February 13th, 2017

C M Y K

www.morungexpress.com

MonDAY • FebruArY 13 • 2017

DIMAPUR • Vol. XII • Issue 41 • 12 PAGes • 5

T H e

ESTD. 2005

P o W e R

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T R u T H

Do not confine your children to your own learning, for they were born in another time — Chinese Proverb North Korea tests ballistic missile PAGE 09

Child rag picker who was run over by train recovers after amputation at CIHSR Hospital

India beat Pak to lift 2nd successive Blind World Cup

PAGE 02

PAGE 12

daily bandhs to begin today Appeal for smooth conduct of exams

Morung Express News Dimapur | February 12

The Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) and the Nagaland Tribes Action Committee (NTAC) have resolved to call for daily state-wide bandh from February 13 onwards.

A press note from the NTAC media cell stated that the bandh “shall be peaceful and non-violent.”

It further informed that all educational institutions, including NBSE and SCERT will come under the purview of the bandh.

The NTAC also informed that it had a joint meeting with Kohimabased tribe Hoho leaders and deliberated on the continuous presence of the legislators in Kohima “who seemingly appear to have been coerced to give moral and physical support to the beleaguered Chief Minister of Nagaland.”

It advised the legislators to “realise their duties and responsibilities in their respective constituencies rather than remain in Kohima for the past few days when all the government machineries are par-

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

Ah- picking up from where the government left off -huh-Well-i dont have money-you can have my boom boom 301 phone.

CM to address state today

DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 12 (MExN): Nagaland State Chief Minister is set to deliver an address at 7:30pm on February 14, on All India Radio Kohima. This was informed in a press note from the Chief Minister’s Office.

Twitter struggling to handle Trump

C M Y K

NEw YoRk, FEBRUARY 12 (IANS): US President Donald Trump’s tweets generate such a massive public engagement and responses that Twitter cannot handle them, putting a tremendous pressure on Twitter’s system. According to a report in Mashable India, many users’ replies to Trump’s tweets appeared as ‘disconnected’ from the original tweet, as the massive responses it garners caused a breakdown to Twitter’s technical infrastructure. Some people have called the issue as a matter of censorship but Twitter’s Vice President of engineering Ed Ho has clarified that the ‘disconnection’ between original Trump tweet and replies was caused by a “long standing technical issue”.

According to Ho, the issue crops up when tweets generate a large number of replies.

Bandhs from feBruary 13 onwards KoHima : 6:00am to 6:00pm Exemptions: Press Media and Newspaper Hawkers, Para Military, Administration on duty, Medical, North/South Police Station under SP Office, Kohima, and students appearing exams and teachers on exam duty.

Dimapur : 8:00am to 5:00pm Exemptions: Police and district administration, Medical personnel, postal service, Fire & Emergency Services, para-military, weddings, funerals, Press media, ambulance service, including the Red Cross and movement of patients in private vehicles, inbound/outbound travelers with valid tickets, students appearing CBSE exams, Power department field workers responding to emergencies or consumer complaints. moKoKCHung: 6:00am to 6:00pm Exemptions: Students appearing exam, teachers/invigilators on examination duty, magistrate on duty, police and para Military, press and media personnel, medical services.

Enpo arEaS: 8:00am to 5:00pm Exemptions: paramilitary forces, invitees to wedding on production of invitation card, funerals, press, medical (ambulance and private vehicles carrying patients), postal service, fire & emergency services would be exempted from the purview of the bandh.

ing HSSLC/HSLC examinations will not be exempt from the purview of the bandh. Reiterating that the bandh will cover all educational establishments, including the Nagaland Board School Education HSSLC/HSLC examinations scheduled to begin on JCC says HSSLC/HSLC exams will not be exempt February 14, the JCC stated Meanwhile, the JCC at a “the NBSE will likely issue media briefing in Dimapur a notification on February informed that the impend- 13” with regard to deferalysed.”

The NTAC said the legislators should “realise the pain and suffering of the people and respond to it appropriately instead of being holed up not being given the liberty of sagacity.”

ment of the examinations.

It however added that the ongoing CBSE examination has been exempted from the purview of the bandh as the annual CBSE final examination is already on. Power department field workers responding to emergencies or consumer complaints will be exempt. However, offices of the Power department will not be allowed to

function.

Stating that the bandh should be “public friendly,” the JCC urged bandh volunteers to maintain discipline and display courtesy.

It discouraged the use of alcohol by volunteers and to refrain from vandalism.

The JCC also cautioned against individuals or political parties taking undue advantage of the situation.

While calling for cooperation from all quarters of the society, the JCC appealed government employees to bear with the present situation, which has resulted in the withholding of monthly salaries.

With regard to the NPF statement defending the state government’s action, the JCC stated, “Wrong cannot be made right even with the passage of time.”

Stating that the “U turn of the state government” with regard to the January 30 agreement cannot be justified, the JCC appealed the NPF not to confuse itself and more so the people.

“The JCC and NTAC are not political institutions. Our intention is very clear, that is, to safeguard the interest of the Naga people.”

DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 12 (MExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has appealed for the smooth functioning of the educational institutions and facilitate for hassle free passage to students who are set to appear their exams from February 14.

A press note from the NSF also asked all students “not to get distracted by the present social unrest but rather concentrate on their studies.” The NSF cautioned that any irregularity in the functioning of schools and colleges because of the present unrest “would amount to irreparable damage to the career of the younger generations.”

punished as per the law of the land, while also conveying its condolences to the bereaved families.

The government, it further advised should “mature in handling the situation whereby justice is delivered as per the law of the land,” while adding that the “lukewarm attitude of the government should be held sole responsible for putting a hold on the entire state mechanism.”

Meanwhile, it urged the Nagaland Baptist Churches Council (NBCC) to “strive in restoring peace and harmony.”

“We look upon the restoration of situation through NBCC intervention in the spirit of forgiveness,” it stated, while appealing to ENSF directs units to Naga leaders and citizens to “refrain from protect student’s interest The ENSF appealed that the upcom- taking justice into our own hand.” ing HSLC and HSSLC examination should be held without any disturbances. It urged CEDOK urges for against violence and bandh “which dis- peaceful atmosphere The Commission for Education of the tract and divert the students mind.” “We cannot expect the students to perform Diocese of Kohima (CEDOK) on behalf well in their exams in the midst of such so- of all catholic schools of Nagaland has appealed for creation of peaceful atmocial unrest,” it added.

The ENSF directed all federating units to sphere for the thousands of students who “cautiously strive in protecting the welfare are set to appear their HSLC and HSSLC of the student’s community within its influ- examinations from February 14.

A press note from the CEDOK stated that ence.” Pointing out that students from Eastern Nagaland had faced “untold misery and the students “have been burning their night suffering on account of various turmoil in lamps to prepare themselves for board exthe past,” the federation asserted that it can- ams which are very crucial to their career.

Any disruption, and inconvenience in apnot see “such repetition of wrong again.”

The ENSF also asked the ENPO, ENLU, pearing exams will lay waste the hard work ENGOA, ENWO, ENCSU, ENEUU, includ- they have been putting in and adversely afing subordinate units to extend its support fect the entire student community.”

While praying for an honorable and through action and prayer.

It meanwhile condemned the action peaceful solution to the ongoing crisis, the of security personnel in which three peo- CEDOK asked all organizations and asple were killed and several injured, and sociations to allow smooth movement of slammed the state government’s attitude all students and persons on examination duty and all establishments connected to “for shying away from the truth.”

A press note from the ENSF said all examination to function peaceful for the erring personals and in charge should be better future of the children.

8 killed in Kashmir gunfight, NPF says agitators holding civilians ‘ransom’ protestors clash with security

SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 12 (AGENcIES): A man was killed in firing by security forces after hundreds of people descended on the streets of Kulgam in south Kashmir and its adjoining areas following the killing of four alleged militants in an encounter on Sunday.

The opposition National Conference has called for a probe into the firing while the separatists have called for a strike on Monday to protest crackdown by the security forces.

Health officials said at least 21 youngsters were injured by bullets, pellets and tear gas shells fired by security forces who were trying to scuttle protests near Frisal in Kulgam, where four militants, two soldiers and a civilian had been killed in an encounter earlier in the day. By the end of the day, the death toll was eight.

The protester killed in the firing was identified as 24-year-old Mushtaq Ibrahim from Sirgufwara. The youth probably died of bullet wounds, said deputy

inspector general of south Kashmir SP Pani, adding that the other injured protesters are stable.

“We have referred at least 21 wounded youth to district hospital Anantnag,” said chief medical officer of Kulgam, Dr Shafi. “Most of them have been operated and are out of danger,” he said.

Dr Shafi said that the total number of injured can’t be ascertained as many of them have not provided their details in the hospitals and left for their homes fearing police action.

Many of the injured referred to Anantnag have been hit by bullets and pellets in their limbs while some have been hit in vital body parts.

Some of the injured people, who were hit in vital areas of their body, have been referred to medical institutions in Srinagar.

Security forces had cordoned off a house where the alleged militants were holed up at Kulgam’s Frisal village on Saturday night before the gunfight began

Sunday morning. Police said they were yet to identify how the civilian – who was allegedly taken hostage by the militants – had died. Pani said all the militants were local residents.

“We are ascertaining their identities,” he added.

Kashmir witnessed months of unrest after the death of Hizbul Mujahideen militant commander Burhan Wani in July last year. Over 90 persons lost their lives in the protests that followed.

Jammu and Kashmir’s opposition National Conference condemned the killing of two civilians in Frisal village of Kulgam and demanded an impartial and time-bound probe.

In a statement issued from party headquarters, district president Kulgam and MLA Homshalibugh Abdul Majeed Bhat Larmi lashed out at the forces for resorting to “indiscriminate and brute force”, resulting in death of two civilians and injuries to “scores out of which two have been grievously injured.”

DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 12 (MExN): The Naga Peoples’ Front (NPF) today expressed concern that agitators are “holding the innocent civilians to ransom for political mileage of a few vested interests.”

A press note from the NPF press and media bureau said that the “contentious issues of ULB elections and 33% reservations have already been addressed with the nullification of the elections by the Government as

desired by the protesting organisations. But it is disheartening to see that some of the leaders still refuse to see reason and continue to hijack the movement to meet their preplanned, personal political agenda.”

It stated that the party government is “restraining itself to avoid unwanted collateral damages, however the agitators are hell-bent to cripple normal life and to paralyze the government machineries with the sole aim of pro-

jecting to the Centre that President’s Rule would be the only answer.”

The NPF expressed hope that sanity and reason would prevail amongst the leaders.

It meanwhile urged that the student’s careers should not be hampered. “The career and future of the thousands of our students appearing crucial examinations should not be compromised in any manner,” it added.

Chief Minister refutes JCC allegation

DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 12 (MExN): The Nagaland State Chief Minister, TR Zeliang today refuted allegations that he had asked a delegation of the NBCC to convey to the NTAC and the JCC to let him stay in power till March, the end of the financial year.

A press note from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) termed these allegations as “absolutely false, delusive and concocted with the malicious intention of doing mischief to the image and integrity of the Chief Minister.”

“That a leader of the

JCC could stoop so low to make such a fanciful allegation and that too, dragging in the name of the revered NBCC in his flight of fancy, is deplorable,” the CMO added.

It further mentioned that the Nagaland CM holds the NBCC “in the highest of esteem and greatly appreciates the efforts it has been making to find an amicable solution to the present imbroglio.

And he urges everyone not to use the good name of the NBCC in vain.”

The CM, it informed had a series of meetings with the NBCC in the past two weeks “but at no point

of time had he ever made such a disgraceful request, or had such a thought ever entered his mind.”

The CM, meanwhile, viewed that “responsible leaders should make responsible statements.”

NBCC denies receiving such request from govt The Nagaland Baptist Churches Council (NBCC) today stated that it has not received any request from the Nagaland Chief Minister “to be in office till the end of the financial year.”

A press note from the NBCC stated that these reports came as a “shock” to the council, and informed

that it “has not received such request from the government during the course of our discussions nor have we conveyed that message to any party involved.”

“If such a statement has been made by any member of the NBCC team we want to make it clear that it does not represent the official communication of the NBCC mediating team,” it added. This clarification, the NBCC said, “is made to clear the air that no such idea or request has ever surfaced in the course of our conversation or been tabled by the government to NBCC.”

Rethink & re-discuss issues: NE intellectuals Church leaders issue appeal for

GUwAhAtI, FEBRUARY 12 (MExN): A group of 24 intellectuals, consisting of activists, journalists, writers, academics and organizations from the North East region of the Indian Union, have stated that Naga society must “rethink and re-discuss” the issues involved keeping in mind the interests of both men and women and the progress of the communities within the nation.

“While respecting the Naga right in determining their own course of action, they must not lose sight of the larger democratic principles of equality and non discrimination in today’s world,” noted a press statement from the group released today.

Arguing that Nagaland must consider the “admiration that it has received in the past for Naga women’s contribution to society, not only from their own communities or clans, but from the larger world,” the statement maintained, “It must be ensured that there is no derogation on international standards, that may take place, in the context of customary laws.”

The group of North East intellectuals remained concerned that Naga women’s interests and their representation should not be “bartered away in the interest of political expediency” and the State must pursue “fair dialogue” initiated by different groups to “bring about a solution rather than abdicate its responsi-

bilities.”

Collective strength “Collective strength of tribal societies has always been acknowledged and appreciated. Men in Naga community are known to share the workloads of women, especially in agriculture and non-farm work,” observed the individuals and organisations.

However, “women’s workload is immense and needs to be recognized,” they maintained. Women have contributed in a large way to informal governance of Naga society and there are exemplary instances that can be cited, especially in times of conflict.

“The display of machismo and insensitivity, as demonstrated during the

recent times is not acceptable because it is traditionally non Naga.” Violence has been manifested by the threat of denying the rights of women, “socially ostracizing and mentally traumatizing them,” the statement affirmed.

While the issue of Article 371 A of the Constitution has drawn varied opinions, efforts of women in formal political decisionmaking and governance processes have to be asserted.

“Reservation for women in ULBs is just one way the Naga society and the Government can uphold women’s formal space, without having any suspicion that men’s spaces will be jeopardized,” the statement reiterated.

wisdom & conscience to prevail

DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 12 (MExN): 20 Church leaders from Nagaland today issued an appeal for wisdom and conscience to prevail over all short-term considerations and selfinterests.

The church leaders in a joint statement stated that the ongoing crisis has “revealed the truth about how we can limit and destroy ourselves. What needs to be done to match this perilous moment by the people, and our leaders in particular, has become clear.”

It asked the government and the NTAC/JCC not to act against the “dictates of your God-given conscience.”

The statement asked all

sides to “tone down their rhetorical positions and justifications so that the current tensions may deescalate and allow space for creative interventions and dialogue.”

It urged the Chief Minister to demonstrate “ableleadership by exercising your moral judgement and acting on your conscience to do what is right and needed at this juncture to avert violence, and pave the way for genuine dialogue.”

To the leaders of organizations “who are leading the resistance against the faulty process and imposition of policies made without the Naga peoples’ informed consent,” the

statement asked them to “resist from any form of violent confrontation, because violence will only yield more violence.”

And to Nagas, it asked: “Let us seize this moment of extreme crisis as an opportunity to exercise Naga values to respect and uphold women rights. This is an opportunity to re-examine old models and practices, and together, through a people’s dialogue and consultation begin the tedious democratic process of creating inclusive and empowering models in which Naga women, men and youth can respectfully participate and decide the course of our common future.”

Full text on Page 5

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MonDAY 13•02•2017

NAGALAND

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Child rag picker who was run over by train recovers after amputation at CIHSR Hospital Morung Express News Dimapur | February 12

Thirteen-year-old Abhijit Das, an orphan rag picker, whose legs were amputated after being run over by a train a month ago, is recovering fast here at CIHSR Hospital.

The penniless rag picker has made it thus far, thanks to the care and contribution of a couple of individuals and organization.

On the fateful night (January 9), Abhijit was alighting from the pantry section of the Rajdhani Express at Dimapur Railway Station after collecting leftover food when he slipped and both his feet went under the wheels of the train which was already in motion.

Hearing his cries, two gentlemen – David Thadani, an advocate and Maj Arun Kumar of 117 Engineering Regiment, who were in the railway station immediately came to the rescue of the victim.

The victim was first taken to Civil Hospital but due to absence of facility was rushed to Zion Hospital

Organic produces put up for exhibition at an event in Pughoboto recently. Nagaland state has a comparative advantage for the development and promotion of organic cultivation. (Morung Photo)

Individuals, groups extending help to the victim; more financial assistance needed for hospital expenses and bills

Abhijit Das, the child rag picker recovering at CIHSR Hospital after the amputation.

where again they were informed that the orthopedic doctor was out of station.

The two gentlemen then rushed the victim to CIHSR Hospital in the wee hours of January 10. After com-

CCRC Upper PWD Kohima silver jubilee

Kohima, February 12 (mexN): The Chakhesang Christian Revival Church, Upper PWD Kohima is all set to celebrate its silver jubilee from February 18 to 19 at Local Church under the theme ‘Proclaim His Faithfulness.’ The speakers include Rev. Dr. Shiwoto Assumi, former president NCRC, Rev. Dr. D.L. Sanchu, Executive Secretary ACRCC Nagaland, and Rev. Zhowhüyi Nyekha, Sr. Pastor, CCRC Upper PWD Kohima. The jubilee choir are CCRCYFK and Shalom CRCYF Unison Society, Kohima on February 12 celebrated its 7th Foundation Day at Viirie, Model Village T. Khel, Kohima. Families and well wishers of the Society’s members also attended (combined) and CCRCYF (Local Church). All concerned have the programme. Seen in the picture are members of the Society. been invited to the celebration.

had bled profusely. Later, the army officer brought three of his jawans who also donated their blood.

“The Major and his jawans donated 4 units of blood, which saved the

Medical camp held at Lakhuti village

Pochury Hoho condemns attending consultative meeting called by CM

meluri, February 12 (mexN): Pochury Hoho has vehemently condemned the five “individuals” who attended the consultative meeting called by the Chief Minister on February 8 in Kohima. The hoho’s office bearers, executive members and range presidents held an emergency meeting in this regard on February 11. According to a press release from Pochury Hoho President, Chülekhu Nyusou, the hoho condemned the five individuals for violating the resolution passed by the Naga apex bodies on February 7 at APO Hall, Kohima under the aegis of JCC and NTAC. “In no way, the (5) five individuals who attended the consultative meeting was ever endorsed or recommended by the executive Congregation at Chakhesang Baptist Church Kohima pray for peace in Nagaland during the council of Pochury Hoho,” the reMission Sunday programme on February 12. (Morung Photo) lease stated. “Therefore, Pochury Hoho has resolved to disown the irresponsible conduct by the five individuals for not strengthening the sanctity of Pochury Hoho against all forms of internal and external elements.”

pleting the formalities, the amputation surgery was successfully performed around 5:00 am.

Maj Arun Kumar volunteered to donate the much needed blood as the victim

At the medical camp organized by 28 Assam Rifles at Lakhuti village on February 10.

WoKha, February 12 (mexN): 28 Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North) organized a medical camp at Lakhuti village in Wokha district on February 10. During the camp, free medicines were also provid-

ed to the sick and ailing people, according to a press release from Assam Rifles. In addition, people were educated on health issues like timely vaccination, personal hygiene and sanitation and AIDS through a lecture cum workshop.

boy’s life,” said Dr. Keith Ingty, the senior orthopedic who performed the amputation surgery. Dimapur Bengali Samaj also donated Rs. 20,000 towards hospital expenses. One of the canteens inside CIHSR complex, Masie’s Canteen, is providing free meals to the patient. Childline also donated clothes to him.

Since the time the boy was admitted, David and his friend Jeevan Giri are regularly visiting the patient and also taken the responsibility to raise fund to pay the hospital expenses and bills, which is reportedly around Rs. 1.3 lakhs so far.

“Right now our main concern is how to raise fund to pay hospital bills and also rehabilitation of the boy once he comes out from the hospital. We have talked with a couple of NGOs including Missionaries of Charity for adoption of the boy,” David said.

David and Giri are also fervently praying that some good Samaritans and NGOs would come forward to extend moral support and financial assistance.

Christian Revival Churches pray for ‘early amicable solution’ Kohima, February 12 (mexN): In view of the present tense situation in Nagaland, the church elders and pastors from over 30 Christian Revival Churches in Kohima held a special prayer meeting on February 12, 2017 at Chakhesang Christian Revival Church, Upper PWD, Kohima.

As per the directive from Nagaland Christian Revival Church (NCRC) head office, the meeting “earnestly prayed for divine intervention into the prevailing dangerous situation and early amicable solution,” stated a press release issued by Rev. Neivotso Neikha, Mission Director, CRC North East India. The members were also informed of a “divine revelation” that “Naga leaders should rise above issues of egos and personal reasons. Naga leaders should humble themselves, turn from wicked ways and seek God’s face as found in II Chro. Chapter 7,” the release added.

The meeting therefore urged all the people of Nagaland to maintain peace and tranquillity and avoid any further violence. The meeting was led by Pastor Koza, Vice President, NCRC.

Red Cross, DBS donate to fire victims Dimapur, February 12 (mexN): Indian Red Cross Society, Dimapur District Branch donated kitchen utensils to the fire victims of SP Colony (Kuda Village), Dimapur on Sunday, February 12. A press release from Ajay Sethi, Vice-Chairman, Indian Red Cross Society, Dimapur District Branch noted that a ravaging fire on the night of January 30 at SP colony affected 40 families. The Vice-Chairman Ajay Sethi was present with the Honorary Secretary KK Paul of the Red Cross Dimapur District Branch on the occasion.

Meanwhile, Dimapur Bengali Samaj (DBS) also donated edibles and mosquito nets to the fire victims of the SP Colony on February 12. Chairman of the relief committee Gautam Sarkar was present with DBS President KK Paul on the occasion along with other colleagues, a press release Indian Red Cross Society, Dimapur District Branch officials hand over from DBS informed. utensils to one of the fire victims of SP Colony, Dimapur on February 12.

NEISSR promotes digital financial literacy campaign

Dimapur, February 12 (mexN): In a bid to actively engage the youth and students of higher education institutions to encourage and motivate all payers and payees to use a digitally enabled cashless economic system for transfer of funds, North East Institute of Social Science & Research, (NEISSR) organized an awareness programme for MSW trainees on VISAKA - Vittiya Saksharta Abhiyan (Digital Financial Literacy Campaign).

The programme was held at NEISSR conference hall, Dimapur and animated by Tesin Mathai, Asst. Branch Manager, South Indian Bank, Dimapur branch and his colleagues.

Mathai highlighted the existing digital cashless payment platforms such as ATM, POS Machines, Internet banking and different e-wallets.

“A cashless economy will pave for a transparent, efficient and time saving transactions for all,” said Mathai, The office bearers of Women Department, Yimchungru Baptist Church Dimapur (YBCD) while lauding the efforts taken by NEISSR to create awareness. He organised an exposure trip to North India from February 6 to 11, 2017.

Section of students attending the awareness programme held for NEISSR MSW trainees on VISAKA - Vittiya Saksharta Abhiyan (Digital Financial Literacy Campaign).

also called upon all the students to be the agents of change, “particularly as future social workers” and asserted that “this particular effort of the Government is an opportunity that we need to bring about the change in our fight against corruption and black money.”

The students of Peace and Conflict Transformation Studies presented a play in which they depicted the benefits of digital cashless transactions in our everyday

situations like shopping, transfer of money, paying medical bills etc.

Dr. Fr. Anto, Principal, NEISSR in his concluding remarks affirmed the commitment of the Institute to promote digital cashless transactions in the campus.

He also encouraged the students to speak and educate atleast their family members about the benefits and importance of a digital cashless economy.

“It is our desire and our duty

to create awareness about cashless economy in the business establishments around the institute.

It is also our plan to introduce this concept in the communities where the students are going for their fieldwork and the communities should be made aware so that they become advocates for cashless economy,” he added.

The programme was attended by both first and second years MSW students.

Monday 13•02•2017

NORTH-EAST 3

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Why did Manipur Government take part in Fuel, cooking gas to tripartite talk if we are unlawful, asks UNC be airlifted to Manipur

Tahamzam, February 12 (mexN): The United Naga Council (UNC) has flayed the Manipur Government’s recommendation to label the former as “unlawful”.

“If the UNC is unlawful, why did the Government of Manipur (GoM) run by the CLP have a tripartite talk with the UNC and the Government of India on the 7th February, 2017 at Delhi and therein schedule the 25th March, 2017 for the next round of talk,” the UNC asked in a statement which was made available to the media.

The statement from the Council made it clear that the UNC is the apex tribe based organization of the Nagas in Manipur. Insisting that every Naga in Manipur is a member through the tribes, villages, clans

Declare UNC unlawful organisation: Manipur CLP to Centre

Imphal, February 12 (pTI): The Congress Legislature Party (CLP) in Manipur has urged the Centre to declare the United Naga Council (UNC) an unlawful organisation at the earliest.

UNC cadres have been blocking the key National Highway 2 since November 1 to protest the creation of seven new districts in and families, the Council argued, “If the UNC is unlawful so then is the entire Naga population.”

The UNC accused the Congress Legislature Party under the leadership of Ibobi of creating havoc in the land and the lives of the people.

The UNC also accused Ibobi of violating the constitution of India and alleged that he violated the

Manipur, affecting normal life in the state.

The CLP at a meeting yesterday decided to urge the Centre to declare UNC an unlawful organisation, Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh said in a statement.

Singh in his capacity as the CLP leader forwarded the request to Prime Minister Narendra Modi

tribal ownership of land.

“Ibobi has transferred tribal hill areas which are under the district councils to the Panchayati Raj,” it alleged.

“Ibobi and the CLP decides to draw lines across the tribal lands on the pretext of administrative convenience, dividing people, alienating people from their lands, affecting relationships, affecting situ-

yesterday, it said.

Spokesperson of Manipur Pradesh Congress Committee, Kh Joykishan, appealed to all the political parties to support the CLP decision to save Manipur by removing hardship being faced by people of the state due to the indefinite economic blocked imposed by the UNC that entered its 104th day today.

ations and opportunities of the land owners,” the Council stated and added that Ibobi did not even consult the Hill Area Committee as enjoined by the constitution.

“He defines what is lawful and unlawful and has done whatever he wants.

He is really powerful,” the Council stated before questioning, “But where and how do people live with

dignity and honour in such a lawless situation.”

“It is for the entire people in the state of Manipur, the Government of India and the world to decide the lawfulness of Ibobi and the CLP and the unlawfulness of the people whose rights are being trampled through brute force, domineering majority, legalities and declarations,” the UNC statement concluded.

Imphal, February 12 (IaNS): Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar on Sunday announced that the Centre will soon airlift fuel and cooking gas for the people who have been facing hard times under an economic blockade since November 1 last year.

The United Naga Council (UNC) has imposed an indefinite blockade in protest against the state government's plan to create seven new districts which, it claims, will lead to usurpation of large tracts of "lands of the Nagas".

"If the blockade cannot be ended in two days, the central government shall airlift fuel, LPG and other PDS items," said Javadekar, who is on an electioneering tour in Manipur.

Addressing an election meeting here of BJP candidate Okram Joy, Javadekar said: "During the last 15 years of the Congress rule, even potable water cannot be supplied to the people. The unique all-women market in Imphal city is in a pathetic condition. The state government is responsible for the present crisis."

He also addressed several election meetings of BJP candidates in Imphal.

Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi

BSNL aims to complete NE telecom project by Dec 2018

New DelhI, February 12 (pTI): State-run BSNL is expecting to complete its portion of mobile network roll-out project, funded by the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), in the North East by 2018-end.

“The project was approved in September 2014 but it came to BSNL in April 2016. BSNL is expecting to place execution order in April after which roll-out of the project will start in

July and should be completed by December 2018,” a source told PTI. The project is part of the Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan for the North-Eastern Region (NER) which was approved by the Union Cabinet in September 2014 but is yet to be rolled out.

The project proposal entails an estimated expenditure of Rs 5,336.18 crore which is to be funded from the Universal Service

Obligation Fund (USOF).

The project envisages providing 2G mobile coverage in identified uncovered areas and seamless mobile coverage along National Highways in the North-East region. Under this project 8,621 villages out of the 9,190 unconnected villages are to be covered by 6,673 towers.

The project has been divided into two parts where tough terrain, which includes two districts of

Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, has been given to state-run telecom firm BSNL for installing about 2,100 mobile towers and the rest was kept for private telecom operators.

Bharat Broadband Network opened tender for installing about 4,500 towers under the project after two years in 2016 but received no bids.

“BSNL received bids from five companies but has not been able to final-

ise it because of external influences which are delaying the project. There have been multiple exchange of letter between the Department of Telecom and BSNL in this regard,” an industry source said.

A BSNL official, involved in the project, denied the allegation saying that the process is running smoothly and communications with DoT and USOF have taken place for clarifications and more

transparency.

“Technical bids were conducted but after discussion it has been decided to retest telecom equipment to generate more competition. The government wants to assure that fair opportunities have been given to bidders in fray. Retesting will be completed in March after which execution order will be placed to successful bidders in April,” the official said.

Drugs worth over Rs 31 Will sort out problems of Subansiri lakh burnt in Aizawl Hydro Electric Project: Pema Khandu

aIzawl, February 12 (NNN): A huge cache of drugs seized by Aizawl South Joint Operation (ASJO), a conglomeration of 16 YMA branches in southern Aizawl, was burnt in Aizawl on Saturday.

The contraband worth over Rs 31 lakh were burned at the premises of Tuikhuahtlang Basketball Court by Central YMA. Speaking on the occasion, ASJO Vice Chairman Vanlalfela said that ASJO was formed in November last year to combat drug abuse and “sexual immorality”. It was formed by 16 Young Mizo Association (YMA) branches in South Aizawl at Saikhamakawn.

Central YMA Vice President Vanlalruata said that there is rampant misuse of drugs in Mizoram and presently drugs are being

smuggled into the state in huge quantity. He expressed disappointment over the increasing drug abuse in the state and appealed to the people to mitigate the abuse.

He said that many Mizo youth have died due to misuse of drugs and that massive efforts have to be taken to combat drugs if Mizoram is to be made “comfortable for the next generation”.

The burnt drugs included 1160 grams, 70 cans and 25 red caps of heroin, 50 strips of Alprozolam, cough syrup and ganja altogether worth over Rs 31.15 lakh.

So far, the ASJO has apprehended 96 people in drugs related issue. While 2 persons were handed over to police, 4 were sent to 'corrective homes'.

DolloNgmukh, February 12 (IaNS): The Arunachal Pradesh government will soon work to sort out the problems that have stalled implementation of the 2,000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydro Electric Project, Chief Minister Pema Khandu said on Sunday.

Khandu, who visited the project site with National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) officials, said he will have talks with Union Power Minister Piyush Goyal and his Assam counterpart Sarbananda Sonowal for an early solution.

The mega power project was forced to suspend its construction activities in December 2011, following protests from few ostakeholders and as pressure groups launched a series of agitations, demanding

a halt till a comprehensive cumulative impact study was carried out.

The project with its initial cost estimate at Rs 6,285 crore began its construction in 2005. However, due to the delay, the revised cost estimate has jumped to Rs 17,435 crore as of today.

"Finding a solution to the Subansiri Lower dam is highly important as the state government is losing to the tune of Rs 1.20 crore, an amount that could have been accrued from the 12 per cent free power share," said Khandu, who was accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein, Industries Minister Tamiyo Taga, Health Minister Jomde Kena, PHED Minister Bamang Felix, Transport and Supply Parliamentary Secretary Likha Saaya among others.

Khandu also visited the

water intake site, followed by a 1.5 km drive inside the surge tunnel. The team also made a brief halt inside the tunnel where the NHPC officials briefed them about the layout of the 8 surge tunnels.

Promising the NHPC officials to sort out the problems, the Chief Minister, however, stressed that all the concerns and matters that are proving as stumbling block to the project, needs urgent attention and addressed immediately.

"NHPC's Subansiri Lower Dam is of importance not only at the local level, but to the state and the country. Had the dam been commissioned on time, the state could have reaped the benefits in terms of employment, contractual works and tourism promotion.

"No Chief Minister in Arunachal Pradesh can take the state ahead, if hydropower potential of the state is not optimally used," he said.

Explaining to the visiting delegates about the project status and its implementation of the mega power project, Executive Director of Subansiri HEP project, Rakesh said that till date, 55 per cent of works have been completed and the construction works are at standstill with only routine preservation and maintenance works being carried out.

"Due to the halt in the construction activities, the company is losing Rs 10 crore every day, being incurred in maintenance works and other activities.

Till date, the project has incurred Rs 9,000 crore expenditure," the official said.

Majuli aims to be India's first carbon-neutral district

majulI (aSSam), February 12 (IaNS): It's the world's biggest river island and the first such in India to be declared a district. Now plans are afoot to declare it the country's first carbonneutral district by 2020.

It is by no means a mean task, but ambitious projects, with the help of locals, NGOs and corporate houses, are getting underway to achieve this.

The roadmap for the project is developed by IORA Ecological Solutions, an environmental finance, policy advisory and project development group. Mitigation through forestry and biodiversity conservation will be the starting points in this carbon-neutral agenda, followed by other interventions over the next three years.

"To begin with, we are now collecting data for preparing a carbon audit. Information on electricity consumption, emission levels by different industries and emissions by agricultural practices like burning of crops.

Also, what is the total forested area," said Pallav Jha, the District Commissioner of Majuli.

"At the moment, it's the rural emissions, be they agriculturebased practices or burning of fuel, that we have to check. But we have to keep in mind the increase in vehicular pollution in the near future -- when Majuli gets connected with the mainland by a national highway, as declared by the central govern-

ment," Jha told IANS. Years after crying apathy over its poor connectivity, the central government promised a bridge connecting Majuli -- Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal's constituency -- to the mainland, and is also thinking about an access-control highway along the Brahmaputra for easing the traffic flow.

With better connectivity, this ancient seat of Vaishnavite culture, which is already an attraction for tourists, more people and more traffic is expected to pour in into Majuli. This is good news for tourism and will create more job opportunities for the locals, but its impact on the environment is

also being carefully considered.

"The connectivity to Majuli should be completed in the next three-four years. Keeping in mind the increase in vehicular pollution and increase in carbon footprint that it will be bring along, we may impose a Green Cess on tourism," the District Commissioner said.

But that is for the future. At the moment, efforts are on to make locals aware about the implications of climate change and nudge them towards adopting changes in their lives. Organic farming, for one, is being encouraged.

"The Agriculture Department has been helping in planning exposure visits for farmers to see the

benefits of organic farming, both for their crop and the environment. They have also been promoting horticulture," Jha said.

"There are young, bright entrepreneurs in small places in Assam, like Bishwanath Chariali, who are doing commendable work in organic farming and we are taking their suggestions in reaching across to our farmers here," Jha added. Development of fisheries is also being encouraged.

Launched by the Assam government as Sustainable Action for Climate-Resilient Development in Majuli (SACReD), this project is part of the French Development Agency-assisted Assam Project on Forest and Biodi-

versity Conservation to combat climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

As part of efforts to check fuel emissions, the District Commissioner said that LPG connections will be given to those who lack these. "As part of a company's corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, 1,000 green stoves will be given to those who don't get an LPG connection," Jha said.

Over and above that, the District Commissioner said, public participation will be sought to raise 'organic pockets' for wood for fuel so that indiscriminate deforestation can be checked.

Plantation drives in any case are already underway across the riverine island.

In the absence of electricity, most people in Majuli -- much like everywhere else in Assam or the rest of India -- resort to use of kerosene lamps. To address this, a 5-10 MW project by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) will help electrify villages that are now bereft of power.

The contribution of solar energy to light up homes in an ecofriendly way has also been taken into accout.

"There is an NGO called Ecosolutions which is on board with us to distribute solar lamps," Jha said.

The government plans to extend this programme to other districts once Majuli succeeds in its aim.

Singh, however, claimed that the present impasse was the result of an alliance between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah).

"Let us see who wins -- the people or the BJP-NSCN(IM) nexus. The BJP is angry over the creation of the seven new districts which is for administrative convenience," the Chief Minister said while addressing an election meeting here.

Speaking at an election meeting of Congress candidate R.K. Imo, Chief Minister Ibobi said: "It is incomprehensible why the BJP is angry over the creation of the new districts.

This party and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) are against it. We have waited over three months in the hope that good sense will prevail. Now we will see who wins the face-off." Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam Gangmei, who also spoke at the meeting, said no one supports the "anti-people blockade" and that people should unite against it.

Civil society organisations have also underlined the need to join hands to face the blockade observing that "the creation of the new districts is a long-standing demand of the people".

Mild earthquake jolts Meghalaya ShIlloNg, February 12 (IaNS): A mild earthquake, measuring 4.5 on the Richter scale, rocked Meghalaya and its neighbouring states on Sunday, an official said. The tremor was felt at 9.35 a.m with its epicentre located in the state's East Garo Hills district, an official of the Regional Seismological Centre here said. There were no reports of any casualties or damage. The seven northeastern states - Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur - are considered by seismologists as the sixth major earthquake-prone belt in the world. The region experienced an earthquake measuring 8.7 on the Richter scale in 1897 that left over 1,600 people dead.

AR conduct security meet in Manipur ukhrul, February 12 (mexN): 2 Assam Rifles of 9 Sector Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (South) conducted a ‘Security Meet’ at Upper Khoripok in Manipur’s Ukhrul district on February 11, 2017. The forum was attended by village headmen, secretaries, members of youth clubs of eight villages and four police personnel including Officer In-Charge of the Kasom Khullen Police Station, informed a press release from Assam Rifles.

The Company Commander discussed various security aspects pertaining to the area and highlighted the importance of cooperation from villagers. A medical camp was also conducted at the venue where the locals were provided with medical assistance. In addition to this, sports items were also distributed to the villagers of Lairam Khullen, Lairam Phungka, Shangpuram, Upper Khoripok, Natjang and Hongbi villages, the release added.

MNDF announces names of 15 candidates for Manipur election Imphal, February 12 (pTI): Manipur National Democratic Front (MNDF) on Sunday announced its list of 15 candidates for the Manipur Assembly polls to be held next month. Announcing the list of the candidates, MNDF vice president Lien Gangte said that "the party will bring a change in Manipur." The candidates are Th Nandakishor (Kshetrigao Assembly constituency), N Itomba Meitei (Keirao), K Ningthemjao (Andro), Y Romola Devi (Keishamthong), M Dinesh (Langthabal), S Achouba (Wangoi), L Thoiba (Oinam), W Bobbyjems (Kumbi), M A Zabar (Lilong), S Achoubi (Wangjing Tentha), Md Abdul Samad (Wabagai), Lien Gangte (Tengnoupal), Letjam Singson (Saikul), Hingba Thomas (Tadubi) and Mangcha Gangte (Henglep). Elections will be held in 60 Assembly seats in the state.

Minor domestic help from Assam rescued koTa, February 12 (pTI): An 11-year-old girl from Assam, who was allegedly forced into domestic work, was rescued by police and members of the Child Welfare Committee (CWC) from a house in R K Puram area here, an official said today. The victim was rescued last night after an unknown person informed the R K Puram Police Station about the matter, CWC member (Kota) Bhupendra Singh said. "The girl told us that she was brought to the city last year on the pretext of higher education by Deepak Chand Deka and Upma Deka, also residents of Assam, whose children are studying at a coaching centre here," Singh said. The Deka's met the victim at her village during her summer vacations and promised her education, he said, adding she worked at the rented house where Upma stayed with her two children. "She was forced into domestic work like cooking and cleaning. She worked from early morning till late night and was also denied of food," Singh said. The victim was sent for medical examination today and is presently staying at a children shelter home here. The minor is yet to undergo counselling, the CWC member said. Documents and certificates related to the minor have been sought from the Dekas, once these are verified, appropriate action will be taken under the Juvenile Justice Act and relevant laws, Singh added.

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Social sector may be victim of inadequate budget KoLKaTa, FEbruary 12 (IaNS): Lack of policy directions for ensuring quality implementation of programmes makes the Union Budget 2017-18 allocations to ailing core social sectors like education and health inadequate in delivering the benefits, experts say.

Schemes like Swachh BharatUrban and the National Social Assistance Programme saw no increase, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan got a mere 4.4 % rise in allocation, while the Integrated Child Development Services got an enhancement of about five per cent.

Even though programmes like Swachh Bharat-Rural and the National Health Mission got a double-digit hike in percentage terms, the experts said the Budget was “disappointing” and “unsatisfactory”, considering the ground realities.

“The Budget is disappointing.

It paid no attention to the effective implementation of the Right to Education (RTE) Act. A mere increase in the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) by Rs 1,000 crore is

not going to help in meaningful implementation of the RTE Act,” Right To Education Forum Convenor Ambarish Rai told IANS. He said only 9.5% schools are RTE compliant across the country after almost seven years after the act being implemented.

“Low allocation has been affecting the quality of education in government schools, where over five lakh teachers posts are vacant. At least 6.4 lakh teachers are untrained,” Rai said, pointing out the Human Resource Development Ministry budget has remained stagnant at 3.7% of the total budget.

10 % of the schools have single teachers, 30 %are without functional toilets for girls and 20 % do not provide safe drinking water, he said.

K.J. Nath, former Director of the All India Institute of Hygiene and Public Health, said while the Health and Family Welfare Ministry has received a welcome jump of 23 %this year at Rs 48,852 crore, the resource cut in Urban Health Mission to Rs 752 crore

from Rs 950 crore in the previous budget was “unsatisfactory”.

“The budget announced a target of eliminating kala-azar and filariasis by 2017, leprosy by 2018, measles by 2020 and tuberculosis by 2025. But where are the budgetary resources to reach these targets,” Nath asked.

The budget allocation for the health sector as a share of the GDP is less than one per cent, which falls far short of meeting the long-standing demand of upping the this to over two per cent, he complained.

Citing an example of how the resource crunch has crippled the implementation of programmes, Nath, Chairman of West Bengal’s Arsenic Task Force, told IANS: “The central government recently revised the permissible limit of arsenic to 0.01 milligram per litre of water from 0.05 milligram per litre as per the guidelines of the World Health Organization, which is good. But since due to a fund shortage we faced challenges in maintaining the earlier limit, it would be a daunting task

to meet the revised standard.”

“The Union Budget has neither provided a policy direction for ensuring quality delivery mechanism in public healthcare services, nor offered a widespread market-oriented training in the education sector,” Jadavpur University economics Professor Ajitava Roychaudhuri said.

He, however, welcomed the proposal for launching the Rs 4,000 crore Skill Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion programme (SANKALP) which intends to provide market-friendly training to 3.5 crore youth.

Sectors like small and medium industries and real estate -- which were severely hit by the government’s demonetisation exercise -- got some policy measures but that was not the case with the social sector.

Roychaudhuri said one reason could be that the sector does not provide a “short-term multiplier effect” to boost economic growth despite its long-term positive impact.

“After demonetisation, the government’s short-term goal is to revive economic growth. Real estate and infrastructure sectors can provide a positive short-term multiplier effect that can push up growth in the near-term, but the social sector cannot offer such multiplier impact in the shortrun. It has a long-term positive impact on economic growth,” he said.

Again, though the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme received the highest allocation ever at Rs 48,000 crore from the previous year’s Rs 38,500 crore, this is only 1% more than the revised estimate of Rs 47,499 crore for 2016-17.

“In that sense, the increase in allocation was meagre. The job scheme should have got more allocation, particularly when the demand in the economy remains subdued. Higher employment and better income under the programme could give an impetus to demand in the economy,” Raychaudhuri noted.

Govt to come out with plan ‘Indradhanush 2.0’ for recapitalisation of banks NEW DELHI, FEbruary 12 (PTI): Government plans to come out with ‘Indradhanush 2.0’, a comprehensive plan for recapitalisation of public sector lenders, with a view to make sure they remain solvent and fully comply with the global capital adequacy norms, Basel-III. It will be finalised after completion of the asset quality review (AQR) by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), which is likely to be completed by March-end.

The RBI had embarked on the AQR exercise from December 2015 and asked banks to recognise some top defaulting accounts as non-performing assets (NPAs) and make adequate provisions for them. It has had a debilitating impact on banks’ numbers and their stocks. The central bank has set a deadline of March 2017 to complete the AQR exercise.

Under Indradhanush roadmap announced in 2015, the governmenthadannouncedtoinfuseRs70,000croreinstaterun banks over four years while they will have to raise a further Rs1.1 trillion from the markets to meet their capital requirement in line with global risk norms, known as Basel-III. In line with the plan, public sector banks were given Rs25,000 crore in 2015-16, and similar amount has been earmarked for the current fiscal. Besides, Rs10,000 crore each would be infused in 2017-18 and 2018-19.

The government has already announced fund infusion of Rs22,915 crore, out of the Rs25,000 crore earmarked for 13 PSBs for the current fiscal. Of this, 75% has already been released to them.

Zoom Air: Civil aviation Minister flags off India’s newest airline FSSAI sets up panel to finalise laws on food fortification According to its website, from New Delhi, Zoom Air will connect daily to 15 Indian cities including Aizawl, Dimapur, Durgapur, Jorhat, and Shillong in Phase -1 of expansion.

NEW DELHI, FEbruary 12 (FI): Zoom Air, India’s newest full-service airline launched its first flight today, on February 12, from Delhi to Durgapur. Union Civil Avia-

tion Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju flagged off the airline’s inaugural flight. In the initial stages, the commuter airline will be operation in many Indian capitals, New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai and Hyderabad. Zoom Air is based in Gurgaon and is promoted

by Zexus Air Services, a firm based in Delhi. Zoom Air’s operations are with Bombardier CR-J200 LR series twin-engine jet aircraft. These aircraft have been used by Club One Air in India, but that is a charter air-

line. The airline will be a full service, as it will also provide meals on board.

Zoom Airline will be the first one to connect Durgapur with daily flights to busy airports like New Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai and commuters will get premium services on board. Similarly, Shillong will get daily connectivity to the important cities.

Zoom Air on its website, wrote: “From New Delhi, Zoom Air daily connects Aizawl, Aurangabad, Chandi-

garh, Dharamshala, Dimapur, Durgapur, Hyderabad, Kullu, Jorhat, Kolkata, Lucknow, Ranchi, Mumbai, Srinagar and Shillong in Phase -1 of expansion.”

The CEO of Zoom Air is Koustav Dhar, a veteran in Civil Aviation sector, who earlier managed as CEO and President, overseeing Harmonie Aircraft Company, Aviation and Aircraft Leasing market globally for Harmonie International, a Global conglomerate with its HQ in the USA.

Fruits, vegetables tackle depression in 2 weeks NEW DELHI, FEbruary 12 (aNI): A lot has been said about the health benefits of inculcating fruits and vegetables in our daily diet but the researchers have now proved the psychological benefits of a balanced meal.

They have found that naturally-grown food can potentially tackle depression in as little as two weeks.

Researchers from the University of Otago studied 171 adults aged between 18 and 25 about their dietary habits.

They were split into three groups to investigate the effects of having a diet high in fruit and vegetables.

Over a fortnight, they either continued

eating as normal, or were encouraged by text reminders and pre-paid vouchers to eat more fruit and vegetables.

Or they were personally given two extra daily servings of fresh produce (carrots, kiwifruit, apples and oranges).

Those in the last group reported significant improvements to their psychological well-being, with boosts in vitality and motivation.

However, those reminded by text and given $10 vouchers did not show a similar improvement, according to the study published in PLOS ONE. And, when surveyed, were found more likely to have eaten cooked vegetables in

leisure

CROSSWORD # 3856

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casseroles or mixed in with other meals.

Study author Dr Tamlin Conner said: ‘The message from this study is we should be giving people more fruits and vegetables to eat, not simply reminding people to eat their 5+ a day.

‘People in dormitories, children in daycare centres, patients in hospitals, employees in the workplace, could be provided with fresh fruits and vegetables on a regular basis.’

But she added that further research is needed to address whether eating more fresh produce might make differences to people’s ill-being, including conditions such as depression.

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from industry using modern risk assessment methods, and prescribe standard sampling and test methods for effective monitoring, surveillance and enforcement of the relevant regulations.

FSSAI had earlier brought out Draft Regulations for fortified food -- Food Safety and Standards (Fortification of Food) Regulations, 2016 which were operationalised in October, 2016.

“Based on the comments received on the draft Regulations, the Panel will finalise the Regulations,” FSSAI said.

Apart from framing standards, FSSAI has launched the Food Fortification Resource Centre (FFRC) to promote large-scale fortification of food across India.

An online portal of FFRC to facilitate food businesses and bring fortified foods into government programmes was launched in November.

With an effective regulatory mechanism along with the continuous support of all the stakeholders, FSSAI expects that the problem of malnutrition in general and micronutrient malnutrition in particular would be overcome soon.

FSSAI has also unveiled a logo for fortified foods which may be used by food companies.

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The panel has 11 experts and scientists -- Ambrish Mithal from Medanta; CS Pandav and R K Marwaha (Retd) from AIIMS; Anura Kurpad from St John’s Medical College; Yogeshwar Shukla from CSIR - Indian Institute of Toxicilogy Research, HPS Sachdev from Sita Ram Bharatia Institute of Science and Research; KM Nair from NIN; P Ramachandran from Nutrition Foundation of India; Sumit Arora from NDRI; Sirimavo Nair from the MS University, Baroda, and Harsulkar from Bharati Vidyapeeth.

Members from Scientific Panels dealing with food fortifying vehicles such as wheat flour, refined flour, rice, milk, edible oil and salt will also be a part of this committee.

The Panel will identify critical nutritional gaps in the Indian diet in general as well as in specific target groups based on diet surveys and credible scientific evidence.

It will define strategies to address nutritional needs of the general population and vulnerable groups, besides reviewing the standards for all suitable food fortifying vehicles.

The panel will also address regulatory and related technological issues, review proposals

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NEW DELHI, FEbruary 12 (PTI): Food regulator FSSAI has set up a scientific panel to frame final regulations on fortification of foods and prepare strategies to address malnutrition problem.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has already issued the draft guidelines on fortification for five food items -- salt, milk, wheat flour, rice and edible oil -- to boost production and consumption of fortified foods.

The draft rules were operationalised in October even as FSSAI sought comments from stakeholders before finalising the final regulations Fortification means deliberately adding or increasing the content of essential micro nutrients in food items to improve quality.

Standards have been set for fortification of salt with iodine and iron; of vegetable oil and milk with vitamin A and D; wheat flour and rice with iron, folic acid, zinc, vitamin B12, vitamin A and some other micro nutrients “FSSAI has set up a new Scientific Panel on ‘Food Fortification and Nutrition’ to address issues related to fortification of food,” the regulator said in a statement.

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women Cell

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Monday 13•02•2017

NAGALAND/pubLic spAce

Come to the negotiating table, State BJP appeals DiMapur, FEbruary 12 (MExN): The Nagaland State Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has appealed the JCC and NTAC leaders to come to the negotiating table with the government “in the spirit of understanding and forgiveness”.

A press release from the party informed of a joint consultative meeting of party legislators and senior leaders of the party on February 12 at Kohima to

deliberate on the present scenario in the state.

The party stated the DAN government had already agreed and complied to the demands of the JCC to postpone and thereafter nullified the ULB elections and had published the same in the Nagaland Gazette.

The State BJP reminded the JCC and the NTAC that the stalemate on the above issue has created “tremen-

dous hardships” for the public, particularly old aged citizens, students appearing exams, daily wage earners, pensioners, salaried employees and dependants, patients, travelers etc. besides blocking important government services.

“The BJP legislators and State BJP senior leaders therefore appeal the JCC and NTAC leaders of the civil society, that the issue, having run its full course, and in

the spirit of understanding and forgiveness, come to the negotiating table with the government and resolve the matter amicably for the society to resume normal life at the earliest,” the statement appealed.

Sources informed that two elected representatives of the BJP, Mmhonlumo Kikon and Imtilemba Sangtam, could not attend today’s meeting due to health concerns.

44 Assam Rifles organises vet camp at Orangkong village LONGLENG, FEbruary 12 (MExN): 44 Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North) conducted a Veterinary Camp at Orangkong village on February 10. The camp was conducted by the Veterinary Team of 14 Mob Fd Veterinary Hospital, Dimapur led by Lt Col M Sengupta.

The aim of the Veterinary Camp was to provide medical assistance and treatment to livestock and pets of the local people. A total of 947 livestock which included 176 goats/sheep, 243 pigs, 227 poultry, 87 cows and 214 dogs/cats were examined and their owners were provided with free medicines.

15 Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North) conducted a medical camp for the villagers of ‘C’ Saddle and adjoining villages of Chingmei, Old Chingmei and Chentang in Tuensang district from February 9 to 11. A total of 407 patients comprising 182 men, 163 women and 62 children were treated and given free medicines, informed a press release from Assam Rifles.

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An Appeal To The Conscience

aga Christian leaders across denominational lines from Dimapur and Kohima endorse the mediating role played by the NBCC. The ongoing crisis has revealed the truth about how we can limit and destroy ourselves. What needs to be done to match this perilous moment by the people, and our leaders in particular, has become clear.

All of us in our different ways have produced the eyeball-to-eyeball situation of deadlock. The stoutly defended positions of the opposing sides stand on the fragile foundation of our changing society made up of all of us. The confrontation is capable of producing consequences no group should bring upon the Naga people. At the moment we cannot find a solution without allowing God to come in to show us a constructive way forward. Therefore, on behalf of Christians in Nagaland, we appeal to the Government and the NTAC/JCC not to act against the dictates of your God-given conscience.

The harsh searchlight has fallen on our leaders who are at the centre of the raging storm. The people’s prayer to God and their appeal to their leaders at this time of extreme danger is that they will choose to be guided by their conscience to do what is ethically right. Anything less will prove inadequate to solve the present crisis and restore peace for our society.

For this we urge all sides to tone down their rhetorical positions and justifications so that the current tensions may de-escalate and allow space for creative interventions and dialogue.

To the Chief Minister, the Cabinet

and elected representatives of the Nagaland State Assembly, we applaud the call for dialogue on core issues between all the stakeholders. As a first step towards any dialogue, concrete and creative steps need to be taken to reduce public distrust on the government. Dear Chief Minister, as the head of the government, we therefore, urge you to demonstrate able-leadership by exercising your moral judgement and acting on your conscience to do what is right and needed at this juncture to avert violence, and pave the way for genuine dialogue.

To the leaders of organizations who are leading the resistance against the faulty process and imposition of policies made without the Naga peoples’ informed consent, we implore you to resist from any form of violent confrontation, because violence will only yield more violence. In honour of the precious lives lost and to prevent further damage of the Naga moral fibre, we urge you to once more explore the path of peaceful dialogue.

To fellow Nagas, our traditional ethos and customary law are centred on values of justice, equality, respect and liberty. Let us seize this moment of extreme crisis as an opportunity to exercise Naga values to respect and uphold women rights. This is an opportunity to re-examine old models and practices, and together, through a people’s dialogue and consultation begin the tedious democratic process of creating inclusive and empowering models in which Naga women, men and youth can respectfully participate and decide the course of our common future.

Dear Nagas, if wisdom and conscience is allowed to prevail over all short-term considerations and selfinterests, this will be the finest hour for our leaders and all Nagas.

We impress upon all Christians in Nagaland to pray for peace and constructive dialogue to take place among the Nagas.

1. Rev. Moses Murry, General Superintendent, AGEI 2. Rev. N. Paphino, President NCRC 3. H. Moba Konyak, KBPF 4. Sankara Narayan, KBPF 5. Rev. Amos Humtsoe, Baptist Church Dimapur 6. Rev. Dr. Tseibu Rutsa, Baptist Mission Church 7. Rev. Vimese Suohuo, Naga Bazaar Baptist Church 8. A. Taku Longkumer, Chairman, Nagaland Peace Co-ordination Forum 9. Rev. Dr. Rachülie Vihienuo, Union Baptist Church, Kohima 10. Rev. Fr. Neisalhou Carolus, Catholic Church, Nagaland 11. Rev. Fr. Thomas Toretkiu, Catholic Church, Kohima 12. Rev. Phomlee Van, KBPF 13. Z. Daird Koza, NCRC 14. Deacon Obed, Catholic Church 15. Botoholi, NBCC 16. Kedo Peseyie, City Church Kohima, KBPF 17. Fr. C.P. Anto, Peace Channel, Catholic Church 18. Rev. Kari Longchar, Baptist Church 19. Arithung Kikon, KBPF 20. Niketu Iralu, Baptist Church, Sechü-Zubza

Looking to the Constitutional Law of India Soul searching in troubled times

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RTICLE 355. Duty of the union to protect states against external aggression and internal disturbance.

It shall be the duty of the union to protect every state against external aggression and internal disturbance and to ensure that the governor of every state is carried on in accordance with the provision of this consti-

tution.

ARTICLE 356(1). Provision in case of failure of constitutional machinery in state.

If the president on receipt of a report from the Governor of a state or otherwise is satisfied that a situation has arisen in which the government of the state cannot be carried on in accordance with the provi-

sions of the constitution, the President may by Proclamation.

(Emergency Provision Page 403) Justiciability of the Proclamation Part 2(A) That the proclamation has been made upon a consideration which is wholly extranous or irrelevant to the purpose for which the power under Art.356 had

been conferred in the constitution namely a breakdown of the constitutional machinery in a state , or in other words there is no 'reasonable nuxus' between the reason's disclosed and the satisfaction of president, because in such a case it can be said that there has been no satisfaction of the President which is a condition precedent for

exercise of the power under Art 356.

This is the clear cut quote from the provision constitutional law of India ART 355 and ART 356(1) Part 2(a) Page 403-404 (6th Edition).

Let us reason why Zhevito Aye GB East Dimapur

It’s a one-item menu in restless Nagaland now Monalisa Changkija Courtesy: Deccan Chronicle

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fter the bandh imposed by the Nagaland Tribes Action Committee and Joint Coordination Committee on January 28 was relaxed on February 3, life appears to be normal in Nagaland.

But the bandh still applies to Government offices and the movement of Government vehicles.

Despite the let up, though, tension is thick in the air, rumours are rife, and the average person is apprehensive of what will happen next. But a fortnight after the state was plunged into turmoil, what is significant is that the original cause of it has receded and all the attention is on the stand-off between the Government and the JCC-NTAC. Local newspapers are full of claims and counter claims by the Government and the JCC-NTAC, and various tribal bodies, political parties and individuals continue to air their views on the stand-off between the Government and the JCC-NTAC. It was the opposition of the tribal bodies to 33 per cent reservation for women in Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) that kick-started the agita-

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tion but today, the hot topic of the day is whether Nagaland’s Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang will resign, as demanded by the NTAC. The JCC-NTAC has already announced an indefinite bandh from February 13, which will impact rail and air services. The Government, totally paralysed for over a fortnight, has only reiterated its commitment to dialogue till the time of writing. And people are stocking up on food and other essential commodities.

The tribal bodies’ focus has shifted from stiff opposition to women’s reservation in ULBs, to tax and land ownership issues contained in the Nagaland Municipal (Third Amendment) Act, 2016.

And after the death of two young men at Dimapur on January 31, the JCC-NTAC’s focus has centred entirely on the Chief Minister’s resignation. The suspicion that political rivalries and machinations are driving the agitation is probably well founded.

But the women’s reservation issue has been relegated to the back-burner as if to suggest that the matter has been settled — Part-IX of the Constitution or no Part-IX of the Constitution — because of Article 371 (A), which protects Naga

culture, customs and traditions, and all Naga traditional systems and structures thereof, which are all for and about men.

It is adding insult to injury for Naga women that the women’s reservation issue has been once again used, misused and abused in order to centre-stage Naga men’s rights, wishes and wants.

Naga men obviously believe their political rights are divinely sanctioned hence their rights, wishes and wants take precedence over women’s rights. Worse still, they believe that Naga women can enjoy only those rights sanctioned

by Naga culture, customs and traditions, all of them, needless to say, authored by men.

The very argument that women’s reservation infringes on Article 371 (A) and Naga culture, traditions and customs, and that Part IX of the Constitution is not applicable to Nagaland because of Article 371 (A), points to the belief among Naga men that Article 371 (A) sanctions only males to be the custodians and interpreters of Naga culture because they have done so for centuries.

Article 371 (A) actually validates this contention of Naga men as it was hastily framed, without

in-depth knowledge of the content of Naga customs, and because of the political compulsions of the time.

This underscores why the ball is in the Centre’s court to resolve the current critical situation in Nagaland.

Women’s reservation in ULBs was first enacted in the Nagaland Municipal (First Amendment) Act, 2006, but because of the vehement opposition from tribal bodies, no ULB polls were held.

The Government did not seriously address the issue or open a dialogue with the tribal bodies for over 10 years. All this has now spilled over to other issues, aggravating the situation in Nagaland, which the all-male Government and tribal bodies are clearly unable to resolve. Worse still, the other issues have eclipsed the crucial issue of Naga women’s right to participate in constitutional decision-making bodies and processes. This underlines the fact that leaving leadership and decision-making to only one section of society, or one sex, impedes inclusive nation-building.

The writer, a journalist and poet, is the editor of Nagaland Page.

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t is difficult to wrap my head around the fact that three lives and so much history, records, documents and properties were lost in the violence that occurred a while ago. The scale of the loss is absolutely heartbreaking. Thinking about it and the reasons leading to such a state of affair and lockdown in our state, I would like to share some thoughts.

Growing up in another state I was a Naga, and that was all there was to it. Period.

But coming back to Nagaland as an adult was quite a culture shock in that I realized that there are many layers to being a Naga. You are born into a particular family and clan, belong to a certain village in an area of a specific district and of course belong to a distinct tribe. So even if you are part of a tribe there are affiliations to the clan and to the familial branches of the clan and even if you are from the same district, distinctions are made based on your village/ range/block etc. So being a Naga means that we have many things to contend with and now we have the burning issue of being a Naga woman vs. being a Naga man.

Our perspectives are tinted by our personal experiences and observations and living in the Naga patriarchal society, I have seen the good and the bad. There are enlightened men and there are those who are still steeped in traditions and dogma.

The same goes for women too. Sexism and misogyny are not exclusive to men.

There have been instances when women have actively endorsed the customary laws towards their own kind especially against daughters/sisters-in-law, widows, divorcees and single mothers, thus perpetuating the patriarchal values and mind-set. Parents have raised children inculcated with societal values/attitudes based on gender; and the home environment plays a very important role in shaping the worldview of the individuals. Thus a lot of introspection and soul searching is required if we are to evolve and bring up the younger generations as good and responsible citizens capable of carving out their own niche in a competitive world regardless of gender.

Empowerment and enlightenment go hand in hand and if we are to progress we must understand that it is our values

and attitudes that will ultimately shape our destiny. The gender and societal attitudes that are shaped by patriarchal values are obstacles on the path toward political empowerment and we must try to bring a change through dialogue and reason.

So much has been spewed forth about the 33% reservations for women; and for what it is worth this is my take on this issue.

There have been women candidates who have stepped up and joined politics and contested in the past but did not win.

The reasons for not winning may have been due to financial difficulties and due to the patriarchal system that does not support the women candidates in terms of endorsement etc. So maybe the women could not cut through the barriers of social sanction and prejudice. But the point is that they tried. They were ridiculed, threatened, even attacked but they came forth and they tried. That is the essence of having the courage of conviction and for doing what they believed in and what they wanted to do.

Today women have excelled in almost all fields through hard work, tenacity, brain power, sincerity and parental support. The 33% reservation will definitely go a long way in including women in the political arena on a wider scale, and it is hoped that it will be implemented soon; but even without it, women can contest if they want to and are determined to compete with the men. And there are women candidates who have boldly stated that they are willing to fight elections without the 33% reservations. So it is up to us to stand up and support each other and start a mass grassroots movement by educating both males and females about the necessity of including women in the decision making processes because men and women working together as a team will achieve more. An informed public will ultimately support the inclusion of women in politics in practical and tangible ways.

Instead of defensive aggression and abrasive counter onslaughts/ accusations/ demands/ threats etc., building healthy relationships and goodwill will go a long way to build a stronger and more inclusive Naga society. A shift in perspective could bring about solutions that are radically positive and meaningful.

J Longkumer

Emergency for Nagaland in 21st Century

oday Nagas are facing the greatest challenge in the field of economic, political as well as social corruption system and for this current issue, we the Nagaland people in general have a great burden because the world around us has become highly complex and we are therefore forced to seek different and more elaborate solution. Our political, business, media and social elites may be able to recognize what is right but I do not perceive that they have the ability or the will to put it into practice when they are faced with opposition to their plan.

Our elites should not underestimate the reasoning power comes to the big questions. Our elites, especially politician, must take the lead with respect to vital

reform issue and not stumble along behind! Our leaders of today in which fields they must justify themselves by achievement, decisiveness and their role as model worth of emulation.

I also expect them to speak in plain language! Our present leaders no matter whom you are leading must be straight with those who follow you, even when it is an unpleasant task. Because many of so called leaders of today in our state have failed the people. They have remained insensitive irrespective of the needs of their fellow beings. Unfortunately, many are motivated by a desire for personal glory rather than a loving concern. They assume that leadership means prestige and personal advantages and because of these reasons there is dearth of dedicated

leader. There is no denying the fact that, there exist scores of potential leaders, but few are those whom people regard as true leader.

Therefore, a question arises who are these true leaders?

And these leaders are the need of the hour in our state toady! When we deeply look into this matter and makes a referential study of the different types of leaders, the significances of the leaders referred to, in our Christian context came into much relevance to the need of our society. Here leadership essentially involves service.

They who serve the interest of the people.

As John Stotta, a prominent writer beautifully writes, “The authority by which the Christian leaders lead is not power but love, not force but example, not coercion but reasoned per-

suasion. Leader have power, but power is safe only in hands of those who humble themselves to serve” thus the action of true concern which exhibited by way of service. We must keep in mind that leaders are chosen by God for the peoples.

Who has endowed him with ability and expected to us.

These skills and gift for His glory and the good of others therefore, the responsibility that the true leader has to bear is not an easy one, for it involves lots of sacrifices and selfless service. And they should be ready to pay the price.

In my opinion, First we must be clear about the society in which we want to live in the 21st century:First of all, we need a new vision. Visions are nothing but strategies for action. Vision can mobi-

lize undreamed of forces which is good intellect for the modernization of our society. So in order to fulfill this great vision in our society, we need dynamic leaders to enhance greater and faster economic development in our state. We should have wider scope and creative ideas to modernize Nagaland into a beautiful land of industrialization, scientific agriculture, proper use of natural vegetation and raw materials which can solve the problems of poverty and educated unemployment for our future generation.

Today in this stinking society of ours, the truth has no voice. So we need true Christian leaders who can courageously stand up and lead the peoples on the right track, looking into the people’s needs. Thereby

recreating a new Naga society where dreams and visions become reality.

Let’s try to imagine Nagaland in the year 2020, then the State of Nagaland we picture is vastly different from that of today. We should aim to achieve in which everybody as autonomous individuals bear more responsibility, both for himself and others, and in which he sees that not as a burden but as an opportunity?

Again, we must aim to achieve a society i.e no longer rigidly divided as ours today, but a society that regards Naga unification not as techniques for living together, but as a part of its political and cultural unification.

Today we demand freedom, but what if the public find freedom/liberty too cold, preferring the comfort of our state welfare

benefits and provisions?

We must prepare young people for freedom, we must equip them to handle it. We must encourage a sense of responsibility for oneself, so that the young Nagas accept freedom as a prize rather than burden.

Young generation has the greatest capital assets; all we have to do is offer them a realistic future.

Everyone knows that we must be a learning society. So we must become part of the Nation –wide learning society in which all round the globe seeking the best ideas and the best solutions.

We have built up an enormous back log of neglected reforms. It will take strength and effort to drive renewal forward and too much time has already been lost. The world is on

the move, it will not wait for us. But it is not yet too late.

We expect action now, that is social, political, economic revolution against the corruption system in the state and if every Naga bonafide sees the tasks before us as great common challenge for our future generation, we should succeed and in the end, we shall all benefit.

I strongly believe that the Naga will be able to solve our present problems one day or the other. I believe in our energy, our community spirit, our ability to run our vision into reality. Strength and the will power to do if we believe ourselves capable of doing so.

I Chubatangit Jamir Social Activist Bharat Joyti & Indian Best Citizen awardees for social service

The Morung Express “Public Space” is to provide space for diverse opinions to be expressed and heard. The opinions in the “Public Space” do not reflect the views and position of the newspaper nor the editor.

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Monday 13•02•2017

IN FOCUS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

The Power of Truth

The Morung Express volume XII Issue 41 By moa Jamir

C O M M E N T A R Y

Ben Wray openDemocracy

Scotland’s answer to Brexit

Women & Political Rights Scotland must free itself from the new Anglo-American order hen some women began agitating for the right to t the Scottish Independence on top of everything else, has started bangvote in 1840s, most observers expressed revulsion, Convention last month Elaine C ing the war drum, with provocations to- New independence referendum likely contempt, or disbelief, wrote Susan Goodier of UniSmith used a term that may be- wards China and Iran. His chief advisor,

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versity of Illinois in 2012 analysing the Anti-Suffrage Movement in the United States. But when the movement known as ‘suffragettes’ gained momentum, extreme opposition arose, oddly from women themselves. Women were granted the right to vote with the passage of the 19th Amendment, 1920 in US and in 1918 in United Kingdom after decades of struggle. It was a period of “intersection” of traditional and modern ideas, Goodier noted and women suffrage, conservative believed, was “dangers to the society in general.” “Business and politics are fraught with troubles,” it was argued and the home – the traditional spheres for women was considered as a “refuge, a place from necessary evil of progressive outside world.”

Susan E Marshall (1986) wrote that during the heydays of anti-women suffrage in US (1911-16), the National Association Opposed to Woman Suffrage (NAOWS) was formed in 1911 to coordinate and support the activities of the state associations which by 1916 claimed a total membership of 350,000 and over 25 state organizations working to defeat suffrage. In one pamphlets, it argued that it opposes women suffrage “BECAUSE” - 90% of the women either do not want it, or do not care; it means competition of women with men instead of co-operation; 80% of the women eligible to vote are married and can only double or annul their husband's votes; and it is unwise to risk the good already in place for the evil which may occur etc. The most frequent argument against woman suffrage was that women were politically incompetent; dominated by heart rather than mind, they would "consider personalities above principles" and govern by impulse, intuition, and hysteria, Marshall wrote. Negative consequences for society (57%); incompetence of female electorate (17%), and destruction of the family (7%) were pre-dominant rhetorics.

An information manual prepared by California State Senator J.B. Sanford entitled, 'Argument Against Women's Suffrage, 1911' stated that, “Suffrage is not a right. It is a privilege that may or may not be granted. Politics is no place for a woman consequently the privilege should not be granted to her (sic).”

“The men are able to run the government and take care of the women…To man, woman is the dearest creature on earth, and there is no extreme to which he would not go for his mother or sister. By keeping woman in her exalted position man can be induced to do more for her than he could by having her mix up in affairs that will cause him to lose respect and regard for her.

Woman does not have to vote to secure her rights. Man will go to any extreme to protect and elevate her now. As long as woman is woman and keeps her place she will get more protection and more consideration than man gets. When she abdicates her throne she throws down the scepter of her power and loses her influence.”

The antisuffrage cause was motivated by both status and class concerns - including a status defense of the homemaker lifestyle, fueled by fears of declining prestige, and also protected class interests, and an attempt to safeguard their own material privileges and prevent the proletarianization which paid employment represented, Marshall concluded.

In the UK, the Anti-Women’s Suffrage League was formed to oppose women’s right to vote. It was rooted in Victorian views about women’s position in society, Marij Van Helmond wrote in 'Buy Votes for Women: The Events on Merseyside.' “On the one hand women were considered too precious and innocent to become embroiled in public life, on the other they were thought too irrational and emotional to make an intelligent contribution. Whatever their abilities, their place was thought to be in the home.” Other arguments include that women are already represented by their husbands; It is dangerous to change a system that works; and women do not fight to defend their country.”

In India, at the heights of Women Reservation debates in Parliament, a well-known member reportedly posed in June 1997, “Do you think these women with short hair can speak for women, for our women…” The Women's Reservation Bill (or 108th Constitution Amendment Bill) was first introduced in September 1996 and since then it's been reintroduced 3 more times in Indian Parliament and managed to get only the assent of the Rajya Sabha in 2016 thus far. Opponents harp on larger issues of electoral reforms (such as measures to check criminalisation of politics, internal democracy in political parties, influence of black money, etc); "proxies" of female candidates; and empowerment of only "elitist women."

While equality of sexes is inherently understood to be operative in day to day social existence of Nagas, in polity it is not the reality. Are the aforementioned characteristics visible in the present debate on women reservation?

For any comment, drop a line to moajamir@live.com

lEfT WING |

Nita Bhalla Thomson Reuters Foundation

‘India fails to boost women politicians’

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he pitiful show of female candidates in India's state elections is an indictment of the failure of successive governments to enact a two-decade-old bill to give women a stronger voice in parliament, activists said.

In the world's largest democracy, women hold only 12 percent of seats in the lower and upper houses of parliament combined, says the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) - just over half the global average of 23%.

After years of lobbying by activists, a bill - which provides for one-third of the seats in national and state assemblies to be reserved for women - was passed by the upper house in 2010.

Yet it has faced vehement resistance from male lawmakers and has failed to be tabled for discussion in the lower house, despite pledges by successive governments over the last seven years to enact the legislation.

The National Alliance for the Women's Reservation Bill, a coalition of over 20 women's rights organisations, said their research showed in polls currently taking place across five Indian states, women made up less than 6% of candidates.

"Women face so many difficulties in India and it is the same in political parties. Just enter these male-dominated, patriarchal political party offices and you will realise how difficult it is to survive as a woman in politics in India," said Ranjana Kumari, director of the Centre for Social Research.

The state polls - taking place in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand in the north, Goa in the southwest and Manipur in the northeast - show abysmally low numbers of women being fielded by all parties, including Prime Minister Narendra's Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), said the alliance.

India is ranked 87 out of 144 countries in the Global Gender Gap 2016, an annual report by the World Economic Forum which measures how women fare in areas such as economic participation, health, education and political representation.

The IPU ranks India's representation of women in national parliament well below neighbouring states such as Pakistan, which has 21 percent female representation, Afghanistan with 28 percent, Nepal with 30 percent, and Bangladesh with 20 percent.

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come useful in conceptualising this epoch: “Trump-Brexia”. It’s increasingly clear that what we are seeing is no short-term shock soon to be reversed, but a fundamental change in the Anglo-American order towards a capital-N Nationalism where British and US elites grab what they can while the weak suffer what they must.

It’s difficult to underestimate the importance of this shift. Niall Ferguson, the proEmpire historian, used to talk about ‘Anglobalisation’: the Anglo-American order led first by the British Empire and then succeeded by the American Empire, which constructed the rules of global political economy over the past 200 years. The key here is the world ‘rules’: while always rigged and carried out with gross hypocrisy, they sought to establish a set of political and economic red lines that were more or less universal. Especially after the post-war settlement, punitive tariffs was a no-no and collective punishment based on religious discrimination would generally mean Washington, and the international institutions it dominates like the IMF, World Bank, Nato, the UN, would put you on the naughty step.

Trump-Brexia has flushed the Anglobalisation rule book down the toilet.

Trump has casually suggested that the US might establish a 20% import tariff on its neighbour and third biggest trading partner, Mexico. He has banned people from seven war-torn Muslim countries from entering the US, and stated he would take more Christians but not Muslims. In the Obama era, if the leader of another major country had proposed such measures, it would have been rebuked by the White House as “an attack on the free world”.

Brexit Britain follows limply in Trump’s slip stream, desperate for whatever it can get. Britain under May doesn’t have a foreign policy as such, it has a trade policy, which can be summed up as “please, please, please!” The cravenness of May’s trip to Washington and the subsequent invitation of a grandiose, monarchy-and-all State visit for Trump is all part of the UK’s plan to open up the British economy to US corporate vultures. A TTIP-on-steroids is being plotted, with basic rights and regulations all up for grabs. Worst of all was her cowardice – May was briefed about Trump’s planned Muslim Ban while at the White House, but said nothing. There is no principle important enough to get in the way of May’s British Nationalism.

Let’s be clear, if the global economy turns inwards Britain will come off worse than the US, which as the dominant superpower has advantages the UK gave up long ago. The UK’s economy is based on services, most importantly financial services, which requires its tentacles to reach into all parts of the global economy. UK supply chains are global. If all of this unravels, and if trade deals are signed that pick off the last of public services and neuter any attempts to rebuild a domestic manufacturing sector, the UK will have little left. While the Trump era may devastate the US, it is likely to be even worse for its patsy.

And that’s just the economics. Trump,

Steve Bannon, appears to pull the strings, and he is on record saying a war with China in the next 5-10 years will happen. He is essentially a religious extremist, desiring a Christian holy war against the Islamic world. Who would put it past ‘Theresa the Appeaser’ continuing her embrace with the Donald in war?

Very few people in Scotland want any of this. Finding genuine supporters of Trump-Brexia in Scotland is a tough task.

Maybe some Nazi in his dad’s basement, or David Coburn – but even the Scottish Tories don’t believe in this stuff. Scottish politics has been able to hold together some sort of consensus against unhinged capital-N Nationalism. Scotland, pretty much all of it, is being dragged against its will into Trump-Brexia. It’s now time to call on all those within that consensus to unite for Scottish political sovereignty.

At the start of the Yes campaign for the 2014 referendum, support for independence was polling as low as 27%. Speaking to people on the streets of Glasgow in 2012, many struggled to understand the meaning of it all. Why did we need such upheaval? Were things really so bad? Is what Yes supporters want really so seismic as to justify such a big change? Many people genuinely believed the independence movement were the narrow, inward looking, parochial nationalists, and Britain the worldly, forward-facing, open option.

We now live in a time where the battle lines of history are much more clearly defined. If a new referendum is called (as I believe it should be), I’d wager not one punter will fail to understand the meaning of Yes. Scotland’s place in history, one way or another, will be clear to pretty much everyone. Do you want Scotland to cower behind the Trump-Brexian Nationalist bigots, or do you want Scotland to forge its own place in the world based on equality, solidarity, respect, peace and socialism?

If the independence movement doesn’t believe we can move the Yes vote up from a starting point of 45% in the current political context, then we don’t have enough belief in the values behind our cause. And we do the rest of the world a disservice. Because winning a referendum in the context of TrumpBrexia has much more global significance than if we had done it in 2014. It will be a slap in the face to their attempt to build a new Nationalist International; an insurgent movement against the radical Right. It will be won in the teeth of what surely will be a nasty, vicious and anti-democratic unionist resistance from No 10 and the White House.

If you thought the last campaign was Project Fear you will have seen nothing yet.

Trump just threatened to send the US army into Mexico; do you think he’ll be scared to threaten Scotland? Remember, they’ve ripped up the old rule book.

Nicola Sturgeon has ran out of road with her attempt at compromise. There’s no compromising with Trump-Brexia. It’s win or lose. This is a fight Yes can win, and that victory would be a major defeat for Trump-Brexian Nationalism. The time is now to put Scotland’s stamp on history.

T

Daily sabah

he Scottish parliament, in a symbolic motion, voted overwhelmingly on February 7 to reject Britain's march towards the EU exit, with the semi-autonomous government warning Scotland would not be "humiliated".

The Scottish government said the vote - backed by nearly three quarters of Scottish lawmakers from across the political spectrum - is one of the most important in the parliament's 18-year history.

Minister for Brexit Negotiations Mike Russell said his government will "never allow Scotland to be humiliated, and its democratic choice rejected. We will never, ever, turn our back on Europe and the world."

He said there was still time for London to avert another independence bid by Scotland if it accepted a "compromise" - a differentiated solution that would keep Scotland in the European single market even as the rest of Britain leaves.

British lawmakers are debating a bill that would empower Prime Minister Theresa May to begin the country's withdrawal from the European Union (EU).

The Scottish Parliament voted by 90 votes to 34 that the draft legislation should not proceed as Edinburgh has received no commitment that it will be effectively consulted on the exit terms.

The vote has no legal force, however.

The only dissenters were the Scottish Conservatives, who are aligned with May's Conservative government in London.

"This is the Scottish Parliament. The people that voted for us are Scottish voters, they expect us to stand up for Scotland," Russell said.

Scotland was told it would be an "equal partner" in the British union if it rejected independence, which it did by 55 percent in a 2014 referendum.

Twenty months later Scotland voted to remain in the EU by 62 percent, but it was outvoted by England which has a vastly larger population. Brexit succeeded overall with 52 percent of the vote.

British judges ruled in January that a convention designed to deter London from imposing laws on Scotland carried no legal weight, clearing the way for the UK government to trigger Brexit without consulting Edinburgh.

A majority of MPs on Monday rejected amendments to the Brexit bill which called for greater involvement of the devolved administrations.

Lawmakers voted against guar-

anteeing they be consulted before Prime Minister Theresa May signs any agreements with Brussels, or delaying starting exit proceedings until at least one month after the devolved administrations have agreed to a UK strategy.

The Scottish parliament vote sends a clear signal to London that the Brexit process is proceeding without their support, but the UK government has no compulsion to listen.

"We're going to keep talking and make sure that we go on talking so the Article 50 letter can still be influenced by the reasonable demands of Scotland," Russell said.

A British government spokesman said: "The UK government will continue our engagement with the Scottish government and with people and groups across Scotland as we prepare to leave the EU to secure the best deal for Scotland and the UK." Support for Scottish independence rising after Brexit Support for Scottish independence rose last month after British Prime Minister Theresa May came out in favor of Britain making a clean break with the European Union, a BMG survey for Herald Scotland showed on Wednesday.

It indicated 49 percent of Scots now support independence - a 3 point rise from a previous poll with 51 percent opposing it, after "don't know" votes are removed.

However, a majority - 56 percent to 44 percent - still oppose holding another independence vote before Britain leaves the EU. In 2014, Scots voted roughly 55 percent to 45 percent to remain in the United Kingdom. But last year's Britain-wide vote to leave the EU changed the landscape.

Scottish Greens lawmaker Ross Greer, who backs the devolved nationalist government on independence, told Reuters on Monday that Scotland was almost certainly headed to a new independence referendum after the UK triggers the process to leave the European Union.

A report by Dundee-based newspaper the Courier said that May believes Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon is two weeks away from demanding a second referendum on independence.

It said May is privately working a strategy to deal with this.

Scotland has a population of around 5.3 million, according to the last census, slightly more than 8 percent of the United Kingdom's population as a whole.

It was an independent kingdom until merging into the UK with the Act of Union in 1707.

Green and safe, or dirty and dangerous?

East Asia's cities grapple with growth. With millions of people pouring into the region's cities each year, resources are strained and disaster risks are rising Thin lei Win Thomson Reuters Foundation

A

s millions of people pour into East Asia's cities each year, the region's governments face the pressing task of easing the enormous strain on resources and infrastructure, and limiting residents' exposure to disasters and climate change risks.

"In future, two out of every three people will live in a city," said Peter King, a Bangkok-based policy advisor for the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES).

"We have a choice to make now: do we want the cities to be pleasant, healthy, satisfying and vibrant places to live or do we allow the extra millions of people flocking to cities across the world to occupy vulnerable, dirty, dangerous slums, surrounded by the walled, guarded residences of the rich?" he said on the eve of a conference in northern Thailand to discuss the challenge in East Asia.

The two-day meeting will bring together some 200 experts from national and regional governments and academia, to explore solutions to issues such as reducing waste, partnering with the private sector on green projects, and strategies to achieve the U.N.-led Sustainable Development

Goals (SDGs).

The 17 global goals, launched last year, cover many things relevant to city dwellers, such as access to affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth. But one specifically calls for "sustainable cities and communities" that are inclusive, safe and resilient.

Saroj Srisai, head of environment at the ASEAN Secretariat, which coordinates the 10-nation Southeast Asia bloc and is one of the conference organisers, said implementing the SDGs "requires full cooperation among national government agencies, local authorities and development partners, which needs to be significantly strengthened".

"We are learning good lessons from Japan's experience dealing with urbanisation since the 1950s, especially in terms of balancing social and environmental concerns and the economy," he added in emailed comments.

Southern Japan's Kitakyushu City, for example, will showcase at the conference how it has overcome severe industrial pollution, while Toyama in central Japan has embarked on public transport planning to revitalise the city with an ageing population - a challenge Thailand is predicted to face in

the coming decades.

DISASTER DEATHS King said the conference should focus on translating global aims like the SDGs into local action, by setting targets and commitments at all levels of government and initiating partnerships with a wide range of organisations.

Studies have shown that East Asia, home to an estimated 2.2 billion people, is urbanising rapidly, fuelled mainly by migration inside countries.

Almost 200 million people moved from rural to urban areas in East Asia between 2000 and 2010, a figure equal to the world's sixthlargest country, according to a 2015 World Bank report.

East Asia's urban areas include eight "megacities" with populations of over 10 million; 123 large cities of between 1 million and 10 million people; and 738 medium and small cities with 100,000 to 1 million people, shows the report, which analysed satellite imagery and population models to chart urbanisation.

Experts have made links between urbanisation and income growth, pointing to increased economic output per capita as the percentage of people

WRITE-WING

living in urban areas has risen.

Yet urbanisation also tends to put a strain on resources as more people compete for space, jobs, water and energy. Badly planned, it can result in worsening pollution, waste and inequality, and higher exposure to disaster and climate risks.

Already the wider Asia-Pacific region is the most disaster-hit in the world, with over 2 million deaths from earthquakes, tsunamis, floods and other hazards between 1970 and 2014 - more than half of global fatalities during that period.

Despite its fast growth, only 36 percent of East Asia's population currently lives in urban areas, so the phenomenon of people moving to cities is likely to continue in the region for decades to come, the World Bank said.

IGES's King noted that much of the developed world, including Europe, North America and Australia, has already made the transition - so the tens of millions of people shifting to cities in the next few decades will be concentrated in Asia.

"East Asia also has some of the largest slum settlements in the world, so there is already a huge backlog of infrastructure and proper planning, exacerbated in future by the challenges of adapting to climate change and providing energy access for all," he added.

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.

MONDAY 13•02•2017

PERSPECTIVE

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Finally, an end to the cold war?

The much-needed new relationship with the citizenry must involve an end to the conjuring up of an external enemy and the promotion of a “new cold war” Graeme Gill

T

openDemocracy

he year 2016 saw a string of shock political events, from the election of Donald Trump to the US presidency to the Brexit vote in Britain. There were also shock election results in many countries and a surge of support for right wing conservative forces in the heartland of the EU and elsewhere. Many interpreted these in terms of the rise of populism, but this begs the question of why populism has become seemingly so strong in the west at this time. One answer may lie in the end of the cold war in 1989/91.

The cold war was a confrontation – political, ideological, military, economic and social – between two camps, the liberal democracies of the west and the communist states of the east. The architecture of this confrontation consisted of a standoff between two armed alliances, NATO and the Warsaw Pact, and in Europe two economic communities, the EU and Comecon.

The cold war also shaped the political agenda in the individual countries.

In the liberal democracies, it undercut much of the appeal of more radical leftwing forces and greatly complicated the life of the moderate left; it was all too easy to discredit the moderate left by referring to the international enemy. In the communist east, it provided a rationale for regimes to crack down on any signs of domestic reformism, and therefore consolidated those regimes in power.

The end of this confrontation had dramatic consequences in the communist east. The international architecture of the communist side collapsed, with the abolition of the Warsaw Pact and Comecon. Notwithstanding some attempts to create new international overarching institutions, none has become a major actor on the international stage.

Domestically, the politics of most states was transformed; the three federal states all disappeared, and most of the new and continuing states adopted significantly different political systems to their communist forebears. Even in those countries where hard authoritarian regimes are in power, the dynamic of politics is different. This is in stark contrast to what has happened in the west.

The end of the cold war and the west Perhaps fuelled by hubris from perceived victory in the cold war and unwilling to acknowledge the extent to which their systems were a result of the cold war, western decision-makers saw no need to make major structural changes to the political, economic or security structures that had developed during the confrontation with the communist bloc.

NATO is the clearest instance of this.

It was originally developed to confront what was seen as an expansive Soviet Union; this was its sole rationale. When the Soviet enemy disappeared, so too did this rationale. However western leaders opted to retain NATO as a collective alliance, and even to expand it much further eastward than it had ever been in the past. NATO’s front line is now the Russian border, and many countries formerly seen as enemies (including three former republics of the Soviet Union) have been incorporated into it.

Western leaders realized that, with the Soviet threat gone, if they were to keep NATO, a new enemy was needed, and one was soon forthcoming: Russia.

While the hostile relationship that has developed between Russia and the west owes something to both sides, there is no doubt that the way in which Russia has been framed by western leaders and the media – Russia is an aggressive power that disobeys the rules – provides the rationale they need to retain the alliance.

The result of this framing is both an inability to appreciate nuance in the understanding of Russian actions (including understanding the role that NATO itself plays in shaping those actions), and provision of the enemy NATO needs. In their eyes it is a virtuous circle. While NATO continues to exist, relations will remain strained.

And then there is the EU The other major structure on the western side is the EU. While the communist threat may not have been articulated as a reason for the foundation of what was to become the EU, the need for some unity of action on the part of the west in facing the communist threat was recognized.

But the EU was different from NATO in that its rationale was not only opposition to communism but economic cooperation. With the end of the cold war, the EU underwent significant expansion, taking in most of the former Comecon members. The consequent doubling in size coincided with attempts to bring about increased unity within the organization.

Attempts to bring about greater harmonization of domestic and EU law and to assert the primacy of the latter over the former affected all member states, but

of members has been symbolically the most important element of this drive for greater unity.

But while the EU has expanded and sought to become more integrated, at one level it remains a profoundly exclusionary organization: it has been made clear that Russia (and most of the other former Soviet republics) will never become a member. Gorbachev’s idea of the “common European home” died on the altar of western realpolitik.

Part of the reason for the hardnosed EU attitude to Russia is that its Russia policy has effectively been subcontracted to the new member states that had formerly been part of Comecon. Leaders in these countries had very strong views about the threat they believed Russia posed, and given both the decision-making structures in the organization and the political dynamics among the members, they have been able, by and large, to shape the organization’s Russia policy.

But the entry of the new members has also posed another major problem for the organization. Just as it was seeking to increase the level of integration, the doubling of membership massively increased the complexity of this task. Important here was not just the number of member states, but the significant variation in development levels that this expansion introduced.

Certainly there had always been different levels of economic development and performance among the member states, but geographical expansion complicated this considerably.

Differing national interests became apparent with the diverse reactions to the global financial crisis and the 2016 migration crisis. The EU was unable to undertake coordinated activity on either of these issues. One result is significant strain on EU structures; another was Brexit.

Internationally, then, the maintenance of the two western cold war structures relatively unchanged except for their expansion has shaped international politics in unfortunate ways. NATO has contributed in a major way to the current hostile relations between the west and Russia, while the expansion of the EU has brought the continued existence of that organization into question.

The end of the cold war has also had a significant effect on the domestic politics of most of the major western states.

The end of the cold war and domestic politics The end of the cold war did not change the structure of domestic politics in most western countries, but it did change their dynamic, ultimately creating the circumstances for the emergence of populism.

It did not do this alone. The emergence of post-materialist politics was under way before the cold war ended. This involved the erosion of class as a clear determinant of political affiliation, with the result that the electoral arena has become more fluid and the lines between left and right blurred. But this process was substantially accelerated by the end of the cold war.

Before the collapse of communism, the belief that there were other ways of organizing society to that offered by western industrial capitalism remained strong. This does not mean that there was significant support in the western political mainstream for the Soviet Union; such sympathy as there had been largely dissipated with the revelations of destalinization and the 1968 invasion of Czechoslovakia. However the western left retained its commitment to socialism, even if this was at times more rhetorical than real, and to the view that there were alternatives to the structures and processes as-

The collapse of communism had no necessary effect on this socialist commitment. However the fall of communism was widely interpreted as evidence of the victory of capitalism and of the fact that democratic industrial capitalism was the only viable means of organizing modern mass society. This was certainly the line propounded by conservative writers in the Anglo-American world (Fukuyama’s “end of history” is the best example of this), and appears to have taken hold generally in those societies.

The result was an existential dilemma for the left. If they did not stand for socialism, what did they really stand for?

The intellectual rationale for leftist politics disappeared, and along with it the rationale for voting for leftist parties. If they did not stand for a definably different view of society than the right, the only real difference appeared to lie in their capacity to manage society as it was currently structured. While they might mount arguments on the basis of egalitarianism, fairness and justice, this was essentially tinkering at the margins, not articulating a different vision.

The effective removal of socialism as an alternative frame to the discussion of politics meant that the bounds of political discussion have become significantly narrowed. The attempt to shift the debate onto other grounds like the environment has been unsuccessful because the dominant frame of reference has tended to cast this as a marginal issue.

There has also been a narrowing of political organization as the disappearance of socialism took away the space within which radical leftist organizations had existed. These had not been important political forces in themselves in most countries, but they were often the source of new ideas and activists that could refresh and reconfigure elements of the mainstream parties’ thinking.

Management and 'the enemy' The end of ideology in politics and the blurring of the left-right divide has had a malign effect on our politics. It has robbed those politics of much policy content and reduced the discussion to one of claims about who is the better manager.

But as society has continued to become more complex and diverse and as some major problems have emerged that have not been able to be resolved domestically – climate change, immigration and the treatment of refugees, and international terror to name only the most salient – the task of management has become intrinsically more difficult.

Because of this increased difficulty, it has been in the interests of all sides of politics to obfuscate and to create an appearance of external enemies: it is much easier to beef up anti-terror laws than it is to realistically tackle the climate change problem; or to emphasize “Russian aggression” than to tackle the issue of the failing states in centraleastern Europe.

This focus on management, added to the scale and apparent intractability of some of the problems, has exacerbated the tendency present in all democracies: the propensity of the governors to believe that they are wiser than the governed. The result is patronizing politics and the politics of lies, with the consequent alienation of the populace from politics. Furthermore, this focus erodes the status of expert opinion, because in their drive to claim managerial competence, the politicians eschew complexity and go for simplistic solutions, often based on little other than political expediency.

This was clearly evident in both Brexit and the Trump election. In the former, neither side of the debate was able to

ing as they proposed. The “leave” side in particular was breathtaking in the arrogance of the lies it told about both the costs of remaining in and ease and benefits of getting out. But the “remain” side was no better; it presented arguments in stereotypes that could easily be cast as a scare campaign.

Neither side treated the electorate as intelligent, preferring to appeal to prejudice and ignorance. And once the decision was made, the government continued in much the same vein, talking up as opportunities things which they were clearly going to be unable to provide.

Similarly Trump’s election was achieved despite his campaign being very weak in terms of coherent policy.

He offered slogans as solutions to complex problems, exaggerated and stereotyped issues and opponents, and clearly lied when it suited him. Major issues were simply dismissed as being unimportant. And in the early days of his presidency, he has continued in the same vein. Opinion trumps facts, prejudice trumps science, and stereotypes and prejudices rule.

These examples reflect the way that as the mainstream becomes more homogenous and seems to offer less in the way of answers to our problems, popular alienation grows and the search for alternatives continues. The popularity of Marine Le Pen and the Front National in France and the Alt-Right in Germany reflect this fact. However as the experience of Podemos in Spain, Syriza in Greece, and the rejection of far-right Norbert Hofer in the Austrian presidential election show, the right need not be the only source of response to this crisis. But what does this mean for mainstream parties?

Standing for nothing Instead of basing their appeals on lies, stereotypes and obfuscations, they need to be seen to stand for something.

Political leaders should not be afraid to adopt clear policy positions on even contentious issues, and to fight for those positions in political debate.

The fear that they will alienate some voters by standing up for what they believe in may be well founded, but they are alienating increasing numbers of people now by standing for nothing. In this sense, the domestic political debate needs to be liberated from the constraints imposed by the hegemony of the view that things can only be done the way they are now.

After all, things are not working now.

The massive shifts in wealth over the past few decades have created increasing inequality and an underclass in very rich societies. The sense of community has been eroded as “user pays” is applied to an ever-widening circle of activities. Ethnic and religious groups retain feelings of discrimination and of second class citizenship. Gender violence remains a scourge on our societies.

It is not as if there are no domestic problems that need solving. But they cannot be solved if society is content to accept the second class treatment it is getting from its governors. Only when those governors treat their citizens with respect, only when they involve them in real political discussion rather than fobbing them off with lies and slogans will it be possible to fix the body politic.

And this new relationship with the citizenry must involve an end to the conjuring up of an external enemy and the promotion of a “new cold war”. The end of the cold war created an opportunity for such reassessment that was missed. Unless our governors lead us in such a reassessment now, they may have it forced on them.

7

Indigenous Peoples Lands Guard 80 Percent of World’s Biodiversity Baher Kamal

T

Inter Press Service

hey are more than 370 million self-identified peoples in some 70 countries around the world. In Latin America alone there are over 400 groups, each with a distinct language and culture, though the biggest concentration is in Asia and the Pacific– with an estimated 70 per cent. And their traditional lands guard over 80 per cent of the planet’s biodiversity.

They are the indigenous peoples.

They have rich and ancient cultures and view their social, economic, environmental and spiritual systems as interdependent. And they make valuable contributions to the world’s heritage thanks to their traditional knowledge and their understanding of ecosystem management.

“But they are also among the world’s most vulnerable, marginalized and disadvantaged groups.

And they have in-depth, varied and locally rooted knowledge of the natural world, “says the Romebased International Fund for Agriculture Development (IFAD).

“Unfortunately, indigenous peoples too often pay a price for being different and far too frequently face discrimination,” the Fund, which hosts on Feb 10 and 13 on Rome the Global Meeting of the Indigenous People Forum in the Italian capital.

During this biennial meeting, the United Nations specialised agency will bring together representatives of Indigenous Peoples’ Organisations from across the world, as well as leaders of partner bodies to engage in a direct dialogue and improve participation of indigenous peoples in the Fund’s country programmes.

Over the centuries, the Indigenous peoples “have been dispossessed of their lands, territories and resources and, as a consequence, have often lost control over their own way of life. Worldwide, they account for 5 per cent of the population, but represent 15 per cent of those living in poverty.”

One of the most effective ways to enable indigenous peoples to overcome poverty, it adds, is to support their efforts to shape and direct their own destinies, and to ensure that they are the co-creators and co-managers of development initiatives.

Rights of Indigenous Peoples The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, adopted by the General Assembly on Sep. 13, 2007, establishes a universal framework of minimum standards for the survival, dignity, well-being and rights of the world’s indigenous peoples.

The Declaration addresses individual and collective rights; cultural rights and identity; and rights to education, health, employment and language. And it outlaws discrimination against indigenous peoples and promotes their full and effective participation in all matters that concern them.

It also ensures their right to remain distinct and to pursue their own priorities in economic, social and cultural development. The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is observed on Aug. 9 every year.

Announcing the Forum, IFAD noted that it has more than 30 years of experience working with indigenous peoples. In fact, since 2003, an average of about 22 per cent of the Fund’s annual lending has supported initiatives for indigenous peoples, mainly in Asia and Latin America.

Since 2007, it has administered the Indigenous Peoples Assistance Facility (IPAF). Through small grants of up to 50,000 dollars, it supports the aspirations of indigenous peoples by funding micro-projects that strengthen their culture, identity, knowledge, natural resources, and intellectual-property and human rights.

To help translate policy commitments into action, it has established an Indigenous Peoples’ Forum that promotes a process of dialogue and consultation among indigenous peoples’ organisations, IFAD staff and member states.

The Fund empowers communities to participate fully in determining strategies for their development and to pursue their own goals and visions by strengthening grass-roots organisations and local governance.

Land is not only crucial to the survival of indigenous peoples, as it is for most poor rural people – it is central to their identities, the Fund reports. “They have a deep spiritual relationship to their ancestral territories. Moreover, when they have secure access to land, they also have a firm base from which to improve their livelihoods.”

According to this international Fund, indigenous peoples and their knowledge systems have a special role to play in the conservation and sustainable management of natural resources.

Indigenous Women’s Untapped Potential Also named “bank of the poorest” as it provides grants and low-interest credits to the poorest rural communities, recognises indigenous women’s untapped potential as stewards of natural resources and biodiversity, as guardians of cultural diversity, and as peace brokers in conflict mitigation.

Nonetheless, it says, indigenous women are often the most disadvantaged members of their communities because of their limited access to education, assets and credit, and their exclusion from decision-making processes.

This ‘bank of the poorest’ is a specialised agency of the United Nations, which was established as an international financial institution in 1977, being one of the major outcomes of the 1974 World Food Conference, which was organised in response to the food crises of the early 1970s that primarily affected the Sahelian countries of Africa.

That world conference resolved that “an International Fund for Agricultural Development should be established immediately to finance agricultural development projects primarily for food production in the developing countries.”

One of the most important insights emerging from the Conference was that the causes of food insecurity and famine were not so much failures in food production but structural problems relating to poverty, and to the fact that the majority of the developing world’s poor populations were concentrated in rural areas.

8

MonDAY 13•02•2017

INDIA

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Tamil Nadu: aiadmK has survived betrayals says Sasikala Chennai, February 12 (ianS): AIADMK General Secretary V.K. Sasikala on Sunday said the party has crossed several hurdles and survived betrayals in the past and true cadre are its foundation.

Speaking to reporters here, she said the AIADMK government will continue in the state. She said the party faced betrayal by some members when its founder M.G. Ramachandran was alive and it was defeated by J. Jayalalithaa then.

Sasikala also said the letter purported to be written by her to the Governor threatening to commit suicide is a fake.

For a second day in succession, Sasikala drove down to the Golden Bay Beach resort near Mahabalipuram to interact with the party legislators who have been housed there for the past several days.

9 AIADMK Lok Sabha members back Panneerselvam Chennai, February 12 (ianS): The number of Lok Sabha members of the AIADMK supporting Tamil Nadu's acting Chief Minister O. Panneerselvam on Sunday swelled to nine.

Five Lok Sabha AIADMK members on Sunday extended support to Panneerselvam, who is locked in a bitter power struggle with party General Secretary V.K. Sasikala.

This has weakened the earlier unified clout the AIADMK enjoyed in the Lok Sabha as the third largest group in the house.

S. Rajendran (Villupuram), V. Elumalai (Arani), R.P. Marutharajaa (Perambalur), B. Senguttuvan (Vellore) and Jeyasingh Thiyagaraj Nat-

AIADMK General Secretary V.K.Sasikala on Sunday said the family members of party legislators are being threatened, and the party is chalking out plans for next course ‘Family members of action.

Speaking to reporters at of legislators are being the beach resort where legthreatened'

Satyarthi's Nobel Prize replica recovered new delhi, February 12 (ianS): Child rights activist Kailash Satyarthi's Nobel Prize replica has been recovered, days after it was stolen from his house, police said on Sunday.

Satyarthi's Nobel citation, replica of the medallion along with other valuables were burgled from the south Delhi residence on February 7 night.

"The replica of the Nobel Peace Prize, jewellery, a laptop and some valuables were recovered from the accused who were arrested (on Saturday night)," Deputy Commissioner of Police Romil Baaniya told IANS. It was not clear if the nobel citation had been recovered.

"We have not got any information about the citation. It is an important document. We will raise the issue with the Deputy Commissioner," said an aide to Satyarthi.

Three accused -- brothers Rajan, Sunil and Vinod -- were arrested from their hideouts, police said.

Satyarthi was jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 with Pakistani child rights activist Malala Yousafzai.

The original Nobel medallion given to Satyarthi is kept at the Rashtrapati Bhavan as he dedicated it to the country.

India to make 6 more AWACS on Airbus platform bengaluru, February 12 (ianS): India will build six more next-generation Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) on the Airbus platform to enhance surveillance and detection with longer range and complete view, a top official said on Sunday.

"Once the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) clears and the Cabinet Committee for Security approves the proposal, the six AWACS will be made in seven years after the contract is signed with Airbus Defence & Space," Chairman of the state-run Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) S. Christopher told IANS here.

Estimated to cost Rs 20,000 crore ($3 billion), the AWACS will have 300-km range and 360 degree angle of coverage as against 200-km range and 240 degree angle of Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&C) the DRDO has built on the Brazilian Embraer-145 modified jet for the Indian Air Force (IAF).

"As the DAC had cleared two AWACS in 2014-15 and Airbus was the sole bidder, we will negotiate the deal with it soon after the cabinet approval for the additional six systems," Christopher told an aerospace seminar here.

The two AWACS were approved two years ago for a development cost of Rs 5,113 crore ($820 million.)

The IAF is already using the Israeli Phalcon AWACS on the Russian IL-76 heavy-lift aircraft -- though it is a fuel guzzler -- to detect aerial threats from jets or missiles even from targets 400 km away.

PM asks ministers to give details of tours of 3 months new delhi, February 12 (PTi): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked his ministerial colleagues to give details of tours, if any, undertaken by them during the last three months, an exercise aimed at ascertaining whether they promoted demonetisation and other initiatives, sources said.

The Prime Minister is learnt to have given the directive at a recent Cabinet meeting, the sources said.

They have been asked to submit the details by Monday.

Minister for Rural Development Narendra Singh Tomar has been directed to coordinate with the Ministries for this task, the sources added.

"All the ministers have been asked to submit details of their outstation tour programmes of the last three months. If not on tour, they should mention if they were in Delhi and attended office.

"The idea is to know if the Ministers visited places beyond their respective constituencies to promote initiatives of government, particularly demonetisation.

The exercise is also aimed at knowing if they were balancing office work and field duties," a source said.

terjee (Tuticorin) visited Panneerselvam at his residence here.

"We expect six more MLAs to join us," an AIADMK leader told IANS preferring anonymity.

With five MPs expressing their support to Panneerselvam, the total number of Lok Sabha members in Pannerselvam's camp has gone up to nine.

On Sunday, R. Lakshmanan became the second Rajya Sabha member of the AIADMK to join the Panneerselvam camp.

It was Rajya Sabha's V. Maintreyan who was the first to throw his lot with Panneerselvam after he revolted against Sasikala when she was set to become the Chief Minister

islators supporting her are housed, she said the opposition is spreading rumours that law makers are being held captive.

"Legislators here told me how their family members are being threatened over phone. They have asked their relatives to take

following her election as the legislature party leader of the AIADMK in the Tamil Nadu assembly.

The AIADMK has 37 members in the Lok Sabha. Until recently, all of them were with Sasikala, a longtime confidante of the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa.

On Saturday, four Lok Sabha members - V. Sathyabama (Tirupur), K. Ashok Kumar (Krishnagiri), P.R. Sundaram (Namakkal) and R. Vanaroja (Thiruvannamalai) - joined the Panneerselvam camp.

The number of MPs supporting Panneerselvam is more than the number of state legislators (six excluding Panneerselvam) backing him.

care of their children," Sasikala said.

Queried about the protest plan that she announced on Saturday if the Governor does not call her to form the government, she said: "Some preparatory work is being done for that."

Sasikala said she knows who are spreading the rumours about the party.

Asked about the delay on the part of Governor in calling her to form the government, she said that everybody knows the reason but did not elaborate further.

Speaker urges all parties to back women's reservation bill amaravaTi (andhra PradeSh), February 12 (ianS): The first National Women's Parliament concluded here on Sunday with Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan calling up on all political parties to back the bill for providing reservation to women in the legislative bodies.

Addressing the valedictory session, she said that respectfully giving reservations to women is the need of the hour.

Earlier, talking to reporters on the sidelines of the conclave, Mahajan urged upon all political parties to back the long pending bill aimed at providing 33 percent reservation to women in Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies.

The bill was passed by Rajya Sabha in 2010 but it lapsed following dissolution of 15th Lok Sabha.

The Speaker said that empowering women is necessary to make resurgent India and urged the Women's Parliament to contribute their best for mitigating problems of women to help their em-

powerment and enable national development.

She opined that agitating for reservations is not fight against men, but it is only asserting the basic human, civil and political rights. "The women empowerment really means respect for women for her human dignity, freedom to choose way of life and active participation in decision making process in participatory parliamentary democracy," she said.

Mahajan told the conclave that the Parliament is making consistent efforts for policy formulation and programme implementation towards empowerment of the women.

She mooted the idea of Parliamentary Group under the chairmanship of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu for discussing ways and means for empowerment of women.

Noting that women are change vehicles in global scenario, she said decisionmaking power was necessary for women.

Naidu said that the state government proposes to

start a novel programme titled 'Thalliki vandanam' (Salutations to mother) soon. He expressed the confidence that under the leadership of Mahajan, the women's reservation bill will be passed in Parliament.

He also announced 'Amaravati declaration' which will be circulated to all the state governments for taking suitable action to provide equal opportunities to women and ensure their participation in socio economic development of the nation.

Andhra Pradesh Assembly Speaker Kodela Sivaprasad Rao said that 22,000 young women participated in the event and discussed the socio economic political challenges for women's empowerment.

More than 405 women members of legislative assemblies and 92 women Members of Parliament, Union and State ministers participated in the conclave. Eminent women from all walks of life deliberated various issues related to women's empowerment.

JNu calls administrative Block siege a criminal act new delhi, February 12 (ianS): With the Jawaharlal Nehru University students' 'Occupy Ad-Block' protest continuing for the fourth day on Sunday, the university administration issued another denunciation of the demonstrating students and called their agitation a "criminal act".

"The agitating students have no basis for occupying the Administrative Block building, physically

stopping the staff and officials from entering the administration building. This trespassing is criminal and violation of the law of the land," a statement by the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) authorities read.

The students have been staging a sit-in protest at the Administrative Block of the university, which has the offices of senior university officials, in order to seek a response from the Vice-Chancellor on the

adoption of a University Grants Commission (UGC) notification on M.Phil. and Ph.D. admissions.

The notification -which proposed 100 per cent weightage to viva and reducing entrance examination to a qualifying criteria -- was adopted by the JNU Academic Council (AC) in its meeting on December 26 last year despite protests from almost half of the Council's members.

The students along with

many teachers have raised their objection to the order being passed unilaterally in the Council meeting and have asked the authorities to reconvene the Council to discuss various aspects of the notification.

The university has told the students that it would abide by the egalitarian spirit of the JNU in admission policy, which will include reducing the viva to 20 per cent and allocating 'extra points' to candidates

from backward regions on account of their being deprived of equal opportunities.

However, it has stuck with the clause which imposes a cap on the number of students which a faculty member can guide.

"JNU Admission Policy has all the socially inclusive admission policies of JNU while adopting 2016 UGC gazette notification.

Less marks for viva, deprivation points, concessions

to Other Backward Classes, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes categories... however, will be following the UGC notified upper limits on how many research scholars a faculty can guide," the administration statement said.

The students have argued that the concerned clause will in effect mean a cut in the intake of students for M.Phil. and Ph.D. streams.

SP, Congress locked in Supreme Court strikes down provisions 'unholy alliance': Amit Shah of Karnataka quota law on promotion luCknow, February 12 (ianS): Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Amit Shah on Sunday said that the Samjawadi Party and Congress have entered in an "unholy alliance to hide their failures".

Addressing a press conference here, Shah also said that the BJP would get around 90 seats in the first and second phase of assembly elections in the state.

"The last minute alliance formed between Samajwadi Party and Congress is ideologically an unholy alliance. Before forming this alliance, (Chief Minister) Akhilesh Yadav should have asked Congress as to what they think about socialist ideologue Ram Manohar Lohia. This would have given SP workers some enlightenment," he said.

"Both the parties are neckdeep in corruption and to hide

their failures, they have formed this unholy alliance," he added.

He said that if Akhilesh Yadav had been confident of his victory he would not have given 100-odd seats - which, Amit Shah said, should have been given to SP workers -- to the Congress.

The BJP President also raked up the issue of alleged migration of a particular community from western Uttar Pradesh, and said that if the BJP comes to power in the state it would form "anti-migration squads with District Magistrate and district police chief being accountable for migration".

He said that the change of Samajwadi Party's image was a hogwash, "We cannot understand how Samajwadi Party has changed. Gayatri Prajapati is still in the party, Shivpal Yadav is also contesting on party's symbol. So what has changed?" Shah said.

new delhi, February 12 (PTi): In order to provide reservation in promotions, the states must first determine whether the criteria of 'inadequacy of representation', 'backwardness' and 'overall efficiency' are fulfilled, the Supreme Court has said.

The apex court set aside provisions of the 'Karnataka Determination of Seniority of the Government Servants Promoted on the Basis of Reservation (to the posts in the civil services of the State) Act', 2002, which did away with 'catch up' rule and provided consequential seniority to persons belonging to Schedule Castes and Schedule Tribes in promotion.

As per an earlier judgement of apex court, 'Catch up' rule means that if a senior candidate of general category is pro-

moted after SC/ST candidates, he would regain his seniority in promotion over the juniors promoted ahead of him under the reserved vacancies.

Relying on a constitution bench judgement, the court said the provisions of the Act are ultra vires to Articles 14 (right to equality) and 16 (equality of opportunity in goverment service) of the Constitution.

A bench of Justices A K Goel and U U Lalit, while setting aside the High Court order upholding the Act, said under the 85th amendment to the Constitution, liberty has been given to states to give reservation in promotion with consequential seniority under Article 16(4A), if warranted under the criterias of 'backwardness, 'inadequacy of representation' and 'overall efficiency'.

"It is clear that exercise for determining inadequacy of representation , backwardness and overall efficiency , is a must for exercise of power under Article 16(4A).

"Mere fact that there is no proportionate representation in promotional posts for SCs and STs is not by itself enough to grant consequential seniority to promotees who are otherwise junior and thereby denying seniority to those who are given promotion later on account of reservation policy," it said while allowing the appeals of government employees.

The High Court had upheld the validity of the Act, which provided for grant of consequential seniority to the public servants belonging to SC and ST categories and promoted under the reservation policy.

Modi took trash into BJP: Rahul on tainted leaders Home Ministry website haridwar, Februhacked? Officials say no ary 12 (PTi): Hitting

back at BJP on the issue of corruption, Rahul Gandhi today asked why Prime Minister Narendra Modi gave tickets to tainted leaders thrown out of Congress and took the "trash" into his party.

The Congress leader, who held a 75-km roadshow here ahead of February 15 polls in Uttarkhand, said Modi had no right to talk about corruption as "tainted" former Congress leaders now adorned BJP's ranks.

"Modiji has no right to talk about corruption. All scam tainted leaders who were earlier with us are now with BJP," Rahul said at a public meeting in Puhana after starting his roadshow from Bhagwanpur in Haridwar district which has the maximum number of eleven assembly constituencies.

"I had told (Chief Minister Harish) Rawatji that make sure you do not allow corruption. You should put pressure on those indulging in corruption. "Modiji says he is fighting against

corruption. But I want to ask my BJP friends why have you given tickets to the corrupt leaders we have thrown out of the party?

Why does Modiji embrace them?

"We had thrown out trash from Uttarakhand but Modi has lifted it and put it in his party," he said.

Criticising the PM for his raincoat barb against his predecessor Manmohan Singh, the Congress leader said the words he

chose did not match the dignity of the office he holds.

Accusing Modi of failing to bring blackmoney stashed away in 96 countries, the Congress vicepresident alleged that he had misled people by demonetisation and made the whole country stand in queues.

Beginning the roadshow from Bhagwanpur and crossing Har ki Pairi via Pirankaliyar, Puhana,

Rampurchungi, Bijholi, Manglaur, Laksar and Landhaura, Rahul's cavalcade covered a distance of 75 kms touching all the eleven constituencies.

Rahul's roadshow in Haridwar district is important because many rebel Congress leaders now in BJP are contesting from seats located in the district including Kunwar Pranav Singh Champion from Khanpur and Pradeep Batra from Roorkee.

new delhi, February 12 (ianS): The website of the Union Home Ministry was non-functional on Sunday and officials said cyber experts were trying to ascertain if it had been hacked.

The website's landing page was drawing a blank and the site, which is accessed by hundreds of visitors daily and contains non-sensitive documents of the ministry, central paramilitary forces, visa-related information and contact details of the ministry officials, itself had become inaccessible.

The problem most probably began early in the morning but officials were not yet certain.

"I don't know when the site developed the snag," ministry spokesperson K.S. Dhatwalia told IANS. "Details will be available after we find out the glitches.

"We are checking," Dhatwalia said, adding that he was not sure when the website would become functional.

The spokesperson had earlier said it was not a case of hacking as the site was being reconstructed.

The site, like all government websites, is maintained by the National Informatics Commission (NIC).

Deputy Director General NIC B.N. Shetty denied there was any malicious activity behind the snag and said it was "very funny" to call it a cyber attack.

"There was no hack or anything. The site was pulled down for auditing," Shetty told IANS. "Actually, there was a data base problem. Sometimes it occurs. People thought that the site has been hacked. We have done the complete auditing. There is no malicious activity. We have now given green signal to release the site."

However, the site remained down till late Sunday evening.

Indian government websites have often come under attack from suspected Pakistani hackers. Last week, the government informed the Lok Sabha that over 700 websites linked to the central and state governments were hacked in the past four years.

MondAY 13•02•2017

WORLD

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

9

North Korea tests ballistic missile

SEOUL/WASHINGTON, FEbrUAry 12 (rEUTErS): North Korea fired a ballistic missile into the sea early on Sunday, the first such test since U.S. President Donald Trump was elected, and his administration indicated that Washington would have a calibrated response to avoid escalating tensions.

The test was of a mediumor intermediate-range missile that landed in the Sea of Japan, according to the U.S. defence department, not an Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), which the North has said it could test at any time.

The launch marks the first test of Trump’s vow to get tough on an isolated North Korean regime that last year tested nuclear devices and ballistic missiles at an unprecedented rate in violation of United Nations resolutions.

A U.S. official said the Trump administration had been expecting a North Korean “provocation” soon after taking office and will consider a full range of options in response, but these would be calibrated to show U.S. resolve while avoiding escalation.

The new administration is also likely to step up pressure on China to rein in North Korea, reflecting Trump’s previously stated view that Beijing has not done enough on this front, the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

“This was no surprise,” the official said. “The North Korean leader likes to draw attention at

Japan says NKorea’s missile launch absolutely unacceptable

PALM bEACH, FEbrUAry, 12 (rEUTErS): North Korea’s test launch of a ballistic missile was absolutely unacceptable, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said at a joint news conference on Saturday with U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida.

North Korea fired a ballistic missile into the sea off its east coast early on Sunday, South Korea’s military said, the first time the isolated state has tested such a device since Trump’s election. The test came a day after Abe’s summit meeting with Trump, during which Trump confirmed the US commitment to the security of Japan.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un gives field guidance to the Kangdong Precision Machine Plant in this undated photo released by North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) in Pyongyang on February 7. (REUTERS Photo)

times like this.”

The latest test comes a day after Trump held a summit meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, and also follows Trump’s phone call last week with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

“I just want everybody to understand, and fully know, that the United States of America is behind Japan, our great ally, 100 percent,” Trump told reporters in Palm Beach, Florida, speaking alongside Abe. He made no further comments.

Abe called the launch “absolutely intolerable” and said North Korea must comply with U.N. Security Council

resolutions.

China is North Korea’s main ally but has been frustrated by Pyongyang’s repeated provocations, although it bristles at pressure from Washington and Seoul to curb the North and its young leader, Kim Jong Un. China’s foreign ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Trump and his aides are likely to weigh a series of possible responses, including new U.S. sanctions to tighten financial controls, an increase in naval and air assets in and around the Korean peninsula and accelerated installation of new missile defense systems in

South Korea, the administration official said.

But the official said that given that the missile was believed not to have been an ICBM and that Pyongyang had not carried out a new nuclear explosion, any response will seek to avoid ratcheting up tensions.

“IT WON’T HAPPEN” Trump has pledged a more assertive approach to North Korea but given no clear sign of how his policy would differ from Obama’s so-called strategic patience. In January, Trump tweeted “It won’t happen!” after Kim said the North was close to testing an ICBM,

Trump says US behind Japan ‘100 percent’ U.S. President Donald Trump said late on Saturday that the United States stands fully behind Japan in the aftermath of North Korea’s latest missile launch. “I just want everybody to understand, and fully know, that the United States of America is behind Japan, our great ally, 100 percent,” Trump told reporters during a joint statement with Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Trump made no further comments. but his aides never explained how he would do so.

The missile was launched from an area called Panghyon in North Korea’s western region just before 8 a.m. (2300 GMT Saturday) and flew about 500 km (300 miles), the South’s Office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said.

“Our assessment is that it is part of a show of force in response to the new U.S. administration’s hardline position against the North,” the office said in a statement.

A South Korean military source said the missile reached an altitude of about 550 km and was probably a medium-range Rodong, which the North has

successfully test-fired numerous times in recent years, or a previously unknown new type, given the unusually high trajectory.

The North tried to launch an intermediate-range Musudan missile eight times last year but most attempts failed.

One launch that sent a missile 400 km (250 miles), more than half the distance to Japan, was considered a success by officials and experts in the South and the United States.

Kim said in his New Year speech that the country was close to test-launching an ICBM and state media have said such a launch could come

at any time.

The comments prompted a vow of an “overwhelming” response from U.S. Defence Secretary James Mattis when he travelled to South Korea earlier this month.

Once fully developed, a North Korean ICBM could threaten the continental United States, which is about 9,000 km (5,500 miles) from North Korea. ICBMs have a minimum range of about 5,500 km (3,400 miles), but some are designed to travel 10,000 km (6,200 miles) or more.

North Korea conducted two nuclear tests and numerous missile-related tests last year and was seen by experts and officials to be making progress in its weapons capabilities, although until Sunday no ballistic missile launch attempt had been detected since October.

Its repeated missile launches prompted Washington and Seoul to agree to deploy a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) anti-missile battery in South Korea later this year, which is strongly opposed

by Beijing, which worries the system’s powerful radar undermines its own security.

Sunday’s launch comes at an awkward time for South Korea, where President Park Geun-hye has been stripped of her powers after a December parliamentary vote to impeach her. Her fate will be decided by the Constitutional Court, which is hearing arguments on whether to uphold or overturn the impeachment.

Suu Kyi urges Myanmar armed Hundreds of whales in 2nd stranding able to swim free FEbrUAry 400 whales had washed ethnic groups to sign cease-fire SyDNEy, 12 (rEUTErS): New Zea- ashore. Hundreds of volunPANGLONG, FEbrUAry 12 (AP): Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi today called on all armed ethnic groups to sign a nationwide ceasefire.

She spoke during Union Day celebrations in Panglong, the same place where her father, independence hero General Aung San, signed a peace deal with ethnic groups in 1947.

Suu Kyi and her National League for Democracy party promised peace would be their top priority despite conflicts between ethnic groups and the military.

In recent months, critics have slammed Suu Kyi for not speaking out against military airstrikes and human rights abuses in ethnic areas.

Skirmishes, particularly in the north where Kachin insurgents are fighting the army, have displaced more than 100,000 civilians since 2011 alone.

Netanyahu pledges to promote ‘responsible policies’ JErUSALEM, FEbrUAry 12 (rEUTErS): Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday he would present “responsible policies” in talks with U.S. President Donald Trump, signalling to the Israeli far-right to curb its territorial demands in the occupied West Bank.

Netanyahu leaves for Washington on Monday and will see Trump at the White House on Wednesday for their first meeting since the Republican’s inauguration last month, with the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and policy towards Iran on the agenda.

During his 2016 election campaign, Trump indicated his presidency would be a boon for Israel and tough on Palestinians, after an acrimonious relationship between his predecessor Barack Obama and Netanyahu that included clashes over settlement building and Iran’s nuclear programme.

Trump talked of moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem, naming an ambassador who backs Israeli settlement on occupied land which Palestinians seek for a state and exerting no pressure on Israel for peace negotiations, which collapsed in 2014. But he has since toned down his pro-Israel bravado ahead of Netanyahu’s visit, a change that could help the prime minister keep in check ultranationalist coalition partners calling on him to push a more militant agenda.

“To believe there are no restrictions now would be a mistake,” Israel Radio quoted Netanyahu as telling members of his Likud party with respect to settlement expansion now that Trump is in office. On the eve of Netanyahu’s departure for Washington, Education Minister Naftali Bennett, leader of the ultra-nationalist Jewish Home party, publicly cautioned him not to mention the words “two-state solution” in talks with Trump.

Bennett’s party is also promoting the annexation of parts of the West Bank. Netanyahu has stopped short of endorsing those positions - steps that would put Israel at odds with long-standing U.S. and European policies - while speaking of building in major settlement blocs Israel intends to keep in any future peace deal. In public remarks to his cabinet on Sunday, he seemed to urge the farright to tone down its expectations. “I understand there’s great excitement about this meeting (with Trump),” he said. “But ... my primary concern is Israel’s security (and) strengthening our solid alliance with the United States.”

That, Netanyahu said, “requires responsible policies, policies that are given careful consideration - and that’s how I intend to act.” He did not elaborate. His comments appeared to echo remarks Trump made in an interview published on Friday in the pro-Netanyahu Israeli daily Israel Hayom. Calling on Israel “to be reasonable with respect to peace”, he said settlements “don’t help the process”.

In recent weeks, Netanyahu approved the construction of some 6,000 settler homes in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, drawing Palestinian and international condemnation which the Trump administration did not join. However, Trump’s remarks in the Israeli newspaper interview appeared to take a tougher line toward Israeli settlement policy.

land conservation authorities said 240 pilot whales that were stranded overnight at a remote bay which only days earlier had a larger beaching refloated themselves on Sunday and were swimming offshore.

“We had 240 whales strand yesterday in the afternoon and we were fearful we were going to end up with 240 dead whales this morning,” Herb Christophers, a Department of Conservation spokesman said. “But they self-rescued, in other words the tide came in and they were able to float off and swim out to sea.”

The pod was the second large group to strand itself in recent days at Golden Bay, at the northwest tip of the South Island, in one of the worst mass strandings in New Zealand. On Thursday evening, a conservation worker spotted that about

teers spent days pouring water over the beached whales to try and keep them cool, while waiting to catch high tides to carry them out to sea again.

But most of the whales from that pod died. Officials will soon have to start clearing the carcasses, Christophers said.

The strandings have been New Zealand’s largest in decades. The precise cause was not known, though beached whales are not uncommon at Golden Bay. Its shallow muddy waters confuse the marine mammals’ sonar, leaving them vulnerable to stranding by an ebb tide, according to marine environmental organisation Project Jonah. Pilot whales are not listed as endangered, but little is known about their volunteer looks after one of a pod of stranded pilot whales as they prepare to refloat them after one of the counpopulation in New Zealand A try’s largest recorded mass whale strandings, in Golden Bay, at the top of New Zealand’s South Island, February waters.

12. (REUTERS Photo)

Northern Ireland’s peace generation frozen out by politics of war bELFAST/bESS brOOK, FEbrUAry 12 (rEUTErS): The sudden collapse of a power-sharing agreement that ended decades of violence in Northern Ireland has angered a younger generation who feel robbed of their future by the failure of politicians to get over the sectarian prejudices of the past.

After bitter compromises over paramilitaries and policing, the province’s cross-community government finally imploded over farmers abusing a greenenergy scheme, forcing an election on March 2.

The confrontation has exposed the frustrations of younger people over what they say is a breakdown in trust between Catholic Irish nationalists and proBritish Protestant unionists that has stifled job creation and economic prosperity.

While there is no sign of a return to the violence that killed 3,600 people, the political crisis looks set to paralyse government in the province for months at the same time as Britain’s exit from the European Union threatens shockwaves to its economy, constitutional status and border with Ireland.

“People are frustrated because they can’t agree on anything. They can’t com-

promise,” said Carlos Barr, a 16-year-old student, referring to the older generation of politicians. “If one side says something the other side has to object.”

While it is impossible to quantify the impact of sectarian disputes on economic growth, many young people complain they have scared off foreign investment, delayed reforms and deepened a culture of dependency on the state in the two communities.

“CORPORATES PUT OFF” “People don’t come together enough to make it work,” said Henry JosephGrant, 33, a Northern Ireland-born entrepreneur.

While jobs are disappearing in older industries like farming and manufacturing, Northern Ireland and its politicians lack the entrepreneurial culture to create new ones, he said.

“A lot of the big corporates look at Northern Ireland and are put off.”

For swathes of the under-30s, the dominant feeling is the violence of the 1970s and ‘80s still casts a long shadow over political decisions.

“The frustration that young people speak to us about (is that) whilst they are working hard to ... overcome barriers and deal

with legacy issues, they feel that this doesn’t always happen in mainstream politics,” said Chris Quinn, 39, director of the Northern Ireland Youth Forum.

The political crisis came to a head when Democratic Unionist Party First Minister Arlene Foster refused to step aside temporarily to allow an investigation into the green energy scandal and Sinn Fein Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said he had no option but to resign.

McGuinness, a 66-yearold former Irish Republican Army leader, was replaced by Michelle O’Neill, 40, whose father was jailed during “The Troubles”.

McGuinness had a frosty relationship with DUP First Minister Arlene Foster, whose police reservist father narrowly avoided being killed in an IRA shooting when she was a child. The incident, along with a later IRA attack on her school bus, “is part of who I am”, Foster recently told an interviewer.

SEARCHING FOR A FUTURE Two decades after the British army dismantled its garrison in the village of Bessbrook in County Armagh following the Good Friday Agreement that

brought peace to the troubled province, 31-year-old Darren Matthews says he struggles to see a future.

“The old people, who are the bitter ones, keep us going round in circles,” said Matthews, a construction worker who commutes daily to Dublin and is planning to follow friends in seeking better pay and opportunities outside Ireland.

“If people were not so focused on the (Protestant) orange and (Irish nationalist) green, people would be getting a lot more work done,” he said.

Like most of Northern Ireland, Bessbrook was transformed by peace: checkpoints were demolished and helicopter landing pads that supplied military outposts were dug up for farmland.

The nearby DublinBelfast road was upgraded, bringing tourists from Ireland to visit Belfast museums and landmarks and pose for photos beside murals in once no-go areas.

But in many areas Northern Ireland badly lags behind its neighbour, with half the tourists per head of population. Dublin has 150 flights a week to the United States. Belfast has none.

Many complain jobs are often of lower quality. Average annual wages

are less than in Britain as a whole and Ireland.

There is a steady outflow of school-leavers and graduates seeking their fortune abroad. “Of the guys I grew up with, a lot are scattered around the world” from Australia to Canada, Matthews said. “If the politicians were doing their jobs, more people would stay.”

“NO BREAKING ICE” Few people see the election in March as delivering a breakthrough. “It’s that frustration of the inevitability of the election being this big thing to promote change but it definitely won’t,” Matthews said.

“It’s going to be very difficult to have an election of a less sectarian flavour,” Jonathan Tonge, Professor of Politics at the University of Liverpool. “I don’t really hear the sound of breaking ice.”

Early signs are that this election will follow a wellworn pattern, with election posters bearing colours of the Irish or British flag for the two main parties and each side focused on the threat of domination by the other to bring out their base.

Political apathy amongst the younger generation reflects a feeling that older politicians are locked in the past and re-

fuse to engage with issues that they care about. Gay marriage, backed by 84 percent of under 34-yearolds, according to a recent survey, was blocked by the governing Democratic Unionist Party.

Ten of 12 young people questioned by Reuters in a straw poll in Belfast voiced deep frustration with sectarian bickering. They listed funding for mental health, integrated education and reform of power-sharing as issues they wanted dealt with.

Five said they would vote for non-aligned parties, which have made slow progress in recent years, taking 12 of 108 seats in 2016 elections compared to six in 1998.

Voter turnout has fallen consistently from 70 percent in the first Northern Ireland Assembly elections in 1998 to 55 percent last year, with a half of under 22-year-olds voting compared to two-thirds of over 65s.

At Belfast’s modern Victoria Square shopping centre, there was little sense the tide would turn any time soon. “It’s the same people arguing over the same things, it’s the same names,” said Maggie McSparron, 27. “They are flogging a dead horse.”

MONDAY 13•02•2017

SPORTS

10

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Liverpool halt Spurs run, Arsenal and United win Durant shakes off jeers to lead Warriors to NBA win penalty and sending-off.

Sanchez's spot-kick took his tally to 17 goals in 25 league games, including four against Hull.

At Old Trafford, Manchester United looked unrecognisable from the side who spluttered through the early months of the season and extended their unbeaten league run to 16 games.

Juan Mata put them ahead before Anthony Martial doubled their lead after the break.

"Sixteen games unbeaten is an amazing record," United manager Jose Mourinho said.

Liverpool’s Sadio Mané slams in his, and Liverpool’s second. (PA Photo)

LONDON, FEBRUARY 12 (REUTERS): Liverpool roared back into the mix for a top-four finish with a 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday that opened the door for Chelsea to strengthen their vice-like hold on the Premier League title race.

Two goals from Sadio Mane in a vibrant first half scuppered second-placed Tottenham's hopes of cutting Chelsea's lead to six points.

While Chelsea look unstoppable, the real battle is below them where only two points separate Tottenham and sixth-placed Manchester United.

Arsenal put two Premier League defeats - and days of uncertainty about manager Arsene Wenger - behind them to beat Hull City 2-0 and move above Manchester City into third.

United stayed sixth after

beating Watford 2-0 - a victory that meant they become the first club to reach 2,000 points in the Premier League since it began in 1992.

At the other end of the table, the bottom three all lost with 20th-placed Sunderland thrashed 4-0 at home

by Southampton, for whom new striker Manolo Gabbiadini scored twice, and 19thplaced Crystal Palace going down 1-0 at Stoke City.

Liverpool were without a league win in 2017 and had been knocked out of both domestic cups during a recent slump, but rediscovered their verve to outplay a lacklustre Tottenham side whose nine-game uneaten league run came to shuddering halt.

S ene gales e Mane, whose absence on African Nations Cup duty coincided with Liverpool's slump, scored in the 16th and 18th minutes and could have

doubled his total.

Liverpool boss Juergen Klopp was delighted as his side moved into fourth place, a point behind the two north London clubs and ahead of Manchester City on goal difference.

"Today the pressure was on us but we dealt with it," Klopp said. "We had a really bad period. We are still around, not with Chelsea but with the rest."

Alexis Sanchez scored both goals for Arsenal at the Emirates, although his first in the 34th minute owed much to luck as the ball went into the via his hand.

"The referee apologised to us after halftime and said it was a handball," Hull defender Andrew Robertson said.

The Chilean's second also came via a goalline handball, this time from Hull's Sam Clucas in stoppage time, which led to a

INSTANT RETURN Southampton are getting an instant return on the 14 million pounds ($17.5 million) they paid Napoli for Italy striker Gabbiadini on transfer deadline day.

His brace against Sunderland, including a brilliant turn and shot, means he has now scored three in two games.

Sunderland and Palace remained rooted to the bottom on 19 points after Joe Allen's sixth league goal of the season for Stoke - his best-ever haul - was enough to see off Sam Allardyce's struggling Palace side.

Fifteenth-placed Middlesbrough earned a valuable 0-0 draw to move two points clear of third-bottom Hull. Champions Leicester City face a relegation battle at Swansea City on Sunday.

Mid-table West Bromwich Albion had Gareth McAuley's last-gasp equaliser to thank for a 2-2 draw at West Ham United.

LOS ANGELES, FEBRUARY 12 (AFP): Kevin Durant was in hostile territory as he returned to Oklahoma City on Saturday, but shut out the noise to lead the Golden State Warriors to a 130-114 victory over his former team the Thunder.

Durant scored 34 points and pulled down nine rebounds in his first game in Oklahoma City since he departed as a free agent for Golden State after last season.

The jeers and catcalls greeted him at pre-game warm-ups and didn't let up until the Warriors had stretched their league-leading record to 46-8.

"It was a fun game," Durant said.

"I actually thought it would be a little louder. To be on the other side of it, to be able to calm all these guys down as they boo you is kind of fun.

"I've got to embrace it," Durant added. "That's all I can do. And keep playing my game."

Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson scored 26 points each for the Warriors, who withstood a 47-point performance from Russell Westbrook, once the other half of a star duo with Durant in Oklahoma.

The two traded a couple of oncourt barbs, which Durant passed off as normal trash talk, and despite the palpable tension Warriors coach Steve Kerr said it wasn't the worst such reception he'd seen from fans for a former favorite.

That was the greeting LeBron James got in Cleveland in 2010, after he'd departed for the Miami Heat.

"I think that one might have been a little nastier," Kerr said.

After winning two titles in Miami, James famously returned to Cleveland and led the Cavaliers to last season's championship.

He was in full flight on Saturday, scoring 27 points in the Cavs's 125109 victory over the Denver Nuggets.

"It's transition three. It's layup. It's dunk," Nuggets coach

Kevin Durant of the Golden State Warriors shoots over Andre Roberson of the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second half, at the Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, on February 11, 2017 (AFP Photo)

Mike Malone, an assistant coach in Cleveland during James's first tenure with his hometown team, said of the weapons at the disposal of James his skilled supporting cast of Kyrie Irving and Kevin Love.

"The next you know it's 'Oh my gosh, you're down by 20 points... It's tough when you have a three-headed monster, which they do."

Irving added 27 points of his own and Love scored 16 for Cleveland, who led by as many as 22 points in the third quarter.

After a tight first half, the Cavaliers scored the first 18 points of the third. Denver missed their first seven shots of the second half and turned the ball over twice as Cleveland surged ahead.

The relatively easy victory meant Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue could get James some rest after 33 minutes of playing time. James played more than 40 in Thursday's defeat at Oklahoma City.

"A lot of times if he wants to play, I can't stop him from playing," Lue said.

the Miami Heat's 13-game winning streak with a 117-109 victory.

Robert Covington, Nerlens Noel and Dario Saric scored 19 points each for the 76ers, who won their second straight.

Goran Dragic led the Heat with 30 points, but the longest winning streak in the league this season came to an end.

The Heat's streak was also the longest in NBA history by a team with a losing record.

The streak included a 23-point win over the 76ers last week.

"They got the better of us up in Miami," Covington said, "but we came back and reevaluated everything and we came out and executed our game plan."

In Houston, James Harden produced his ninth 40-point game of the season to lead the Rockets to a 133-102 rout of the Phoenix Suns.

Harden shook off a first-half ankle injury to score 40 points with six rebounds and eight assists. The Rockets's 77 first-half points were a season high and they reached 130 - 76ers cool off Heat points for the eighth time in this The Philadelphia 76ers halted campaign.

PUBLIC DISCOURSE

Article 371A – A Product of Naga Nationalism Mapu Jamir I.A.S. (Retd.)

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.Z. Phizo is no more. But Phizo-ism remains in the heart and soul of the Nagas. We shall not see his likes again. For Nagas, his huge role in Naga history is a source of legitimate pride. For Nagas, since time immemorial, the land and its resources and their culture are their life. They protected their lands and customs tooth and nail against all external forces and remain fiercely independent throughout known history. British encroachment into Naga territories in the 19th century was purely a cosmetic one. They simply allowed the Nagas to continue their primitive life. Phizo stood for the rights of the Nagas over their land and its resources and stood for a separate Naga nation. In course of time the Nagas faltered, blundered and broke into groups and factions each claiming to be the rightful heir to the ideology and dream of Phizo.

Today, things and challenges are different. We are generating formidable turmoil over our own nationalism.

Today, even the charisma of Phizo, even if it could be reproduced, would not suffice to tackle them.

Nagas have endured the worst

Samhita Barooah

M

military atrocities of the century inflicted upon them. Many lived long enough to witness how simple Nagas were brilliantly exploited by mainland politicians. Nagas could not counter them for lack of moral and spiritual forms of power that could have acted against political tyranny. In the early fifties, Naga inhabited territories were mercilessly dissected and a large junk of territory was handed over to Burma and the area that fall within India was further bifurcated between Assam, Manipur and the then NEFA. Realising the gravity of the situation and to prevent further disintegration and damage to the ethnic Nagas, a reasonable section of the Nagas undertook a moderate path of nationalism. But the NNC under Phizo was not going to accept anything short of a separate Naga Nation.

Despite resistance, moderate Nagas appropriated a separate State called Nagaland from the Republic of India under Article 3 of the Indian Constitution. Yet they did not forget certain elements of Naga nationalism for which the Nagas fought for under NNC – the land and its resources, customs, tradition and taxation. These were incorporated in the Constitution by Indian Parliament

without opposition. These became a unique provision under Article 371A of the Indian Constitution. These give respect and identity to the Nagas of Nagaland. Government of India was willing to give anything except sovereignty. This resembled almost a semi sovereign state within the Union of India. Today, Nagaland is alive under the protection of this autonomy.

We should not squander away this precious protection otherwise these Naga inhabited areas maybe torn to pieces by land sharks.

Presently, the confrontation is between the Article 371A and the Article 243T of the Indian Constitution and their application over the state of Nagaland. Article 371A is specific to the state of Nagaland. Briefly stated: Notwithstanding anything in this Constitution – (a) no act of Parliament in respect of (1) religious and social practices of the Nagas, (2) Naga customary law and procedure (3) administration of civil and criminal justice involving Naga customary law (4) ownership and transfer of land and its resources shall apply to the state of Nagaland unless the Legislative Assembly of Nagaland so decides. Simultaneously, a separate Act – State of Nagaland Act 1962 based on Article 3 of the Constitution was passed.

Part IX–A comprising Articles 243P – 243ZG relates to constitution of Municipalities in the States of India. This has been inserted by the Constitution (7th Amendment) Act 1992 and was implemented w.e.f.

1-6-1993. Article 243T (1) is specific to reservation of seats for SC/ST/ OBC and women. Article 243T (2) states that not less than 1/3 of the total number of seats reserved under Clause (1) shall be reserved for women belonging to SC/ST. Article 243T (3) states that not less than 1/3 (including the number of seats to be reserved for women belonging to SC/ST) of the total number of seats to be filled by direct election in every Municipality shall be reserved for women and such maybe allotted by rotation to different constituencies in a Municipality. Article 243T (4) states that offices of chairpersons in the Municipality shall be reserved for SC/ST and women in such manner as the Legislature of the State may, by law, provide. Rules provide that only those SC/ST women elected from the reserved seat shall be entitled to the office of Chairperson and not the SC/ST women elected from non reserved seat.

Now the points for determination are: (1) whether the provision con-

tained in Article 371A overshadow that of Article 243T, (2) whether Article 243T override and infringes into Article 371A, (3) whether the entire geographical area of Nagaland comes under the provision of Article 371A, (4) is there any excluded area in Nagaland outside the purview of Article 371A, (5) how to implement Article 243T along with Article 371A in a unique state like Nagaland, (6) can Nagaland Municipal Act be moulded as per spirit and principle of Article 371A, (7) can Article 243T, being a general provision for all States in India, be applied over a State created with special provision under Article 371A, (8) can women be given reservation or free run over all the seats at par with male members. It is to be noted that reservation means positive discrimination.

These are some of the areas, there may be many more, needs careful examinations by scholars, experts on Constitutional law, eminent jurists and the custodian of Naga customary law and practices and arrive at an implementable solution. Let us avoid confrontation right now. Many critical issues and even mission impossible will be possible for an amicable settlement if everyone has clean and sound mind.

Let us follow the highest Christian ideals: “God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness.” This may sound repulsive in the lips of persons who are materially and physically secure. Let us remind ourselves that fear breeds insecurity and this coupled with arrogance leads to violent methods of operation. This blurs the reasoning power among us humans.

Extremists are willing “to cast the first stone.” Shedding innocent blood does not solve problems nor is the answer to achieving political goals or personal ambitions. But keeping the general public at the receiving end for long can be harmful. Do not think that Nagas are immune to sufferings.

Beware of third party back lash.

We have suffered enough under military suppression, still suffering under the Armed Forces Special Power Act, Modi’s demonetisation and now the continuous local bandh.

Let peace prevail to sort out our differences by invoking the best spirit of Naga customs and traditions. Let all mothers, fathers, young and old, the silent and passivity of the large majority of people and prayer warriors join hands in prayer to Almighty God seeking wisdom. The Church too should carry the Cross of Christ and keep watch over His Flocks.

Wish St. Mother Teresa was in politics...

Guwahati

isogyny in political life is not uncommon across the world. Whenever women have raised their voices, fought for democratic elections as contestants, opponents and as ruling candidates, they have faced brutal opposition. In the wake of recent power politics which fuelled mob violence in Nagaland and disruption of public life in Kohima and Dimapur areas for a very long time, women’s agency within traditional, political, social and cultural institutions are gradually shrinking.

In a world where most prominent woman leaders were judged on value driven grounds in case of Myanmar’s Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, American Democrat Presidential Candidate Hillary Clinton, Former Brazilian President Dimla Rousseff, Former Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Pakistan’s Former Prime Minister Late Benazir Bhutto, Former Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga, Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and current Bangladesh Prime Minister

Sheikh Hasina, German Chancellor Excellency Angela Merkel and back in our country Former Indian Prime Minister Late Smti. Indira Gandhi, Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Late Smti. J. Jayalalitha, Former U.P. Chief Minister Smti. Mayawati, Honourable Chief Minister of West Bengal Smti. Mamata Banerji and President of Indian National Congress Smti. Sonia Gandhi faced tremendous political hatred while in power and also as leaders of opposition.

Even the women leaders of the current ruling party of India Honourable Minister of External Affairs Smti. Sushma Swaraj and Honourable Minister of Textiles Smti. Smriti Zubin Irani had to face political angularity as women in politics. All these women have shown their community commitments and political grit equally as any other male counterpart who held any political position. Women are valorised in the legends of Joan of Arc and Rani Laxmibai of Jhansi when the discourse on women’s history is reflected upon. All those women who were voters, political allies, supporters of opposition candidates, stood as human shields during serious incidents of conflict have been strategi-

cally missed in the political trajectory of nations and sub-nations and also within the post-colonial understanding of territories.

Women can either be worshipped like Saints and Goddesses or they can be enslaved as mere objects of political practice. In the predominantly patriarchal societies across the intersections of ethnicity, language, religion, caste, class and gender, woman have been either projected as a last resort or they are protectively excluded from the epicentre of political power. Women fought for equal right to vote in 1928 during the pre-colonial times and resurgence of such struggles seems to be re-imagining the politically fragile dynamics of Nagaland after nine decades. Women in Nagaland are getting strangled between political misogyny, tribal assertion, culture of engineered silence and chauvinistic interpretation of customary codes. Any woman in public life is judged in public space which is rejected vehemently by the protective consciousness of masculine identities predominantly affecting men in particular and male headed organisations in general within Nagaland. During the course of my work in Nagaland, I have come across village

council leaders in remote villages saying, “We do not allow women to take up political leadership as that is our role. It is very sad that other states are giving such roles to women.” After the post-conflict era, where men had the major role in protecting the community, politics became the new game of war which defined and designed destinies of not only individuals but also entire clans. For Naga men it became a morally conscious norm to protect women from any such bloodless conflicts which could jeopardise power balance and negotiate for territoriality. Men in Nagaland have enjoyed the natural privileges of gender stereotypes from ancestral times. Hence men within families and male institutions within political, cultural and social institutions define the terms for women in Nagaland under the pretext of tribal view of life and core commitment to Naga identity. Again masculinity in Naga society across all the tribes is based on enduring acute hardship, hand craft skills, physical agility and power of influence, money and strength. In Nagaland men are not born but they become men with the expectations of the Naga society to fulfil their lost aspirations. The mis-

guided misogyny which led to women’s unequal power relations and loss of lives during protests against the authorities very recently in the first week of February cannot be representative of the entire Naga society. I have met progressive village council leaders in Chakhesang villages who have included women in the village council since 1999-2000. I also met the first woman pastor of the Chakhesang community and women leaders who have been part of village development boards. In fact the women society of one of the Chakhesang villages has been able to buy common land to build their common unit as a centre for the women society. Naga women have been resilient to their male counterparts throughout their lives through both productive and reproductive labour.

Men in the commune have to abide by certain collective codes. But individually there are many progressive men who believe in equal power and resource sharing for the women within the Naga society.

Women’s political representation has been an undying struggle all across the country including the North Eastern states. Mob violence and politically polarised outbursts

cannot exclude Naga women from public spaces, political assertion and ecological ecosystems which define their existence. During the uncertainty of consistent closures and collapse of essential services, some of my Naga women friends were stranded in Guwahati. In spite of such violence and unrest they were concerned about the community as a whole not just the women. They were having a sense of reassurance that if they reach Dimapur also even if there is curfew and closure; they can negotiate for safe passage to their respective villages. Naga women have always walked along with the Naga men and most of the times always healed them along the way and led them to peace and prosperity. Now the world is waiting to see the Naga men to do the needful to ensure that they shed off misogyny and value their women as equal citizens with equal rights in all private, public and political contours of Naga society.

Wonder how many women will have to become saints to live in an equitable society? Wish St. Mother Teresa was a political leader to convince the world about women’s emancipation through politics as well.

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.

MONDAY 13•02•2017

ENTERTAINMENT

Swami Om booked for allegedly molesting a woman

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woman has accused ‘Bigg Boss 10‘ contestant Swami Om and his associate of allegedly outraging her modesty by ripping off her clothes, police said today. A case in this regard has been registered at IP Estate police station, they said. According to the complaint filed by the victim, Swami Om and his associate Santosh Anand allegedly ripped off her clothes on February 7.

The victim alleged that the duo attacked her and ripped off her clothes in an attempt to humiliate her in full public view a few days ago at Rajghat area here, police said. She also alleged

Kylie Minogue wins name battle against Kylie Jenner

that they threatened her of dire consequences and abused her. The attackers then fled from the spot after she screamed for help, they said.

“Acting on the compliant, a case under section 354 (Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty) of IPC has been registered against Swami Om and his associate. The victim will record her statement on Monday before the magistrate. Police will take necessary action against the accused,” said a senior police officer. The officer added that both parties had a history of dispute.

This wouldn’t be Om’s first encounter with police. A complaint

was registered against Vinodanand Jha alias Swami Om by his brother Pramodh Jha in November 2008.

Pramodh had alleged that Omji broke the lock of his bicycle shop in Lodhi Colony here along with three men and stole 11 bicycles, expensive spare parts, the sale deed of the house and important documents.

The court in October, 2016 had issued first non-bailable warrant against Omji. Two other warrants were issued in last month after he failed to appear before court despite repeated calls.

The court fixed February 4, 2017 as next date of hearing.

Source: PTI

Bobbi Kristina Brown once tried to stab mother Whitney Houston

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ate singer Whitney Houston was known for her close bond with late daughter Bobbi Kristina Brown. However, according to celebrity expert Ian Halperin, Kristina Brown once tried to stab her mother. The incident occurred when Kristina Brown was all of 14, Halperin has said in a new TV series "Autopsy: The Last Hours of Bobbi Kristina Brown", reports radaronline.com.

After trying to kill her mother, Kristina Brown slit her own wrist which led her into hospitalisation back in 2008.

"She knew her mother was a ticking time bomb because of all the drugs, all of the emotional fragility," Halperin said on the special show. "She would try not to go against her, although there were a couple of times when violence

broke out. She once tried to stab her mother," he added.

On the series, British forensic pathologist Richard Shepherd also explained his findings on Kristina Brown's autopsy report. The report said that she had at least 30 scars on her body. Kristina Brown died at the age of 22 in 2015.

I'm not fashion conscious, says Sushmita Sen

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he has always been lauded for her confidence and for making style statements, but actress and former Miss Universe Sushmita Sen says she isn't a fashion conscious person. "I don't know if I am fashion conscious, because I don't follow the seasons. I have no rules to fashion. If green is in fashion, you'll probably find me in orange. So I would not call myself fashion conscious, but I am fashion aware," Sushmita told IANS in an e-mail interview.

The actress says if she chooses to follow a trend, she would probably be good at it. Why? "Because I love shopping and I love being aware of the fashion trends... But I don't necessarily follow it," she added.

The 41-year-old actress says the word "stylish" can be associated more with her. "I definitely have a style of my own... Fashion conscious, not so much," she said. On the work front, Sushmita was last seen onscreen in 2010 in the Bollywood film "No Problem" and in a Bengali film "Nirbaak".

Source: IANS

Source: IANS

George Michael's lover 'banned' from singer's funeral

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inger Kylie Minogue has won a legal battle against reality star Kylie Jenner over the trademark of their shared first name. The US Patent and Trademark Office rejected Jenner’s claim, but the Keeping Up with the Kardashians star is already planning an appeal to use the brand name Kylie for her growing fashion and beauty lines, reported People.

In 2014, Jenner, 19, filed a US trademark application for the term Kylie, seeking protection for the term in connection with advertising services. Minogue, 48,

G

eorge Michael's lover Fadi Fawaz has been banned from attending the late singer's funeral amid a family feud. The singer's cousin, Andros Georgiou, said Fawaz, who discovered Michael's body on Christmas Day 2016, would not be welcome, reports mirror.co.uk. He said: "Fadi has not been invited to the funeral. He is not welcome, the family hate him. Heaven help him if he turned up."

Georgiou also said the "CareSource: PTI less Whisper" crooner would be laid to rest in his favourite suit from his final tour, a gold Cartier watch and a ring bearing his nickname -Yog. He told The Sun newspaper:

filed a notice of opposition to Jenner’s application in February 2016. Court document submitted by KDB, an Australianbased business representing Minogue, claimed that approval of Jenner’s application will confuse audiences and dilute Minogue’s brand.

The company also pointed out the fact that the Australian pop star currently owns trademark registrations for the term Kylie across entertainment services and music recordings.

Dating Prince Harry killed my dream of stardom, claims Cressida Bonas

"The clothes have been chosen and it will be his favourite black suit and shirt from the Symphonica tour, with no tie."

Michael will reportedly be laid to rest in Highgate, North London, next to his mother Lesley Angold Panayiotou who passed away after battling cancer in 1997. "George Michael's family have a private plot where his mother is buried and there is currently space within it for further burials," a cemetery insider had earlier said. Michael's funeral has been delayed after tests on the singer took longer than expected to complete.

NOW SHOWING REVISED TICKET RATES (Silver) : `.120 (Gold) : `. 200 (Recliner) : `. 400

Source: IANS

C

C M Y K

ressida Bonas has hit back at critics who cruelly suggested that her two-year relationship with Prince Harry helped her to land acting roles. The 27-year-old makes her big screen debut later this year in Tulip Fever, alongside Oscar winners Dame Judi Dench and Alicia Vikander, and also played glamorous socialite Daisy Buchanan in a West End production of The Great Gatsby.

But she says she has struggled to break through thanks to her links to Harry. ‘I think everyone has put me in a box because I was with you know who,’ she confided to me at a pre-Bafta party. ‘It’s frustrating because I work really hard. I wish more people had seen my performance in The Great Gatsby.’ Cressida is now turning to fashion to keep herself busy between acting jobs. ‘I’m hoping to design a range but I’m still working out what I want it to look like.’

11:30 AM, 02:10 PM, 05:00 PM & 07:50 PM 03862-237226 Ticket Counter (09:00 AM - 09:00 PM)

WWW.BOOKMYSHOW.COM (ID: PLAYBOX DIMAPUR)

Ward 5 (6) Burma Camp, Landmark - Near J.K Hospital Dimapur.

Power House.

Hillstar

Source: Mail Online

NOW SHOWING

Queen Latifah to star in Bible-themed TV drama

JOLLY LL.B 2

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ctress-singer Queen Latifah and entertainment company Fox are reportedly developing a religious drama for the network. Latifah, who currently features in "Star", will team up with Holly Carter, CEO of faith-inspired content company Releve Entertainment, and Shakim Compere's Flavor Unit Television for a Bible-themed drama titled "The Scroll", reports aceshowbiz. com.

Writer Michael Elliot will write the project's script based on an original idea by Carter.

"The Scroll" will re-imagine some of the Bible's most popular stories in present day. Those stories will be depicted by a group of friends and colleagues who are the modern-day versions of some of the Bible's most remarkable characters.

Source: IANS

11:00 AM | 02:00 PM 08:00 PM

RINGS (HORROR)

05:00 PM

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MONDAY 13•02•2017

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

De Randamie crowned 1st featherweight champ at UFC 208 NEW YORK, FEBRUARY 12 (AP): Germaine de Randamie defeated Holly Holm by unanimous decision in a clinchfilled bout at UFC 208 to become the first featherweight champion in the woman’s division.

The 32-year-old de Randamie (7-3) dropped to her knees in celebration as the Barclays Center crowd booed the end of a lacklustre bout Saturday night.

UFC created the new 145-pound division in part as a showcase for Cristiane "Cyborg" Justino. Justino was the lone fan standing in the front row toward the end of the five-round bout.

Justino’s UFC fate is in limbo because of a doping violation that knocked her off the New York card.

A fight may not be on the immediate horizon.

De Randamie, a Dutch kickboxer who also fought in Strikeforce, said she needed surgery on one of her hands.

Holm (10-3) has lost three straight bouts since she became the first fighter to defeat Ronda Rousey in December 2015.

De Randamie rocked

C M Y K

(L-R) Germaine de Randamie of The Netherlands throws a punch against Holly Holm of United States in their UFC women's featherweight championship bout during UFC 208 at the Barclays Center on February 11, 2017 in the Brooklyn Borough of New York City. (Getty Images)

Holm with hits after the bell in two rounds. She clocked Holm with a right a tick after the horn to end the second round that sent the crowd howling. Holm shook de Randamie with a head kick near the end of the third. But de Randamie again hit Holm just after the bell and was walked to her corner with the referee talking in her ear. But

India beat Pak to lift 2nd successive Blind World Cup

BENGALURU, FEBRUARY 12 (PTI): The Indian blind cricket team successfully defended its Twenty20 World Cup title here today, defeating arch-rivals Pakistan in the final for the second successive edition.

With eight wins from nine matches, India had gone into the final as favourites and lived up to it with a comprehensive victory. For Pakistan though, it was their first loss in the tournament.

The two teams had clashed in the 2012 edition final as well with India emerging triumphant.

The victory was also a sweet revenge for the Indians, who had lost to Pakistan in the league stage of

the current edition.

Batting first, Pakistan made 197/9 but India chased down the target in 18 overs without much of a fuss, losing just one wicket in the process.

Man of the match Prakash Jayaramaiah stood out with a splendid unbeaten 99-run knock, while Ajay Kumar Reddy was the only man to be dismissed for 43.

Reddy was run out.

Man of the series Badar Munir was the topscorer for Pakistan with a 570-run effort.

Ketan Patel and Jaffar Iqbal were the pick of Indian bowlers, grabbing two wickets each after conceding 29 and 33 runs respectively.

she was never penalized for the late blows, crucial points that helped swing the decision her way.

"It was in the heat of the moment. I apologized," she said.

Like Holm, the 32-yearold de Randamie moved up in weight for the shot at the title in the first UFC payper-view in 2017. She might be the least-known fighter

on the card. But she walked out a champ. She swept the cards 48-47.

Anderson Silva had one more big win left in the MMA octagon, an effective performance to beat Derek Brunson in the co-main event. Silva had the Brooklyn crowd clearly on his side, and his familiar dose of swagger and showmanship were on full display in

a 29-28, 29-28, 30-27 victory.

Silva crouched in his yellow trunks, the crowd going wild for "The Spider," all hoping he could recreate the greatness of his prime. He landed a spin kick to the body in the first round that rattled Brunson but otherwise never came close to dominating the middleweight bout.

Silva (34-8) was hit with emotion and appeared to choke back tears as he held a hand to his face. Chris Weidman, who ended Silva's dominant run in 2013, sat in the front row and nodded in approval as the sellout crowd chanted "Silva! Silva! Silva!"

"I know I'm too old to fight," the 41-year-old Silva said.

Silva won the middleweight title in 2006 in his second UFC fight and went on slap a choke hold on the belt for nearly seven years.

He had 10 straight title defences before he lost to Weidman.

UFC's second trip to the Big Apple in three months lacked the top-to-bottom star power of the debut show in November but fans were just as enthusias-

tic and filled the place well before the PPV started.

Dustin Poirier won a brutal, bloody bout in the PPV opener against Jim Miller that left both fighters broken. Poirier tagged Miller with straight shots that cut him open above his eyes and covered his face in blood.

Poirier appeared to sustain a serious injury to his right ankle. Poirier, a majority decision winner in the lightweight bout, was down on the canvas for a bit after the bout ended and needed help from this corner to sit on a stool. He was helped back on his brittle leg to the locker room and a stretcher soon followed him down the corridor.

UFC said Poirier was taken to a hospital.

"I didn't hear anything snap," Poirier said. "It felt wobbly the last couple of rounds."

Glover Teixeira defeated Jared Cannonier by unanimous decision in dull fight that brought out the New York boo birds.

Jacare Souza choked out Tim Boetsch at 3:41 of the first round and moved to 7-1 in UFC.

India need seven wickets for victory on final day HYDERABAD, FEBRUARY 12 (REUTERS): India's spinners sent back the top three Bangladesh batsmen in the second innings of the one-off test at Hyderabad on Sunday to keep the hosts on course for victory.

Chasing an improbable target of 459 in four sessions for a win, Bangladesh reached 103-3 at stumps on the fourth day of their maiden test in India, the world's topranked nation.

Shakib Al Hasan was unbeaten on 21 for Bangladesh with Mahmudullah nine not out at the other end.

Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who during the day became the fastest to reach 250 wickets in tests, dismissed Tamim Iqbal (3) and Mominul Haque (27) while spin partner Ravindra Jadeja picked up the wicket of Soumya Sarkar, who made 42.

Sarkar and Mominul added 60 for the second wicket but both left-handers were out in the space of 14 deliveries, dampening the touring side's hopes of saving the test match.

Cheteshwar Pujara

hit an unbeaten 54 off 58 balls as India declared their second innings on 159 for four at tea.

The hosts batted for 29 overs and scored at a rate of more than five runs per over with useful contributions from captain Virat Kohli (38) and Ajinkya Rahane (28). Paceman Taskin and Shakib shared the four Indian wickets.

In the morning session, Bangladesh captain Mushfiqur Rahim registered his fifth test hundred before his side were bundled out for 388 as the hosts took a first-innings lead of 299.

The 29-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman was the last man out for his side on 127 with Bangladesh's innings ending shortly before lunch.

Kohli opted against enforcing the follow-on after his bowlers needed almost an entire session to pick up Bangladesh's last four wickets.

Resuming on 322-6, the visitors got off to a bad start as seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar breached the defence of half-centurion Mehedi Hasan with the fourth ball of the morning without a run being added to their overnight total.

Ashwin breaks Lillee's record to fastest 250 wickets HYDERABAD, FEBRUARY 12 (PTI): Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin today created the record of claiming 250 Test wickets in least number of matches in his 45th Test, eclipsing legendary Australian fast bowler Dennis Lillee.

Lillee had completed the milestone in his 48th Test and Ashwin's two wickets in the Bangladesh first innings in the one-off Test here helped the Indian allrounder reach the covPaceman Umesh Yadav, the most impressive of India's bowlers, got Taijul Islam to glove one back to wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha, raising fears for Mushfiqur that he could run out of partners before reaching three figures.

However, Taskin Ahmed stayed with his captain for a 39-run ninth-wicket stand, during which Mushfiqur scored freely.

eted landmark.

He is the sixth Indian bowler after Anil Kumble (619), Kapil Dev (434), Harbhajan Singh (417), Zaheer Khan (311), Bishan Singh Bedi (266) to reach to 250 Test wickets.

Ashwin has so far taken 57 wickets in the current home season.

Till the end of the Bangladesh first innings in his 45th Test, Ashwin has 24 five-wicket hauls and seven 10-wicket hauls so far. He has also scored 1816 runs, including four hundreds.

The diminutive righthander top-edged Ishant Sharma for a six and then reached his century when the lanky bowler missfielded near the boundary to allow a four.

He was finally out, caught down the leg side to Ashwin, who reached 250 test wickets with the dismissal.

Umesh finished with three wickets, while Ashwin and Jadeja picked up two wickets apiece.

Chelsea go 10 points clear with draw at Burnley LONDON, FEBRUARY 12 (REUTERS): Premier League leaders Chelsea moved 10 points clear at the top on Sunday despite being held by Burnley in an entertaining game played amid flurries of sleet and snow.

Pedro gave Chelsea an early lead from a pass by Victor Moses but the home side fought back well and equalised midway through the first half with a superb curling free kick by Robbie Brady, making his full debut.

Matt Lowton and Andre Gray missed good chances as Burnley sought to maintain their impressive home record, while the defence restricted Antonio Conte's side who could have their lead cut to eight by Manchester City on Monday.

Burnley, promoted last season, moved up one place to 12th and fully deserved a point for their spirit and quality. They have earned 29 of their 30 points this season at home.

"We must be a bit disappointed to take only one point," Chelsea's manager Antonio Conte

told Sky Sports.

His team dominated possession but managed only two shots on target all match, the second of which was the goal.

It came in only the sixth minute from a classic counter-attack beginning with a throw-in deep in their own half. Pedro was involved before Eden Hazard found Moses in space on the right and his cross took out four defenders, allowing Pedro to beat goalkeeper Tom Heaton.

The equaliser was believed to be the first goal Chelsea had conceded from a direct free kick in four years.

Brady, a £13 million pound signing from Norwich City in January, curled his effort perfectly over the wall and into the top corner of the net from 20 metres. Burnley could even have taken the lead when Thibaut Courtois had to save with his legs from full back Lowton.

In a quieter second half striker Gray also missed a good chance, shooting weakly at the goalkeeper.

I-League: Kolkata derby finishes goalless SILIGURI, FEBRUARY 12 (PTI): The much hyped I-League football derby between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan at Kanchenjunga Stadium here ended in a goalless draw with both teams goalkeepers returning heroes.

On a day none of their ace marksmen failed to fire a goal, East Bengal's TP Rehenesh was adjudged man-of-thematch with his resolute display under the bar in the first-half.

Mohun Bagan's Debjit Majumder stole the show in the last period with an equally dazzling display as in the end the crowd returned dejected

without witnessing a goal from high-profile derby.

Mohun Bagan's star Haitian forward Sony Norde, who was instrumental in their I-League triumph looked threatening in the first-half, but East Bengal gaffer Trevor Morgan did well to keep him at bay with their right back doing a fine job.

The Haitian was kept absolutely quiet as Morgan employed at least two men to hold him off.

The result meant Mohun Bagan remained at second place with 17 points from seven matches.

Anthem gaffe leaves Germans fuming at Fed Cup tie with US LOS ANGELES, FEBRUARY 12 (AFP): Andrea Petkovic says she has 'never felt so disrespected' after a gaffe involving the German national anthem during their Fed Cup tie against the United States at the opening ceremony to the World Group tie in Maui, Hawaii, on Saturday.

An American soloist sang an old version of the German anthem which leads off with a stanza considered overtly nationalist -- "Deutschland,

Deutschland ueber alles" -- a reference to German supremacy.

Singing that version is a major 'no-no' in Germany, because of its strong links to the Nazi era, and only the third stanza of the old anthem is now in use.

Organisers apologised for the gaffe but a fuming Petkovic went on to lose to Alison Riske 7-6 (12/10), 6-2 to put the USA 1-0 up in the first singles rubber.

Real back on top after Osasuna win, Barca rout Alaves BARCELONA, FEBRUARY 12 (REUTERS): Real Madrid returned to the top of La Liga after winning a testing game at Osasuna 3-1 on Saturday thanks to goals from Cristiano Ronaldo, Isco and substitute Lucas Vazquez.

Osasuna striker Sergio Leon cancelled out Ronaldo's 24th-minute opener after defender Tano had been carried off with a sickening double leg break while Real defender Danilo was forced off with an injury in the second half.

Isco restored Real's lead in the 62nd minute and Zinedine Zidane's side added a third through Vazquez with the last kick of the game.

Real goalkeeper Keylor Navas produced a string of quality saves to preserve their advantage before Vazquez sealed only a second league win for Real in seven visits to the perennial La Liga strugglers, who are bottom of the table on 10 points.

Real top the standings on 49 points, leap-frogging Barcelona on 48 after the champions thrashed Alaves 6-0 with the help of

goals from their 'MSN' trident of Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suarez.

The victory, however, was overshadowed by a horrific ankle injury to right back Aleix Vidal, who has been ruled out for the rest of the season. Zidane's side have two games in hand on Barca as they bid to win the title for the first time since 2012.

At Alaves, Suarez turned in a cross from Vidal in the 37th minute to give Barca the lead over the Basques, who they will meet in the King's Cup final, and Neymar pounced on an error from goalkeeper Fernando Pacheco in the 40th.

Messi hit the ball under a hapless Pacheco for the third in the 59th minute to complete a full house for the 'MSN' trident, while an own goal by Alexis Ruano, a thumping strike from Ivan Rakitic and a volley by Suarez completed the rout.

The Uruguayan, who was sent off at the end of Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Atletico Madrid which sealed Barca's place in the King's Cup final, moved one goal ahead of Messi at the top of the league's scoring charts with 18 strikes.

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