Keditsu asked the teachers in differ(mexN): A free medical 3 paramedics, 1 engineer camp organized by the Dr. and 3 drivers travelled to Foundation was set up ent institutions to lead by K&T Keditsu Foundation Phek and worked with the with the objectives of helpwas held in Phek District medical staff of Phek Dis- ing Naga society in the areas of medical care, women Hospital on November 26 trict Hospital. A total of 175 patients empowerment, education, and 27. This medical camp is part of the state-wide registered for treatment. rural development and encampaign initiated by the Nine major surgeries: 6 vironmental preservation. Governor of Nagaland, laparoscopic appendecto- The foundation expressed Padmanabha Acharya my, 1 total abdominal hys- gratitude to P. Acharya for through his brainchild, the terectomy, 1 myomectomy the opportunity to be part Indian National Fellowship and 1 laparoscopic chole- of his campaign for naCentre, Mumbai and co- cystectomy. 7 cases of lapa- tional integration through ordinated by the Govern- roscopic ligations (perma- cultural exchanges within nent family planning) were India. The Dr. K&T Keditsu ment of Nagaland. The medical team com- done and 4 copper-T (IUD) Foundation also thanked prised of Dr. Kezevituo were inserted. Cervical Muruho Chotso, DC Phek, Keditsu, Dr. Azo Louis, Dr. cancer screening and Pap Tiayanger Jamir, EAC, Alemwapang, Dr. Thejavin- smears were taken. Ultra- K.C.Angami, Healthcare uo Keditsu Kire, Dr. Kenei- sound screening was done associates and Ethicon for Sazo addressing CAPO silsenuo Kire and Dr. Toshevi for 30 patients during the their logistical and material ver jubilee celebration on November 30. Sema Keditsu. The doctors medical camp. 30 tooth ex- support.
examples as children look up to them as role models. Principal, JE College Diphupar, Dimapur, Limatemjen speaking on ‘Being Tobacco Free Institution’ shared the challenges faced by the institution while trying to keep the institute free from tobacco. He felt that the church would be an important platform to carry anti tobacco campaign. DNO, NTCP, Dr.C. Tetso explained the norms of Tobacco Free School to the gathering. ‘Tobacco Free Zone’ Board to be kept at all government offices and to encourage school children to participate in anti tobacco campaign, keeping
in mind the effectiveness of peer pressure and to approach the churches to carry out the anti tobacco message through their platform were the main agendas discussed during the meeting. Recipients of Tobacco Free School Certificate during the meeting included GMS, Jharnapani, GMS, Kukidolong, GMS, Darogapathar, GMS, Aoyimkum, Little Star HSS, Dimapur, Zion School, Kacharigaon, Pherima, Chakhro Baptist School Medziphema, Modern Christian School Medziphema, Nagaland Adventist School, Walford Colony, SD Jain HSS, Dimapur,
DC Dimapur Kesonyu Yhome giving away Tobacco Free School certificate during the DLCC review meeting for the 3rd quarterly 2016-17 held at West City Building, Dimapur on November 30. (DIPR Photo)
Ram Janaki HSS Dimapur, Bethel Faith School, Seithekema, Unity College, Immanuel College, Lingri-
jan, JN Aier College, Diphupar, GHS, Naga United Village and Carmel HSS Diphupar.
Chokri area Public organisation celebrates silver jubilee kohima, November 30 (mexN): The Chokri Area Public Organisation (CAPO) today celebrated its silver jubilee at Chokriba in Phek district under the theme "Hard work is the solution" with Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) speaker Chotisuh Sazo as the chief guest. Speaking on the occasion, Sazo congratulated the organisation for having reached 25 years of its existence and also expressed his gratitude to the organisation for having rendered yeoman service to our people. He lauded the organisers for aptly choosing the theme "Hard work is the solution" which is in
sync with our cherished culture of honesty, integrity and hard labour. “As we revisit our economy in the past self sufficiency was the hallmark of our people and self sufficiency was gained with the result of hard labour,” he said. He urged upon all to put their sincere efforts whereby the theme will not be just a slogan but a living reality. Sazo also urges upon all to draw lessons from the host village Rihuba wherein all the household are engaged in having a farm in their respective backyard and beyond. As a prelude to the silver jubilee celebration, he urged upon all to take up viable projects in their re-
spective villages whereby they would put in hard work to gain self sufficiency. The celebration was attended by a mammoth gathering from all the villages of Chokri area and neighbouring villages. The inaugural function was followed by cultural presentation by all the villages of Chokri Area. The function begun with unveiling of monolith by Sazo followed by greetings from Kikhwesul Thokhwe President Japfuphiki Chokri Dzevi Krotho. Short speeches were delivered by N. Theyo, ex minister, Thenucho Tunyi, ex-minister and Murohu Chotso, Deputy Commissioner Phek.
school inaugurated at Gidemi village Church calls to ‘rewrite’ Naga history through Clean Election movement
Gidemi (Phek), November 30 (mexN): Government Middle School, Gidemi village under Phek district was inaugurated by the Additional Director (HOD) of School Education, Wonthongo Tsopoe on November 29. A press note on the programme said that speaking on the occasion, Tsopoe said, “There is no other way out to make a person civilize other than education. Education is the only stepping stone towards progress, any kind of development comes only through education.” He was impressed that Gidemi vilWonthungo Tsopoe, Additional Director (HOD), School Education lage, one of the remotest villages under with officials and village leaders during inaugural of Government Phek district has collectively decided to give education as a priority and said Middle School, Gidemi village under Phek district.
that if there is way-out the department will do the best to make the village a vibrant and an educational hub, and he hoped that this village will be a progressive village one day as there is a sense of unity amongst the villagers. Vekhoyi Lohe, chairman, Village Education Committee appreciated the school education department for upgrading the school. He acknowledged the pioneer teachers for rendering their best tireless service towards the school. He also said that presently the school has six government teacher, one private teacher sponsored by the community and one private teacher sponsored by Chakhesang Baptist Church Council.
Hornbill Night Carnival in Kohima from Dec 1 Our Correspondent
Kohima | November 30
The Kohima Chamber of Commerce & Industries (KCCI) today announced that the annual Hornbill Night Carnival in Kohima will commence from December 1 till 10 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM daily as part of the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland. The objective of the carnival is to promote young upcoming local entrepreneurs comprising mostly educated unemployed youth. The Carnival will also host good numbers of participants representing different SHGs, NGOs, churches, colleges and similar institutes, selling
KCCI officials during press conference in Kohima held on November 30. (Morung Photo)
wares ranging from toys, party pieces, handlooms, handicraft and varieties of local products seeking to raise funds. Food stalls will also be there. A good number of participants are beneficiaries being promoted by organizations like YouthNet, Entre-
preneurs Associates (EA) etc. The KCCI made a fervent appeal to the general public to come, witness, participate and do shopping from local entrepreneurs, which will greatly boost and encourage them. The KCCI also requested both the vendors and revelers
to adhere to the district administration notice to make the area plastic free zone or usage of plastic which is 40 microns and above. The night carnival will be launched by KCCI former president Khriehuzo Lohe at Old MLA Hostel Junction at 6:00 PM.
KCCI president Jabou Sekhose said that it has already requested he concerned authority to keep the ATM open during the time of night carnival and also requested to make available smaller denomination to facilitate better cash transaction. KCCI spokesperson Dr. Seyievilie Mor said that 140 stalls have been allotted for this night carnival. He said the other side of the initiation of the night carnival is to facilitate a peaceful night life to the citizens of Kohima and promote tourism. He also said that Latex Manufacturing Unit, Wokha will be promoting the products of rubber band, balloon and glove.
NBCC and Lotha Baptist Churches Association members along with others during the orientation programme on Clean Election Campaign in Mission Compound, Vankhosung, Wokha on November 29.
Wokha, November 30 (mexN): The Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) along with the Lotha Baptist Churches Association (LBES) organized an orientation programme on Clean Election Campaign (CEC) on November 29 in Mission Compound, Vankhosung, Wokha. In the Orientation, Dr. Zelhou Keyho, General Secretary of NBCC called upon the Church to play a positive role and bring a positive change. He also pointed out that CEC is neither a political movement
nor just an emotional issue. He called on the church leaders and Hoho leaders to take practical steps to ‘rewrite’ our Naga history through the Clean Election movement. After the orientation program, the team from NBCC also paid a courtesy visit to the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Wokha and had a brief sitting with the officials. The participants in the orientation program were LBES Staff, Church leaders and Lotha Hoho Leaders. Dr. Phyoos Kithan, Convenor of CEC, LBES
chaired the meeting and the welcome note and invocation was pronounced by the Executive Secretary, LBES Rev. Nyanchumo Lotha. Vikuo Rhi, Youth Secretary, NBCC gave a brief introduction about Clean Election Campaign and urge the LBES to sincerely level through ranges as well as Local Churches. Rev. Yamyap Konyak, Finance Secretary, NBCC shared concern on the Church and its constituent members to remain clean before we go to the mass.
Thursday 01•12•2016
NORTH-EAST 3
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
DDTOA appeals UNC to relax economic blockade
Dimapur, November 30 (mexN): Almost a month into the economic blockade called by the United Naga Council (UNC), the Dimapur District Owners' Association (DDTOA) seeing the plight of the Truck Drivers and Handymen stranded at the National Highway in Lahorijan, Assam, has appealed the UNC to relax the economic blockade. A press release from the association stated that the long blockade and the effects of demonetization combined have left approximately 350 loaded vehicles bound for Imphal with “unbearable problems” with no option to either go anywhere. The association came forward to assist the truck drivers and handymen stranded along the National Highway and distributed rice and vegetable items to the truckers as an emergency relief. During the distribution and subsequent interaction, the truckers shared their grievances revealing that they were in immensely short of food and water besides being financially affected owing to the demonetisation. In view of the problems being faced by workers of the un-organised sector, the association requested and appealed the United Naga Council to relax the economic blockade “on Humanitarian ground even though it is understood that their protest (UNC) is genuine and good for the people.” .
NEC sanctions 294 lakh for NE Studies in Jamia
New Delhi, November 30 (mexN): The North Eastern Council (NEC) has sanctioned a grant of Rs 294 lakh for the upgradation of the Centre for North East Studies and Policy Research (CNESPR) in Jamia Millia Islamia under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two sides. The Shillong-based NEC, which comes under the Ministry of Development of North East Region (DONER) agreed to provide the financial support to CNESPR JMI to conduct research studies on major issues confronting the North East Region (NER) such as migration, inclusive growth, governance, gender, tradition and modernity, state and civil society, literature and reflections, disaster management, Act East policy and climate change. According to a press release, the amount of Rs. 294 lakh has been granted for a period of five years. The MoU was signed by JMI Registrar, AP Siddiqui and Director HRD & E, North East Council, Shillong, KH Siile Anthoney. The Centre of North East Studies and Policy Research, Jamia Millia Islamia was set up in 2009. It seeks to play the role of a leading research and documentation centre for the region and as a ‘think tank’ for the academic community, scholars and policy makers on key issues before the NER. The Centre has been conducting workshops, national seminars, public lectures, cultural programmes and research addressing the issue confronting India’s North East Region.
500 trucks with essential commodities reach Imphal imphal, November 30 (iaNS): Over 500 loaded trucks, carrying essential commodities, and oil tankers have reached here amid tight security. The capital has been hit by a blockade since November 1. Despite efforts by the government and voluntary organisations the United Naga Council (UNC), which had imposed the indefinite economic blockade did not calling it off. UNC activists also dug up the highway at several places, pelted stones and obstructed the movement of the trucks. There were demonstrations on Tuesday demanding the unconditional release of the UNC president Gaidon Kamei and the publicity secretary Stephen Lamkang. Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh said: "The law will take its own course and there is no question of releasing them now." The Manipur High Court had directed the state government to provide "adequate security" to the vehicles plying along the highways. However, the government was yet to make such arrangement along the highway that snakes through Nagaland. Regd. No: 707
LOST NOTICE I, DAIKHO RAKUZHIINI, have lost my original passed certificate of M.SC (Zoology) 2013 on my way between Mao to Kohima on 20/10/2016. Name: - Daikho Rakuzhiini F/ Name: - Daikho Roll No: - 24 Regd No: - 2717 of 2011-12 DOB: - 25/10/1989 University – NEHU Contact No - 9436656372
NAGALAND: KOHIMA
NATIONAL COMPETITIVE BIDDING NO. CE/NH/NIT/2016-17/09
Large number of people stage sit-in protests at Senapati bazar on Wednesday. Organised by civil society organisations based in Senapati, the protesters are demanding the "unconditional release" of United Naga Council (UNC) President Gaidon Kamei and UNC Information Secretary SK Stephen. (NNN Photos)
GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND
DEPARTMENT OF SCHOOL EDUCATION NAGALAND EDUCATION MISSION SOCIETY SARVA SHIKSHA ABHIVAN KOHIMA: NAGALAND
Regd. No. H/R5-668 dated 05-06-2000 Kiju Kharu, below New Secretariat, Thizama Road, Nagaland: Kohima-797003
NOTIFICATION Dated Kohima, Nov' 2016
NO.SSA/NAGA/B-2010-11: This is to inform all the Elementary Teachers that there shall be a mass teachers' training at each of the 46 Educational Block Resource Centres (EBRCs) of the state on three priority areas namely, PINDICS, Shaala Siddhi and Mathematics Learning Kit training. Therefore, all the elementary teachers are directed to attend the training without fail. The tentative training date is fixed between 2nd to 10th December 2016. The final training programme schedule shall be intimated by respective DMA and EBRC. Attendance of all elementary teachers is compulsory. "No Work, No Pay" shall be imposed on the absentee teachers. (F.P.SOLO) Commissioner & Secretary to the Govt. of Nagaland School Education & SCERT and Vice Chairman, SSA, Nagaland
Dated Kohima the 30th November 2016
(National competitive Bidding through e-Tendering mode only) The Chief Engineer, PWD (NH) Nagaland, Kohima on behalf of the President of India, invites bids in two cover systems for the construction of the works detailed as below: Bid Secu- Approx. Value Period of Sl. Length Name of Work rity in Rs of Work in Rs CompleNo. In km in lakhs in lakhs tion 1 2 3 4 5 6 1. Improvement of Riding Quality to NH 202 from 230.00 km to 231.00 km and 248.00 5 4.36 217.73 12 months km to 252.00 km (=5 km) in the state of Nagaland under NH Division Kiphire 2. Improvement of Riding Quality to NH-202 from 60.00 km to 66.00 km (6km) in the 6 4.11 205.12 12 months state of Nagaland under NH Division-III, Tuensang 3 Improvement of Riding Quality to NH-202 from 107.00 km to 120.00 km (13km) in the 13 9.64 481.73 12 months state of Nagaland under NH Division-III, Tuensang Last date of On-line Submission is 29.12.2016 upto 1700 Hrs (SERVER TIME) Bid security as detail in SBD. • The detailed tender document can be viewed/downloaded from the website www.morth.eproc.in from 05.12.2016 to 29.12.2016 • The last date & Time for On-line submission of the bidding document is 29.12.2016 upto 1700Hrs (Server time). • Amendments/Corrigendum, if any will be hosted on the above website. • The Pre-bid meeting will be held in the Office of the Chief Engineer PWD (NH) on 12.12.2016 at 11:00 Hrs (IST) • Other details can be viewed from bidding document. Sd/- Chief Engineer PWD (NH), Nagaland: Kohima.
Pre Christmas Gospel Revival & Healing Festival
The evil spirits brings all kinds of sickness, mentally, physically, morally, socially and so on. But Almighty living God wants to heal and bless us and to set us free from all sickness and evils and to give Unity, Peace and Hope and prosperity to all mankind. 1. Venue : Local Ground Chumukedima Town 2. Date : 2nd – 4th December 2016 3. Time : 3:30 pm (Everyday) 4. Messenger of God : Rev. Dr. Len. Lindstorm, Canada North America 5. Global Missionary at large : Rev. Dr. Alem Meren, Director 6. Message with songs : First Nagamese Gospel Composer & singer : Rev. Dilip Singh and group Organized by Divine Harvest & Healing Ministry and all Churches from Chumukedima area. FOR MORE DETAILS Contact: D.H.H.M Center, Burma camp 9436830205 / 09856263869 / 09774408841
NAGALAND PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION NO.NPSC/ADVT/EDS-2012
KOHIMA
Dated Kohima, the 30th November,2016
NOTIFICATION
With reference to the Nagaland Public Service Commission’s Advertisement No.NPSC-1/2016 dated 20.06.2016, and addendum / corrigendum/notification dt. 23.06.16, 01.07.16, 07.09.16, 24.10.16, & 26.10.16, this is to notify all the candidates that: 1. The written examination for the Common Educational Services Examination, 2016 will be held on 13th & 14th December, 2016. 2. Eligible Candidates will be issued individual Transaction ID number through SMS to Mobile No furnished in the Application Form on 8th December, 2016. They can download the Admission Certificate (containing details of routine and instructions etc.) by submitting the Transaction ID number at www.cese.npsc.co.in from 8th December, 2016 onwards. No Candidates will be allowed to sit for the written examination without producing their Admission Certificate. 3. Routine for the Common Educational Services Examination and Rejected List with reasons for rejection is displayed on the Commission’s notice board and can also be accessed from the Commission’s website at www.npsc.co.in 4. Candidates requiring assistance can call up NPSC helpdesk number +918259977429 on working days from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Sd/- KHRUPI SOTHU, Secretary, Nagaland Public Service Commission, Kohima
CHANGE OF NAME
Date: 29/11/2016
By this deed I, the undersigned ABENI KITHAN (new name) previously called ABENI P. KITHAN and resident of Lower Agri Colony, Kohima solemnly declare:1) That for and on behalf of myself and my family and remitter issue wholly renounce/relinquish and abandon the use of my former name/surname of Abeni P. Kithan and in place thereof I do hereby assume from this date the name/ surname of Abeni Kithan and so that I and my family and remitter issue may hereafter be called, known and distinguishes not by my former name/surname, but assumed name/ surname of Abeni Kithan. 2) That for the purpose of evidencing such my determination declare that I shall at all times hereafter in all records, deeds and writings and in all proceedings dealing and transactions, private as well as upon all occasions whatsoever use and sign the name of Abeni Kithan as my name/ surname in place and in substitution of my former name/surname. Signed and delivered by the deponent on this the 29th day of Nov. 2016 Magistrate Notary, Kohima: Nagaland
AFFIDAVIT Regd. No: 14840/2016
GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ENGINEER OFFICE PWD (NATIONAL HIGHWAYS)
Date: 30/11/2016
By this deed I, the undersigned TOSANGLA (New Name) previously called T. TOSANGLA (Old Name) and resident of H/No. 263B, Longkhim, Tuensang-798616, Nagaland declare:1. That for and on behalf of myself and my family and remitter issue wholly renounce/relinquish and abandon the use of my former name/surname of T. TOSANGLA and in place thereof I do hereby assume from this date the name/ surname of TOSANGLA and so that I and my parents and remitter issue may hereafter be called, known and distinguish not by my former name/surname, but assumed name/ surname of TOSANGLA. 2. That for the purpose of evidencing such my determination declare that I shall at all times hereafter in all records, deeds and writings and in all proceedings dealing and transactions, private as well as upon all occasions whatsoever use and sign the name of TOSANGLA as my name/surname in place and in substitution of my former name/surname. 3. That I expressly authorize and request all persons in general and relatives and friends in particular, at all times hereafter to designate and address me and my family, remitter issue by such assumed name/surname of TOSANGLA accordingly. Signed and delivered by the deponent on this the 30th day of Nov. 2016 Notary Public, Tuensang: Nagaland
4
ThursDAY 01•12•2016
nagaland
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Mega medical camp in various districts of Nagaland
Kohima, November 30 (mexN): A mega free medical camp was held in seven districts of Nagaland, organised under the initiative of the Governor of Nagaland, PB Acharya, Indian National Fellowship Centre (INFC), Mumbai and Rotary Club of Bombay North. Doctors from different parts of the country, including different specialists, saw patients, performed surgeries, and distributed medicines for free in the seven districts of Mon, Kohima, Peren, Dimapur, Wokha, Phek, and Mokokchung. Mokokchung: In Mokokchung, the medical camp was held at Imkongliba Memorial District Hospital (IMDH), Mokokchung from November 26 to 29 under the supervision of Dr. P. Medem, Medical Superintendent, IMDH. The team of doctor comprised of Dr. Rajan Relekar, Dr. Vaibhav Dilip Lone (BHMS), Dr. Javed Shaikh Sherali (BAMS), Sachin
C. Manjrkar (DHMS), Manisha Shesware (DAMS), accompanied by a local practitioner, Dr. Funitchiba Longchar. The team successfully did a major surgery and also treated and gave medicines to scores of patients from in and around Mokokchung Town. Mon: In Mon, a team comprising Dr. Anjali Patil (Oncosurgeon), leader, Dr. Priya Jangam (Homeopath & Nutritionist), Dr. Shradaha Chandak (Gynaecologist), Dr. Sachin Balkunde (Paediatrician), Dr. Neisakho Kere, Dy. Director, DH&FW started OPD on November 26 and ended on November 29. Dr. Anjali Patil said the main purpose was to build friendship, to see the medical facilities in the District Hospital Mon, and to see the patients in the remote region and give them the specialist medical care. Spreading of awareness on cancers, how to tackle them, and what has to be done to pre-
vent them were another focus area of the team. Pointing out that many people are diagnosed with cancer and TB, she said that consumption of tobacco, eating smoked meat, preserved meat (which has fungus) sitting very close with one another (respiratory problem) are the major causes of cancer and TB in the region. A press release informed that she suggested for more doctors and medical equipments, especially of surgeons and cancer specialists. Wokha: Patients from in and around Wokha district availed the three-day (November 28 to 30) free medical camp at Dr. Motsuo Memorial District. Five doctors from Mumbai comprising surgeons, physician and psychiatrist along with 11 doctors from Dr. Motsuo Memorial District Hospital conducted the medical camp. Besided free medical check-up, free medicines were provided
to the patients. The doctors also visited Doyang on November 30, where medical camp was also conducted. kohiMa: The four-day medical camp concluded at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima on November 29. A team of five doctors performed surgeries, echocardiologist, ultrasonography and distributed free medicines to the patients. On the concluding day, Dr. Suparna Nirgudkar M.D (med), consultant physician from Mumbai stated that maximum people were found to be treated for lifestyle diseases like diabetes, heart problem and respiratory ailments. She also said that six surgeries were performed and more than 60 sonography of abdomen were done. Peren: A free medical camp was conducted by a team of Doctors from Mumbai at District Hospital (DH) Peren from November 26 to 28. The team comprise of Dr. Rajan Powle, Surgeon, Dr. Bharati Chetan
Desai, GP, Dr. Ashok B. Mishra, Physician, Dr. Delip K. Soundale, Gynaecologist, Dr. Chetan Desai, Dental Surgeon and Dr. Hailumbe Ipuing, Dental Surgeon. Altogether 317 patients were examined and given free medicines. Besides consultation few minor surgical procedures, screening for Gynaecological cases and tooth extraction were also done. The team were assisted by the doctors and nurses of the DH as well. As per the record, hypertension, respiratory infections and Acute Gastro Intestinal Diseases were most prevalent among the adults while in children Respiratory Tract Infections (RTI) and Acute Gastro Intestinal Diseases were more common. After the camp was concluded a simple valedictorycum-debriefing function was held on November 29 at General Administration rest house. Charing the meeting, Dr. Ngan-
shimeren CMO acknowledged the Rotary Club of Mumbai for donating X-ray machine to the DH following the 1st version of Medical camp in 2015. He also projected needs and deficiencies of the DH in the meeting and requested the team to take the message to their parent body in Mumbai. Dr. Delip K. Soundale, Gynaecologist who is also the MS of a Sub District Hospital in Maharashtra volunteered to donate 1 portable USG (Ultra Sonography Machine) to DH Peren. DiMaPur: The three day free medical camp at Dimapur District Hospital concluded on November 29. The camp was sponsored by cancer patients Aid Association, Mumbai Indian Academy of Echocardiology Dr. K.T Keditsu foundation, Kohima motivated by Indian National fellowship centre, Mumbai and coordinated by the Government of Nagaland. Total 442 patients were diagnosed in the camp. CPAA
AHoD and HoD discuss prevalence of HIV in state Kohima, November 30 (DiPr): The monthly AHoD and HoD meeting was held at the Civil Secretariat conference hall, Kohima on November 28. The house discussed on contribution from Chief Secretary Welfare Funds for AIDS control in Nagaland. State Consultant, Nagaland Legislators’ Forum on AIDS (NLFA), Dr. Vinito Chishi in his PowerPoint presentation highlighted the prevalence of HIV in the state and also the functions of NLFA, NACO, NSACS and other organizations associated with AIDS. He mentioned that till September 2016, out of 8,99,158 adult blood screened, 20,601 (2.29%) people were tested positive with HIV and for below 14 years of age, out of 28,468 blood tested, 849 (2.98%) were positive; 91% of infection was transmitted through sexual route. He also said with 43% of the total infection, the age group of 25-34 years has the highest number of people living with HIV. Among the districts, Dimapur has the highest number of HIV infection. Dr. Vinito however added that this may be due to people coming from other districts for HIV test in Dimapur. He mentioned that quarterly report will be given if contributions are made for AIDS control. Commissioner, Sentiyanger, IAS said that church may not be the right forum to combat AIDS as the church has its own limitations. Secretary & Director ATI, Lithrongla also raised the issue of funding the right forum to combat AIDS. The house concluded with an agreement to contribute; howFiRe StatiOnS
KoHIMA soUtH: 0370-2222952/ 101 (O) 9402003086 (OC) KoHIMA nortH: 7085924114 (O) dIMAPUr: 03862-232201/ 101 (O) 9856156876 (OC) CHUMUKedIMA: 7085982102 (O) 8732810051 (OC) woKHA: 03860-242215/101 (O) 8974322879 (OC) MoKoKCHUnG: 0369-2226225/ 101 (O) 8415830232 (OC) PHeK: 8414853765 (O) 8413822476(OC) ZUnHeBoto: 03867-280304/ 101 (O) 9436422730 (OC) tUensAnG: 8414853766 (O) 9856163601 (OC) Mon: 03869-251222/ 101 (O) 9862130954 (OC) Kiphire: 8414853767 (O) 9436261577 (OC) Peren: 7085189932 (O) 9856311205 (OC) LonGLenG: 7085924113 (O) 9862414264 (OC)
Civil Hospital emergency-
232224 229529 229474 MH Hospital 227930 231081 Faith Hospital 228846 shamrock Hospital 228254 Zion Hospital 231864 224117 227337 Police Control room 228400 Police Traffic Control 232106 east Police station 227607 west Police station 232181 CIHsr (referral Hospital) 242555 242533 dimapur Hospital 224041 248011 Apollo Hospital Info Centre 230695/ 9402435652 railway 131/228404 Airport 229366 Indian Airlines 242441 225212 Chumukedima Fire Brigade 282777 nikos Hospital and 232032, research Centre 231031 nagaland Multispecialty Health & research Centre
248302, 09856006026
eden Medical Centre
248288
O
R
seAMLess sentIneL sHows sICKness sKIP sLIPPerY soLICIt sPInster sPoLIAte sProCKet strAnGLe sUBMerGe sUsPense sYLLABUs tAnGIBLe tee teMPorAL tore trACtIon trAnsMIt troUsers VIneYArd wIno
D
S
E
Meeting called for Republic Day 2017
the Institute of Children Ministry (ICM) celebrated its second graduation on november 29 at toluvi Baptist Church. the occasion was graced by rev. dr. Vezopa tetseo, executive secretary, CBCC. speaking on the theme “set Apart,” dr. tetseo encouraged the 14 graduating students about the concept of being set apart for the Lord’s ministry. ICM Principal, Vito K. Chishi in a press release informed that ICM is located at toluvi Village and is fully sponsored by the toluvi Baptist Church.
National Integration Tour for Sumi youths flag off ZuNheboto, November 30 (DiPr): The National Integration Tour flagging off ceremony was held on November 29 at Town Hall, Zunheboto. The exposure tour to New Delhi and Agra City for Sumi youths was sponsored and organized by 5th Assam Rifles, Zunheboto. Commander, 7th Sector HQ, Brigadier, M.S. Siddhu who graced the occasion as chief guest said the exposure tour carried out should not end here, but urged the youths to carry the spirit forward Commenting on the role of Assam Rifles, the Brigadier
we4 woMen HeLPLIne
std code: 03862
DiMaPUR
W AnXIetY BAr Bet BIn BUsIes CArtAGe CAsUAL CooP CrePe CUtICLe dePLore dUBIoUs GeAr Ires LeAP PerCeIVe PreVIoUs PrIorItY QUAdrAnt reJeCt reseArCH sABotAGe sAnCtIon
ever, a committee was formed to study it further. Reviewing the last meeting minute, Principal Secretary to CM & Finance Commissioner, Temjen Toy said the big departments such as School Education, Police, Housing, H&FW, R&B, Veterinary & Animal Husbandry, District Administration, Agriculture and some others have been failing to credit New Pension Scheme into the employees’ account on time. Departments were also directed to open accounts of those employees who have no bank account. Chief Secretary said the induction training for other services like engineering will soon be introduced in ATI, and apart from NCS and allied services, mid-career service training for other services will also be introduced. He also asked the departments to convey their training requirements to ATI. Labour & Employment department also highlighted the Employees’ State Insurance Scheme, which covers the insurance of non-governmental sectors with employees above 10 people. Contribution, benefits, facilities and basic requirements of the scheme were highlighted. Discussing on an NIA case, the Chief Secretary said that any government servants found involved in extortion case will be strictly dealt with. He asked the departments to cooperate in case the NIA needed but also cautioned the departments to give information which are related to unlawful and anti-national activities only.
08822911011 WOMen HeLPLIne 181 CHiLD weLFAre CoMMIttee Toll free No. 1098 childline
taHaMZaM (formerly senapati) Police station Fire Brigade
KoHIMA Ps/oCs
R
C
said the role and responsibilities is not only confined to bring peace in the society but also developmental activities as has been witnessed through various projects like water schemes, community infrastructures and sports facilities as carried out by Assam Rifles. Commandant, 5th Assam Rifles, Sachit Suri said that the purpose of organizing such tour was to encourage Sumi youth to see the developments taking place in the country. Led by Major L.C Singh, 16 youths from Sumi Comstdcode: 03871 222246 222491
KOHiMa Fire Brigade naga Hospital oking Hospital Bethel nursing Home northeast shuttles
north Ps Officer-in-Charge south Ps Officer-in-Charge Zubza Ps Officer-in-Charge Chiephobozou Ps Officer-in-Charge tseminyu Ps Officer-in-Charge Khuzama Ps Officer-in-Charge Kezocha Ps Officer-in-Charge women Cell Officer-in-Charge Control room
A
executive director, Neeta More said women were encouraged to go for pelvic sonography and breast examination regularly including maintaining oral habits. About 95 percent of the patients screened in the camp were found afflicted with various tobacco related ailments they were advised to go for regular ENT screening with local surgeon. Women patients were given awareness on breast cancer and taught self examination of breast. She also suggested for more such camps to be organised regularly. ENT Surgeon Dr. Sanjay Ghildiyal said oral cancer is the biggest problem and suggested creating awareness of the ill effects of tobacco and all such products. The teams will also organizing the camp at police circuit house Chumukedima, Dimapur on November 30 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm for the jawans and their families and nearby residents.
std code: 0370 2222952 2222916 2243339 2224202 08974997923
MOKOKCHUnG
GOOD NEWS FREE TRAINING FOR ALL Course Qualification duration Male/Female Beauty Therapist 8 Pass 2 months Female Bakery & Confectionery 12 pass 2 months Both BPO 10 pass 3 months Male Retailing 8 pass 3 months Male
In Noida, Delhi. under Govt. Scheme PMKVY Free Traveling, Lodging & Fooding 100% Job Assistance after Training
9485232688 9485232689 9485232690 9485232693 9485232694 9485232695 2226216
woodland nursing Home
2226263
saloni Agency
Bank Colony, A.G. Hr. sec. school Junction, dimapur 9774351136/9615454002
std code: 0369
Police station 1 Police station 2 Police station Kobulong Police station tuli Police station Changtongya Police station Mangkolemba Civil Hospital
Hotel Metsüpen (tourist Lodge) 2226373/ 2229343
CURRenCY nOteS
Us dollars sterling Pound Hong Kong dollar Australian dollar singapore dollar Canadian dollar Japanese Yen euro thai Baht Korean won UAe dirham (Aed) Chinese Yuan
BUY (rs) 67.07 83.59 8.37 49.99 46.98 49.8 59.19 71.24 1.82 0.0554 17.67 9.41
seLL (rs) 70.09 87.61 9.32 52.45 49.28 52.23 62.55 74.67 2.03 0.0618 19.68 10.47
leisure
Contact numbers
8575045501 8575045510 8575045502 8575045520 8575045508 8575045518 8575045506 8575045516 8575045507 8575045517 8575045505 8575045515 8575045549 8575045538 8575045509 8575045519 8575045500 (Emergency No. – 100)
munity undertook exposure tour to New Delhi and Agra where they met and interacted with President of India, Pranab Mukherjee and Minister of State (MOS, Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju apart from visiting monuments and other historical places from November 17 to 27. The program was also attended by SDO (C), Shanavas IAS, SP, Zunheboto, Krodi Rhetso, Lt. Colonel, 5th A.R, Gopa Kumar, EAC (P), Sakuchingmak, Sumi Hoho officials, Sumi Kiphimi Kuqhakulu (SKK) and other dignitaries.
Kohima, November 30 (DiPr): A meeting has been convened in the office chamber of the Home Commissioner, Nagaland on December 14 at 11:30 am to chalk out the work distribution/programme for Republic Day celebration on January 26, 2017. The following officers/departments have been requested to attend the meeting positively: Director General of Police, Nagaland, Kohima; IGAR (North), Nagaland, Kohima; Commandant, 164, Naga Territorial Army, Jakhama; DIG CRPF, Nagaland, Kohima; Commandant 155th Bn BSF Battalion, Chedema; Director, Sainik Welfare & Resettlement; Commissioner & Secretary, School Education; Commissioner & Secretary, Art & Culture; Commissioner & Secretary, Land Resource Development; Commissioner & Secretary, IPR; Commissioner & Secretary, PHE; Commissioner & Secretary, Horticulture; Commissioner & Secretary, Health & Family Welfare; Special Secretary, Home; Deputy Commissioner, Kohima; Superintendent of Police, Kohima; CEO, Kohima Municipal Council, Kohima; Director, Youth Resource & Sports; Director, Music Task Force; Director, IPR, for wide publication in all local dailies; DIG, Fire; Deputy Commandant General, Home Guards & Civil Defence; and SDO, PWD (H), Nagaland Civil Secretariat.
CROSSWORD # 3790
H
SUDOKU
Simple Rules - Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.
Game Number # 3775
Answer Number # 3774
ACROSS 1. Thumps 6. Give the cold shoulder 10. Church benches 14. Golden 15. Anagram of “Note” 16. Reflected sound 17. Very prickly woody vine 18. Among 19. Top of a house 20. Found on cave ceilings 22. Coagulate 23. Secluded valley 24. Offensive 26. Petty quarrel 30. East southeast 31. Family 32. Impish 33. So be it 35. Leaf opening 39. Tartarus 41. Marine 43. A drama set to music 44. Fleet 46. Calyx 47. Russian fighter 49. Tall hill 50. Former lovers 51. Ring around the nipple 54. Narrow opening 56. Oceans 57. Circuit 63. Long ago 64. Decay from overripening 65. Disney mermaid 66. Bright thought 67. Not first 68. Cuts into cubes 69. Vesicle 70. Being 71. Display DOWN 1. Checks 2. Offended 3. Murres
4. Found on rotary phones 5. Scrawny one 6. A respected leader 7. Candidate 8. Module 9. Decorate 10. Portion 11. French school 12. Shout 13. Wuss 21. Tidy 25. Ascend 26. Palm starch 27. Kind of school 28. Pang 29. Thermoregulator 34. A short novel 36. Chalcedony 37. Bog 38. Cards with 1 symbol 40. Found on a finger 42. Faultfinder 45. Sore 48. Distort 51. Savory jelly 52. Prepared 53. Relieves 55. Batrachians 58. “Oh my!” 59. Relating to urine 60. Type of cereal grass 61. Observed 62. If not Answer to Crossword 3789
Thursday 01•12•2016
NAGALAND
Denied salary, HIV & AIDS workers 30 trainees complete courses under BADP at NTTC hope for response on World AIDS Day Kohima, November 30 (mexN): While the rest of the world celebrates World AIDS Day on December 1, HIV and AIDS workers in Nagaland have been forced to boycott the same owing to the failure of the government to release grants to NGOs working in the field of HIV and AIDS. “During World AIDS Day, in other parts of the world, Government and donors provide awards and recognition to the field workers for their contribution towards HIV response. However, it is very unfortunate here in Nagaland, the Nagaland Targeted Intervention Employees Forum (NTIEF) has to boycott the observation of World AIDS Day 2016 due to NACO/NSACS and State Government’s lackadaisical attitude towards the HIV and AIDS grassroots workers,” lamented Abou Mere, Presi-
dent, NNagaDAO and Director, Kripa Foundation in a press release. The non release of HIV grants to NGOs working in the field of HIV and AIDS, he said, has left their grassroots staff without a salary for the last fiscal year (December 2015 to March 2016). It may be noted that Network of Nagaland Drugs and AIDS Organisation (NNagaDAO) had organized a peaceful protest rally against NACO in Kohima on November 10 for the non-payment of work done for HIV and AIDS intervention in Nagaland state and gave a representation to the Chief Minister of Nagaland. In response to the peaceful protest rally, the Governor office had written to Chief Minister’s office on November 22, 2016 to take necessary action as deemed fit, the release said. In this light, Mere expressed belief that Chief Minister TR Zeliang
will announce action taken by his office during the ‘World AIDS Day’ programme at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama. The theme for this year’s World AIDS Day is "Hands up for HIV prevention". Emphasizing the different aspects of HIV prevention, this campaign also focuses on what prevention means, including for adolescent boys, girls and young women, key and vulnerable populations, and people living with HIV. Global and local evidence shows that the decline in new HIV infections among adults has slowed in recent years, the release mentioned. Hence, prevention efforts must be reinvigorated to stay on the Fast-Track to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030. This has to be done while sustaining and strengthening treatment and care for people living with HIV, it added.
Chang body urges school edu director to revoke transfer order of two teachers TueNsaNg, November 30 (mexN): Chang Tribal Council (CKS) today appealed to the Director of School Education to revoke the transfer order of Nukshisenla, Graduate Teacher (Science) and Bhumvung, Graduate Teacher (Mathematics) of Government Higher Secondary School (GHSS), Tuensang. In a letter to the Director, CKS reminded that the
GHSS Tuensang has been functioning with only one Mathematics teacher, who is assisted by Science teachers in teaching the subject “thereby hardly covering all the classes in the school.” In such a scenario of shortage of Math teachers, the Council stated, “it is depressing to see the order NO.ED/SE/TSG/7/201415 Dated Kohima, the 7th Nov’ 2016 wherein the only
mathematics teacher including a science teacher from GHSS Tuensang is being re-deployed to GHS Sotokur without reliever, leaving the school without mathematics teacher.” Expressing “strong resentment” against the transfer order issued from the office of the Director, School Education Department, CKS further urged the Director to either revoke the order or re-
place the two teachers with subject teachers. “Failing which the two incumbents will not be allowed to release from the school and the concerned authority will be held responsible for any unwanted situation cropped up in this connection,” stated the letter appended by MP Nokshang, president and C Yenten, general secretary of CKS.
Mahindra servicing centre opens in Kohima
The trainees of NTTC with DUDA advisor, director and others on November 30 in Dimapur. Morung Express News Dimapur | November 30
Advisor, Department of Undeveloped Areas (DUDA), Thongwang Konyak, today said the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) is a programme under DUDA for 13 blocks in the state. Addressing the valedictory programme cum distribution of machines/ tools to the successful trainees under BADP Capacity Building Programme 2015-16 at Nagaland Tools Room and Training Centre (NTTC) here, the advisor said many people think that DUDA and BADP are separate departments. Thongwang said since most of the trainees come from remote border areas, the department in charge should utilise the abilities of the trainees for the benefit of the community. He also urged the trainees under BADP to work towards imparting knowledge and pass on their skills to their respective areas. He said BADP covers 13 blocks - six blocks in Mon district, three blocks in Tuensang district under Khiamniungan area, two in
Pungro under Kiphire district, and two in Phek district under Pochury area. Unlike other states that receive enough fund under BAPD, the DUDA advisor said “whatever fund is received for BADP is used judiciously though the fund is not sufficient.” Director DUDA, KS Anden Konyak, who spoke on overview of trainings under BADP capacity building programme, said the border regions of the state are the “least received region” economically, politically and socially due to geographic isolation and that these regions are unable to take part in the economic growth. He also said the social and economic developmental programmes have still not successfully penetrated the remote and border regions. With few schools scattered throughout these regions and the absence of technical educational institutions, there are very limited avenues to meaningful employment other than agriculture which is overly saturated, the director underlined. Anden also said that the handful of people who
Meetings & AppointMents World AIDS Day in Dimapur The District AIDS Prevention and Control Unit (DAPCU), Dimapur will observe the 29th World AIDS Day on December 1, 10:00 am at Town Hall, Dimapur under the theme ‘Hands up for HIV Prevention’ with Dr. K. Vikato Kinimi, Chief Medical Officer, Dimapur as the chief guest. Chief Minister TR Zeliang with proprietors of K&K Motors, staff, and guests after inaugurating the Mahindra authorized servicing centre on November 30 in Kohima.
Kohima, November 30 (mexN): Chief Minister of Nagaland, TR Zeliang inaugurated K&K Motors, a Mahindra authorized servicing centre, in Kohima (Zhuliebadze) on November 30. K&K Motors, owned by Kezhaletuo Kire and Keneilhouzo Chielie, has state of the art workshop facility equipped with advanced
tools and equipments handled by fully trained technicians, according to a press release. In his speech, the Chief Minister spoke on the relevance of having a Mahindra servicing station in Kohima since there is large number of Mahindra vehicles in Nagaland, and there is just one servicing station in Di-
mapur. Also, he mentioned it will be practical to have a Mahindra showroom in Kohima. He further spoke on how the servicing station will serve as an employment opportunity since the government is providing technical training to youth through its IT Department. Earlier, Rev. Dr. Zel-
hou Keyho, General Secretary, NBCC pronounced the dedicatory prayer. The event was also attended by NPF President Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsü, L. Khumo, Parliamentary Secretary, Merentoshi Jamir, Advisor to CM, retired DGP K. Kire, a team from Mahindra and a host of well wishers.
KTC 25th anniversary The Khiamniungan Tribal Council (KTC) will celebrate its 25th anniversary from December 10 to 12 at Noklak Town under the theme ‘One People One Aspiration’. Rajya Sabha Member, KG Kenye and Member of Regional Parliament Myanmar, N. Mongdei will be the chief guest and guest of honour respectively. Minister of Health & Family Welfare, P. Longon and Secretary, Land Revenue, Women Resources Development & VG, L. Khumo will be the chief host. Er. L. Leyang and Rev. N. Pomo will deliver speeches. KTC and Planning Committee have extended invitations to both India and Myanmar for the celebration.
DIPR to webcast Hornbill Festival live First Cut inter collegiate The Department of Information & Public Relations will be doing live webcast of the Hornbill business competition begins Festival 2016 at www.ipr.nagaland.gov.in
Kohima, November 30 (mexN): 16 teams from six districts will compete for 10 days to be crowned the ‘First Cut’ winner of 2016. The Hornbill First Cut business competition will be held during Hornbill Festival from December 1 to 10 in Kohima, Nagaland. This is the third edition of First Cut, an inter-collegiate business plan ideation and execution competition. Organised under YouthNet’s ‘IMPACT 5000 by 18’ campaign (a collaboration with the Government of Nagaland), the Chief Mentor of the programme is Geoffrey Yaden, Editor, Nagaland Post. A press release from Youth-
Net stated that the primary objective of First Cut is to educate the students about entrepreneurship and opportunities in the private sector while giving them a taste of the challenges that ground realities pose. Students will form teams and each team will be given seed money of Rs. 20,000. Before the competition starts the teams will also be trained on marketing, accounting and business skill and constantly monitored throughout the competition. The teams participating in this year’s edition are from colleges from Longleng, Mon, Zunheboto, Kiphire, Dimapur and Kohima.
NNC asks tourists to remember the ‘long and arduous plight’ of Nagas Dimapur, November 30 (mexN): The Naga National Council (NNC) under the leadership of Z. Royim Yimchungrü and V. Nagi today reminded all the tourists from different countries who are in Nagaland in this festive season to remember the long and arduous plight of the Naga people. “And when you go back to your home country, we appeal to you to speak the political plight of the Naga people,” stated a press release from Information & Publicity Wing, NNC. While welcoming all the foreign delegates, well
wishers, supporters and tourists to “Naga country” to participate in the Hornbill Festival, the NNC stated that “the Naga people were and are under forceful military occupation of India and Myanmar Governments for the last more than sixty long years without political freedom; half of our people and land are under military occupation of Myanmar and the other half are under military occupation of India which are sub-divided into four so called states of Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.”
Soil and Water Conservation dept website launched Directorate accords farewell to retiring officials, staff
Kohima, November 30 (mexN): The Directorate of Soil and Water Conservation organized a farewell programme for Peter K. Rengma, outgoing Director, Akhevi, Junior Engineer, Bendangnungsang, Head Driver, and Medongunuo, Senior Typist at its conference hall on November 30. The programme started with inauguration of the depart-
ment’s website www.snwc.nagaland.gov.in by the outgoing Director, Peter K. Rengma. In his farewell speech, Peter maintained it was the most unforgettable day in his life and that he was retiring a happy and satisfied man. Sharing his experience in the department having worked in various capacities for 31 years in the outpost and the remaining in the Directorate, he said he was impressed by the cooperation and the team spirit of the department officials, said a press release received here. He
challenged the officers to give their best and work with utmost sincerity without procrastinating in their assigned duties. Imkongneken, the incoming director, described Peter as a principled, hardworking, diplomatic and a kind hearted man. He thanked Peter for his effort in reviving the department and acknowledged him as a sharpening stone of the department. Officials who spoke during the occasion also lauded him for his genuineness and wished him a happy retired life.
ACAUT condemns demand of trade license fees and donations by ‘NFGs’
Dimapur, November 30 (mexN): ACAUT Nagaland today stated that with the arrival of the festive season it has been receiving numerous complaints of “forceful illegal taxation and collection” by what it referred to as “Naga Factional Groups (NFGs)”. ACAUT in a press release through its Media Cell said that the “NFGs” has “once again started going around places causing immense harassment and trauma to the business
community by demanding trade license fees and asking for Christmas donations.” ACAUT Nagaland condemned such “unchristian activities” and warned that unless this is immediately put to halt, it will have no choice but to call for total shutter down of all businesses. It further appealed to the law enforcing agencies, especially Dimapur Police, to look into these unlawful activities and arrest the per-
sons “who are disturbing the peaceful atmosphere and the festive mood.” Meanwhile, the district administration was reminded that the business community has obtained trade licenses issued by the recognized Government of Nagaland and therefore questioned how many trade licenses a business house should have. “The Government of Nagaland cannot allow several parallel governments to operate with impunity or turn a
blind eye to their activities. If the Government of Nagaland is unable to check such unlawful activities, then it has no right to issue trade licenses as well,” it stated. ACAUT Nagaland also lamented that despite the repeated appeal and fervent plea by the people on ‘One Government One Tax’, “it looks like the NFGs seem least concerned on the plight of the people and the tough financial crunch the state is going through.”
have credible degree are unable to get suitable employment based on their skills and education, and are forced to look outside their region for meaningful employment. “It is evident that for the growth and development of these regions, it is important that along with infrastructural development, employment should be created for the thousands of unemployment and underdeveloped process. These employment opportunities should help create new industries in the area, and also help supplement and sustain existing ones, and should go on to create our economy capable of absorbing hundreds of new workers to the work force every year,” he said. What is required at this present juncture, he added, is an external intervention that would help encourage and build up the skills of the local populace which would further go on to create economically viable and sustainable employment opportunity in the border regions. As per the DUDA Director, since the implementation of BADP, more
than 5300 villagers have benefited sponsored by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Border Management, Government of India. From 2017-18 under the BADP Capacity Building/Skill Development Programme, the department is also planning to give special emphasis on livelihood for farmers of Indo-Myanmar border block villages with an objective to improve the socio-economic condition of the most interior international border area villagers. In his speech, Principal, NTTC, Er. Petehetuo Miasalhou, said society tends to look down on people who live on manual works, not realising that these sections are the ones proving their skills. He however said that with time people’s perspective towards manual workers are changing. On the occasion, the DUDA advisor also launched the new Corn Sheller invented by NTTC. Altogether, 30 trainees completed their courses with 23 trainees assured of job placement and seven committed to work as entrepreneurs.
MEx FILE Envelope found in auto rickshaw Dimapur, November 30 (mexN): An envelope containing a driving license, PAN Card, Voter ID card in the name of Amose Ketsutdoiybe Disuang has been found in an auto rickshaw in Dimapur. Therefore, Dimapur District Autorickshaw Drivers’ Union (DDADU) has informed the rightful owner to collect the same from the DDADU head office located at Super Market, Dimapur during office hours.
NNC (N/A) recommends retirement of Secretary Medical Dimapur, November 30 (mexN): The collective leadership of NNC/NPGN (N/A) has recommended retirement of Zakato Sumi, Secretary Medical, NNC/ NPGN (N/A) from the Naga national service w.e.f. November 30, 2016 on the ground of ill health. A press release from MIP Kilonser, NNC/NPGN (N/A) acknowledged that Zakato was dedicated and sincere towards Naga national service and served the NNC/NPGN (NA) with outmost dedication. All the rank and file of NNC/ NPGN wish him good luck and grand success in his future endeavour, the release added.
NVFAA expresses grief and pain Dimapur, November 30 (mexN): Nagaland Veterinary Field Assistants’ Association (NVFAA) has expressed grief and pain at the demise of its member, Rongsen Imsong, Junior Farm Manager, Merangkong Piggery Farm, Mokokchung district on November 18. “Late Rongsen was sincere, dedicated, and committed who served the department at various capacities and his demise has created a void which will be difficult to be filled,” stated a condolence message from NVFAA general secretary, Yanthungo Lotha. The association further extended sympathy to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace.
Dimapur Police arrest two Dimapur, November 30 (mexN): The Anti- Extortion Team (AET) under Zone-II of Dimapur Police arrested one person from Notun Bosti area for collecting Trade License Tax from the business establishments there on November 29. The arrested person has been identified as Kennedy Poumai of Senapati, Manipur, reportedly a Rajapeyu of the NSCN (IM), informed a press release from ADCP/PRO, Dimapur Police. “Incriminating documents and money in cash was seized from his possession,” the release said. On November 30, the AET again arrested one person from Marwaripatti area, “where he was found extorting money from the business establishments.” The arrested person has been identified as Vikheto Awomi, reportedly a Sergeant Major of NSCN (K).
AR apprehend five GPRN/NSCN cadres pheK, November 30 (mexN): 9 Assam Rifles along with police representative apprehended four GPRN/ NSCN cadres along with arms on November 23 at 11:00 pm in Enhulumi village. The operation was carried out based on intelligence inputs regarding GPRN/NSCN cadres involving in illegal extortion and intimidation in the village, stated a press release from Assam Rifles. Based on input of the apprehended cadres, one GPRN/NSCN cadre of Pholami village was further apprehended at around 5:30 am on November 23, the release added. During the initial interrogation, according to the release, the cadres revealed their involvement in tax collection on NH 29. The apprehended along with seized articles were handed over to Police Station, Chizami on November 23.
6
Thursday 01•12•2016
IN FOCUS
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
The Power of Truth
The Morung Express volume Xi issue 331 By moa Jamir
NPF fire poll salvos
C O M M E N T A R Y
Francesc Badia I Dalmases
Latin American fidelities
Fidel Castro quickly became the moral mentor of the Latin American Left, but he ended up perpetuating himself in power and not listening
T
he outcome of the recent Naga Peoples’ Front (NPF)'s Central Executive Council on November 29 is clearly interesting in many aspects. Still convalescing after a series of internal strife in recent times, the major Party in the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) came out blasting salvos in all direction against all its detractors. The target, intensity and timing of attack, however, are conspicuous. The Party is playing an urgent electoral gambit given the impending polls in urban local bodies due early next year. Consequently, the Governor and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), incidentally a partner in ruling DAN Government, were prime targets. Given the electoral consideration, predictably it employed the cheapest tricks in politicking to up the ante – the debate on the role of governor and religious polarization. According to media report, Nagaland Home Minister Y Patton slammed the Governor PB Acharya for his statements in the media that the incumbent government was corrupt, maintaining how he would be able to address the Assembly saying “my government is corrupt”? "The Governor should not be allowed to go to villages without invitation and check implementation of centrally sponsored schemes, specially MGNREGA and Mid Day Meal,” Minister for National Highway Nuklutoshi censured, according to a PTI report. Over the years, Acharya’s stand on corruption, despite his occasional foot in mouth statement, have been consistent. Most recently, he expressed concern that corruption has “diluted the rich fabric of the Naga society.” The Governor has also been touring all the districts of Nagaland to gather first hand information on various issues particularly the implementation of Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS), inviting consternation from the state government. Belatedly, NPF also resolved to appeal to the central government not to impose “Good Governance Day” coinciding with Christmas (December 25) “as the day is most revered by the Christian community.” The Home Minister also alleged that “Raj Bhavan was becoming a place for RSS and BJP.” Seldom had the Party responded to issues with such acerbity. “Misery acquaints a man with strange bedfellows,” wrote William Shakespeare in The Tempest. Nowhere, it was deemed more appropriate than the alliance between NPF and BJP. However, cracks in the DAN coalition came to the fore recently when the latter submitted a memorandum to the Governor in November highlighting “injustice and mis-governance of the DAN Government” maintaining that it cannot remain silent while the people in the State undergo “utter misery.” Whether action was necessitated by axing of one of its parliamentary secretary from the government for alleged “anti-Government activities” is beside the point. The NPF’s combative salvo against the Governor must be interpreted in this context. Politics apart, the NPF’s commitment towards fighting corruption was most found most wanting when one of its minister at the same meeting lamented that some ‘unrecognized’ NGOs, fighting against corruption and government’s incompetency, are acting more powerful than the recognized NGOs and ardently called for their derecognition. Corruption in Nagaland is a vice which everybody loves to hate, but too feeble to resist its overarching tentacles. The ruling NPF’s stand on the issue, besides politicking, are both dismissive and retaliatory and does not engender any assurance. For any comment, drop a line to moajamir@live.com
lEfT wiNg |
IANS
Gained more weight after dieting? Blame gut bacteria
I
n a study that could lead to development of new treatment for "recurrent" or "yo-yo" obesity, researchers have found that intestinal microbes -- collectively termed the gut microbiome -- play an important role in post-dieting weight gain. Following a successful diet, many people are dismayed to find their weight rebounding. Worse still, the vast majority of recurrently obese individuals not only rebound to their predieting weight but also gain more weight with each dieting cycle. In experiments with mice, the researchers at Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel found that after a cycle of gaining and losing weight, all the mice's body systems fully reverted to normal -- except the microbiome. "We've shown in obese mice that following successful dieting and weight loss, the microbiome retains a 'memory' of previous obesity," said researcher Eran Elinav. For about six months after losing weight, post-obese mice retained an abnormal "obese" microbiome, reported the study published in the journal Nature. "This persistent microbiome accelerated the regaining of weight when the mice were put back on a high-calorie diet or ate regular food in excessive amounts," one of the researchers Eran Segal said. "By conducting a detailed functional analysis of the microbiome, we've developed potential therapeutic approaches to alleviating its impact on weight regain," Segal noted. By combining genomic and metabolic approaches, the researchers identified two molecules driving the impact of the microbiome on regaining weight. These molecules -- belonging to the class of organic chemicals called flavonoids that are obtained through eating certain vegetables -- are rapidly degraded by the "post-dieting" microbiome, so that the levels of these molecules in post-dieting mice are significantly lower than those in mice with no history of obesity. The researchers found that under normal circumstances, these two flavonoids promote energy expenditure during fat metabolism. Low levels of these flavonoids in weight cycling prevented this fat-derived energy release, causing the post-dieting mice to accumulate extra fat when they were returned to a highcalorie diet. Finally, the researchers used these insights to develop new proof-of-concept treatments for recurrent obesity. They supplemented post-dieting mice with flavonoids added to their drinking water. This brought their flavonoid levels, and thus their energy expenditure, back to normal levels. As a result, even on return to a high-calorie diet, the mice did not experience accelerated weight gain. "If the results of our mouse studies are found to be applicable to humans, they may help diagnose and treat recurrent obesity, and this, in turn, may help alleviate the obesity epidemic," Elinav said.
T
hey say that heroes die young, and perhaps their heroic deeds die too when they go. In the case of the Cuban revolution, perhaps its true hero will not be Fidel, but Che Guevara, who died fighting in the Bolivian jungle before he was 40. Fidel Castro clung to the power they conquered together when in January 1959 they victoriously entered Havana from Sierra Maestra, and he failed to transform he original heroism into a representative, free and prosperous democracy. As he faced up to the all-powerful United States in a region it had been treating for decades as an exclusive backyard, Fidel Castro became an icon for the vast majority of young Latin American revolutionaries, at a time when hope for a Communist path to freedom was still alive. The Cuban experiment offered the Latin American Left the necessary inspiration and strength to keep going and resisting, particularly during the bloody military dictatorships of the 1970s and 1980s which sought to repress all opposition and even planned to exterminate it with the Americans’ invaluable assistance. In Europe, a majority on the Left realized that the Communist utopia was in fact a bureaucratic dystopia, inherited from Stalinist terror, and evolved in many cases towards different conceptions of democratic socialism, transmuted into social-democracy. But it retained a fascination for the Cuban commander as an icon of its gut anti-Americanism. In Latin America, however, this evolution of the Left was slow to arrive, but when it came, it brought a number of interesting innovations, partly due to the fact that the local oligarchies' power remained enormous, and US interventionism was much more aggressive. After all, Fidel managed to resist a thousand plots to kill him, armed invasion attempts, and
nist Party is met: staying in power for more than half a century. Having turned into a moral guide for the guerrilla and the populist movements of the Left, Fidel was an endless source of inspiration for the political battles fought throughout Latin America. The Cuban Revolution originally inspired the FARC in Colombia and many other guerrilla movements, and when it seemed about to become exhausted, it became the model for the Bolivarian movement, which found inspiration and guidance in Fidel from the very beginning (Hugo Chávez’s and commander Fidel Castro’s reciprocal fascination, which began in 1994, is well-known, and it was in Cuba that the charismatic colonel decided to have his cancer be taken care of until his death in 2013). The Fidel Castro icon has remained alive in Latin America, more than anywhere else, as an irrefutable proof that it is possible to resist with dignity Yankee imperialism and its associates. But the dignity of resistance ended up justifying, in the name of an idolized – and thus untouchable - revolution, the lack of civil and political liberties and the abuses of what turned out to be a repressive and autocratic regime. The epic of the anti-imperialist struggle and the social achievements at home keep on justifying today the rhetoric of an anachronistic leftism which puts the blame on foreign imperialism for the shortages its peoples face and for its own mistakes, and which lacks any capacity for self-criticism whatsoever, even when the polls take the power away from them. Fidel embodies almost all the 20th century contradictions, but perhaps his sentence has been living too much and witnessing how his revolutionary legacy has definitely ceased to work, even in its last incarnation, Venezuela’s Chavista regime. And Cuba, under his brother Raúl, the dynastic heir and the guardian of the Revolution, seems to be home to the last of the inherited contradictions of the last century: a combination of a highly deregulated capitalist economic system and an authoritarian regime with a Communist rhetoric which, while welcoming foreign capital, denies freedoms, represses dissenters and survives through corruption. The temptation is to follow the Chinese or Vietnamese model (it is perhaps premonitory that the last public image of Fidel Castro, ten days before his death, shows him greeting Vietnamese president Tran Dai Quang). This is a model that does not seem to bother the new White House tenant, for whom promoting a democratic transition in Cuba will not be a priority, as long as they let him build hotels and casinos like those of yesteryear. Fidel will probably live on more in the eyes than in the heart of many Latin Americans, and perhaps the black and white heroic pictures of 1959 will end up outstripping the gray tone of his senile years. But the promise of liberation that his revolution brought to the peoples of the hemisphere, being unfulfilled, may not survive.
tough US sanctions which, paradoxically, ended up strengthening him. His fierce resistance and social achievements awarded him the status of a lay saint, a popular leader: an olive-green capped David who was capable of confronting capitalism’s black tophat Goliath. Thanks to his great survival instinct and his cunning to take advantage of the interstices of geopolitics and secure three decades of Soviet aid, Fidel resisted by placing himself under the cover of the Cold War while supporting African decolonization and the multiple Latin American guerrillas. Even when the Berlin Wall finally fell and he USSR imploded, Fidel, in an exercise of pragmatism and military determination, managed to survive the loss of its geostrategic umbrella and a 35% GDP fall between 1989 and 1993. He survived a cruel embargo and the post-Cold War period thanks to the consolidation of a peculiar quasi-autarchic regime which introduced timid capitalist reforms while effectively exporting doctors and teachers in exchange for oil. At home, in order to ensure its legitimacy and prevent its collapse, the regime kept on providing universal education and social services like nobody in the region, demanding in return blind obedience and invading as always the public space with revolutionary rhetoric and omnipresent propaganda, while monitoring and denouncing the impatient and, thanks to the Committees for the Defense of the Revolution effectiveness, unceremoniously jailing opponents, real or suspected. But the economic system, though it went from centralized planning to emergency plan improvisation, has never worked properly enough, and has un- Francesc Badia i Dalmases is Editor of Democracia dergone as little reforms as possible, so as to ensure Abierta. An international affairs expert, author and that the first priority of the (one and only) Commu- political analyst,
Understanding Indigenous Migration in Northeast India Dolly Kikon (University of Melbourne) BengtKarlsson (Stockholm University)
I
n the last decade, large numbers of indigenous youths from the uplands of Northeast India have migrated to metropolitan cities across in India. Many end up in the new service sector, getting jobs in high-end restaurants, shopping malls and spas. The demand for their labour is due to their “un-Indian” looks, “the exotic Asians,” and in association with this, their reputation for being hardworking and loyal. Such labour market value is a remarkable reversal considering the earlier colonial stereotypes of savagery and disobedience, reproduced through the de- politicization of their armed insurrections during the postcolonial period. The daily experiences of vulnerability and marginality as well as the freedom and aspirations that a migratory life seems to engender is an important issue. As anthropologists studying migration in Northeast India, we are concerned with the lives and lifeworlds of indigenous migrants who have travelled from the far-away Northeastern frontier to the expanding cities of South India. This movement does not involve the crossing of any international border, yet both geographically and culturally it is a movement into a very different place. It is a movement away from predominantly rural livelihoods with subsistence agriculture and politics revolving around ethnic homelands, with armed struggles and massive human rights violations and a corrupt local state structure, to a life in major Indian cities, where migrants are seen as outsiders, yet where their “un-
Roundtable series on Migration on December 3 Photo Exhibition on December 3-4 Time – 10:00AM Venue – Hotel Acacia, Dimapur
Naga Employees at the Five Star Hotel, The Palladium, Mumbai. Pictures by Dolly Kikon
Indian” looks and English language skills helps provide relatively well paid jobs in the growing, global service sector.The category of indigenous migrants is not a clear-cut one, as we have observed in our research work, but refers here broadly to people that are categorized by the state as Scheduled Tribes (STs) and who besides their
respective ethnic communities also self-identify and assert themselves as being tribal or indigenous. Although, the term indigenous people have been a source of debate in India, we argue that the two latter terms – tribal and indigenous people – across Northeast India are often used inter-changeably, and in India more generally.
wRiTE-wiNg
An important question we ask in our research is why there is an increasing trend ofmigration among indigenous youth in Northeast India. We feel that asking basic questions like this draws our attention towards why people move and why at this particular point of time? This mobility and the questions we raise emerges as a complex puzzle since these developments has to be understood in the context of an affirmative action regime and a political culture that privilege sedentarism, that is, that people stay put in place and claim rights to ancestral territories.Our work on indigenous labour migration to the metropolis across India needs to be understood in the backdrop of changing land relations, providing and caring for family members and community in the hills, and also new dreams and aspirations of indigenous youths. By doing so, we assess the cultural fissures at work in people’s attachment to the places of their journeys. The young indigenous migrants seem to be out on a journey without fixed destinations, as they struggle to make out what and where “home” is. We refer to this as wayfinding; a journey without a map or beaten paths or pathways to follow and with no clear destination or end station, but rather as a form of movement where the traveller constantly adjust the direction, seeking out new places and economic opportunities as they move on. The research was conducted between 2013-2015 under the research project, “The Indian Underbelly: Marginalisation, Migration and State Intervention in the Periphery” at Stockholm University.
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.
Thursday 01•12•2016
PERSPECTIVE
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
The Nagas’ Ironic Idea of Food
I
n the olden times when the Nagas had not yet come into any sort of contact with the outside world, our society was basically an agrarian society. We cultivated and tilled our own lands. Besides rice which was our main staple food, we planted and reared all sorts of vegetables and fruits that could grow and ripe in our climate and environment. Apart from these plantation activities, our forefathers also domesticated all sorts of animals from cows and pigs to the likes of chickens, ducks and goats. In such an agrarian set-up where modern currency was literally unknown, it was not surprising that everything was counted in terms of all these possessions. And the primary objective of all these agricultural and farming activities was basically to keep food aplenty on the table for all throughout the year. Yes, food was central to the lives, mentality and culture of our forefathers. “The more you eat the stronger and healthier you will be” or “the more food you have the better-off you are” must have been the belief of our forefathers. And in an era where the science of health and medicine had not yet made its entry, it is no wonder that our forefathers lived with such a mentality and idea. Now, in such a society where modern medicine had not yet made its entry, how did the people respond and react to ailments, diseases, plagues and epidemics? Obviously, in a societal set-up where the people were ignorant and primitive in their thinking and attitude and where their agricultural and farming products were all that they had, they would certainly try to find the solution to their health issues from their agricultural and farming products or from some wild plants growing somewhere in the jungle or from some wild animals roaming out there in the deep forest. I believe such traits and beliefs had been common to all primitive people everywhere in the world. In such an agrarian society and set-up where modern medicine and doctors were not around, when someone fell sick, the first thing that the family members did was to find and prepare a food which they thought would be good in restoring the health of the sick person. Rather than being concerned about what to eat and what not to eat, they were probably more concerned about which food would be the most palatable to the tongue of the sick-man so that he could consume the maximum and have a decent and sound sleep. Yes, it is a scientific fact that when a person consumes a great quantity of food he would feel sleepy and he would become mentally dull and less alert and he could easily fall into a deep and sound slumber while the foods are being digested inside his stomach. Maybe, in their ignorance, our forefathers interpreted such an outcome after consumption of heavy meal as benefiting the sick man. And many Nagas seem to have inherited this same idea of food from our forefathers. Yes, even in today’s Naga society where modern science and medicine have reached us, many Nagas still seem to have the same idea about food. When a husband falls sick,
his wife would normally go out and buy a pleasant food item and cook a delicious meal which her husband would devour to the utmost and retire to bed only to wake up the next morning when the sun is already high up in the sky. And by doing so, the wife would feel that she has done a good wife’s role splendidly. And the husband would also feel that he has a wonderful and caring wife who can splendidly take care of him whenever he falls sick. But is that really so? And would such behaviour do any good to the health of the ailing person? Of course, if someone comes home physically exhausted, such a treatment from his wife would make him totally refreshed and revived by the time he wakes up the next morning. And for the wife also, such a behavior is a splendid way through which she can show her love and care for her husband. And in the olden times when we were totally oblivious of the science of health and medicine, it is no wonder even if our ancestors harbored such beliefs. But the irony is that many Nagas even now seem to think that food is the solution to most of our health problems. When someone falls ill, his family members would search and prepare the most delicious meal for him and his friends would also visit him with delicacies like pig leg, cow leg, goat head, local chicken, frogs etc. And there is no denying the fact that many of these foods may have ingredients in them which may prove helpful in restoring and healing the health and wound of a person. And such behaviours on the part of the family and friends are also a superb way to show one’s love, care and concern. But apart from that, I doubt whether such behaviours or consumption of such foods would have any worthwhile benefit on a person’s health. Yes, we often tend to think that food is the solution to our health problems. But rather being the solution, it is highly probable that our eating habits are the root causes of our health issues. Today through the science of health and medicine, we know that our food habits play a most pivotal role in determining the status of our health and wellbeing. If
we consult any world renowned or veteran medical practitioner, I am sure none of them would recommend us to eat pig leg, cow leg, goat head, dog meat or frog for any of our health problem. Rather, staying away from red meat may be a good idea as far as our health and wellbeing is concerned. Yes, we need food daily for our survival. Yes, food can heal but food also can kill and destroy. In this age when health tips are all around, we should make the optimum use of this information technology and learn to use our food as medicines for our body instead of frequently paying visits to the pharmacy every now and then. Yes, learning to use our daily foods as medicines would be the best way to keep the doctor at bay. Now let’s come to the matter which most of us do not want to do at all – exercise. Our forefathers lived an agricultural life and no other occupation was known to them. From their childhood till the day they died, planting, farming and rearing animals was all that they knew and did. This occupation demanded an active lifestyle from them. They went to the paddy field everyday and toiled the whole day whether it was sunshine or rain. Thus they lived a very physically active life. Therefore when their lifestyle itself was that much active, the need of doing regular exercise might not have been relevant for them. But today when most of us are literally living sedentary lifestyles because of the comfort of our cars, our desktops, laptops, our phones, our televisions etc, regular physical exercise has become as much necessary as food and water. Yes, medical science says that the best tool available at hand for us to keep away cancer, diabetes, strokes, heart-attacks etc is regular physical exercise. Most of us associate exercise with getting up early in the morning and running miles. As such our exercise mission becomes a big hurdle even before we start because of problems associated with time, space, environment and ego. But exercise can be in many forms. Today multiple exercise avenues (outdoor as well as indoor) are available to us. Exercise methods with or without equip-
ments are aplenty all around us. From my own experience, I can testify to the amazing wonders of regular physical exercise. Because of my concern for my health I stay away from alcohol and tobacco in any form. I also drink enough water everyday. These have been a routine for me for almost 20 years now. But I got into regular exercise only some 3 years back and ever since then, it has been doing wonders for me and I often blame myself for not cultivating this habit earlier. Before I got into regular physical exercise, fatigue was a real issue for me even though, by the grace of God, I do not suffer from any health issue. Yes, I used to get tired very easily and it was because of this that an afternoon nap of about one hour was a daily necessity for me without which I could not remain normal. But after I started my regular indoor breathing and stretching exercise some three years back, I no longer need this afternoon nap. Previously, whenever I do any physical work (even minor ones) or whenever I return home from outside, exhaustion would set in and I would be on the verge of collapse if I don’t lie down for at least a few minutes. For example, during those times, even changing my car tyre was strenuous physical work for me. Whenever I changed my car tyre, I would breathe heavily and sweat a lot. And by the time I finished changing the tyre I would feel like coming out of a boxing ring after fighting with a heavyweight champion. But now, changing my car tyre is not something I dread or dislike anymore. Rather, surprisingly, I look forward to my car tyre getting punctured so that I can get the opportunity to change the tyre. Changing my car tyre is now a pleasure for me because every-time I do this, I can feel the strength and energy in my shoulders, my arms and my wrists and I no longer breathe and sweat heavily like I used to. And I can safely say that this incredible increase in the level of my energy, strength and stamina is not because of eating pork, beef or dog meat but solely because of the regular physical exercise which has now become a part of my life. Yes, my first-hand tryst with regular exercise has taught me that regular exercise can do wonders for my health and wellbeing which eating pork, beef, dog meat or any kind of wild animal meat can never do. So the bottom line is this: there are many foods which are palatable and irresistible to the Naga tongue. Yes, food is fundamental for our survival and we need it everyday. Food can heal….. but food can also kill and destroy. And food may not be the solution for most of our health issues…. rather our food habits may be at the root causes of our health issues. To live long and healthy, we need to look beyond food and realize that habits like drinking enough water daily and engaging in regular physical exercise can do wonders for our health and wellbeing. If we truly want to demonstrate that our bodies are temples of God, these realizations are the fundamental tools needed. Let us also remind ourselves that a healthy mind can reside only in a healthy body and only healthy people can make worthy contributions to the society……
Journalism in Honduras Trapped in Violence Thelma Mejía
I
Inter Press Service
t was in the wee hours of the morning on October 19 when journalist Ricardo Matute, from Corporación Televicentro’s morning newscast, was out on the beat in San Pedro Sula, one of the most violent cities in Honduras. He heard about a vehicle that had rolled and was the first on the scene of the accident. When he saw four men in the car, he called the emergency number, for help. Little did he know that they were members of a powerful “mara” or gang. Furious that he was making the phone call, they shot and wounded him, and forced him to get back into the TV station’s van, along with the cameraman and driver, and drove off with them. But other journalists who also patrol the city streets each night saw the kidnapping and chased the van until the gang members crashed it and fled. If they hadn’t been “rescued” this way, the three men would very likely have been killed, because the criminals had already identified Matute and they generally do not leave loose ends, the journalists involved in the incident told IPS. Matute, who is part of TV5´s socalled Night Patrol, was wounded in the neck with an Ak-47. The reporters lamented that in spite of the fact that the accident occurred near military installations and that they asked for help, the military failed to respond. “The state does not protect us, but rather attacks us,” one journalist told IPS on condition of anonymity. Now Matute, a young reporter who was working for Televicentro, the biggest broadcasting corporation in Honduras, is safeguarded by a government protection programme, under a new law for the protection of human rights activists, journalists, social
communicators and justice system employees. Some 10 journalists, according to official figures, have benefited from the so-called Protection Law, in force for less than a year. Matute sought protection under the programme after the authorities released, a day after the accident, a video showing the gang members who attacked him, captured by a local security camera. They were members of Mara 18 and carried AK-47 and AR-15 rifles. Mara 18 and MS-13 are the largest gangs in Honduras. Mara 18 is the most violent of the two. Through turf wars they have basically divvied up large towns and cities for their contract killing operations, drug dealing, kidnappings, money laundering and extortions, among other criminal activity. The authorities recommended that Matute take refuge under the protection programme and leave his job, since after the video was broadcast, the gang members felt exposed and could act against him in retaliation. The young reporter Mai Ling Coto, who patrolled with Matute in search of night-time news scoops,
told IPS that reporting in Honduras is no longer a “normal” job but is now a dangerous occupation. This is especially true in a belt that includes at least eight of the country’s 18 departments or provinces, according to the Violence Observatory of the Public National Autonomous University of Honduras. “Now the only thing that is left is to entrust ourselves to God. We used to report normally without a problem, but now things have changed, especially for those of us who work at night. We have to learn new codes to move around danger zones in the city and the outskirts,” she said. “If we go to gang territory, we have to roll down our windows and flash our headlights; we move around in groups so they see that we are not alone,“ said Coto from San Pedro Sula, describing some of the security protocols they follow. San Pedro Sula, 250 kilometres from the capital, is the city with the most developed economy in Honduras. It has a population of 742,000, and in 2015 had a homicide rate of 110 per 100,000 people. This Central American nation
of 8.8 million people is considered one of the most violent countries in the world. The Commission for Free Expression (C-Libre), a coalition of journalists and humanitarian organisations, reported that between 2001 and 2015 63 journalists, rural communicators and social communicators were murdered. In 2015 alone, C-libre identified 11 murders of people working in the media: the owner of a media outlet, a director of a news programme, four camerapersons, a control operator, three entertainment broadcasters, and one announcer of a religious programme. Most of them occurred outside of Tegucigalpa. Ana Ortega, director of C-Libre, believes that journalism is not only a victim of violence, but also of laws and impunity. She stated this in the group’s annual report on freedom of expression, observing that a secrecy law obstructs the right of information, while new reforms to the criminal code are planned with references to the press. “Now it turns out that reporters not only have to avoid comment-
ing or giving news that affects the country’s power groups, but also common criminals, and meanwhile the authorities don’t give us any real assurance of protection,” Juan Carlos Sierra, director of the news broadcast where Matute worked, told IPS in Tegucigalpa. Another journalist from San Pedro Sula who asked to remain anonymous added: “We are helpless because we cannot trust the authorities, the police or the public prosecutors, since when they see us, they attack us and sometimes send us as cannon fodder to certain scenes, and they arrive afterwards.” “We feel like neither the state nor the authorities respect us,” he said. The state, Sierra added, “has not had any interest, now or before, in resolving murders of journalists, let alone violations of freedom of expression.” For human rights defender and former judge Nery Velázquez, the vulnerability faced by reporters, “far from dissipating, is growing, and we have come to accept tacitly that the impunity surrounding these murders becomes the norm, while freedom of the press is restricted.” Of the 63 documented murders, legal proceedings began in just four cases, and of these, only two made it to the last stage – an oral public trial – and ended with the conviction of the direct perpetrators, but not of the masterminds who ordered the murders. “Investigation in Honduras is a failure, everything is left in prima facie evidence, and not only the press is trapped here by violence, but also human rights activists and lawyers,” Velázquez told IPS. According to reports by human rights groups, corruption and organised crime are the main threats to freedom of speech in Honduras, where being a journalist has become a high-risk occupation over the last decade.
7
Can we decolonise human rights? José-Manuel Barreto openDemocracy
“Who defines the concept of human rights?” Stephen Hopgood asks. The answer will come from a new North-South dialogue building on the foundations of the dominant eurocentric history, which could reclaim the emancipatory potential of the human rights tradition
S
tephen Hopgood is right when he says that there is a crisis in the way human rights are conceived from the perspective of the global North, and calls for a "transnational kind of movement" that recreates, reinvigorates and takes forward human rights in the times of globalisation. For him, human rights are to be redefined in a "post-western world." The path suggested by Hopgood finds a congenial space in openGlobalRights, a "multilingual project aiming to bring people of the south and north together in a discussion about the future of human rights." Indeed, this "new kind of debate" holds the key for a different conceptualisation of human rights, one which advances the struggle for global justice. The conventional eurocentric understanding of rights does not allow for a comprehensive history of rights. Emerging from historical events like the French Revolution and the atrocities of World War II, and from accompanying landmarks such as the Declaration of the Rights of Man, human rights were adopted as a response to absolutism and totalitarianism. Born in these specific circumstances, rights have been mainly conceived as shields to protect individuals from abuse by their own governments. Understandings of social and economic rights have been part of the same western canon. Though political ideologies cleaved this tradition during the Cold War, Karl Marx’s critique of individual rights, as well as the socialist lineage of social and economic rights, created a contemporary definition of rights more closely resembling that suggested by Louis Henkin, "a twentieth-century synthesis of an eighteenth-century thesis and a nineteenthcentury antithesis." The liberal and the socialist traditions of rights are fundamental political and ethical assets of all civilisations, and need to be treasured and defended for centuries to come. But is it possible to think of human rights from the perspective of the third world, or from the point of view of the victims of five centuries of colonialism advanced by empires and transnational companies? The utopian energy of human rights must be entrenched and thought anew. As part of this task it is important to delegitimise the use of human rights as tools of imperialism: from Francisco de Vitoria and Juan de Sepúlveda in the 16th century to George Bush and Tony Blair, the rhetoric of natural law and human rights has been used to justify colonial wars. Furthermore, we must reclaim the anti-imperial and emancipatory potential of human rights, and imagine a theory grounded in the landscape of the history and geography of modern imperialism and neo-colonialism. This can be achieved by supplementing the dominant eurocentric tradition of rights. A new approach could re-write the history of human rights to include a number of eccentric events: the resistance to the conquest of the Americas in the 16th and 17th centuries; the independence later gained by colonies throughout the Americas; the struggles against slavery; the Haitian and Mexican Revolutions; the decolonisation of Africa, Asia, the Caribbean and the Middle East in the 20th century; the Civil Rights and Anti-Apartheid Movements; the struggles against right-wing and leftist dictatorships and totalitarian regimes in Latin America and Communist Europe in the 1980’s. Last but not least, the emergence of indigenous groups, social movements and entire peoples fighting today in the global South against abuse and devastation caused by contemporary states, empires, transnational corporations and international financial institutions. In a similar way it is vital to show how outside the west there also exists an intellectual tradition of resistance to imperialism and to the violence of the state in which natural law and human rights are central. This alternative canon includes the works of figures such as Bartolomé de las Casas, Antonio de Vieira, Guamán Poma, Otobah Qugoano, Toussaint L’Ouverture, Sojourner Truth, WEB du Bois, Gandhi, Martin Luther King, the Dalai Lama, Nelson Mandela, Rigoberta Menchú and Upendra Baxi, among others. All these omitted historical landmarks and marginal thinkers should feature prominently alongside the landmarks of the dominant but incomplete eurocentric history and theory of human rights. We need to re-think or to decolonise human rights in order to face the challenges of globalisation and neo-colonialism. One of the ways forward is to classify the mainstream theory of rights as eurocentric, and to elaborate a more complex theory through a critical dialogue between eurocentric and third-world perspectives, one that accompanies longstanding South-South dialogues.
8
ThursDAY 01•12•2016
INDIA
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Callers for dollars - Inside India's scam call centres
MUMBAI, NoveMBer 30 (reUters): In late September, a woman in National City, California, received a voice message on her phone saying she was in trouble with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) over "tax evasion or tax fraud". Panicking, she rang the number and told a man who said he was from the IRS: "I can pay $500," half the sum demanded. "I could do a payment plan. I just can't pay all of it at once." "Ma'am, you can pay $500 today itself. You can do that?" the man asked, adding that lawyers would look at her accounts and work out a monthly payment plan, but she had to pay half now. In transcripts of the conversation that investigators shared with Reuters, the man told her to keep the phone line open and drive to a nearby grocery store, where she bought $500 worth of iTunes gift cards and gave the 'agent' the redemption codes. She had just been scammed - one of at least 15,000 people the U.S. Justice Department says lost more than $300 million in an "enormous and com-
Police escort men who they said were arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of tricking American citizens into sending them money by posing as U.S. tax officials, at a court in Thane, on the outskirts of Mumbai on October 6, 2016. (REUTERS File Photo)
plex fraud" running since 2013. The department last month brought grand jury charges against 56 people in India and the United States for "telefraud" scams run from fake call centres in India. Investigators have arrested 20 people in the United States, and Indian authorities have made 75 arrests following October raids on three premises in the Thane suburb of Mumbai. Charges include con-
spiracy to commit identity theft, impersonation of an officer of the United States, wire fraud and money laundering. Indian police say they are looking for Sagar Thakkar, a man in his early 30s also known as Shaggy, who they believe masterminded the scam. Thakkar was also among those named by the U.S. Department of Justice. Reuters was unable to contact Thakkar for comment; he is not known to have a
lawyer, and police believe he fled to Dubai last month. "We are trying to complete the procedure to issue a red corner notice for Thakkar," Parag Manere, a deputy commissioner at Thane police, told Reuters, referring to an Interpol arrest warrant. Police said Thakkar led a lavish lifestyle, frequenting 5-star hotels and driving expensive cars with proceeds from the scam. He gave one, a 25 million
rupee ($365,000) Audi R8, to his girlfriend. "We have seized an Audi car, and are trying to find other assets of Thakkar," Manere said. The FBI, which is involved in the investigations, declined to comment. The Department of Justice did not respond to requests for comment for this article. At a news conference last month, Assistant Attorney General Leslie Caldwell said the U.S. would seek the extradition of suspects in India, and warned others engaged in similar schemes they could face jail terms. In interviews before the U.S. charges were filed, police, suspects and call centre workers in India told Reuters how the scam was run. Training materials and taped conversations, which investigators believe were made by call centre instructors for training purposes, shed some light on an operation aimed to exploit the aged and gullible.
"TAUGHT TO BE TOUGH" "The revenue was unpredictable. Some days were good, some were bad," Haider Ali Ayub Mansuri, who said he managed operations at one fake call centre, told Reuters as he
was returned to jail in India last month after a court extended his custody. He is among the 75 arrested by Indian police. "On a good day, we extracted as much as $20,000 from a single U.S. citizen," he said. In India, the sheer scale of the operation surprised many. For months, hundreds of young men and women worked nights at several call centres in Thane. Callers posed as IRS officers and threatened their victims, often newly-arrived immigrants and the elderly, into paying fictitious tax penalties electronically - sometimes by buying gift cards and turning over the redemption codes, Indian investigators said. "They used to blast out pre-recorded messages to thousands of citizens who were asked to call back. When they called back, there was a centre just like this," said Manere at Thane police. Acting on a tip-off, police raided premises in early October as call centre workers settled in for their shift. The buildings housed seven call centres, and over a few days more than 700 people were detained. Most have since been re-
leased, but told not to leave the city. Callers bullied their victims with the threat of arrest, jail, seized homes and confiscated passports. "There was one instance where an old lady was crying," because she didn't have the money to pay, said a former call centre worker who spoke only on condition of anonymity. "But we kept insisting on the money. We were taught to be tough," he told Reuters. On a follow-up raid in Ahmedabad, 500 kms (310 miles) north of Mumbai, police uncovered what they believe was "a nerve centre for these centres," said Manere. "A lot of money has been transacted. It's been going on for a few years." The police raids found little in the way of documentation, beyond some training materials. Another former worker said this was likely because call centre managers stopped employees from bringing pens and phones to work. Reuters was unable to independently confirm the accounts provided by call centre workers.
er, an economics graduate, told Reuters she took a job without knowing what the centre did. The 12,000 rupee monthly salary was well below the going rate for a graduate, she said, but it was a job, and "people aren't hiring." She said several of her colleagues looked as though they had just left high school. Her first week was spent in training with floor managers. While callers spoke to their victims, she said dozens of trainees squeezed in around the room, and had to memorise pages of dialogue for use on calls. Another former employee said his instructors told him his work was illegal, but there was "nothing to worry about." Callers made "fast money", another former caller told Reuters. In comments confirmed by investigating officer Mukund Hatote, the worker said: "For every dollar you brought in, you were given 2 rupees.” People wanted to leave rather than be involved in something they suspected was illegal, he said, but carried on because managers offered weekly incentives, WEEKLY INCENTIVES such as cash or gadgets, for Another former work- meeting their targets.
Demonetisation: When payday pained salaried Indians After court battle, women enter Haji Ali Dargah New DelhI, NoveMBer 30 (IANs): Chaotic queues got longer on Wednesday as people in large numbers scrambled for money after monthly salaries got credited in bank accounts -- the first since the high value currency was scrapped, causing an unprecedented cash deficiency across India. Most private companies in India credit salaries to their employees on the last day of a month even as labour laws allow wages to be disbursed on any day before the 10th of the next month. As soon as the salaries were credited, millions of employees began queuing up outside banks and ATMs across the country to withdraw cash to meet their monthly needs and pay their domestic helps, drivers and clear their monthly grocery and other bills. Since the supply of notes from currency chests has failed to keep pace with the demand for cash after 86 per cent of currency in circulation was declared illegal on November 8, the chaos worsened on the payday as more households needed cash than earlier. Several banks ran out of cash within hours of opening. Some bank officials complained that they were getting cash much below what they need. Bankers said they were rationing withdrawals so that more customers were catered to. People were seen in bigger numbers waiting to withdraw money. Many were annoyed by the rush and the arbitrary withdrawal limits set by banks. And the situation could get worse in the coming days as more number of people will receive salaries. "I have to pay my maid and grocery bills in cash. I somehow managed to convince my landlord to accept the rent in cheque but I am bound to visit the bank for other payments," said Vishakha Sharma from west Delhi.
MUMBAI, NoveMBer 30 "It was a hugely emotional experi- pers each day. On Tuesday, women (thoMsoN reUters FoUN- ence. It has been a tough battle, with entered the shrine with their heads DAtIoN): Hundreds of women many hardships, but we are glad we covered, amid song and prayer, Sopoured into the inner sanctum of prevailed," said Zakia Soman, co- man said. the iconic Haji Ali Dargah mosque in founder of Bharatiya Muslim Mahila Women had been allowed in Haji Mumbai on Tuesday after a Supreme Andolan (BMMA), or Indian Muslim Ali Dargah's inner sanctum unNew DelhI, NoveMBer 30 (IANs): Parliament on Wednesday Court order granted them equal ac- Women's Movement, a rights group til 2011, when their entry was sudsaw yet another day of washout with an aggressive opposition raking up cess, sparking hope for other cases of that had filed a petition in the Mum- denly banned. BMMA filed a petifresh demand for obituary reference for the army personnel killed in the bai High Court for equal access. tion in 2014 against the ban, and the discrimination against women. Nagrota attack and for the over 80 deaths in demonetisation-related issues "This is a beginning. It gives me greatMumbai court in August ordered the The lengthy legal battle for women to as well as pressing for a debate on scrapping of 500 and 1,000 rupee notes er confidence about other matters mosque's trust to lift it. enter the heart of Haji Ali Dargah is under a rule that entails voting. one of many cases for equal access in of gender justice we are fighting for, The trust challenged the order in the Neither the Rajya Sabha nor the Lok Sabha could transact any business such as triple talaq," whereby a Mus- Supreme Court, which last month places of worship in India. due to continuous uproar and pandemonium, leading to both houses belim man can divorce his wife by say- upheld the lower court's order. Also Members of the Haji Ali Dargah ing adjourned early. Trust, which had argued it would ing "talaq" - or "I divorce you" - three in western Maharashtra, where Haji This was the 10th consecutive day of Parliament to be wasted. Ali Dargah is located, women activbe a "grievous sin" to allow women times. near the tomb of the 15th century The Haji Ali Dargah mosque, built ists had earlier gained entry to the The 27-year-old waited outside a women drove from one place to an- Sufi saint housed within the mosque, on an islet about 500 metres from the Shani Shingnapur temple, one of bank for two hours. "It is so humili- other, halting wherever they saw an welcomed women from across India coast, can only be reached at low tide a handful of Hindu temples in the ating that we have to stand in long ATM alive, albeit with long queues. and draws thousands of worship- country that denies women access. on Tuesday with tea. Though many Mumbaikars have queues and beg for our own money." An MNC employee, Yogesh Ya- shifted to making certain payments dav, said he had come to withdraw Rs online or by debit/credit cards, there 24,000 from his bank account but was are many bills which need to be paid given only Rs 10,000. "It's the end of the in cash. Many feared that the situamonth and I am supposed to pay bills. tion could worsen on Thursday. MUMBAI, NoveMBer ers in entrepreneurship ship, and state-, gender- tions can be taken up in "Everything has come to a stand- 30 (IANs): Out of 740 rec- were females. Only 10 doc- and language-wise distri- Indian universities. Since How will I manage?" Yadav asked. A resident of Krishna Nagar in still. Worse, many online payments ognised universities in In- torates theses were sub- bution of research in the the whole country is geared Delhi, Rahul Chauhan got his salary systems are jammed due to the sudmitted in Hindi, and the subject. towards entrepreneurial credited on Tuesday but could not den heavy traffic and payments are dia, only 66 awarded doc- remaining (167) in English. The primary source for movement, state-level entorates to 177 candidates withdraw even after standing in a pending," fumed a pharmaceutical The research entitled the date was obtained from trepreneurship policies can consultant P. Venkataraman from in entrepreneurship in the queue at 3 a.m. on Wednesday. 'Study Of Entrepreneur- the official publications of be studied," Saxena said. past 16 years, a new study "By the time my chance to enter Kandivali, a Mumbai suburb. ial Research and Doctoral the Association of Indian The researchers sughas revealed. Mob vandalises bank in Bengal the bank came, it ran out of cash." The lion's share of Dissertations in Indian Universities for 2000-2015 gested that Indian univerMeanwhile, a mob vandalised Scenes in Kolkata, like the rest of sities should increase availIndia, played out no differently. In a nationalised bank in West Bengal 20,271 doctorates was Universities' was conduct- period, they said. ed by Kavita Saxena and Saxena said entrepreability of PhD programmes, bagged by the social sciapprehension of a mad rush, people on Wednesday after they could not started queuing up outside banks withdraw money despite being in the ences, said the study by Ganapathi Batthini of EDII. neurship as an area of study concentrate on providing The study's intention is gaining momentum and methodological educaEntrepreneurship Develand ATMs since morning. queue for hours. was to identify the nature the discipline is moving to- tion, training and research opment Institute of India "I am in the queue since 8.30 A State Bank of India (SBI) branch and direction of entrepre- wards academic legitimisa- in entrepreneurship, linka.m.," said Sougata Mitra, an employ- at Jagadishpur in Howrah district was (EDII). With 25 doctorates in neurship research since tion, but there is still a long up with corporate or famee of a private firm outside a Bank of attacked around 3 p.m., a police offiily business enterprises on entrepreneurship, Maha- 2000, to identify quantita- road ahead. India branch in central Kolkata. cer said. No one was arrested. "Though the current which evidence-based reIt was 10.45 a.m. when IANS The bank customers lost pa- rashtra topped the national tive growth of entreprecaught up with Mitra, and already 50- tience as they could not take out list, followed by Karnataka neurship research com- study identifies women en- search can be explored. trepreneurship as the most This can help bridge the 60 customers had lined up. money in spite of standing in the (18), Madhya Pradesh (15) pared to social sciences. It also attempted to find preferred area of research, divide between knowledge and Andhra Pradesh and The first salary day after demon- queue for long hours. out the contribution of var- more research can be done in the field of entrepreneuretization proved haranguing for the The glass door and window panes Telangana (12 each). Of these, only 41 per sities in awarding doctoral to identify other areas in ship and its practical applimaximum city Mumbai where most of the bank were broken. Police had ATMs ran dry. Desperate men and to intervene to control the situation. cent or 73 of the research- degrees in entrepreneur- which doctoral disserta- cations, they said.
Deadlock holds up Parliament as another day washed out
Families living on trees in Jharkhand for fear of elephants rANchI, NoveMBer 30 (IANs): At least four families have been forced to live on trees because of the terror of rampaging elephants near Ranchi, the capital city in Jharkhand. A herd of elephants has created fear among the people living in villages near Ranchi as well as those travelling along the Ranchi- Jamshedpur National Highway. The highway remains deserted for hours due to the fear of the wandering elephants. Some families living in Loharatola village in Bundu, around 45 km from Ranchi, have made makeshift perches on trees. They sleep on trees to protect themselves from elephants. A herd of elephants damaged their houses last year. The families left their village and have been living through fields as they have agricultural land. "During the daytime, we are involved in farming activities. The children collect small pieces of bricks for pelting at the elephants," said Janki Munda, head of a family which lives on trees. There are more than 15 families in the village and all depend on farming for their livelihood. The village lacks basic facilities, exposing the tall claims made by the state government about development work in Jharkhand. "We are left to fend ourselves. We eke out living by cultivating our farms. We have no other option for making our living. We live in the fear of elephants and have made makeshift shelters on trees," said Parikshit Lohra. Jharkhand has been witnessing large-scale devastation by rampaging elephants. Herds of elephants damage standing crops, houses and kill people. More than 1,000 people have been killed by elephants in Jharkhand since the state was carved out of Bihar in November 2000.
'Only 177 PhDs in entrepreneurship in India since 2000'
'Handle with care', they are humans too New DelhI, NoveMBer 30 (IANs): In December 2003, when Chinmay Dharmesh Modi was 9, his parents discovered that they were suffering from AIDS. It was like a bolt from the blue. The situation became turbulent for Chinmay's family, whereas he was too young to realise the implications of the disease. "My mother had a gynaecological problem, and so her doctor referred her for a few medical tests. Everything seemed to be perfect, except the HIV test. The doctor, for his re-confirmation and satisfaction, called my mother for s second time," Chinmay, now 23, told IANS. "The doctor later revealed that her HIV Test was positive. Everyone was shocked with the report -later, my father and I, too, were found to be HIV positive," he added. Chinmay, young as he was, grew terrified, being unable to understand why everyone who visited them
ple are shunned by their family and friends, or by their community. Many others face poor treatment in healthcare and educational settings. Chinmay recalled how he was thrown out of school when the authorities learned that he was HIV positive. But later, due to pressure from an NGO, Gujarat State Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS, the school had to take him back. "Even when I was back to school, I was secluded by my teachers and friends. I used to be all alone most of the time," Chinmay rued. "Even the doctors exploited and discriminated against us. My parents, who suffered from weak eyesight, are now blind due to negligence and late treatment by doctors, and it shook me," he said. Strong-willed Chinmay, who is now an Executive Member representing Youth
and Adolescents living with HIV in the National Coalition of People Living with HIV in India (NCPI+), was also the victim of ex-pulmonary tuberculosis a few years back during his graduation. "There is a need to create
Chinmay, who is currently a professional social worker, has also worked with some big names, including late President A.P.J Abdul Kalam, Congress President Sonia Gandhi, the South African Cricket Team and veteran actress Sharmila Tagore. He also represented India at the International Congress on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific (ICAAP) in Sri Lanka (2007) and Bangladesh (2016). To remove the social stigma over AIDS, people need to be educated about the myths and actual causes of the disease, Chinmay noted. "One of the best ways to fight stigma and empower ourselves against HIV is by speaking out openly, honestly and loudly about who we are and what we experience. Doing this will make you feel happy, fresh, healthy and energetic," Chinmay asserted.
December 1 is World AIDS Day
College students display HIV/AIDS awareness messages on their faces. (REUTERS Photo)
was screaming and crying loudly. He refers to that phase as the worst of his life. An HIV-infected person can additionally suffer from mental health problems. When one's immune system is damaged by HIV, some infections tend to easily affect the nervous system. "Apart from destroying the immunity system of the body, depression is most common among HIV-positive people. It all starts with
a sense of disbelief when tested positive and then the patient loses all hope, leading to panic and fear," Gorav Gupta, Director, Tulasi Healthcare, New Delhi, told IANS. "Many people living with HIV are at an increased risk of developing mood swings, cognitive or anxiety disorders," Gupta added. The consequences of stigma and discrimination against HIV positives are wide-ranging. Some peo-
awareness and bust myths to prevent stigmatisation of such individuals as well as their families. We also need to develop an empathetic attitude and offer our support to them," Samir Parikh, Director, Department Mental Health and Behavioural Sciences, Fortis Healthcare, told IANS. Firoz Khan, the NCPI+ National Coordinator, said: "HIV positive people are as normal as others and we are not demanding any special status. The society should treat us with respect and dignity, as it will enable more people to come forward and live a normal life."
thursdAY 01•12•2016
WORLD
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
9
After Fidel’s death, attention turns to Cuba’s heir apparent HAVANA, NoVember 30 (reuters): With revolutionary leader Fidel Castro dead and his brother Raul vowing to step down as president in 15 months, it will soon be the hour of heir apparent Miguel Diaz-Canel, an advocate for modernizing Cuba’s staterun media and abysmal internet access. Fidel Castro died last Friday aged 90 and the 85-year-old Raul Castro, who took over as president in 2008, says he will step down in February 2018 at the end of his second fiveyear term. Diaz-Canel was elevated to the position of first vice-president in 2013, putting him next in line for the presidency. At 56, he is a relative youngster in the ruling Communist Party’s leadership and will need to appeal to younger generations if Cuban communism is to thrive beyond the Castro brothers. He has already established press and internet freedom as signature concerns, a potentially disruptive change in a one-party state that has monopolized the media for nearly 58 years. Otherwise, however, he has a much weaker public profile than the Castros and it is not clear what policy changes he would push through. Until now, he has held to the party line or avoided
Levy, a former political analyst for the Cuban government whose mother taught Diaz-Canel at university. Raul Castro, who founded Cuba’s Revolutionary Armed Forces and served as his brother’s defense minister for 49 years, will remain first secretary of the Communist Party for three years after he steps down as president, retaining significant power. “Raul Castro will still be around and he will be a big source of legitimacy,” Lopez Levy said.
Cuban President Raul Castro acknowledges the applause from the crowd as he attends a massive tribute to Cuba’s late President Fidel Castro in Revolution Square in Havana. (REUTERS Photo)
public comment on key issues such as economic and political reforms or relations with the United States, which were overhauled by Raul Castro and U.S. President Barack Obama over the past two years. Still, experts say his position as heir apparent is solid and that he would have to stumble badly for someone else to leapfrog him and become the next president in Cuba’s arcane system for choosing its leader. Born after the Castros took power in 1959, DiazCanel is a child of their revolution who rose through the Communist Party by cultivating relationships
within the political elite while avoiding the showboating that ended the careers of other pretenders. “He has the advantage of having outlived his predecessors (as heir apparent),” Christopher Sabatini, a Cuba expert at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs, said on Monday. Other apparent successors to the Castros have emerged over the years only to fall suddenly. Among them were Carlos Lage, then 57 and one of Cuba’s secondary vice-presidents, and Felipe Perez Roque, then 43 and foreign minister. They were both sacked in 2009 as part
of a purge by Raul Castro for appearing too ambitious, unwittingly collaborating with Spanish intelligence agents and for speaking ill of older leaders. Diaz-Canel has been careful not to eclipse Raul Castro and is so cautious as to come off as dull and gray, his public statements largely unmemorable. “He’s sublimated any ambitions he may have had, so the question is what his role and power will be among the old guard. Most people try to imagine him bridging the new generation and the historic one. That should be challenging,” Sabatini said. That reserved behavior
and the government’s secretive nature make DiazCanel largely a mystery to all but Cuba’s political elite. U.S. officials say they know little about him, and most Cubans outside his hometown of Santa Clara know even less. If he does take over in 2018, Diaz-Canel will be following 59 years of rule by the Castro brothers, one who was gifted with abundant charisma and the other who commanded the absolute respect of top military and political figures. “He will be the first civilian president of the revolution and that will require the confidence of the military,” said Arturo Lopez
bicycle. He didn’t do it to look for popularity. He did it because that’s how he was. He was very straightforward,” said Jose Antonio Fulgueiras, 62, president of the journalists’ union in Villa Clara province who covered Diaz-Canel’s rise as a politician and considers him a friend. Beyond its populist touch, the bicycle gave Diaz-Canel greater stealth as he approached state enterprises for surprise inspections. The fight against corruption became his tradeBIKE PATH TO THE TOP mark, and he would ride Diaz-Canel’s path from that bike, figuratively, to young provincial party the upper reaches of power. chief to heir apparent started on a bicycle in the city of PARTY MAN Santa Clara, where he was After nine years as leadborn in his parents’ home er in Villa Clara, Diaz-Canel three blocks from the main took the same job, as first square. secretary, in Holguin provTwo decades ago, his ince in 2003. He was also career was taking off as promoted to the 14-memCuba suffered a severe ber Politburo, the highest economic crisis following leadership of the Commuthe fall of the Soviet Union. nist Party. Average Cubans had no In Holguin, he lacked choice but to opt for a bicy- the hometown advantage cle, or walk to work, while but did well enough to be political leaders commut- summoned to Havana in ed in their Soviet-made La- 2009 to serve as minister das. for higher education. Diaz-Canel chose to Then on February 24, pedal. He would navigate 2013, the National Assemthe provincial capital Santa bly promoted him to first Clara, vying for space on vice-president, a signifinarrow streets clogged with cant generational shift. horse-drawn carts, motorDiaz-Canel was the first cycle taxis and pedestrians. Cuban born after the 1959 “Ever ybody w a s revolution to ascend to the screwed, and the people No. 2 job. saw the first secretary on a Despite his attempt to
remain unexciting, DiazCanel has had his provocative moments, especially with regard to Cuba’s strict control of the official media. He has often called for a more dynamic and open media, and has welcomed the internet, still available to only a small minority of Cuba, as a tool to help the people rather than a threat to the government. Only 5.6 percent of Cuban homes had access to the internet in 2015, according to a 2016 U.N. report. Full-fledged internet access would dilute the disciplined message reported by official media, but DiazCanel says trying to stop the internet’s spread is a losing proposition. “Prohibiting it would be an almost impossible delusion that doesn’t make sense,” he told reporters shortly after becoming first vice-president. The government would later extend Wi-Fi signals to public places across the country. It is unknown whether or how much Diaz-Canel was responsible for that measure. To compete with the public’s demand for social media, he says Cuba’s staterun media needs to change, calling for an end to secrecy, urging more “polemical” coverage of news and telling the Communist Party it should allow more constructive criticism. “Society is demanding more.”
China tells Taiwan to stay Conflict displaces record number of Afghans in 2016 Scientists solve blood clot deaths in cancer patients out of Hong Kong debate beIJING, NoVember 30 (reuters): China called on Wednesday on Taiwan to stay out of Hong Kong’s affairs, saying self-ruled Taiwan was “talking nonsense” about the former British colony and warning it not to damage Hong Kong’s stability. Chinese leaders are concerned about a fledgling independence movement in Hong Kong, which returned to mainland rule in 1997 with a promise of autonomy, and recent protests in the city. Beijing staged a rare interpretation of Hong Kong’s mini-constitution, the Basic Law, in early November to effectively bar pro-independence city lawmakers, Baggio Leung and Yau Waiching, from taking office there. The pair lost an appeal on Wednesday into an earlier Hong Kong court ruling that disqualified them after they insulted China while taking their oaths last month. Three Court of Appeal judges ruled that Yau, 25, and Leung, 30, had no grounds to re-take their oath as a matter of law. Yau and Leung, elected in September polls, have yet to confirm earlier plans to take their case to Hong Kong’s highest court, the Court of Final Appeal. Asked about comments from legislators from Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which favours the island’s formal independence, offering support for Leung and Yau, China’s Taiwan Affairs Office said independence activists from
both sides were trying to link up and sow chaos in Hong Kong. “Compatriots on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, especially those in Hong Kong, should be on high alert for this,” spokesman Ma Xiaoguang told reporters in Beijing. “The words and deeds of Baggio Leung and Yau Wai-ching run contrary to mainstream public opinion in Hong Kong and Hong Kong resident’s basic interests, but relevant parties in Taiwan are helping them, to what intent?” Ma asked. “We advise the Taiwan side not to talk nonsense about the Hong Kong issue, interfere in Hong Kong’s enforcement of ‘one country, two systems’, or damage Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability,” he said. Hong Kong returned to China under a “one country, two systems” agreement that ensured its freedoms and wide-ranging autonomy, including a separate legal system. But Communist Party rulers in Beijing have ultimate control, and some Hong Kong people are concerned they are increasingly interfering to head off dissent. China considers self-ruled Taiwan a wayward province and has never renounced the use of force to bring it under its control. Defeated Nationalist forces fled there at the end of a civil war with the Communists in 1949. Relations between China and Taiwan have worsened since the election of the DPP’s Tsai as Taiwan president in January.
KAbul, NoVember 30 (reuters): The number of people displaced by conflict in Afghanistan this year has surpassed half a million people, the United Nations reported on Wednesday, the highest number since it began tracking such statistics in 2008. More than 515,800 people have been internally displaced by fighting in 2016, surpassing the previous record of about 471,000 set last year, according to the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Violence has spread around the country as the Westernbacked government battles Taliban and other insurgent groups.
The Taliban are estimated to control or contest nearly a third of the country, and casualties among civilians and the security forces are near record highs. Tens of thousands of Afghans have sought asylum in Europe and other areas, but many have been forced to return home. This year, more than 600,000 Afghan refugees who had been living in Pakistan were pressured to return, adding to a potentially longterm burden carried by aid agencies and the Afghan government. “I am concerned these record figures show not just an alarming number of new IDPs, but a longer term crisis where increasing numbers of families in Afghani-
stan are facing prolonged displacement,” U.N. humanitarian coordinator Mark Bowden said in a statement, referring to internally displaced people. “We must collectively rethink the manner in which we provide assistance and ensure that vulnerable displaced families not just receive lifesaving, emergency humanitarian assistance, but support that delivers a real opportunity for IDPs to rebuild their lives for the long-term.” The United Nations says it has received a little over half of the $152 million in emergency funding it needs to address the immediate needs of internally displaced people in Afghanistan.
China offers Myanmar support to end ethnic unrest beIJING, NoVember 30 (reuters): China told Myanmar on Wednesday that they should work together to stabilise their shared border, in the wake of a series of attacks by ethnic armed groups on Myanmar security forces and thousands of people crossing into China to escape the violence. The attacks this month dealt a major blow to Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s top goal of reaching peace with ethnic minorities, while China is worried about the risk of violence in northern Myanmar spilling onto its side of the border, as it did last year, when five Chinese people were killed. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told a visiting Myanmar delegation, led by peace commission chair Tin Myo Win, that Beijing was worried by the deteriorating situation and repeated a call for an end to military action and for talks to resolve disputes. “Both sides should properly use the ChinaMyanmar high-level diplomatic and military
mechanism to jointly maintain the peace and stability of the China-Myanmar border region,” a Foreign Ministry statement paraphrasing Wang said on Wednesday. The sudden escalation in fighting comes as the Myanmar government grapples with a conflict in northwestern Rakhine that has sent hundreds of Rohingya Muslims fleeing to Bangladesh, posing a new challenge to Nobel peace prize winner Suu Kyi, who swept to power last year on promises of national reconciliation. Previous fighting along the border pushed thousands of people into China. And Wang expressed support for Myanmar’s internal peace process and China’s readiness to help. “China is willing, in accordance with Myanmar’s wishes and on the precondition of not interfering in Myanmar’s internal affairs, to play a constructive role in this regard,” Wang said.
WellINGtoN, NoVember 30 (IANs): New Zealand scientists have unlocked the mystery of why so many cancer patients die of blood clots while undergoing chemotherapy in a study. Chemotherapy stimulates release of tiny bubbles from the surface of cancer cells, causing the potentially fatal clots, said the study by University of Otago researchers that came out on Wednesday, Xinhua news reported. Most deaths from cancer were caused by uncontrolled growth of tumour in vital organs, but the second most common way that cancer kills is by triggering blood clotting resulting in thrombosis. The clots cause blockage of major blood vessels, preventing oxygen and nutrients to vital organs. Despite being life-prolonging, chemotherapy is thus associated with a six-to-seven fold increase in the risk of thrombosis in cancer patients. The link between cancer and thrombosis was noted over 100 years ago, but the reasons for the association had been elusive, Associate Professor Alex McLellan said in a statement. McLellan’s team discovered cancer cells treated with chemotherapy releasing lipid-rich bubbles from their membranes that activated coagulation (clotting) processes. “We now have insight into how these bubbles from dying cancer cells may cause thrombosis during chemotherapy,” McLellan said. The research had showed that certain solid cancers were more active in promoting blood coagulation, as compared to lymphomas. “A general pattern is that cancers such as pancreatic, lung and brain cancers carry the largest risk of thrombotic events,” he said. The study opened the possibility of developing inhibitors to the major coagulation pathway identified in cancer cells.
Mosul food and water reserves dwindle as fighting cuts off supplies mosul/bAGHDAD, NoVember 30 (reuters): The United Nations issued a fresh warning on Wednesday about the humanitarian situation in eastern Mosul where the U.S.-backed Iraqi army is locked in heavy fighting with Islamic State militants. More than six weeks into the offensive against Islamic State’s last major city stronghold in Iraq, the army is trying to dislodge militants dug in among civilians in the eastern districts, the only side Iraqi troops have been able to breach. “The situation in eastern Mosul city close to the front lines remains fraught with danger for civilians. Mortar and gunfire continue to claim lives,” the U.N. humanitarian coordinator’s office said. “The limited supplies of food and water are running out, amid concerning reports of food
insecurity emerging from the city.” Water was cut to 650,000 people - or 40 percent of total residents in the city when a pipeline was hit during fighting - a local official said on Tuesday. With winter setting in, aid workers say a full siege is developing around the city and poor families are struggling to feed themselves as prices rose sharply. The longer the conflict drags on, the more civilians will suffer as they are also exposed to violence from the militants bent on crushing any opposition to their rule. Deputy U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Kate Gilmore said on Wednesday there were reports that Islamic State, which has killed residents it suspects of collaborating with the Iraqi army, shot dead 27 civilians in public in Mosul’s Muhandiseen
Park last week. Three weeks ago at least 20 people were killed and their bodies displayed, as if crucified, at road junctions in the city for passing information to “the enemy”. CLOSING IN FROM THE WEST The capture of Mosul, the largest city under control of Islamic State in both Iraq and Syria, is seen as crucial towards dismantling the caliphate which the militants declared over parts of the two countries, after sweeping through Sunni populated northern and western Iraqi provinces in 2014. Iraqi government and Kurdish forces surround the city from the north, east and south, while Popular Mobilisation forces - a coalition of Iranian-backed Shi’ite groups - are trying to close in from the west. Last week Popular Mo-
bilisation fighters cut the supply route to Mosul from Islamic State-held territory in Syria, driving up food prices in the city. With the last supply route cut off, basic commodity prices in Mosul could double “in the short term”, said a humanitarian worker, who declined to be identified. Some 100,000 Iraqi government troops, Kurdish security forces and mainly Shi’ite militiamen are participating in the assault on Mosul that began on Oct. 17, with air and ground support from a U.S.-led international military coalition. Iraqi forces moving from the east are trying to advance to the Tigris river that runs through Mosul’s centre, in the biggest battle in Iraq since the 2003 U.S.led invasion that toppled Saddam Hussein.
Members of the Iraqi Special Operations Forces (ISOF) take position during a battle with Islamic State militants in Mosul, Iraq on November 29. (REUTERS Photo)
WINTER FAVOURS MILITANTS The Iraqi military estimates there are 5,000-6,000 insurgents in Mosul, resist-
ing the advancing troops with suicide car bombs and sniper and mortar fire that also kill civilians. Islamic State leader
Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, believed to be somewhere near the Syrian border, has told his fighters there can be no retreat from the city.
Some 74,000 civilians have fled Mosul and nearby areas so far, and the United Nations is preparing for a worst-case scenario in which more than a million people are made homeless as winter descends and food shortages set in. The winter’s cloudy skies favour the militants, Iraqi officers told Reuters in eastern Mosul on Wednesday. “When the weather is like this they take advantage,” said Maan al-Saadi, a commander of the elite Counter Terrorism Service (CTS), which is fighting inside the city as it advances from the east. “The main goal for CTS is the river,” said Sami alAridhi, referring to the Tigris that cuts Mosul in two, about 3.5 kilometres (2 miles) away. “The federal police and the army will deal with the western part of the city,” he said.
10
ThursDAY 01•12•2016
public discourse
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
‘Our victory or defeat comes from within’ Speech of the Kilo Kilonser Rh. Raising at the awareness campaign meeting on peace process at Makhel Village, November 30, 2016
MAKHEL - THE HISTORIC PLACE: The place where we are standing now is historic. Our fathers gathered here centuries ago. This is the seat of history where our fathers made decision of dividing lands. While some of them stayed back, some others proceeded to different directions in search of green pasture.
NAGAS ARE A POLITICAL PEOPLE: The Nagas today are also equally nationalistic as their fathers. Ruthless persecutions and oppressions perpetrated against the Nagas cannot kill the spirit of their nationalism. The colonial policy of divide and rule too cannot stop the Nagas from being one people and one nation. Realizing that all these are futile exercises Government of India (GoI) THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD BROUGHT approached the NSCN leadership for politiOUR FATHERS HERE: cal talks. And thus the peace process begins. The Israelites moved when pillars of cloud and fire moved. History says our fathers be- SOLUTION THROUGH DIALOGUE: gun their journey from the Middle East. They It is now the time of negotiation, not conkept on moving passing through many fertile frontation. Problems are solved through dialands that flowed with streams and rivers. But logue, not by fist or by sword. Local problem is they did not stop in any of those lands to settle solved through local dialogue; national probas no omens or dreams indicated for posses- lem is solved through national dialogue; bilatsion of the lands. The story goes on that when eral problem of two people is solved through they reached this hilly country they felt quite bilateral dialogue and global problem is solved contented and rest assured. Good omens and through global dialogue. NSCN is committed dreams foretold for possession of this land. to political solution through dialogue. And that They did not think of advancing further from GoI and NSCN have mutually agreed to solve this hilly country to any places. We thought the Indo-Naga political problem bilaterally. that selection of this rugged hilly country is unfortunate and hopeless. But surprisingly, PEACE PROCESS: satellite information reveals that we are sitLand dispute between two villages or nating on the mounts of mineral belt. Truly, the tions is a fight for recognition of ownership. Spirit of the Lord brought our fathers here to Struggling for establishment of a new village make it our blessed home sweet home. or school or any institution is also a fight for Our fathers came with their political, so- recognition. Naga National Independence cial, cultural, economic and religious insti- Movement is a war for recognition of state. All the nation states are the products of tutions. They practiced and preserved their institutions in their sovereign village-states. their history. No people build their state upon They stood their ground with one voice and the sand of dead history. However strong and mind withstanding all kinds of enemy at- wise they may be, nothing will come if fountacks on them. No enemies could defeat dation of a people is destroyed or sold out. them mainly because our fathers were brave The politics of free Nagalim for Christ is built upon that solid foundation of our living hisand highly political.
tory. It is this concept that guides NSCN in all fields. Recently the GoI has recognized the unique history of the Nagas. All people and nations have their respective identities to belong. The identity of the Nagas runs in their blood, culture, religion, social values and political concept. One can change his name and political color, but he can never change his identity. GoI too has recognized the identity of the Nagas. Sovereignty is the power to make or unmake things according to one's wishes and decision without interference from others. Acknowledging the inherent right of the Nagas to decide their future by themselves, GoI has recognized the sovereignty of the Nagas. Several attempts were made to annex Naga territories to India, but to no avail. GoI has now recognized the territories of the Nagas stating that Nagas are the owners of their land. NSCN values land above gold. Land and people are inseparable; land and politics are inseparable; land and culture are inseparable; land and history are inseparable; land and state are inseparable. The Nagas were divided by the colonial power for political reason, against which they have been resisting till date. We have no reason to fight against our neighbors, we are just defending our land against aggressors. It is unwise on the part of any people who try to legitimize the legacy of colonialism. The global political map keeps changing. Members of the UN are ever increasing. Nothing on earth stands still. Everything is transitional. This is the era of democracy. People will decide who and what they want to be. NSCN is strongly opposed to `forced marriage and forced union.' Respecting the aspiration and right of the Na-
gas, GoI has also recognized the legitimate right of the Nagas to integration of all Naga territories under one political umbrella. Nonetheless, recognition of our identity and sovereign right is not the end of the matter, it is viability and survival strategy that are also to be counted. We are surrounded by friends and foes with whom we should have interdependent relationship. As we are created to be social being, we cannot live alone; we cannot move alone; we cannot work alone or fight alone. We must have our political partners, military partners, economic partners and prayer partners. GoI and NSCN have mutually agreed to co-exist as two entities and share sovereign powers as two entities. Shared-sovereignty and co-existence of the two entities are the meeting points of India and Nagas. This agreement will certainly strengthen the security, peace and progress of the two people and the region to a great extent.
them in all prongs. We cannot leave the field to the enemies unopposed. Revolutionary patriots are doing their job in the forefront of military, political and legal battles under the banner of NSCN. But the question is, who will go and fight for us in the Indian assembly and parliament. Our people spearheaded by civil societies are shouting and protesting in the streets. Our human right organization is speaking in the human right platform. Our churches are continuously praying in their congregations. So also our MLA's and MP's must advocate for the cause in the assembly and parliament. Nagas are issue-oriented people. Our fighting and negotiations are issue-based; solution will also be issue-based. Election is also issue-based. Issue comes first, development next. We value our national issue above everything because our future lies in there. If there were no movement of 'free Nagalim for Christ' to guide and shape the future of the Nagas, if there were no national issue to fight for and live for, we would be having no politics, no history, no revolution and no future. We will be a lost people if and when our issue is murdered or sold out like Esau of old. We must cling to the politics of 'my Lord and my people.'
LANDING GROUND: The long cherished solution based on the 'Framework Agreement' will come sooner than expected. It will embrace all Nagas and their territories. Sensing the coming reality, jealousy and desperation have started working in the mind of enemies within and without. They are creating situation every now and then in many ways so that peace process SOLUTION IN OUR DECISION: is sabotaged and solution is aborted. Let us Our victory or defeat comes from within. stand firm with faith, no power can stop us Our solution will come from our decision. It for the era of the Nagas has begun. will never come from the east or west. Now is the time for us to choose freedom or slavELECTIONS: ery. Decide or perish! Let us give thanks to Participating in the Indian elections is the Lord for He has given us an era. This is the a policy matter. Since enemies have come era of the Nagas! from many prongs our strategy is to counter KUKNALIM!
RESPONSE TO ROBERT A. SILVERSTEIN
I
Dr. K. Hoshi | Phek Town
have read your response to my article, “Is Nagaland a failed State?” with great humility. In fact, I have been reading your articles since April 2016. Humility, because I hang my head in shame and my heart writhe in pain that Naga disunity has given space to a realist outside observer like you to point finger at Nagas in general. You have all the opportunities, which you may think your right too, to point out what is ailing a society that profess great love for Naga motherland. At a glance, one may observe that you aimed your writings at dampening our spirit of nationalism as revealed in one of your articles. (Quote) “My position on the Naga cause is that, it is doomed to failure” (unquote). However, on deeper scrutiny, I am convinced that you are testing the preparedness of the Nagas for reality check in international situation. I admire your power of observation, analysis and skill in presenting your points with force and precision beyond the comprehension of ordinary mortals like me. I am inclined to believe that your right wing view on the sovereignty of Nagaland was more on purpose than actual. However, if you deny, I may conclude that your perception of Naga history and situation was entirely different from Nagas’ standpoint. In that case, my argument with you will be just an exercise in futility. Nevertheless, I do not question your liberty to look at our situation from a different perspective. I am clear that it is beyond the power of sovereign Nagaland to impose her will on you. The same is true with your will on Nagas. I also appreciate your downright frankness in opening out your heart to Nagas. The message you are conveying to Nagas is more than clear that Nagas need to come down to reality at ground. It is plainly visible that you are already an authority on Naga history and situation. I only wish that your writings on Nagas were more cohesive. I am saying this in all honesty because I find your selective contextual analysis of others’ works appeared more like fault finding than simply differing in opinion. Please accept my apology if my frankness hurt your feeling. As a retired criminal defense lawyer and a political philosopher; true to your professional expertise and practice, your style of argument akin to that of a full house courtroom case argument is without doubt, impressive. Nevertheless, such courtroom type argument will be worthless your efforts if the argument ends at your level. This is because of the fact that Naga fate is not in your court. Forgive me if I am too blunt but I must write the truth. Therefore, if you are determined to engage us in argument, you must first prove to Nagas that your voice matters at some level of powers. As for your questions posed to me, although I am not bound to answer, I am certainly tempted to do so. If your perception of our history and situation is different, my answers to your questions may not satisfy you. I only hope that your questions were with good intent and not just for the benefit of your research dissertation or for unseen powers working relentlessly to brainwash young Naga minds. Firstly, I want to reflect on Naga stand that Nagas are not demanding independence from India. The basis for this stand had its origin/foundation in the declaration of sovereign Nagaland on August 14, 1947,
a day earlier to India’s independence. Naga National Council (NNC), the lone political institution, which enjoyed the confidence of all Nagas at that time, had built that foundation. Whether or not, India and beyond acknowledge that declaration, it has gone on record in the history of sovereign state of Nagaland. No outside power will erase the reality of this history from the hearts of the Nagas. Again, the birth of sovereign Nagaland differed from that of sovereign India in that, the British dominant power granted independence to India on August 15, 1947 whereas, the sovereignty of Nagaland was self-assertion translated into a declared right on August 14, 1947. The British granted independence to India because Indians were British subjects. The question of India granting independence to Nagaland did not arise at all because Nagas were never Indian subjects before India became sovereign. The question of ‘demand’ comes only in the case of union. In Naga case, there never was any union. For that very fact and reason too, Nagas made unambiguously clear that Naga’s was not a case of secession. Your assumption that India will not, ‘CANNOT’ (which you wrote in capital letters to make a strong point) grant independence to Nagas was absolutely correct because Naga sovereignty is entirely separate from India and for which, Nagas will not and cannot demand from India. It is not even political because the sovereignty of Nagaland was not India’s internal politics. It is a case of sovereign India playing external politics on sovereign Nagaland. Therefore, be sure that any group demanding political settlement with India will not be sovereignty because sovereignty of either Nagaland or India is non-negotiable. In contemporary situation, you may argue that Nagaland became a State in the Union of India. Thus, viewed from this aspect, you may argue your point of demand for independence from India as valid. Fact was that, Nagaland People’s Convention (NPC) and not the Naga National Council (NNC) signed the 16-point agreement with the Government of India (GoI). At that time, NNC was the only political institution mandated by the Nagas. The people’s mandate to NNC manifested in the form of Plebiscite conducted by NNC on May 16, 1951 wherein, all Nagas above 18 years had voted. The result of that plebiscite was astounding 99.9% mandate for independent Nagaland. Whether or not, other sovereign states, including India recognized that plebiscite, the universal convention was that, the will of the people should prevail. Nagaland People’s Convention was not a mandated Naga institution. It was a tribes’ representative body. Thus, the ‘political’ agreement that NPC had signed with the GoI was a ‘consultative’ agreement. Political, because it represented India’s subject, whereas, the sovereignty of Nagaland was not India’s subject. Consultative, because NPC had put on record that it had wide consultations with all tribes’ representatives before drafting the 16-point memorandum. The consultative process did not entail voting by the entire electorates. In absence of voting, the question of mandate did not arise because mandate required voting by the entire electorates. To sovereign Nagaland, India-created State of Nagaland was inconsequential. It was like a road speed breaker that could slow down the speed of a moving car but could not stop the passage
over it. Statehood undoubtedly caused impediment but it has no power to stop restoration of sovereign Nagaland; restoration because the sovereignty of Nagaland preceded the sovereignty of India. India violated the honor of sovereign Nagaland by military aggression since 1954. The aggression took place when India miserably failed to impose her instrument of accession on Nagas from 1947 to 1953. Your prediction that the GoI may send her military to crush the Naga people if they reject political solution and continue with the demand for independence was not without basis because India had attempted total annihilation of Nagas from mid 1950s through mid 1970s. Assam police and Indian Armed Forces tortured Nagas with all kinds of inhumane methods. When it became clear that India was not going to stop until total annihilation, Naga youths had no choice but to rise to the occasion and defend the sovereignty of Nagaland. This formed the basis, which stated that Naga’s is not a case of freedom struggle/ movement but that of self-defense against external aggression. Until 1955, inspired by Mahatma Gandhi’s political philosophy of nonviolence, NNC had resolutely followed that policy in all its political engagements with the GoI. At no stage of Indian aggression, Nagas had doubted the military capability of India to crush the Nagas. The self-defense war was a desperate measure because desperate situation had called for desperate measures at that point of time. Nagas had never doubted the futility of military confrontation with the GoI. Therefore, when Nagaland Peace Mission comprising of Rev. Michael Scott of England, Mr. B. P. Chaliha, the then Chief Minister of Assam and Mr. Jayaprakash Narayan, the Director of Sarvodaya movement of Vinoba Bhave made peace overture to the GoI and the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN); Nagas willingly accepted it. The FGN and GoI signed the bilateral ceasefire treaty on September 6, 1964 as equal sovereign entities and not as one subordinate to other. It surprised me when you emphasized so much about life and strongly advocated the welfare of the living average citizens of Nagaland; you talked in veiled threat about India crushing the Nagas with her military might. This is where Nagas need the goodwill of all humanists to prevail upon India not to attempt another Holocaust in Nagaland because Nagas have not an iota of doubt about the might of India. India definitely has military power and yet, no moral power to crush the Nagas. You might be right in saying no nation will come to the rescue of Nagas. Nevertheless, you will also not deny either that humanity is supreme over the state power. I believe that your advocacy of life over justice and truth as ground reality had a basis on the value and sanctity of that humanism. My mention of Baltic States of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania was merely for historical analogy with the Naga history as you rightly pointed out. Therefore, what will happen to these nations as consequences of USA’s pull out from NATO, I am not competent to comment. India has randomly branded Nagas as traitors and acted accordingly, but the word ‘traitor’ was misplaced because the sovereignty of Nagaland was not the internal affair of India. Your pessimistic view that even if Nagaland becomes sovereign, Nagas have no resources to survive as a viable sovereign State was something that India and others had
always worried for Nagas. I am quite optimistic that sovereign Nagaland will not be as helpless as you imagined for the simple fact that, even the poorest of the poor country is not friendless. The humanitarian services that the developed nations render to the poor, undeveloped nations proved that the world beyond is burdened by the sense of humanity towards fellow human beings. I disagree with your prediction of doom that Nagas will be in hopeless situation, as no nation would come to our rescue. That was nothing but a betrayal of humanity. However, you might be right if you are talking in Indian context, a democratic country with dismal human rights record. It appears that you drew your assumption from the records of India’s Human Rights Watch in which, the Naga genocide escaped their watchful eyes, which otherwise should have topped the list of her records from 1950s to 1970s. The Indian Armed Forces during that period had treated the Nagas in most inhumane ways. Their atrocities were not just simple violation of human rights but crimes against the very humanity. In the history of independent India, the Holocaust of Nagaland was the worst ever, unparalleled anywhere in India. In one of your writings, you mentioned that, (quote) “Focusing on atrocities in the Indian-Nagaland context is irrelevant, no matter how tragic these atrocities were” (unquote). Your message was more than clear that you want the Nagas to forget the past and focus on the reality of life at hand. The line also proved what scant regard you have for the dead. Your opinion was that, compared to life that Nagas have to live now and beyond, those atrocities of Indian Armed Forces were best forgotten. There should not be any confusion in that, Nagas are prepared to forgive and forget those atrocities the day India pull out her armed forces from Nagaland and Nagaland restores the honor of her sovereignty. This has been the consistent plea of Nagas to Indians. Nagas had never hated the Indians but only hated the inhumane atrocities of her armed forces that nearly wiped out the Nagas. The occupation of Nagaland by Indian armed forces is a constant replay and reminder of that hatred. The presence of large number of Indian Armed Forces in Nagaland is a vindication that India truly dishonored the sovereignty of Nagaland. India tried to bury those atrocities by creating the Indian State of Nagaland. Let me highlight under what background situation/circumstance, Nagaland State in the Union of India came into being. In 1960, A .Z. Phizo landed in London with the atrocities report compiled at ground by the Federal Government of Nagaland to expose India’s Holocaust of Nagas and to plead to the world community to prevail upon India to stop it. Probably, Nehru had never imagined that Phizo was capable to that extent. In order to save India’s face, Nehru had no choice than to convert the external aggression into an internal affair of India. A section of the early-educated Nagas succumbed to Nehru’s bait. He succeeded in translating into action, the universal policy of non-interference in internal affairs of one sovereign State by other sovereign states. His action undoubtedly gained him immediate relief but it was not without regret and long-term ramifications. It became bad precedent as it sowed the seed of secessionist movements in other parts of India. Those background re-
alities proved that to forget the atrocities of Indian armed forces is entirely upon India. The creation of Nagaland State of India was never with any stretch of imagination to develop Nagaland. It was India’s larger political game. What more proof can we give than the sorry state of Nagaland for the past 53 years of existence? I agree that Nagas cannot fully absolve themselves of the mess and keep on blaming India for all our ills. The failure of dishonest leaders of Nagaland State to lead Nagas in the right direction was responsible for most of Nagaland’s ills. Instead of trying to achieve what they had promised to Nagas in the name of statehood, they simply became pawns of the GoI. Had the Naga leaders of Indian State of Nagaland in the helm of affairs being honest, the living condition of Nagas might have been different! There was nothing but betrayal and shame. I will be honest to admit that a development transformation of Nagaland had the possibility to convince most Nagas to forget about sovereignty. Both the Central and State governments missed that opportunity. At one stage of statehood, Nagas were optimistic but now pessimism has engulfed the young generation. There is desperation and frustration everywhere. People are not satisfied and in fact, angry at the deplorable roads, the sorry state of government schools and colleges, hospitals, lack of technical institutions, poor connectivity, rising unemployment, lawlessness wherein, extortion, multiple taxations, illegal syndicates all flourish. People are rising against corruption in high places where powerful leaders embezzle public funds for development without any fear. The cancer of corruption percolates down to all levels of government and semi government establishments. There is rampant power abuse in the form of nepotism and favoritism in appointments in public sectors and public undertakings. In such a state, what would people normally do? In most cases elsewhere in the world, people start revolution. For Nagas, it is a strong call to review statehood in its entirety. You talked about the right of average citizens of Nagaland for honorable life. Is it abnormal and unnatural then, to question the viability of statehood and a genuine call for appraisal? You have squarely blamed the NSCN (IM) for the vicious cycle of corruptions in Nagaland. It is for the NSCN (IM) to respond. However, I have the honesty and courage to agree with your assessment and judgment. What surprises me is that, the GoI is having a dialogue with NSCN (IM) you hold responsible and blamed for all the ills of Nagaland. I hope you have answer for this hypocrisy. Your conclusion that a solution, which addresses all the problems confronting the Nagas, will meet the aspiration of sovereignty was no doubt optimistic but not convincing enough. The general belief and perception of outsiders (non-Nagas) is that, the sovereignty of Nagaland is under the disposal of India. This misconception stemmed from the fact that, either they are ignorant or refuse to see beyond the myopic context of India-created Nagaland State. Finally, you may like to contest many of my points and engage me in your endless arguments but I repeat that, unless you have the power and goodwill to take Nagas beyond your courtroom, I will decline all your questions hereafter because it will be meaningless.
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.
Thursday 01•12•2016
EntErtainmEnt
KK to perform in Dimapur toDay Morung express News Dimapur | November 30
W
ith Hornbill Festival kicking off, fans of Hindi music in Nagaland are in for a treat. Established playback singer from the Hindi music industry Krishnakumar Kunnath, better known as KK, arrived in Dimapur on Wednesday along with his entourage. Following his arrival in Dimapur, KK was whisked away to a waiting car nearby where he was accorded with bouquets and shawls before being taken to Hotel Acacia. The Pal and Yaron hitmaker is in Di-
DPS Dimapur wins ‘Western Vocal Music Competition Trophy’
mapur as part of the Hornbill Festival and will be performing in the Hornbill Bollywood Dhamaka on Thursday, 6:30 pm at the Dimapur District Sports Council (DDSC) Stadium, Dimapur. Tickets for the concert are priced at Rs 200, Rs 500 and Rs 2000. DDSC will host the Hornbill Bollywood Dhamaka again on December 3 in which another prominent Bollywood playback singer Kailash Kher will perform. Nagaland’s own Polar Lights and Incipit will take centre stage during the Hornbill Music Night at the DDSC on December 2 along with Mizoram’s Boomerang.
Force 2 (HinDi)
Hillstar
Now ShowiNg
NOW SHOWING
revIseD TICKeT rATes (silver) : `.120 (Gold) : `. 200 (recliner) : `. 400
Dear ZinDagi
Fantastic beasts (englisH)
(02:00 PM) (07:00 PM) 03862-237226 Ticket Counter (09:00 AM - 09:00 PM)
WWW.BooKMYsHoW.CoM (ID: PLAYBox DIMAPur)
D
elhi Public School, Dimapur achieved a historic milestone in the field of music by being the only school choir to win the coveted ‘Western Vocal Music
C M Y K
Competition Trophy’ for the fourth consecutive time. By virtue of the recent win, the “Rolling Trophy” will now permanently decorate the school as a sign of honour achieved in
Nagaland Chief Minister TR Zeliang visting the Hornbill Festival venue, Kisama where he also witnessed the rehearsal programme on November 30.
The Creatorz KV performs during the grand finale of Classic Cup 2016 in Kohima on November 30. (Morung Photo)
co-scholastic area beside academics. The Inter — DPS Western Vocal Music Festival (National) was held at DPS Faridabad on November 27, 2016. Alto-
gether 35 DPS schools participated in the event. Yaminijo, Shashank Bhatnagar and Vasundhara Vee, acclaimed musicians from the country, were the panel of adjudicators.
The champions on their arrival were accorded a rousing red-carpet welcome at the school in the presence of the Principal, teachers, staff and students.
(11:40 AM) (04:30 PM)
Ward 5 (6) Burma Camp, Landmark - Near J.K Hospital Dimapur. Power House.
11:00 am | 02:00 PM 05:00 PM | 08:00 PM
12
thursDAY 01•12•2016
SPORTS
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Barak win third consecutive Classic Cup
past Barak’s helpless goalkeeper and into the net to make it 2-1. But it was just too late for any comeback. With the win, Barak FC walked away with Rs. 1.5 lakh along with trophy and citation while runner-up Kuki United was awarded Rs. 80,000 and citation. Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Resources & Sports, Music Task Force and State Lotteries Khriehu Liezietsu gave away prizes to winners.
Barak FC celebrates after winning the 22nd Classic Cup 2016. (Morung Photo) Our Correspondent Kohima | November 30
The formidable Barak Football Club today defeated Kuki United FC 2-1 to retain the Classic Cup and in the process, Barak has won the prestigious Cup for the third consecutive time. Organised by Classic Club Kohima, the tournament at the Kohima Local Ground was held on the theme “Dream courage to
achieve”. The defending champions were off to a good start and had the opportunity to take the lead early in the first half. But Kivi Zhimomi’s feeble attempt in the 13th minute was easily collected by custodian Michael Kuki. From then on, a deadlock ensued until the 37th minute when a composed Kivi flicked the ball past the rival goalkeeper to make it 1-0.
Kivi came close to scoring again at the close of the first half, but his superbly taken free kick was thwarted by the diving goalkeeper who pushed the ball away for a corner. In the second half, Kuki United in their bid to get the equalizer made some desperate attempts on goal, and one such attempt in the 54th minute almost bore fruit but Khaigin’s shot slightly went off mark.
In the 58th minute, Barak forwards Keneisedelie and Kivi combined well to send Rhitsho Mero clear off the defence and he had no problem converting it and making it 2-0. Thereafter, despite the efforts, both sides were unable to make any significant impact on the game. However, in the three minutes of stoppage time, Kuki United skipper Ginkholen’s piercing shot zipped
Individual awards Player of the tournament: Elminhao of Kuki United FC Best Defender: Ayiezo Mere of Head Hunters Best Goalkeeper: Peisuidibe Zeliang of Barak FC Higher Scorer: Rhitsho Mero of Barak FC with 8 goals Best Midfielder: Keneisedelie of Barak FC Most Promising Players: Khriekethozo Keretsü of Addax FC, Hekato Ayemi of MT Youth Club and Akuo-o Ciesotsu of Naga FC
Record-breaker Woodburn helps Liverpool reach League Cup semis LONDON, NOvember 30 (reUters): Liverpool reached the League Cup semi-finals after 17-year-old Ben Woodburn enjoyed a night to remember by becoming the club's youngest ever goalscorer when he wrapped up a 2-0 victory over Leeds United on Tuesday. The youngster volleyed powerfully into the net from close range in front of the Kop in the 81st minute to double Liverpool's lead and simultaneously erase former England striker Michael Owen from the club's record books. At 17 years and 45 days, Woodburn was 98 days younger than Owen, when he found the net for the first time in 1997. It had been a testing evening for Liverpool, who were frustrated for the majority of the tie at Anfield and were outplayed at times by their second-tier opponents, with Leeds pegging them back and striking the woodwork in the second half. However, the hosts' Divock Origi slid home the opening goal after 76 minutes before Woodburn struck four minutes later against the Anfield side's old rivals. "We all know how young Woodburn is, but it doesn't look like this in training sessions," Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp told Sky Sports. "It's a nice story and all the boys are really happy for him. Everybody
is smiling in the dressing room." Liverpool will be joined in the last four by Hull City, who got past Championship (second-tier) leaders Newcastle United as the visitors missed three penalties in a 3-1 shootout defeat after the match had finished 1-1 at the end of extra time.
Crash survivors undergo operations in Colombia as investigations begin C M Y K
Rescue teams work in the recovery of the bodies of victims. (AFP Photo)
LA UNION, NOvember 30 (reUters): Doctors treated traumatized survivors and an investigation was to get underway on Wednesday into an air crash that killed 71 people and wiped out Brazil's Chapecoense soccer team en route to a cup final in Colombia. Only six people - three players, a journalist and two crew members - survived the disaster on Monday night when Chapecoense's charter plane hit a
mountain en route to their Copa Sudamericana showdown in Medellin city. All were being treated at local hospitals. Of the players, goalkeeper Jackson Follmann was recovering from the amputation of his right leg, doctors said. Defender Helio Neto remained in intensive care with severe trauma to his skull, thorax and lungs. Fellow defender Alan Ruschel had spine surgery. Investigators from Brazil
were flying in to join Colombian counterparts checking two black boxes from the crash site on a muddy hillside in wooded highlands near La Union town. Soldiers guarded the wreckage overnight after rescuers left, and investigators were to start work at first light. Bolivia, where the charter company LAMIA was based, and the United Kingdom, also sent in experts to help the probe. Prior to crashing, the BAe 146
had radioed it was having electrical problems, and weather conditions were poor - but there was still no official word on the cause. Locals are accustomed to planes flying overhead at all hours, but many were disturbed by the massive crash noise that interrupted their sleep and evening television. "It came over my house, but there was no noise, the engine must have gone," said Nancy Munoz, 35, who grows strawberries in the area. "I thought it was a bomb, because the FARC rebels used to attack military infrastructure here. Then we heard the rescuers arriving," said her husband Fabian. By nightfall on Tuesday, rescuers had recovered most of the bodies which were to be repatriated to Brazil and to Bolivia, where all the plane's nine-person crew were from. Soccer-mad Brazil declared three days of mourning. Chapecoense's opponents, Atletico Nacional of Medellin, asked for the tournament to be awarded to the Brazilians in honor of the dead. Fellow top division Brazilian sides also showed solidarity, offering loan players to Chapecoense and urging the national federation to give it a threeyear stay against relegation while the club got back on its feet. Global soccer greats from Lionel Messi to Pele sent condolences. It was an appalling twist to a fairy-tale story for Chapecoense, which rose since 2009 from Brazil's fourth to top division and was about to play the biggest match in its history in the first leg of the regional cup final in Medellin. Distraught fans gathered around the team's Conda stadium in Chapeco, a town of about 200,000 people in south Brazil.
Published, Printed and Edited by Dr. Aküm Longchari from House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur at Themba Printers and Morung Publications , 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