January 22nd, 2017 by The Morung Express

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SunDAY • JAnuArY 22 • 2017

DIMAPUR • Vol. XII • Issue 20 • 12 PAGes • 5

T H e

ESTD. 2005

P o W e R

Dignity consists not in possessing honors, but in the consciousness that we deserve them

Pakistan releases Indian soldier, handed over to India PAGE 08

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

Nagaland Govt cautions against unlawful acts during any public demonstrations

Dimapur, January 21 (mExn): The Joint Co-ordination Committee (JCC) Dimapur has resolved to oppose the decision of the Nagaland State Government to distribute voter’s identification slip on January 23, 2017. It has termed the decision as undemocratic and a direct confrontation with the voice of the people. The JCC claimed that it had been opposing the proposed ULB election scheduled on February 1, 2017 through democratic means and the government should not test the patience and maturity exercised by the civil societies. As resolved in a joint meeting on Saturday, the JCC has directed the GBs, all colony chairpersons, DUCCF and the general public not to accept the voter’s slip.

Corrigendum Apropos to the news item published on January 13 under the headline ‘Abortion cases rising in Nagaland,’ it is clarified that the data should be read as ‘abortion services’ and not the number of abortions, which include counselling, tests etc. The error is regretted.

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Further, the communiqué stated that instances have come to the notice of Gaon Buras (GBs) having taken part in agitation/demonstration called by various organizations, bodies and groups to oppose the conduct of elections to the Urban Local Bodies in the state. “The Gaon Buras, having been appointed by the District Administration to aid and assist the Government, are not expected to campaign or participate in any agitation/demonstration/ rally which is against the Government programme or policies,” it stated. Similarly, the communiqué also reminded Government servants that they are bound by conduct rules. Therefore, any Gaon Bura or Government servant found to be indulging in activities inimical to the smooth and peaceful conduct of elections to the ULB polls will be liable to be prosecuted by the District Administration for which, instructions have been issued accordingly by the Government, the press communiqué informed.

Nagaland State Government has instructed the District Administration and Police to make it clear to the organizers/groups/bodies giving the calls for demonstration/agitation/bandh that the responsibility of ensuring that their agitation/demonstration is peaceful and within the four walls of the law rests on them. Home Commissioner Nagaland in a press communiqué dispatched via CMO on Saturday cautioned that in the event of unlawful acts or violence on the part of the agitators/mob leading CNTC reiterates appeal to injury or death or damage to prop- to postpone ULB election erty, both private and public, the orgaThe Central Nagaland Tribes Counnizers/leaders shall also be held crimi- cil (CNTC) has once again appealed nally and civilly liable for such acts/ to the Nagaland State Government to violence. postpone the ULB elections and take

heed to the voice of the people. It also appealed the Joint Action Committee on Women Reservation (JACWR) to withdraw their case, which is still pending in the Supreme Court and to trash out whatever differences confronting the different parties on the reservation issue. Media cell, CNTC in a press statement said it was not against the ULB elections but against the 33% reservation issue, which need serious deliberation for all stakeholders so that it become acceptable for all. It also asked all the candidates to abstain from contesting the coming elections and renounce their candidature, which it claimed, would speak volumes of their integrity and solidarity, which would be remembered for all the coming generations on upholding the traditional rights and customs of the Nagas. Taking the instance of the state capital Kohima and some other districts where there was nil nomination to the upcoming ULB elections, the press statement appealed to the state government to consider their continuous appeal made by the various civil societies. The CNTC also appealed to all to maintain restraint amongst the conflicting parties and to sort out the mat-

ter peacefully for the betterment of our people, which will be beneficial for all. It also lauded the effort of all the Naga tribes that came together on the crucial issue.

Shutter down in Wokha Town on Jan 23 All candidates from Wokha Town Council forfeits candidature

All intending candidates to the Wokha Town Council elections have forfeited their candidature, according to the Lotha Hoho Joint Action Committee. While a few candidates had already backed out from the contest during the last few days, the rest of the candidates resolved to forfeit their candidature on Saturday, the Committee has claimed. Among these, include four candidates belonging to Longsa village who decided to forfeit their candidature heeding to the directive from the village authority. The Longsa village council had called a meeting with the candidates on January 21, whereby it was demanded that no person from the village should contest in the ULB elections. On Friday, candidates hailing from Wokha village had forfeited their candidatures on pressure from the village

council. Altogether, there were 24 valid candidates to the Wokha Town Council to contest from 12 wards. Meanwhile, the Lotha Hoho Joint Action Committee has called for a shutter down in Wokha Town on January 23 (Monday) from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm in protest against the ensuing urban local bodies’ elections. Traffic and public movement will not be restricted, informed the Joint Action Committee. The Committee also warned election duty officials not to collect postal ballots. Mention may also be made that the Joint Co-ordination Committee (JCC) Dimapur has also called for a public rally to protest against the conduct of polls scheduled on February 1.

Day-to-day activities not to be affected on January 23: NCD

The Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) has informed that normal day-to-day activities will not be affected and all business, private, government establishment would run as usual on the day of the proposed public rally on January 23, 20167. Informing this, NCD president T Bangerloba in a press note appealed to all the public to attend the rally so as to come to a consensus solution to the present crisis.

‘Play the role of fatherly figure in promoting peace & harmony’ De-reserve post for BT; make

Dimapur, January 21 (mExn): The Nagaland Gaon Bura Federation (NGBF) has now asked all GBs in Nagaland State not to participate in any rally, bandh or boycott of the ongoing process of election to the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs), as notified by the Government of Nagaland. As the “custodian of customary law,” the NGBF also requested the State Election Commission to defer, if possible, the ULBs’ election till the situation gets “normal” and an “understanding” takes place between Government of Nagaland and “pressure groups.” A press from NGBF President Shaleem Konyak and General Secretary Shikuto Zalipu informed all District GBs Associations to “maintain and follow the customs and traditions which were carried on and practiced by our forefathers and also play the role of fatherly figure in promoting peace and harmony and to avoid breach

• NGBF asks GBs not to participate in rally, bandh or boycott of ULB elections • Requests State Election Commission to defer, if possible, the ULBs’ election till situation gets normal

of conduct.” The NGBF reminded that the many tribes of Nagaland follow unique customs and traditions, but most aspects being similar gave birth to ‘Naga Customary Law.’ As the “custodian of the customary law,” the NGBF appealed to all “not to dilute our unique customary practice by imposing unusual practices which are not in practice from time immemorial till date.”

No ‘paramount power’ beyond village

Explaining the context, the NGBF brought to fore that “each village was the state by itself,” and there was no “paramount power” beyond this. Each village has its own land and forest; every village

had its own system of government; some were democratic setup and some hereditary setup. This system of governance was run by the village chiefs known as Angh in Konyak, Kukami in Sumi, Ekhung in Lotha, Pehumia in Angami, Putumenden in Ao, Kilongtsur in Yimchunger, Mewoh/Runakreta in Chakhasang, Abotonger in Sangtam, Monyu in Phom, Sangponyu in Chang, Chinkhu/Pai in Zeliang etc. The system of governance was for the “welfare and protection” of citizens based on their respective customs and traditions, extrapolated the NGBF. Further, there was division of work in terms of administration, rituals etc. “Every individual in the village

had his rightful place in the society. The village chieftains and elders do not exercise any kind of autocratic power. All important matters were discussed in the open court where views were exchanged, evidences were examined and only after thorough deliberation, final decisions were taken (A kind of Direct Democracy),” the NGBF statement noted. Thus, it maintained, “Diluting and twisting our customs and traditions for self benefit or to mislead would surely tarnish our identity which was acknowledged by the British India Sarkar and recognized by the Government of India.” In this light, the NGBF reiterated that “No power/strength can separate the customs and traditions from Naga people” and asked all GBs to be wary of this at this juncture and not participate in any rally, bandh or boycott of the “ongoing process of ULBs election as notified by the government of the day.”

Naga Photojournalist wins TFA-Tasveer Emerging Photographer Award 2017 Kekhriezhazo Miachieo’s ‘Cycle of Street Life’ series shows heart-rending photos of children abusing drugs Morung Express News Dimapur | January 21

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Aus Open: Nadal holds off Zverev, Serena cruises

‘Youth Interface for Peace Building’

nagaland UlB Polls: the tussle continues Dimapur | January 21

JCC to oppose distribution of voter’s identification slip

T R u T H

— Aristotle

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Morung Express News

My leg is broken, but..Yes .. yes!!! No election duty for me.

o F

Kekhriezhazo Miachieo, a Naga Photojournalist based in Delhi has been awarded the TFA-Tasveer Emerging Photographer Award 2017 – an annual photography award that recognises young talents in the country. Set up in memory of Toto ‘Angirus’ Vellani, the Thirteenth Annual Toto Funds the Arts’ (TFA) Awards for young photographers, filmmakers, writers, musicians and bands was held in Bangalore on January 7. Zhazo, as he is better known, was awarded for his heart-rending photos of children abusing drugs. The series of 12 pictures is titled “Cycle of Street Life”. Speaking to The Morung Express, Zhazo, who works with India Today as a Photojournalist, says that it took him nearly 3 years juggling between assignments to finish the project. “I tried to go and be as close to the subjects as possible,” he says revealing that he avoided using telephoto zoom lenses. But it was no easy task as it meant putting himself in vulnerable situations. Threatened more than a few times

Pictures from Kekhriezhazo Miachieo’s ‘Cycle of Street Life’ series which won the TFATasveer Emerging Photographer Award 2017. Bottom right Kekhriezhazo Miachieo

while taking photographs, Zhazo recalls that he was also nearly stabbed twice – once with a scissor and another time with a pen. “They were mostly high (on drugs),” he recollects. Describing his work, Zhazo says that there are about 1.5-2 lakh kids in the streets of the national capital indulging in substance abuse. According to a study con-

ducted by the Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights on Substance Abuse by Children, the average age of these children is 13.7 years and alarmingly, most are school dropouts. These young and restless resorts to substance abuse inevitably end up committing criminal offences – including murder. Most of the street kids take on the job of

rag picking where they collect wastes like empty water bottles and tin scraps and sell them at junk stores. This earns them about Rs 150- 200 daily and the money is then the used to procure drugs from peddlers. Apart from the imminent criminal activities, the vulnerability to diseases like AIDS, through needle sharing for instance, is hauntingly high for these young substance abusers. The Tasveer Journal, an online magazine for photography describes Zhazo’s work as a project dealing with the darker realities of society made particularly poignant through his focus on children. “Miachieo’s graphic high-contrast monochromatic images reflect the starkness of the world that his young substance abusers inhabit,” the online portal said of Zhazo’s work. The sensitivity that the photographer displays toward their subjects produces poignant, heart-rending windows into these young lives, it added. Nearly two weeks after receiving the award, Zhazo’s name finds no mention in the local media but as someone who likes to keep a low profile, he isn’t much perturbed. The 29-year old from Kohima travels every other month on assignments. Notable among the assignments he has covered so far include the Uttarakhand (2013) and Kashmir (2014) floods, the Muzzafarnagar riots (2013, Uttar Pradesh) and also the aftermath of the earthquake in Nepal (2015). Having put in his heart into the project, Zhazo says that it is “very fulfilling” to have his work acknowledged by distinguished experts and pioneers. “I’m satisfied that it paid off,” he says.

it open for all candidates

Dimapur, January 21 (mExn): Seven associations have reiterated its appeal to the Nagaland Government to reconsider the corrigendum related to Nagaland Public Service Commission adv no. NPSC/ADVT-1/04 dated 26 October 2016 and to allow the post reserved for Backward Tribes (BT) to be open to all the candidates based on merit in the upcoming exam. In a joint press statement, the Graduate Electrical Engineers Association (GEEAN), Association of Mechanical Engineers Nagaland (AMEN-U), Unemployed Civil Engineers Association of Nagaland (UCEAN), Forestry Graduate Association of Nagaland (FGAN), Agriculture Engineers Graduate Association of Nagaland (AEGAN), All Nagaland Unemployed Veterinary Doctors Association (ANUVDA) and Electronics and Communication Engineers Association Nagaland (ECEAN) on Saturday urged the State Government to reconsider the decision as per the NPSC corrigendum where some posts have been reserved particularly for a BT tribe. The associations maintained that such reservations is affecting the technical graduates of branches like Mechanical Engineering, E&C, IT, CS, Agriculture Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering

and Forestry Graduates. In branches like Mechanical, E&C, CS and IT there is hardly any advertisement and when one post is advertised as in the recent NPSC (CTE), giving away that one post to one particular BT tribe cannot be considered fair and transparent enough, the associations asserted. It also pointed out that as per the reservation policy order no. RCBT-5/87(ptII) annexure B-I 125 point rooster table, the first vacancy is reserved for all indigenous inhabitants and only then comes the reservation for BT tribe. Correspondingly, taking into reference the reservation policy of the Government of Nagaland, the associations also requested all the concerned authorities to go/follow as per the rules and reconsider in making those advertised posts be made open to all in the upcoming CTE exam 2016. It also argued that the order RCBT-5/87(pt-II) nowhere mentions that in case of only one vacancy it ought to be reserved for a BT tribe. The associations also lamented that despite a representation submitted to the Nagaland Chief Secretary on the same issue on November 4, 2016 and a copy handed over to the Head of Department s of all the concerned departments, no response have been received so far.

SunDAY 22•01•2017

NAGALAND

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

‘Youth Interface for Peace Building’ Impur Christian Hospital sign MOU with CIHSR

Participants of the workshop on ‘Youth Interface for Peace Building’ held at Clark Theological College, Aolijen.

Mokokchung, January 21 (MExn): The Clark Centre for Peace Research and Action (CCPRA) in collaboration with Commission on Youth-NCCI organized a one day workshop on ‘Youth Interface for Peace Building’ at Clark Theologi-

cal College, Aolijen. The inaugural programme was chaired by Pursenla Ozukum, Coordinator, CCPRA and the inaugural addressed by delivered by Jianthaolung Gongmei, Executive Secretary of Commission on

Youth-NCCI. The keynote address was delivered by Rev. Dr. Marnungsang, Principal, CTC on ‘Peace building Movement: Prospects and Responsibilities of Youth.’ He said that people speak of peace because this has become one

KDLSA review condition of UTPs and convicts

Officials of the KDLSA, other dignitaries and panel lawyers after the programme.

kohiMa, January 21 (MExn): The officials of Kohima District Legal Services Authority (KDLSA) visited Kohima District Jail in conformity with the action plan of the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority. The purpose of the visit was to review and inspect the condition of the Under Trial Prisoners (UTPs) and convicts and extend help necessitated. A press release issued by the KDLSA stated that exhorting the inmates during the programme, Deputy Commissioner and exofficio member KDLSA, Rajesh Soundararajan, IAS stated that the period undergoing by the UTPs and convicts in the correctional institution is not a waste of time but rather an epoch to reform themselves. He lauded the sense of hygiene adopted within the campus of the District Jail terming it

as a positive effort undertaken by the inmates and said that he is hopeful that they can change for good. He also stated that no one is perfect and as a human being we are bound to make mistakes in life adding that it does not mean these mistakes cannot be corrected. He urged the inmates to get involved in all the activities undertaken and vocational trainings imparted. He also offered to assist the UTPs in whatever way possible in the forthcoming days. Terming the occasion as an opportunity for the inmates, Secretary KDLSA & Chief Judicial Magistrate, Kohima Mezivolu T. Therieh, NJS while chairing the function expressed that the program was carried out to address the grievances of the inmates and to render all possible help for the welfare of the prisoners in general. Jailor, Kohima District

Jail, Sunny Keppen, while delivering the welcome address expressed his appreciation to the Officials of KDLSA and other dignitaries present for taking note of the prisoners’ welfare and said that the step taken will usher in a positive trend in improving the condition of the prisoners and facilitating speedy trial to the UTPs. It was informed in a press release that the programme was followed by interactive session whereby the prisoners raised different queries pertaining to their welfare, grievances and trial proceedings. The officials gave a patient hearing and assured to offer remedial measures. Later, the officials also visited that Legal Aid Clinic established within the Jail Campus, which was followed by a meeting of the Kohima District Under Trial Review Committee.

of the greatest desires in the minds of all people. He affirmed that young people have greater potential of having inclusive, compassionate and dialogue worldviews while adults have set dogmatic discourse. He concluded that the

young people should be included as partners of peace and that they are the catalysts for social change. Through their participation and support in peace building efforts, communities are most likely to achieve a just and lasting peace, he noted. The facilitators for the workshop were Zulunungsang Lemtur and Dr. Leban Serto, Director, Centre For Peace Education, Manipur. Among the workshop participants, 75 were youth directors, youth leaders from different churches under ABAM and M.Th students of CTC. The workshop sessions were on Essential steps for conflict resolution and management, Conceptual frameworks on peace building, Nonviolence and Peace: life and work of Rev. Martin Luther King Jr, the Kingian principles.

Christian Institute of Health Sciences, Dimapur and Impur Christian Hospital, Impur representatives with Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger, Executive Secretary, ABAM (third from left) during the signing of the MOU held on January 20.

DiMapur, January 21 (MExn): A Memorandum of Understanding was signed on January 20 between the Christian Institute of Health Sciences (CIHSR), Dimapur and the Impur Christian Hospital (ICH), Impur under ABAM for partnership

and networking in various fields including training and professional supports. The function was chaired by Dr. Viu Meru of CIHSR and Dr. Sedevi Angami and several heads of disciplines at CIHSR made presentations

about their activities at the Institute. Rev. Dr. Mar Atsongchanger, Executive Secretary, ABAM and Dr. Sashimeren Aier, Chairman, Board of Trustee, ICH spoke for ICH. The MOU was dedicated with prayer by the Rev. Dr. Atsongchanger.

DDLSA extend legal services to jail inmates

DiMapur, January 21 (MExn): The members of Dimapur District Legal Services Authority (DDLSA) visited the Central jail, Dimapur, on January 21 as part of the action plan formulated by the Nagaland State Legal Services Authority. Heading the team was Ajongba Imchen who has recently taken charge as Secretary DDLSA and Chief Judicial Magistrate, Dimapur. The purpose of the visit was to take an appraisal of jail conditions and extend legal services to the inmates. In his address, Imchen exhorted the inmates to take their deten-

tion as an opportunity for reform and rehabilitation. A firm assurance was also given that trial of pending cases would be conducted keeping in mind the rights of prisoners as regards investigation, legal representation and transparency in court proceedings. Nathaniel Kevichusa, Retainer Lawyer, spoke on the various legal services provided by the DDLSA and encouraged the inmates to seek legal representation if so required. Visheli H Yepthomi, Panel Advocate DDLSA, apprised the inmates of the rights of Members of Dimapur District Legal Services Authority outside the Central jail, Dimapur after their visit held on January 21. the prisoners.

Thousands attend ongoing revival & healing convention

ko h i M a , Ja n ua ry 2 1 (MExn): The ongoing revival and healing convention saw an assembly of thousand people each day at Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School Ground, Kohima organized by Nagaland Christian Revival Church, Kohima. On Saturday evening service, Rev. Dr. Paul K. Ariga, President, All Japan Revival Mission, Japan shared the words of God, stated a press release. Meanwhile, the Praise and worship team lead by Mezhüsevi Zütso along with the special appearance of Gocha Stankiewiez from Poland as the pianist enthralled the congregation. On January 20, Dr. Joram Dol, Director, Mission Out-Reach, Arunachal Pradesh CRCC was the main speaker. The organizers claimed that Dr. Joram Dol have healing powers, and has healed the crippled, deaf and dumb. On January 22, Sunday morning service will start at 10: am with Rev. Dr. Paul K. Ariga, President, All Japan Revival Mission, Japan will be the main speaker. While, on Sun-

Speakers at the ongoing revival and healing convention held at Rüzhükhrie Government Higher Secondary School Ground, Kohima.

day evening the service will start at 04: pm with Dr. Joram Dol, Director, Mission Out-Reach, Arunachal Pradesh CRCC will be the speaker. Inviting all the citizens of Kohima town to receive the blessings and revive oneself again, organising

committee mentioned that transportation will also be provided for villages and colonies. For transportation, interested persons are advised to contact the following numbers: 8732090790/ 7005179080.

7th National Voters’ Day in Kohima

kohiMa, January 21 (MExn): The 7th National Voters’ Day with the theme ‘Empowering young and future voters’ will take place on January 25, 11:00 am at Zonal Council Hall, Kohima. Nagaland’s Chief Secretary Pankaj Kumar (IAS) will grace the occasion as the chief guest. My experience as BLO, My vision for a clean election, and my experience as a District Election Offi-

cer will be shared by A. Daikho, A/T GMS Sochunoma, Vinokali Zhimomi, Miss Nagaland 2016 & State Icon (SVEEP), and Lithrongla G. Chishi, IAS, secretary Co-operation & Director ATI respectively. Short speech will be delivered by Diethono Nakhro, State Icon (PwD) and Esther Natso, District Icon, Kohima. N. Moa Aier, CEO (Officiating) will highlight the background of Na-

tional Voters’ Day, while Khekugha Sema, Dy. Chief Electoral Officer will present the message of Chief Election Commissioner. The function will be chaired by Rajesh Soundararajan, IAS, District Election Officer & Deputy Commissioner, Kohima. Cultural presentation by Mongsenyimti Union Kohima and presentation of EPICs and NVD badges will also mark the occasion.

KVK Dimapur addresses soil related problems DiMapur, January 21 (MExn): The socio-economic development of the state depends on the proper use of soil, which are the most important natural resource. The soil of North–East Hills in general are moderately deep to deep (75-150 cm), well to excessively drained, yellowish brown to red, loamy to clayey with occasional loamy/clayey skeleton texture. The most important characteristics of north-East soil are its acidity, soil degradation and soil erosion etc. The toxicity of soil Al has been recognised one of the important factors limiting the productivity of crops on acid soil having pH below 5.5. To address various soil related problems KVK Dimapur ICAR Research Complex of NEH region conducted two days each training cum demonstration of soil health management in two villages viz., Molvom and Singrijan on various topics viz., Soil Sample collection and Analysis, Importance soil health Card, Soil Health improvements, nutrient use efficiency, nutrient management in field crops, vegetable and horticulture crops, Acid soil management, manures and Fertilizer Applications etc, in the month of December and January to create awareness and sensitised the farmers to address the issues under Tribal Sub Plan Project (TSP). A total of 80 farmers attended the training and demonstration programme.

Eliezer Home organizes buffet cum acoustic musical event

DiMapur, January21 (MExn): The Eliezer Children Home under the NGO School of Social Work, Unity Village, Dimapur, with the 32 Assam Rifles organized a buffet cum acoustic musical event on January 20 at the NEZCC Stone Park, Dimapur. Chief Guest, Lt. Col. S. Rajendran, 2 IC 32 Assam Rifles inaugurated the programme and special presentations by the children of Eliezer Home. Special guest artistes the Finalist Band, Mangyang Kichu, Ado and Theja and the 32 AR band presented classic Hindi and English hits. Instrumental piece from pianist Lungdauliu

and violinist Ate Venuh, guitar solo from Ngupe and special dance performance was presented by Woden Ovung, Winner of Nagaland Dancing Star 2016. Eliezer Children home owned and taken care by Tinumeren Ozukum and Aosenla Imchen is a home especially for the children who have lost their parents or orphaned at a very young age, Tinumeren Ozukum, Chairman, Eleizer Children Home stated. The children are between 3-11 years and presently has 8 school going children who have made tremendous physical, psychologi- Eliezer Children home receives Lt. Col. S. Rajendran, 2 IC 32 Assam to the Rifles Buffet cum cal and academic progress. Acoustic Musical event held at the NEZCC Stone Park, Dimapur on January 20.

Sunday 22•01•2017

NORTH-EAST 3

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

UNLF militant, arms Three NE states celebrate their foundation day smugglers held in Manipur

AgArtAlA/Shillong, JAnuAry 21 (iAnS): The three northeastern states of Tripura, Manipur and Meghalaya on Saturday organised numerous programmes and events to celebrate their 45th Foundation Day. Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeted the people of Tripura, Manipur and Meghalaya on their statehood day. "Greetings to people of Meghalaya, Manipur and Tripura on their Statehood Day. I wish the states the very best in their devel-

opment journey," the Prime Minister said in a message. In Agartala Tripura Governor Tathagata Roy inaugurated a series of programmes to celebrate the statehood day. Roy released a publication highlighting Tripura's achievements in various fields since 1972. Cultural functions and seminars would be held across the state till January 23. Addressing the main function of the Statehood Day at the famous Rabindra Satabarshiki

Bhavan in Agartala, Roy said that as Tripura was already a power surplus state the surplus electricity must be utilised for industrialisation and more employment. "The northeastern states have huge opportunities in developing tourism. Through tourism numerous development including solution of unemployment problems would be resolved," he added. In Imphal, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh and Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam ad-

dressed a meeting on the occasion. The statehood day celebrations in Meghalaya involved a series of events, including sports meets in various parts of the state. At the state capital Shillong, Deputy Chief Minister R. C. Laloo was the Chief Guest at a programme held at U Soso Tham Auditorium. On the occasion, Meghalaya Day Excellence Awards were conferred on government employees, Kayakalp Award to two District Hospitals and three com-

munity health centres. Besides songs, there were flute recitals and performances by artists from the Centre of Excellence in Indian Classical and Western Music and a flower show. The erstwhile princely states of Tripura and Manipur were merged with India in October 1949 and became full-fledged states on January 21, 1972. Meghalaya was part of Assam before becoming a full-fledged state under the North Eastern Region (Re-Organisation) Act, 1971.

Uncertainty on Tripartite 'Tripura bank lose business talk as UNC reject talk offer due to demonitisation' ‘Warns Nagas in newly created districts against participating in India's Republic Day’ Newmai News Network Senapati | January 21

There is uncertainty looming over the proposed tripartite talk involving the United Naga Council (UNC), the Government of Manipur and the Central Government on the prevailing issue in Manipur. The Government's invitation to the UNC for dialogue to hold on January 23 in Imphal was not accepted by the latter. When contacted by NNN, the UNC leaders said that if the Government agrees to the conditions put up by the Naga body, "we are ready to hold dialogue." The UNC has made it clear to the Government time and again that the venue of the talk should be either in 'Naga area' or in New Delhi. The UNC also laid down another condition demanding that its President Gaidon Kamei who is in police custody at the moment lead the Naga body in the event of any dialogue. The UNC further

insisted that its Information Secretary SK Stephen who is also in police custody should participate in the talk. Stipulating that the core issue of the talk should be centred on the creation of the new districts against the four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), the UNC called upon the Government of India to chair the event if any dialogue is to be held. On January 17, the UNC got the invitation for dialogue from the Government. On January 20, the UNC intimated to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on its position and conditions. Meanwhile, the UNC has asked Nagas in the new districts of Tengnoupal, Kamjong, Kangpokpi, Noney and Jiribam not to participate in the Republic Day celebration. The UNC in a directive warned that, any Naga "going against this directive" will be doing so on his/her own risk. "The communal Manipur Government has created the new districts ignoring the four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). Nagas can never accept this act of the Ibobi Singh led government of Manipur. We can no longer tolerate such acts of suppression and oppression," the UNC maintained.

Congress will be ousted from Manipur, says BJP

turA, JAnuAry 21 (iAnS): The Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday exuded confidence that it will oust the ruling Congress government in the upcoming assembly elections in Manipur. "A month from now, Manipuris will get a great opportunity to get rid of the corrupt and regressive Congress government and Okram Ibobi Singh," BJP national general secretary in-charge of northeast and Jammu and Kashmir, Ram Madhav, said. According to Madhav, the Congress government does not bother about its own people. The BJP made it clear that the party will contest all 60 seats on its own. "The BJP is not having an alliance with the Naga People's Front and National People's Party (NPP), which are part of the NDA government at the Centre." The NPF and NPP have fielded candidates in some of the constituencies. Madhav made the remarks while addressing BJP workers after the inauguration of the party's regional office in Meghalaya's Garo Hills region.

He was accompanied by BJP national spokesperson and party in-charge in Meghalaya, Nalin Kohli, and BJP Meghalaya president Shibun Lyngdoh besides others. "Ibobi Singh is continuing with his selfish and inhuman politics. The people of Manipur have realised this, and I am quite sure that one and a half months from now, when results will come out, you will find the state getting rid of this regressive government," Madhav said. He claimed that the BJP will form the government in Manipur. Continuing his attack on Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh for the ongoing economic blockade, the BJP leader said: "I am today making this allegation with all responsibility that he (Ibobi Singh) is responsible for the blockade in Manipur as he politically benefits from it." "Just two months before the elections, Ibobi started acting in a manner that would lead the state into a crisis. The blockade is very unfortunate, and the groups that are enforcing the blockade must

have ended it. But the Chief Minister cannot escape the responsibility for his inefficiency in tackling this problem," he said. According to the leader, the central government has been providing all necessary assistance to Manipur, including additional security forces, to ensure the blockade ends, but even after the Centre's help, the Chief Minister could not end the blockade. The United Naga Council on November 1 imposed an indefinite economic blockade on the ImphalDimapur (NH2) and Imphal-Jiribam (NH37) highways to protest against the Manipur government's move to create seven new districts by bifurcating the Naga-dominated areas. Stating that it was only the BJP that can give the state a "bandh-free, blockade-free, developmentfocussed Manipur", the leader accused Ibobi Singh of not taking interest in resolving the issue. "What matters to him are only votes. For the sake of his selfish electoral interest, he is ready to put the people through hardship and suffering," he said.

Tripura government starts confiscating Rose Valley assets fund which launched its business in Tripura many years back is still enjoying rights over at least twenty movable and immovable properties in the state. Sadar sub-divisional magistrate Samit Roy Chowdhury said on Saturday that they have confiscated a big park, a large seven-storey building, a tea garden, nine flats, a large number of LIC policies and empty land. The properties belong to Rose Valley under the banners of various shady companies. The chit fund is now under the scanner of the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation and its sole proprietor Gautam Kundu was arrested in Kolkata in 2015. The official said the state government through the DMs and SDMs has seized movable and immovable properties of

many chit fund organisations in Tripura. The Tripura High Court last year asked the state government to set up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe illegal Non Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and chit fund organisations. Meanwhile, SIT head and Tripura's Inspector General of Police (Law and Order) K. V. Sreejesh said the SIT was probing 78 cases involving 48 NBFCs and chit fund organisations and had arrested 112 persons. "We have seized bank accounts and attached properties of most of these organisations. We will soon complete our probe," the officer added. In 2013, the Tripura government had referred 37 cases relating to chit fund companies and NBFCs to the CBI. The central probe agency, however, took up only five cases.

people and our sincere employees we have overcome the problems that arose due to demonitisation." The TSCB, oldest cooperative bank in the northeastern region of India, was established in 1957 under the Bombay cooperative socities act. TSCB Chairman Haripada Chakraborty said that currently the bank has 63 branches in semi-urban and rural areas with existing business of Rs 3,475 crore. "Since 2008-09 the bank bas been runing on profit and posted a net profit of Rs 20.56 crore in the last financial year (2015-16) and in the current fiscal (201617) the bank targets a profit of Rs 22 crore," he added.

Chakraborty said that the bank, which presently has 9,85,938 customers, would open six-to-seven new branches soon and undertake modernisation plans to cope with the rising demand of the people.

LOST NOTICE I, Inreutube am applying for a duplicate copy of Nagaland University Registration Card as I have lost it. Name: Inreutube F/Name: Namki Regd.No: 115006126001 of 2010-11 College: Sakus Mission College Phone No: 8119070607

ZION HOSPITAL & RESEARCH CENTRE DIMAPUR : NAGALAND

VISITING CONSULTANTS NEUROLOGIST Dr. AMIT RANJAN BARUAH MBBS MD DNB (Neurology) consultant Neurologist from GNRC Hospitals, Guwahati will be available for consultation on 29th Jan. 2017(Sunday, 3:00pm onwards) & 30th Jan. 2017 (Monday 9:00am onwards).

CARDIOTHORACIC & VASCULAR SURGEON Dr. BIKASH RAI DAS MBBS MS DNB (CTVS) MNAMS Sr. consultant Cardiothoracic/Vascular surgeon from GNRC Hospitals, Guwahati will be available for consultation on 29th Jan. 2017(Sunday, 3:00pm onwards) & 30th Jan. 2017 (Monday 9:00am onwards).

For Registration, please contact :  03862- 231864, 227337, 224117

Golden Opportunity to Learn a Skill and Earn a Living!!!

Don Bosco Tech invites applications from unemployed youth for its various vocational training programmes at Don Bosco Tech AIDA centre, Don Bosco School Campus, N. N. Gaon, Dimapur – 7697113, which will empower them towards a stable employment and self dependent life. Courses Offered at AIDA, Dimapur  Hospitality – Beauty and Wellness  Hospitality – Beauty and Hairstyling  Hospitality – Food and Beverages service We give placement assistance to successful trainees. Training starts on 23 January 2017. Admission open till 27 January 2017 Contact Detail: 9089070729/ 8729939241/ 9089342170/ 9856134110

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Angami Catholic Women Association wish to thank all individuals and groups from various Churches for the successful conduct of its 21st General Conference held from January 13 to 15, 2017 at Chedema Village. The Association extends special thanks to all members of the Holy Cross Church, Chedema led by Dr. John Seyiekhrietuo for the elaborate and wonderful preparation of the conference venue and hosting of all the delegates. The magnanimous support of the Baptist Church, Assembly of God Church and Christian Revival Church of Chedema as well as Christian Revival Church, Model Village, Chedema in carrying out the preliminary groundwork is well appreciated. This exemplary cordial relationship among the different denominations in the Village reflects the goodness of the Chedema people. Also, the help extended by members of the Catholic Unions of nearby Christ King Church, Kohima Village and Rüsoma Village is gratefully acknowledged. We also extend our heartiest thanks to all the resource persons and mass celebrants who made the conference a meaningful and spiritually enriching event for the women delegates from the various Angami regions. Sd/KETOULESIEÜ IRENE President Angami Catholic Women Association Kohima, Nagaland

(RÜÜNGUBINO RITA) General Secretary Angami Catholic Women Association Kohima, Nagaland

SPRING VALLEY SCHOOL

(A CBSE Based Curriculum) NH-29,Chekiye Village, Block-II, 3rd Mile,Dimapur

ADMISSION OPEN FOR THE SESSION 2017-18 (CLASSES NURSERY TO VI) (ADMISSION STARTED)

(Limited Seats for Hostel) Admission Forms are available at the School Office. Complete Admission forms will be accepted on a first come served basis between 8:00 AM to 1:30 PM (Monday to Saturday). Learning Benefits  Small Class Size.  Loving and Caring Atmosphere.  Individual Education Plan.  Wide and Varied Curriculum.  Set in the Beautiful Background.  Yearly Upgradation To Class 12.  With Transport Facility and 24x7 Power Backup.

Tele: 03862-243263/9862575146 (Near NHAirport Road Junction, adjacent to WESTERN SUMI HOHO Building).

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA RAJKUMARI AMRIT KAUR COLLEGE OF NURSING LAJPAT NAGAR, NEW DELHI — 110024

ADMISSION NOTICE MSC NURSING COURSE 2017-18 Applications are invited for admission to M. Sc Nursing Course (2 years) commencing from 20th July, 2017. Prescribed application forms with prospectus for the Session 2017-2018 can be obtained from R.A.K. College of Nursing, Lajpat Nagar, New Delhi — 110024 on payment of Rs. 550/- by Demand Draft addressed to Principal, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur College of Nursing, payable at New Delhi. Students should strictly apply on the application forms issued by the college for the session 2017-18. APPLICATION FORMS OF PREVIOUS YEARS WILL NOT BE ENTERTAINED. Prospectus with application form will be available from 22nd February 2017 to 23rd March, 2017. Last date for submission of application is 23rd March, 2017 by 4.00 P.M. Application form can also be downloaded from college website www.rakcon.com from 22/02/2017 to 23/03/2017 and should be submitted in the college till 23/03/2017 by 4.00 P.M on payment of Rs. 550/- by Demand Draft in favour of Principal Rajkumari Amrit Kaur College of Nursing. In case of non-payment of demand draft along with the downloaded application form the application form will be summarily rejected and no request will be entertained in this regard. The Candidate must have passed the B.Sc. (Hons.) Nursing Examination (12+4) years of the University of Delhi or a Degree recognized as equivalent thereto with at least 55% marks in the aggregate and completed one year experience in Nursing in a Hospital/Specialty Institute/Educational Institution or Public Health/Agency. The experience will be calculated up to the 23rd March, 2017. Candidate from 11+4 years Nursing Degree Programme will require a minimum of Two years' experience in Nursing. The basis of selection for admission is given in the Prospectus. Selection test will be held on 30th April, 2017 (Sunday).

Davp: 17149/11/0003/1617

AgArtAlA, JAnuAry 21 (iAnS): The Tripura government on Saturday began confiscation of movable and immovable properties of Rose Valley chit fund organisation, an official said. "The Principal Secretary (Finance) M. Nagaraju on Friday issued a notification to attach all the movable and immovable assets of Rose Valley in more than 20 places across the states," a Finance Department official said. He said the notification asked all district and subdivisional magistrates of eight districts to take necessary action to confiscate the properties. "The DMs and SDMs on Saturday started confiscation of the Rose Valley assets as per provisions of 'Protection of depositors rights' act passed in the state assembly earlier," the official said. The Rose Valley chit

AgArtAlA, JAnuAry 21 (iAnS): Tripura State Cooperative Bank (TSCB), which is celebrating its 60th foundation day on Saturday, lost business due to demonitisation of high value currency notes by the central government, officials said here on the day. "Our credit-deposit-ratio (CDR) would have been 57 per cent this year, but because of demonitisation of high value currency notes by the central government the CDR sttuck at 52 per cent," TSCB Managing Director Swapan Kumar Saha told reporters. He said: "We have received demonitised Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 old notes worth of around Rs 135 crore. With the help of the

imphAl, JAnuAry 21 (pti): Two women arms smugglers and an illegal manufacturer of weapons were arrested and a six 9-mm pistols, five magazines and a live round seized by a combined team of Assam Rifles and Manipur police. The smugglers Esther Haokip (22) and Chongboi Haokip (43) were held from their residences at Molnom in Churachandpur district on Thursday. In another incident on the same day, security forces destroyed two small huts in Zipitang Reserved Forest locality and recovered one 9 mm pistol and other materials allegedly used in arms manufacturing. An illegal manufacturer of arms was also arrested, police said today. Meanwhile, a team of Manipur police commandos, in a separate operation led by Additional SP (Ops) Ibomcha, arrested a militant of the proscribed outfit United National Liberation Front (UNLF) from Keisampat area in Imphal West district yesterday, a police official said. The militant entered the Northeastern state from neighbouring Myanmar, he said. The police team also learnt that the UNLF cadre had joined the proscribed outfit KYKL in 2002 before crossing over to UNLF the following year.

Names of the selected candidates will be put on the College Notice Board and web site www.rakcon.com on the dates as declared in the Prospectus. No Correspondence /Telephonic information in this connection will be entertained.

NOTE: THE TIMINGS FOR SUPPLY/PROCUREMENT OF FORMS WILL BE FROM 2.00 P.M. TO 5.00 P.M. ON ALL WORKING DAYS i.e. MONDAY TO FRIDAY.

sunDAY 22•01•2017

NAGALAND

CRPF is hiring: Apply for 2945 Constable posts

entral Reserve Police Force has released a notification inviting interested, eligible candidates to apply for the posts of CRPF. The candidates may apply to the posts in a prescribed format on or before March 1. Vacancy details: Total posts: 2945 Name of the post: Constables Eligibility criteria: Educational qualifications: The candidates should possess 10th/ 12th/ ITI from a recognised board or university.

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Nagaland AHODs & HODs 2017 first meeting held Kohima, January 21 (DiPr): The first monthly AHODs & HODs meeting for the year 2017 was held on January 20 at the Secretariat Conference Hall, Kohima. Nagaland Chief Secretary, Pankaj Kumar IAS chaired the meeting. Home Commissioner, Abhijit Sinha IAS have read out the agenda to be discussed and the meeting reviewed and deliberated on the last meeting minutes. Mobile ICTC proposal forwarded Committee Convenor for examination of the proposal presented by LFA & PD, NSACS, & Principal Secretary, Menukhol John said that the proposal submitted was to cover a gap of their activity which appears quite sound. There used to be a mobile ICTC-Integrated Counseling and Testing Centre funded by NACO for this area of the mobility support. The Principal Secretary and the Convenor said the proposal given by the NSACS was a modest realistic one. Running from 2017-2020 the committee has given a very thorough proposal and their estimated projection was about 1.2 crores. Giving thorough information of the activity of ICTC propos-

al, Menukhol also said that it was to strengthen the mobility activities of getting volunteers to get tested for HIV & AIDS in the villages. In this regard, the Chief Secretary recommended to put the proposal forward and proposed to sanction Rs. 1.5 lakh if the house agrees for HIV and AIDS control in the state. Water tax payment through bank from March 31 The meeting has been informed that on-line payment facility has been made available to Dimapur, Chumukedima and Kohima. It would also be made available to all other districts as well. The PHE Department also has introduced computerized waster billing system which was launched in Kohima in October 2016 as informed by the Secretary PHE and that water tax payment through bank will be operational from March 31, 2017. He said that on-line payment will also be taken up with the help of IT Department which is likely to start from Kohima, Dimapur, Mokokchung and Zunheboto which would be replicated in the other districts as well. The computerized billing and on-line payment sys-

tems would be operational in all four give clear cut figures and complete the Data Centre, commissioning pilot project of Information Infrastructure, districts in 2017 and 2018 as informed. works at the earliest time. State e-Governance Society ISO, NaNagaland records highest GST in NE Induction and Training Policy tional Infrastructure Project, 7 States Induction and Training Policy for Ministry website, in which Nagaland Commissioner of Taxes gave a power point presentation where he the engineering services and others is one among the States, Nagaland said that issuing of certificate would were also discussed. On Direct Benefit State Itanagar Society Area Network, be made online. Confirmation of reg- Transfer the Commissioner & Secre- IT&C Digital village, Common Seristration can be read through SMS and tary of RD said that the State Finance vice Centre (CSC) are some imporPAN was made mandatory. The Com- Department do not carry out DBT or tant achievements for the Departmissioner also said that Nagaland is Adhaar based payment. The Depart- ment, he stated. the first state in the North East who ment is seeding on the Adhaar numThe Commissioner & Secretary gets entry for dealers in Goods and ber and MIS. He also informed that out also informed that the State has got Services Tax (GST) where security of 5 lakh 70,446 active workers MGNcalculation of business process from has been monitoring. Nagaland is the ERGS the Debarment have already UK and have already empanelled 18 first state for e-registration, with PAN, seeded 147519. He has shared about firms. He also stated that policy guidee-return etc and the facility provided other activities the Department is taklines already for IT items and products is user friendly and is dependable as ing up. The Chief Secretary directed to informed. GST in Nagaland has 50% clear up the issues within this finan- can be disposed off though auction. enrollment status of NE states which cial year as the Ministry also allowed Enterprise architecture is also another achievement; he said and added is the highest among the North East this as dateline. that biometric attendance system in states. In this regard, the Chief Secrethe Civil Secretariat, ATI, Census and Nagaland IT&C tary said, citizens have to be aware of 19 Directorates have been also introhighlight achievements the commercial tax and GST. Information Technology & Com- duced with the system. New Pension Scheme K.D. Vizo said that Nagaland is munication presented the achieveOn New Pension Scheme the ments of their Department since its one of the best performing States in Chief Secretary said that the Depart- introduction to the State. Commis- the Northeast in the field of informaments have to be serious with the issue sioner & Secretary, K.D. Vizo. Vizo tion technology and it has been recand do the necessities at the earliest. said that Nagaland was the first state ognized for rigorous screening with He directed the Departments, which to take over the state portal which has three other States including Rajasthave not yet credited the account, to made a landmark for the state. State han, Telangana and Orissa.

Assam Rifles conducts free medical camp at Jotsoma

Age limit: CT/ DVR: The upper age limit of the candidates must not exceed 27 years. For other posts, the upper age limit of the candidates must not exceed 23 years. Pay scale: The candidates will be in the pay band between Rs 5,200 to Rs 20,200 with an additional grade pay of Rs 2000 per month. Selection process: The candidates will be selected on the basis of written examinations, physical endurance test, residents avail service during the free medical camp held medical test.

The 28 Assam Rifles under the aegis of Inspector General Assam Rifles (North) donated three computers to Government High school, Aitepyong under wokha district on January 18. on behalf of the school, the computers were collected by the Principal and teaching staff, an Ar press release informed.

on January 16 at Jotsoma village in Kohima district.

How to apply: Application fee: General/ OBC category: Rs 100 However, the candidates belonging to SC/ ST category are exempted from paying application fee. Steps to apply: The candidates need to fill the online application through the official website, www.crpf.nic.in Important date: The candidates may submit the online application within March 1.

Jotsoma, January 21 (mExn): The 3 (NH) Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ Inspector General Assam Rifles (North) conducted a free medical camp on January 16 at Jotsoma village in Kohima district. According to a press release from the AR, The aim of the medical camp was to provide free medical treatment to the people of the area, where requisite medical facilities are not available. A specially constituted

medical team under Capt G Sainath Ram, RMO, 3 Assam Rifles conducted the camp during which 95 patients comprising 48 men, 28 women and 19 children were given necessary treatment and free medicines. Apart from providing medical assistance, basic knowledge on health education including precautions, hygiene and sanitation from common diseases was also imparted, rev. Z. thsankiu, executive secretary, YBBA during the Monolith dedication of Yimchunthe release informed. gru Baptist Church dimapur silver Jubilee on January 21.

leisure

CROSSWORD # 3835

DiMaPUR 7. Nameless ACROSS 8. Retired 1. Knife 9. Eastern Standard Time 5. French for “Storehouse” 10. Hard glossy coating 10. Cocoyam 11. Excited 14. Sea eagle 12. “Darn!” 15. Monetary penalties 13. Poems 16. Egghead 18. Formula 1 driver 17. Streamside 22. L L L L 19. Wings 24. Quaint outburst 20. A law enforcement agency 26. Membership fees 21. Long times 28. Aligned 22. Gives forth 29. A man’s skirt 23. Chooses 30. Large N. American deer 25. Lazybones (plural) 27. G 31. Roman moon goddess 28. Spirit-like 32. Applications 31. Pertaining to the moon 33. Magazine vendor 34. Bordeaux and Dubonnet 34. Depot 35. Petroleum 37. Equips 36. Utilized 38. Clairvoyant 37. Evanesces 40. Russian emperor 38. Pout 41. Estimate 39. Not used 43. Pictures 40. Exhausted 44. Hit the sack 41. Exploits 46. Yearns 42. Helped 47. Leave out 44. Regret 48. Tendon 45. Demolish 49. Indications 46. Noblewoman 50. Contributes 50. Fragrant oil 51. Threesome 52. Death notices 53. French cheese 54. 52 in Roman numerals 56. Mist 55. Haul 57. Cool, once 56. Supplying 58. Eat Answer to Crossword 3834 59. Willow 60. Biblical garden 61. Mats of grass 62. Ganders 63. Church benches DOWN 1. Feudal workers 2. Clan 3. Blacksmith’s block 4. Spelling contest 5. Decadent 6. Novices

ACtIVAte Keen AddItIon LAYoFF ALArM LoAMMAGI BAss MesH BLAMe MoIst BLAst oCCUr Borrow otHer BrICKCHorUs PAUses CLoCK PHone CoMPAnY PUPPY ControL rAPesIGnAL dAnGer sLeeP deAL soon deLAY stAnd dIFFICULt tHInGs drIFterrors tHInK tonIGHt GUArds woMAn GUIde

SUDOKU

std code: 03862

tobacco cessation program was launched in CIHsr on January 20. the function was attended by doctors, nurses and staff of the Hospital. dr Atsung Aier chaired the function and the meeting was addressed by Dr Vikato Kinimi Chief Medical Officer, Dr Sedievi director and dr Viu Meru deputy director of CHsr. Dr C Tetseo District Program Officer NTCP highlighted the purpose of the centre. He stated that people with these problems will rather come to private and corporate hospitals and CHIsr is in unique position to offer cessation services for the benefit of the people. the dtCC provided smokelyser and some medicines for the centre.

TaHaMZaM Police station Fire Brigade

222246 222491

Civil Hospital emergency-

232224

MH Hospital

227930 231081

Fire Brigade

2222952

Faith Hospital

228846

naga Hospital

2222916

shamrock Hospital

228254

oking Hospital

2243339

231864 224117 227337

Bethel nursing Home

2224202

northeast shuttles

08974997923

229529 229474

Zion Hospital

KOHiMa

std code: 0370

228400

KoHIMA Ps/oCs Contact numbers

Police Traffic Control

232106

north Ps

east Police station

227607

west Police station

232181

south Ps

CIHsr (referral Hospital)

242555 242533

Zubza Ps

dimapur Hospital

224041 248011

Police Control room

Apollo Hospital Info Centre 230695/ 9402435652 railway

131/228404

Airport Indian Airlines

229366 242441 225212

Chumukedima Fire Brigade 282777 nikos Hospital and research Centre

232032, 231031

nagaland Multispecialty Health & research Centre

248302, 09856006026

eden Medical Centre

248288

8575045501

Officer-in-Charge 8575045510 8575045502

Officer-in-Charge 8575045520 8575045508

Officer-in-Charge 8575045518 Chiephobozou Ps 8575045506 Officer-in-Charge 8575045516 tseminyu Ps

8575045507

Officer-in-Charge 8575045517 Khuzama Ps

8575045505

Officer-in-Charge 8575045515 Kezocha Ps

8575045549

Officer-in-Charge 8575045538 women Cell

8575045509

Officer-in-Charge 8575045519 Control room

Simple Rules - Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.

Game Number # 3830

std code: 03871

(formerly senapati)

Answer Number # 3829

8575045500 (Emergency No. – 100)

FiRE STaTiONS

KoHIMA soUtH: 0370-2222952/ 101 (O) 9402003086 (OC) KoHIMA nortH: 7085924114 (O) dIMAPUr: 03862-232201/ 101 (O) 9856156876 (OC) CHUMUKedIMA: 7085982102 (O) 8732810051 (OC) woKHA: 03860-242215/101 (O) 8974322879 (OC) MoKoKCHUnG: 0369-2226225/ 101 (O) 8415830232 (OC) PHeK: 8414853765 (O) 8413822476(OC) ZUnHeBoto: 03867-280304/ 101 (O) 9436422730 (OC) tUensAnG: 8414853766 (O) 9856163601 (OC) Mon: 03869-251222/ 101 (O) 9862130954 (OC) Kiphire: 8414853767 (O) 9436261577 (OC) Peren: 7085189932 (O) 9856311205 (OC) LonGLenG: 7085924113 (O) 9862414264 (OC) we4 woMen HeLPLIne 08822911011 WOMEN HeLPLIne 181 CHiLD weLFAre CoMMIttee Toll free No. 1098 childline

MOKOKCHUNG

std code: 0369

Police station 1 Police station 2 Police station Kobulong Police station tuli Police station Changtongya Police station Mangkolemba Civil Hospital

9485232688 9485232689 9485232690 9485232693 9485232694 9485232695 2226216

woodland nursing Home

2226263

Hotel Metsüpen (tourist Lodge) 2226373/ 2229343

CURRENCY NOTES BUY (rs) seLL (rs)

Us dollars sterling Pound Hong Kong dollar Australian dollar singapore dollar Canadian dollar Japanese Yen euro thai Baht Korean won UAe dirham (Aed) Chinese Yuan

66.49 81.46 8.29 49.92 46.39 49.62 57.34 70.62 1.81 0.0546 17.52 9.38

69.87 85.86 9.29 52.64 48.94 52.33 60.88 74.43 2.03 0.0613 19.62 10.51

Sunday 22•01•2017

NAGALAND

‘All individual entitled to certain basic rights’ NPF Legal Cell explains amended Nagaland Municipal Act Dimapur, January 21 (mExn): The International Human Rights Association (IHRA) Nagaland has expressed concern on the ongoing “tumult” regarding the urban local bodies' election and said it was keeping a close watch of the entire situation. There is a near- universal consensus that all individuals are entitled to certain basic rights under any circumstances which include certain civil liberties and political rights, the most fundamental of which is the right to life and physical safety, the Association through its State PRO (Nagaland) pointed out on Saturday. It articulated that human rights are the articulation of the need for

justice, tolerance, mutual respect and human dignity in all of our activities. While maintaining that “speaking of rights allows us to express the idea that all individuals are part of the scope of morality and justice,” the Association condemned the act of its violation, recently at Phek district. “To protect human rights is to ensure that people receive some degree of decent, humane treatment. To violate the most basic human rights, on the other hand, is to deny individuals their fundamental moral entitlements. It is, in a sense, to treat them as if they are less than human and undeserving of respect and dignity,” it said.

International humanitarian law has been enacted to preserve humanity in all circumstances, even during conflicts and such law creates areas of peace in the midst of conflict, imposes the principle of a common humanity, and calls for dialogue. It rules out unlimited force and seeks to limit the use of violence in the hope of maintaining the necessary conditions for a return to peace, the Association said. Therefore, in order to truly address human rights violations, we must strive to understand the underlying causes of these breaches, it went on to state. While these causes have to do with underdevelopment, economic

pressures, various social problems, and international conditions, the Association felt that the roots of repression, discrimination, and other denials of human rights stem from deeper and more complex political, social, and economic problems. The Association stated that it is only by understanding and ameliorating these root causes and strengthening our acts that the government and our civil society together can truly protect human rights. In this connection, the IHRA Nagaland has appealed to each and everyone concerned to act rational and prevent any violation of Human Rights during this unrest.

ULB elections: Senior officers to be deployed as Observers

Kohima, January 21 (Dirp): The Nagaland State Election Commission has deputed Senior Officers of the Government of Nagaland to be deployed as Observers during the ensuing elections to municipal and town council in the State. There will be an orientation program for the Observers, including the Reserve Observers on January 24 at 11:00 am in the conference hall of the office of the Commissioner, Nagaland. There will be no provision for exemption from election duty unless in extraordinary circumstances on the condition that a replacement Observer is also proposed. Following are the Senior Officers appointed against the respective municipal council and town council as ‘Election Observer’.

Name K. I. Yanger, IAS Maongwati Aier, IAS Alan Gonmei, IAS Chubasangla Anar, IAS Kelei Zeliang, IAS Senti Ao, IAS Ahola Those, IAS Asenla Keitzar, IAS Anenla T Sato, NGS Motsuthung Lotha, NCS T. Mhabemo Yanthan, NCS Neposo Theluo, NCS S.N. Tsanglao, NCS Athel O Lotha, NCS Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe, NCS A. Robin Lotha, NCS Peter Lichamo, NCS Mohammed Ali Shihab, IAS Gregory Thejawelie, NCS RESERVED LIST C. Merio Tsanglao, IAS Dellirose M. Sakhrie, IAS Anenla S Longchari, IAS

Designation Secretary Secretary Secretary Secretary

Municipal/Town Council Shamator Town Council Kiphire Town Council Aboi Town Council Dimapur Municipal Council

Secretary Secretary Secretary Secretary Secretary Secretary

Department Power H&FW Horticulture Land Revenue and Art & Culture Rural Development DUDA Urban Development Higher & Technical Edn. Attached to P & AR PD, SIPMIU

Secretary

Fisheries

Zunheboto Town Council

Secretary Addl. Secretary Addl. Secretary Addl. Secretary

School Education Cooperation RD and MD, NRLM Social Welfare

Noklak Town Council Tizit Town Council Tseminyu Town Council Bhandari Town Council

Longleng Town Council Wokha Town Council Peren Town Council Ldngkhim Town Council East Dimapur Town Council Pungro Town Council

Addl. Secretary Land Revenue Addl. Secretary Municipal Affairs Joint Secretary Power

Tening Town Council Tobu Town Council Jalukie Town Council

Joint Secretary SE & MD, SSA

Naginimora Town Council

Secretary Secretary

Sericulture Social Welfare

Secretary

PHED

MEx FILE One runover, survives with severed leg Morung Express News Dimapur | January 21

In a tragic accident today at the Dimapur railway station, one man sustained a severed leg after reportedly falling onto the tracks. As per eyewitness accounts, the man reportedly slipped and fell onto the tracks while boarding a train. In his late 50s, the man was said to be proceeding to Mariani when the accident occurred at around 11-11:30 am.

CPO asks to show solidarity to Jan 23 peace rally Dimapur, January 21 (mExn): The Chakhroma Public Organisation (CPO) has requested the frontal organisations and village units under its jurisdiction to “show solidarity and desire to safeguard the traditional practices of the Nagas by joining hands” during the peace rally on January 23, 11:00 am at State Stadium, Dimapur. The rally has been called by CPO in collaboration with the other tribes and Naga Council Dimapur in protest against the conduct of urban local bodies’ election. All the members have been requested to come in any of the traditional dresses for identification.

AR apprehend one Dimapur, January 21 (mExn): Troops of 32 Assam Rifles apprehended a person with one .22 mm pistol and five live rounds of .22 mm at Railway Colony, Dimapur on January 19, informed a press release from Assam Rifles. The apprehended individual was identified as ZM Victor BK (49). The individual along with the recovered items was handed over to East Police Station, Dimapur for further investigation.

Tetso College Scholastic Day on January 23 Dimapur, January 21 (mExn): All parents and alumni of Tetso College have been invited to attend Scholastic Day 2017 at Tetso Arena: Amphitheatre on January 23. PB Acharya, Governor of Nagaland will grace the event as chief guest. A press release from Tetso College informed that Scholastic Day is an annually celebrated event in which students, teachers and staff are recognized for their achievements through the course of the year, exemplifying the college motto, “Strive for Excellence”. The College also celebrates Totsiens on this day, honouring the final year students who will be graduating this semester. Totsiens is a South African term, which means Until We Meet Again. For more details visit on Facebook at Tetso College or email at admin@tetsocollege.org

SCED annual session Dimapur, January 21 (mExn): The Sumi Council East Dimapur (SCED) will have its annual session on January 23, 9:00 am with the theme ‘Sumi ye Sumi shiaye kimiye mayesa’ at Purana Bazar Village Council Hall. Therefore, all the Sumi communities of Purana Bazar, Naharbari, Darogapathar and Darojan have been requested to attend the annual session positively. Minister for PHED, Tokheho Yepthomi will be the main speaker and Vihoto Achumi, General Manager, Industry will exhort the gathering.

NPF party issues calrification to NPCC Kohima, January 21 (mExn): NPF today responded to the statement of Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) with regard to the urban local bodies’ elections. A press release from NPF Media & Press Bureau maintained that the Government took the decision to hold the said elections after having made every possible efforts to erase any doubt, whatsoever, confronting the citizens, making it amply clear that the decision to hold the ULB elections is all for the betterment of the people and the state. “Surprisingly, NPCC appears to have been left with no agenda of value to present to the people of Nagaland, other than to beat around in frustration, targeting the NPF led DAN Government, accusing the NPF and BJP in particular for their effort to participate or contest the ULB elections is amusing,” it stated. The party further said that the statements of

NPCC leaders, KL Chishi, former Chief Minister and Convener, Selection Committee for ULB election Dimapur Unit (last Tuesday) and the President NPCC, K Therie’s statement published on January 21 in the local media are conflicting and contradictory to each other. “While Chishi is quoted to have said that all four Congress candidates who filed nominations for Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) withdrew their candidatures, to respect the will of the people, K Therie, NPCC President has on January 20, appealed to all urban voters to vote for the ‘few brave-heart Congress nominees’ and Independent candidates left in the ULB elections,” it noted “Once again, having failed to garner any tangible support of the electorate to contest the ULB elections, the NPCC has, in its attempt to mislead the public for political gain has made a laughing stock of themselves in the eyes of the people,” NPF stated.

CAPF demands to revive defunct government offices Gives one month ultimatum ChEssorE, January 21 (mExn): The Chessore Area Public Forum (CAPF) has expressed strong resentment over the “lackadaisical manner of the head of departments, who despite several representations from various organizations over the defunct offices at Chessore Town has paid no heed.” A press release from Akhum, President and Keyoungkhum K, General Secretary of CAPF expressed sadness that the only functioning office in the town is SDO civil administration. The sub-division offices, i.e., Public Work Department (R&B), offices of Child Development Project Officer, Veterinary and Block Development Officer are defunct, it stated. The Forum also alleged

that the Primary Health Care is functioning without any doctors witnessing high death rate during delivery due to the absence of responsible doctor to intervene. “What is the sole aim or the objectives of those established department officers at Chessore. Is it for the public welfare or self interest and is there any obligation imposed on them by the government,” it questioned. The Forum once again reminded the sub-divisional officers of the aforesaid departments to immediately function the office within the stipulated time of one month. Failing to comply with the ultimatum, the Forum along with the frontal organizations will take a crucial step, it warned.

Kohima, January 21 (mExn): The Legal Cell of Naga People’s Front (NPF) today said that the power of the municipalities to levy tax on land and buildings have been omitted by the 3rd Amendment and therefore the power of the municipalities have been curbed by the State government to a large extent. Pointing out that there are rumours being spread that anything and everything will be taxed once municipal and town council election is allowed to be held, it stated, “This is totally misleading and contradictory to what is actually happening on the

ground.” It further stated that the role of ULBs will be crucial and mandatory with the Smart City in the offing. A statement from Achumbemo Kikon, Convenor, Legal Cell, NPF said that the party had constituted a committee to study into the whole aspect of the Nagaland Municipal Act 2001 and suggested to the government for amendment of some of the provisions of the Act. The government also received some suggestions from the Naga civil societies for amendment of some of the provisions of the Act. In response to the various sugges-

Earlier Provision /before amendment (1). Section 23A provides as follows: Seats in every Municipality shall be reserved for the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and women, including women from the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes, in accordance with the provisions contained in clauses (1) to (3) of Article 243-T of the constitution. (2). Section 23B provides as follows: The offices of the Chairpersons shall be reserved for the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and women, as nearly as may be, in proportion to the number of seats reserved for them in the Municipalities and the allotment of such offices shall be made by rotation. (3). Section 120 Entry (a) of Sub-section (1) of section 120 provides as follows: Subject to the provisions of this Act and the rules made thereunder, with the previous sanction of the government, a municipality may, in order to raise revenue for its duties and performing its functions under this act, levy within its limits of municipality the following taxes, fees and tolls or any of them(a) A tax on lands and buildings, (4). Sub-section (3) of Section 120 provides as follows: Save as otherwise provided in this Part, the Taxes specified in sub-section (1) and the taxes which may be levied under sub-section (2), shall be levied at such rates as may, from time to time, be specified by the Government, by notification, and shall be assessed and collected in accordance with the provisions of this Act and the rules and regulations made thereunder. (5). Sub-sections (4) of section 120 provides as follows: The Government may, by general or special order, direct a Municipality to levy any tax referred in to sub-section (1) if not already levied, at such rate and within such period, as may be specified in the order and the Municipality shall thereupon act accordingly. (6). Sub-section (5) of section 120 provides as follows: If the Municipality fails to carry out any order referred to in sub-section (4), the Government may, by an order published in the Official Gazette, levy the Tax at such rate as may be specified in the order, and the order so passed, shall operate as if the tax has been levied by Municipality under sub-section (1) or sub-section (2), as the case may be. (7). Sub-section (7) of section 121 provides as follows: The Government may, on receiving the proposals under sub-section (6), sanction or refuse to sanction the same or return them to the Municipality for further consideration. (8). Sub-section 8 of section 121 provides as follows: When a proposal has been sanctioned under sub-section (7), the Government shall notify the imposition of tax in accordance with such proposal and shall in the notification specify a date not being less than thirty days from the date of the notification on which the tax shall come into force. (9). Sub-section (2) of section 123 provides as follows: The rate of tax on lands and buildings shall be determined by Government, by notification, and for different municipalities different rates may be determined for different categories of lands or buildings: Provided that the rate of tax shall not exceed fifteen percent of the annual value of such lands or buildings.

tions put forward by the Naga civil societies (Tribal Hohos), the Nagaland Legislative Assembly amended the Nagaland Municipal Act 2001, which is now called the Nagaland Municipal (Third Amendment) Act 2016, the statement said. It also provided the following comparative chart of the Principal Act and the amended portion of the Nagaland Municipal Act 2001 passed by the Nagaland Legislative Assembly on November 24, 2016 and assented by the Governor on November 28, 2016:

Present Provision/after amendment Amendment of Sections 23A and 23B In sections 23A and 23B of the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001 (as inserted by the Nagaland Municipal First Amendment Act, 2006), the words “Scheduled Castes” and the connected phrases and provisions relating to reservation for Scheduled Castes, shall be omitted. Omission of Section 120 (1) (a) (i) Entry (a) in sub-section (1) of section 120 of the Nagaland Municipal Act shall be omitted. (ii) All references and operative provisions relating to “tax on lands and buildings”, wherever these occur in the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001 shall be deemed to have been omitted Amendment of Section 120 (3) In sub-section (3) of section 120 of the Nagaland Municipal Act 2001, the words “be specified by the Government, by notification”, shall be substituted by the words “be proposed by the Municipality and approved by the Government which is to be conveyed by notification”. Omission of sub-section (4) and (5) of section 120 Sub-sections (4) and (5) of section 120 of the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001 shall be omitted.

Amendment of sub-sections (7) and (8) of section 121 In sub-section (7) and (8) of section 121 of the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001, the words “sanction” and “sanctioned” shall be substituted by the words “approve” and “approved” respectively.

Amendment of sub-section (2) of section 123 In sub-section (2) of section 123 of the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001, the word “determined” shall be substituted by the word “approved”. Explanation: the power of Municipalities to impose/ levy tax on land and buildings have been usurp by the State Government hence, unless the State Government through Notification delegates the power to Municipalities, the Municipalities shall not have power to impose/levy tax on lands and buildings whatsoever. In other words, the power of Municipalities to impose/levy tax on land and buildings has been strip of by the 3rd amendment of the Nagaland Municipal Act 2001. (10).Section 143 provides as follows: Incidence of tax on lands and buildings:- Omission of section 143, 144 and 145 Sections 143, 144 and 145 of the Nagaland Municipal (1). The tax on lands and buildings shall be primarily liveableAct, 2001 shall be omitted. (a). If the land or building is let, upon the lessor; (b). If the land or building is sublet, upon the superior lessor, who has sublet such a land or building, as the case may be; and (c). If the land or building is unlet, upon the person in whom the right to let such land or building vests. (2). If any land has been let for a term exceeding one year to a tenant and such tenant has built upon the land, the tax on lands and buildings assessed in respect of the land and the building erected thereon, shall primarily be leviable upon the said tenant, whether the land and building are in the occupation of such tenant or a sub-tenant of such tenant. Explanation- The term “Tenant” includes any person deriving title to the land or the building erected upon such land from the tenant whether by operation of law or by transfer inter vivos. (3). The tax on any land or building, which is the property of the Municipality and the possession of which has been delivered under any agreement or licensing arrangement, shall be leviable upon the transferee or the licensee, as the case may be. (4). The liability of the several owners of any land or building constituting a single unit of assessment, which is or purports to be severally owned in parts or flats or rooms for payment of the tax or any instalment thereof, payable during the period of such ownership, shall be joint and several: Provided that the Chief Officer of the Municipality may apportion the amount of the tax on such land or building among the co-owners. 11. Section 144 provides as follows: Recovery of taxes on lands and buildings Omitted from occupiers:(1) On the failure to recover any sum on account of the taxes on any land or building from the person primarily liable therefore under section 143, the Chief Officer of a Municipality shall, notwithstanding anything contained or in any other law for the time being in force, recover, from every occupier of such land or building, by attachment of the rent payable by such occupier, a portion of the total sum due, which bears, as nearly as may be, the same proportion to that sum, as the rent annually payable by such occupier bears to the total amount of rent annually payable in respect of the whole of such land or building. (2).An occupier, from whom any sum is recovered under sub-section (1), shall be entitled to be reimbursed by the person primarily liable for the payment of such sum, and may, in addition to having recourse to other remedies that may be open to him deduct the amount, so recovered from the amount of any rent becoming due, from time to time, from him to such person. (12). Section 145 provides as follows: Taxes on lands and buildings to be a Omitted first charge on premises. The taxes due under this Act in respect of any land or building shall, subject to the provisions of section 181, be a first charge:(a). In the case of any land or building held immediately from the Government, upon the interest in such land or building of the person liable for such taxes and upon the goods and other movable properties, if any, found within or upon such land of building and belonging to such person; and (b) In the case of any other land or building, upon such land or building and upon the goods and other movable properties, if any, found within or upon such land or building and belonging the person liable for such taxes. Omission of section 182 (d) (13). Entry (d) of section 182 provides as follows: (i) Entry (d) in section 182 of the Nagaland Municipal (d) by the attachment and sale of a defaulter’s immovable property; Act, 2001 shall be omitted. (ii) All references and operative provisions relating to “attachment and sale of a defaulter’s immovable property”, wherever these occur in the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001, shall be deemed to have been omitted.

The NPF Legal Cell further asserted that the present government has in no way violated any of the provisions enshrined in the Article 371 (A) of the Indian Constitution for creating space for women to participate in the ULBs. Comparative analyses of the powers and functions of the municipal and town coun-

cil and the provisions of Article 371(A) it presented below, according to the statement, will further help understand better why constitution of ULBs with reservation of seat for women would strengthen Article 371(A) rather than encroaching on the provisions of Art. 371 (A).

Article 371 (A) reads as follows Section 58: Powers & Functions of the Municipal/Town Council Notwithstanding anything in this Constitution – (a) no Act (a) Regulation of land-use and construction of buildings of Parliament in respect of(b) Planning for economic and social development (c) Sanitation conservancy and solid waste management (i)Religious or social practices of the Nagas, (d) Urban forestry, protection of the environment and promotion of ecological aspects (ii) Naga customary law and procedure, (e) Safeguarding the interest of weaker sections of society including the handicapped and mentally retarded (iii) administration of civil and criminal justice involving de- (f) Slum improvement and up gradation cisions according to Naga customary law, (g) Provision of Urban amenities and facilities such as parks, gardens, playground (iv) ownership and transfer of land and its resources, (h) Promotion of cultural, educational and aesthetic aspects (i) Burials and burials grounds, cremations, cremation grounds and electric shall apply to the State of Nagaland unless the Legislative crematoriums. Assembly of Nagaland by a resolution so decides; (j) Cattle ponds, prevention of cruelty to animals (k) Vital statistics including registration of births and deaths. (l) Public amenities including street lighting, parking lots, but shops and public conveniences (m) Regulation of slaughter houses and tanneries.

The Chalkboard

SunDAY 22•01•2017

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

_____________________________ Because Children Matters

Spot the differenceS

maze

Singular and Plural Nouns

ou must now be familiar with nouns as well as common nouns and proper nouns. Common nouns can be singular or plural. When a noun refers to just one thing, it is called singular. If it refers to more than one thing, it is said to be plural.

The Woodman and the Serpent Fable

ne wintry day a Woodman was tramping home from his work when he saw something black lying on the snow. When he came closer he saw it was a Serpent to all appearance dead. But he took it up and put it in his bosom to warm while he hurried home. As soon as he got indoors he put the Serpent down on the hearth before the fire. The children watched it and saw it slowly come to life again. Then one of them stooped down to stroke it, but the Serpent raised its head and put out its fangs and was about to sting the

child to death. So the Woodman seized his axe, and with one stroke cut the Serpent in two. “Ah,” said he, “No gratitude from the wicked.”

Moral:

“No gratitude from the wicked.”

There are some rules to remember when you form plurals. 1. Many nouns form their plural by adding –s. For example, the plural of ball is balls. 2. If a noun ends in ch, sh, s or x, add –es to form the plural. For example, church becomes churches, dish becomes dishes, and box becomes boxes. However, there are exceptions to this rule. The plural of ox is oxen. 3. Nouns ending in –y and has a vowel before the -y, form their plural by simply adding –s. For example, key becomes keys. 4. Nouns ending in –y and has a consonant before the –y, form their plurals changing the –y to i and adding –es. For example, lily becomes lilies. 5. Some nouns that end in –f form their plurals by changing the f to v and adding –es. For example, knife

becomes knives, and leaf becomes leaves. There are exceptions to this rule. For example, roof becomes roofs, and chief becomes chiefs. 6. Nouns that end in –o form their plural by either adding –s or adding –es. The plural of piano is pianos, but the plural of cargo is cargoes. 7. The plural of some compound words are formed by adding –s to the first word. For example, the plural of motherin-law is mothers-inlaw. 8. Some words do not change in their plural form. For example, the plural of deer is deer itself. Also, the plural of sheep is sheep. 9. There are some nouns that end in –s and so look as though they are plural. However, they are really singular. For example, branches of knowledge like mathematics, physics, ethics, politics, or social studies are singular. Some diseases also, though ending is –s, are treated as singular. For example, measles, mumps, and rickets. 10. There are a few nouns that are singular in nature but are made

of paired items, and are treated as plural. Examples are pants, scissors, trousers, glasses, tweezers, tongs, and pliers. Many of these words are used with the expression a pair of. For example, a pair of pants, and a pair of scissors. 11. If a noun expresses an amount or measurement, it is normally singular. However, if the unit of measurement refers to more than one individual item, then it is treated as plural. 12. Examples: Three spoons of sugar is too much. (singular) Ten dollars is not a small amount of money. (singular) Three-fourths of the people in this country are obese. (plural) There are a few nouns that are plurals and are mostly derived from Latin. Examples are phenomena, memoranda, criteria and media. Their singular forms are phenomenon, memorandum, criterion, and medium.

Facts Corner

• The electric eel is known to product electrical shocks of up to 650 volts. • The mortality rate for the Ebola Virus is four out five humans. • Giraffes often sleep for only twenty minutes in a twenty-four hour period. • Giraffes, however may sleep up to two hours in short bursts, and sleep standing up. • The call of the whale is louder than the Concorde and can be heard over 500 miles. • The day Bell was cremated; the US phone network was shut down for a minute in tribute. • Wireless telephone network took a leap in 1962 after the launch of Telstar, the first satellite capable of exclusively relaying satellite TV and telephone signals. • The total length of the blood vessels in the human body stretches up to 66,000 miles. • A single red blood cell takes about 60 seconds to cover this entire length of the body. • Wine was first made in Egypt around 2300 BC.

Dot to Dot

FAITH LEAF

SunDAY 22•01•2017

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

INSPIRATIONAL STORIES, MESSAGES, POEMS & SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCES

The top 50 countries where it’s hardest to be a Christian Jeremy Weber

Christianity Today

or the third year in a row, the modern persecution of Christians worldwide has hit another record high. But the primary cause, Islamic extremism, now has a rival: ethnic nationalism. Thus, Asia increasingly merits concern alongside the Middle East, according to the 2017 World Watch List (WWL) released by Open Doors. This being the list’s 25th anniversary, Open Doors also released an analysis of persecution trends over the past quarter-century. The annual list examines the pressures faced by Christians in five spheres of life (private, family, community, national, and church), plus levels of religiously motivated violence, in order to rank the top 50 countries where "Christians face the most persecution." [Full list below.] CT’s coverage of recent WWL rankings noted how North Korea was getting competition, as well as how the annual list aims for effective anger and shows persecuted believ-

ing a major driver of persecution. ers that they are not forgotten. “While this took an anti-establishIn 25 years of “chronicling and ment form in the West, in Asia it ranking” the political and societal took an anti-minorities form, furestrictions on religious freedom exeled by dramatic religious nationalperienced by Christians worldwide, ism and government insecurity. It is Open Doors researchers identified common—and easy—for tottering 2016 as the “worst year yet.” governments to gain quick support “Persecution rose globally again by scapegoating Christians.” for the third year in a row, indicating how volatile the situation has be- 5. The total number of persecution incidents in the top 50 most dancome,” stated Open Doors. “Coungerous countries increased, retries in South and Southeast Asia vealing the persecution of Chrisrapidly rose to unprecedented levels tians worldwide as a rising trend. and now rank among such violent 6. The most violent: Pakistan, which areas as the Middle East and Subrose to No. 4 on the list for a levSaharan Africa.” el of violence “exceeding even northern Nigeria.” The findings and trends noted 7. The killings of Christians in Nigeby Open Doors are stark: ria saw an increase of more than 1. Approximately 215 million Chris62 percent. tians experience high, very high, 8. The killings of Christians were or extreme persecution. more geographically dispersed 2. North Korea remains the most than in most time periods studied. dangerous place to be a Christian “Hitting closer to home, 23 Chris(for 14 straight years). tian leaders in Mexico and four in 3. Islamic extremism remains the Colombia were killed specifically global dominant driver of persefor their faith,” said Open Doors of cution, responsible for initiating the “rare” event. oppression and conflict in 35 out of the 50 countries on the 2017 list. 9. The worst increase: Mali, which 4. Ethnic nationalism is fast becommoved up the most places on the

list from No. 44 to No. 32. 10. Asia is a new center of concern, with persecution rising sharply in Bangladesh, Laos, and Bhutan, and Sri Lanka joining the list for the first time. Open Doors noted that India rose to its highest rank ever, No. 15, amid the continued rise of Hindu nationalism. “An average of 40 incidents were reported per month, including pastors beaten, churches burned and Christians harassed,” stated Open Doors. “Of the 64 million Christians in India, approximately 39 million experience direct persecution.” In Central Asia, persecution spread due to both Islamic extremism and government attempts to restrict it. “In many countries, governmental raids of suspected Christian households increased, certain Christian books have been banned,” stated Open Doors, “and the membership requirement to remain a legal church doubled, resulting in many churches to be deemed illegal overnight.”

1. North Korea 2. Somalia 3. Afghanistan 4. Pakistan 5. Sudan 6. Syria 7. Iraq 8. Iran 9. Yemen 10. Eritrea Yemen was the only new country in the top 10, replacing Libya. Over the past 25 years, only three countries have topped the list: North Korea (2002 – 2017), Saudi Arabia (1993 – 1995; 1998 – 2001), and Somalia (1996 – 1997).

lists—a sign of the concerning stability of persecution, noted Open Doors. The WWL data is compiled from reports spanning November 1, 2015, to October 31, 2016. The annual list is audited by the International Institute for Religious Freedom. Open Doors defines persecution as “any hostility experienced as a result of identification with Christ.” “Christians remain one of the most persecuted religious groups in the world,” it stated. “Christians throughout the world continue to risk imprisonment, loss of home and assets, torture, beheadings, rape and even death as a result of their faith.” “The Open Doors World Watch The top 10 nations over the List is the most accurate, thorough 25-year span are: and intensive research available 1. North Korea on the persecution of Christians,” 2. Saudi Arabia said David Curry, president and 3. Iran CEO of Open Doors USA. “It cal4. Somalia culates not only deaths reported in 5. Afghanistan the news, but also persecution at a 6. Maldives grassroots level, where family-to7. Yemen family persecution is tracked. The 8. Sudan 25-year research shows where the The top 10 nations where it is most 9. Vietnam most unstable areas for Christians dangerous and difficult to practice 10. China have historically been and, in many Six countries appear on both countries, remain.” the Christian faith are:

Countries to watch for persecution of Christians: Beyond the Top 50

he ‘Persecution Watch’ countries are part of a group of countries beyond the Open Doors World Watch List Top 50, in which serious degrees of hostility against Christians and churches are prevalent.

The Top 7 Below are the seven countries that came closest to being part of the top 50. 51. Uganda: The persecution of Christians in Uganda (85% Christian) continues to increase. The Tabliqs (a sect of puritanical Muslims whose members portray themselves as Muslim evangelists) have continued to advance the cause of Islam in areas like Mbale, Kasese, Arua/ Yumbe. Converts face pressure from family members and the local community, especially in Muslim-dominated areas. Bullying and harassment are very common in eastern parts of the country. Converts from Islam in particular find it difficult to live a normal life. For example, owning Christian materials or discussing Christianity with family members or community members often leads to expulsion, serious physical attacks or even death. In the WWL 2017 reporting period, violence against Christians rose sharply. Sixteen Christians were killed, mostly in eastern Uganda. Some were killed for being active Christians, and others for leaving Islam and becoming Christians. There were also violent incidents that targeted churches. The Nalugongo Church of Uganda was attacked twice. The desecration of Christian graves and forced marriages were also reported. This cycle of violence is going on unabated partly because the victims are often afraid to report incidents to the police. From its base in eastern DRC, ADF-NALU is another cause for concern. The group has recruited many youths from Uganda. For the moment, as the group is operating from inside DRC, Christians in Uganda are not affected. However, its main aim is to establish a Sharia state in Uganda, so it is naturally trying to set up networks and support groups in the country. 52. Nepal: Elections for a new parliament and government in November 2013 left Nepal (4% Christian) in a stalemate. In discussions about a new constitution, the restriction of religious beliefs played a prominent role. The country’s new constitution, adopted in September 2015, declares that Nepal is a secular state. In addition, it bans changing religion and proselytism. More changes to the constitution are still under discussion. Despite many hardships over past decades, the Church in Nepal has one of the fastest growing Christian populations in the world, according to figures from the World Christian Database; this has given rise to increasing oppression. Nepal is a small and poor country, bordering China and India – countries with a huge economic and political impact on Nepal. China objects to the presence of the Dalai Lama in northern India, fearing influence on Tibet’s Buddhists. Since May 2014, India has been ruled by the radical Hindu Bharatiya Janata Party under Narendra Modi, leading to an outburst of Hindu radical violence all over India. India is now pressuring Nepal to follow in its footsteps – it even imposed an economic boycott in August 2015. Since then, radical Hindu elements in Nepal have stepped up their activities. Christians have come under pressure. In July 2016, seven Christians who had Bibles with them were arrested and their Bibles were used as evidence by the police to later accuse them of attempting to force-

ity. Later a pastor was also arrested in the same case. So it seems that the constitutional provision is being directly used by the authorities to target Christians. In December 2016, all eight Christians were acquitted. 53. Azerbaijan: In Azerbaijan (3% Christian), the regime is very clever in its persecution of Christians. Some pastors have been detained and held for about a week and then released. Everyone in their churches assumes that these pastors talked while in detention, so noone will trust them anymore. Most churches are infiltrated and informers are everywhere. As a result, Christians do not know who to trust. This is also reflected in the reporting of persecution: no-one dares to talk for fear of being arrested – the main reason for the lower score of this country this year (it was No. 34 in WWL 2016). There are also repeated obligatory re-registrations for churches – every six to seven years all churches must apply for new registration. Each time, fewer churches re-register. During the latest cycle, all churches and religious groups were required to renew their registration by 1 January 2010 and no new churches have since registered. It would seem Azerbaijan has found a fool-proof method of getting rid of churches. The state monitors all religious activity, and especially targets unregistered groups. While registered churches can meet inside their buildings, special permission is needed for organising events outside these buildings. Youth work is very much restricted and all Christian materials must be cleared by the Committee for Religious Affairs in advance. In practice this means that all importing, printing, and distribution is blocked. Training facilities for Christians do not exist. All media are state-controlled and are therefore not accessible for Christian input. Christians can do some social work – e.g. in prisons (where there is usually a chapel). It is a punishable offence to bring religious literature into the country. By law, foreigners are not allowed to preach in the country. 54. Kyrgyzstan: Kyrgyzstan (5% Christian) is the odd one out in Central Asia, as it has a democratically elected head of state and parliament. But in 2009 it introduced one of the most restrictive Religion Laws in the region, imposing a 200-member minimum necessary for church registration. (There is now talk that this could increase to 500.) There are very few congregations in the country with enough members for this. No religious activities beyond state-run and state-controlled institutions are allowed. In December 2012, a new censorship law was introduced, which also affects Christian literature. In March 2015, Kyrgyzstan’s parliament passed the so-called “foreign agents” law, which marks all organisations that receive financial support from abroad as foreign agents. In Kyrgyzstan, local authorities and councils usually have more power than in other Central Asian countries. This has a negative effect on converts, as these local bodies tend to have strong relationships with the local community, who are all Muslims. And it is in the local councils that decisions about burials of converts are taken. This has already resulted in quite a few cases of families having to travel all over the country to find a place to bury their dead. 55. Niger: In the last two decades, Islamic associations – including Wahhabi groups – have become more active and prominent in Niger (0.3% Christian). In the past few years, Boko Haram’s presence in Niger has also become more visible. Persecution in Niger (No. 49 last year) is mainly shaped by Islamic oppression. Although the pressure on Christians is significant, it is still mod-

the region. However, small incidents can spark very high levels of violence, as was evidenced by the protests over the Charlie Hebdo cartoons in January 2015. In the WWL 2017 reporting period, no such large-scale violent incidents took place and the level of violent persecution against Christians decreased compared to the WWL 2016 reporting period. Since the events of January 2015, the government and NGOs have made great efforts to promote peaceful coexistence amongst the various ethnic groups and religions in Niger. 56. Cuba: In 2006, Fidel Castro was replaced by his brother Raúl as leader of the government, but the regime stayed essentially the same, and any groups hoping for change were disappointed. (No change is anticipated following Fidel Castro’s death late last year.) Cuba (61% Christian) continues to isolate itself from the rest of the world and functions under totalitarian control. The persecution of Christians, more severe decades ago, is slowly changing. While persecution in the past included beatings, imprisonment and sometimes murder, now it is generally more subtle. It continues in the form of harassment, strict surveillance and discrimination, including occasional imprisonment of leaders. All Christians are monitored and all church services are infiltrated by informers. Christians are threatened and suffer discrimination in school and at work. The totalitarian regime allows no competitors of any kind. Pastors and Christians are sometimes pressured to stop evangelising and to limit their activities to their own church premises. Permission to print Christian literature locally is hard to obtain. Everything is restricted. Existing seminaries and church buildings may be used, but new churches and seminaries cannot be built. Foreigners who enter the country can bring Bibles with them, but only a maximum of three. 57. Russia: Officially, Russia (82% Christian) is a secular state, but the government is openly courting the Russian Orthodox Church to the disadvantage of other denominations (which are often regarded as foreign). In July 2015, changes were made to Russia’s Religion Law, requiring all religions without legal status to register with the authorities and to notify them of their activities, including the names and addresses of all members and meetings. Registered groups are also limited in their activities within the first 10 years of their existence, e.g. teaching and invitations to foreign preachers are very restricted. Unregistered groups experience discrimination all over Russia. In the North Caucasus, Christians cannot hold public office. On Russian TV channels and printed media, there is a permanent campaign against sects and evangelicals. Converts from Islam are targets for violence and severe pressure from family and community, particularly in the Caucasus area. Other ‘Watch’ countries The 11 other countries that remain on the ‘Persecution Watch’ list – eight of which are in Africa – listed alphabetically: Cameroon: Despite the fact that Christians comprise around 60% of the population and the government is pro-Christian, Cameroon’s historically moderate form of Islam (about 20% of the population, 5 million, are adherents) is being challenged due to the growing prominence of Salafist teaching and the activity of jihadist groups across the Sahel and the Sahara, and in particular through the activities of Boko Haram within the country. In recent years, Boko Haram has used the country as an operational base and refuge for regrouping, and has also conducted

rorist attacks in Cameroon’s north. Many Cameroonian Christians live in the north and are directly threatened by this, as evidenced by the numerous Christians who have been the victims of terror incidents over recent years, including 13 Christians who were reported killed during the WWL 2017 reporting period. Chad: Though Chad has a large Christian population (35%), the influence and dominance of Islam is manifest and growing. Militant Islamic movements are also present in Chadian society. They want to see all citizens under the banner of Islam and to make the country an Islamic republic. All other religions – especially Christianity – are seen as an obstacle to be removed by any possible means. Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) : In DRC, with a Christian population of over 95%, the Islamist group ADF-NALU (Allied Democratic Forces – National Army for Liberation of Uganda) is active in the east of the country – specifically in North Kivu and Ituri Provinces. Several villages and churches have been attacked and almost abandoned. The religious dimension of the attacks is betrayed by the fact that people who wore Islamic dress were not attacked (according to observations by local sources). The Gambia: The Gambia (4.5% Christian), a Muslim-majority country, is popularly known as religiously tolerant. Not only is the constitution secular, the present government (due to hand over power next week) has so far defended its position on religious tolerance with unwavering commitment. Yet, non-violent measures are being taken to Islamize the country – particularly through the educational system, public institutions, media and areas concerning marriage and family. Muslims who convert to Christianity face considerable problems. Every citizen is considered a member of the Islamic umma (community) from birth and is thus expected to practise the religion of his people. Christian families are rarely free to conduct their family life in a Christian way. The pressure caused by the communal lifestyle means that – particularly in remote areas – Christians, especially converts, are very restricted in expressing their faith. Islamist-inspired mobs are also present. During the reporting period, outgoing President Yahya Jammeh made The Gambia the second African Islamic Republic after Mauritania. Guinea: The Church in Guinea (3.5% Christian) mainly comprises Christians from a Muslim background. Under President Alpha Condé, the state is showing a degree of acceptance to Christians. The Authority of Religious Affairs has started to show some level of sensitivity regarding the rights of Christians. For example, the Authority agreed to arrange for government sponsorship of Christians travelling to Jerusalem on a pilgrimage. Radical Islamic groups are not particularly active and the government tries to reduce the risk they pose to Christians and the society at large. No large-scale violence against Christians was recorded in the WWL 2017 reporting period. In the foreseeable future, the major concern for Christians in Guinea is the growing influence of radical versions of Islam that promote persecution in the entire West African region. Under the influence of radical teachings, many families and communities are becoming less tolerant of Christians and this makes life very difficult, especially for converts. Israel: In Israel (2.5% Christian) Christians enjoy a higher level of religious freedom than in most other countries in the Middle East. Most violations of religious freedom are caused by individuals or small

Christians from a Muslim background experience a high level of pressure in the private and family spheres of life. Opposition from the family is less severe than in other Middle Eastern states due to legislation protecting religious freedom. An exception is the law prohibiting adults from evangelism of children. Some Christians have been refused entrance to Israel or were forced to leave the country because of their assumed involvement in missionary or political activities. Ultra-Orthodox Jewish organisations (e.g. Yad Le Achim) hold regular demonstrations in front of buildings where Messianic Jews (Jews who believe Jesus Christ to be the promised Messiah) gather for worship. Other forms of harassment include spreading libel, spitting at clergy, or painting anti-Christian slogans on churches and monasteries. Top Israeli political leaders have condemned these assaults and Israeli police established a special unit to crack down on the culprits. The number of attacks decreased in 2016. Opposition experienced by Messianic Jews from their (extended) family or community varies in seriousness, ranging from tolerating them (if he or she does not try to spread his/her Christian faith) to social exclusion. Several Messianic Jews have been refused residency permits, based on their faith. Many court cases have been fought (and won) to nullify these illegal measures. In some cases, their citizenship was revoked after immigration. After the Ministry of Education considerably cut financial support, church-owned schools reported experiencing pressure to change their status to become state schools. A court case is currently underway concerning a Messianic Jewish couple who wanted to celebrate their wedding in a public party centre but were refused because the owner told them he’d lose his “kosher” certificate. Generally, there is a relatively low level of specifically faith-related violence against Christians in Israel. Nevertheless, there have been acts of vandalism against Christian property since 2012 and these continued in 2016. Ivory Coast: Ivory Coast (35% Christian) witnessed some of the worst violent incidents in Africa in the WWL 2017 reporting period. The most widely reported incident occurred in the resort town of GrandBassam, where Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb killed 22 people, including a five-year-old boy. This creates an atmosphere of terror, especially for Christians. Furthermore, there is an increasing pressure on Christians due to the growing presence of Islam in government, administration, business, media and education, and increasing pressure from radical groups. Morocco: In Morocco (0.1% Christian), the Islamist party, PJD, remains in power after winning the October 2016 elections. Reverberations from the Arab Spring were also felt in Morocco, but the protests did not bring the monarchy to an end. Instead, King Mohammed VI adopted a number of reforms in order to restore social peace and satisfy the demands of the Islamists. Victims of persecution are mainly Christian converts from a Muslim background, though restrictions also apply to the small and historical Catholic and expatriate communities. Foreign workers must still provide justification for living in the country and for Christian mission workers it is difficult to get residence permits. In the WWL 2017 reporting period, few violent incidents against Christians were recorded. Compared to previous years, the situation for Christians has not altered much, apart from one important change: the Islamist majority in government. This has had a negative effect on the

ence is becoming more visible, causing many Christians to be pessimistic about the future. Despite being regularly monitored and dismantled by government forces, Islamic State cells represent an on-going threat for Christians in Morocco. Philippines: In the Philippines (90% Christian), most of the persecution comes from Muslim religious leaders and affects converts from three tribes: the Tausug, Yakan and Sama. There have also been reports of incidents affecting Christians in the Maguindanao and Iranun ethnic groups. The Philippines faces a longstanding violent independence movement on the southern island of Mindanao, which has a strong Muslim minority. On 24 December 2015, the insurgent group BIFF (Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters) killed nine Christian farmers in Mindanao. Weapons used to kill four people in an attack in Jakarta on 14 January 2016 were reportedly brought into Indonesia from the southern Philippines; this shows the worrying connections of Islamic militants across borders in Southeast Asia. Islamic State announced plans to create a province of their caliphate in the southern Philippines, and BIFF and some other groups have already pledged allegiance to IS. Converts from Islam are becoming increasingly vulnerable. Several reports showed that they have to keep their Christian faith carefully hidden from their families and that meeting with other Christians is very difficult, dangerous and at times impossible. Senegal: Although Senegal (5% Christian) is known for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence of different religious groups, there continue to be reports of societal abuses or discrimination based on religious affiliation, belief, or practice. Many of these target evangelical churches, which are rapidly growing in membership. For the most part, persecution occurs in the form of mobs targeting evangelicals, who are seen as encroaching on the identity of this almost entirely Islamic nation. The BBC reported on 18 November 2015 that Senegal was making plans to ban women from wearing the full-face Islamic veil in public, in response to the increasing threat of jihadism. On 7 November 2015, seven people, including four imams, were arrested by the Senegalese authorities for their suspected ties with radical Islamic groups. A small number of violent incidents were recorded during the WWL 2017 reporting period, but fewer than in the past. Venezuela: In Venezuela (92% Christian), the persecution of “bornagain” Christians is subtle. There is a political trend towards a socialist society, with the president crushing opposition. The Church has been affected by the complex political situation. Tensions between ex-President Chavez, his successor, Nicolás Maduro, and the leadership of the Catholic Church have been growing. For years, the former Chavez administration attempted to shut down private education of all kinds in favour of state schools. His goal, observers say, was to use the state school system for the political indoctrination of youth. The government gives economic incentives to students who attend state schools, while denying equal recognition to students of private schools. Hence, church-based schools find themselves working against policies and programmes designed to eventually drive them out of business. The general security situation is rapidly deteriorating due to an alarming increase in violent crime, which puts Christians along with others at greater risk of violent death than before.

sunDAY 22•01•2017

INDIA

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Jallikattu to return on Sunday Pakistan releases Indian

Tamil Nadu CM Panneerselvam to inaugurate event in Madurai ChennaI, January 21 (PtI): After a nearly three-year-long ban, the traditional bull-taming sport jallikattu is set for a grand return in Tamil Nadu on Sunday with governor Vidyasagar Rao promulgating an ordinance in the face of massive protests that have paralysed the state for the last five days. Chief minister O Panneerselvam, who announced the approval given by the governor for the ordinance, will launch jallikattu at Alanganallur in Madurai, which is famous for conducting the rural sport, at 10 am. Moving swiftly, the Centre had cleared the ordinance on Saturday night, paving the way for Tamil Nadu government to promulgate it in an effort to end the protests. Rao, who is governor of Maharashtra, holds Tamil Nadu as additional charge and reached Chennai in the evening to give his approval. Protesters gathered at the Marina Beach which is at the epicentre of the state-wide stir in which tens of thousands of people took part, appeared to be in no mood to relent. They demanded a permanent solution. Panneerselvam said that in other areas, ministers from the respective regions will inaugurate the sport at 11 am. Jallikattu remained banned following a Supreme Court order in May 2014. "I urge the youth, students and the general public to make the jallikattu events across Tamil Nadu a grand success by participating in

Jallikattu: Protesters refuse to accept ordinance, demand permanent solution

ChennaI, January 21 (IanS): Rejecting the Tamil Nadu government's ordinance to facilitate Jallikattu, people holding protests here in support of the bull-taming sport demanded a "permanent" and not temporary solution. The Tamil Nadu government on Saturday issued the ordinance to amend the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act to hold Jallikattu, which was banned by the Supreme Court in May 2014. Chief Minister O. Pannerselvam will flag off the event at Alanganallur in Madurai district, famous for the sport, on Sunday. However the protesting youths were clearly not impressed. "The ordinance is valid only for six large numbers," he said. Panneerselvam said the assent of President Pranab Mukherjee to amend the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960, by Tamil Nadu was received on Friday night. "The assent for the ordinance (amending the PCA Act) has been obtained from the govenor also," he said, adding, "Our dream to conduct jallikattu this year has come true." He said a draft bill to

months. We want a permanent solution, whereby the central government amends the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act," a protester told IANS. At Alanganallur, where the youth protest first began on January 16, similar views were expressed by the protesters. "People are fighting for a permanent solution. Doesn't the government know that? The ordinance is just to make the protesters disperse," a protester said in Alanganallur. The protesters made clear their intentions to continue with their protest and also requested fellow protesters not to distribute sweets and celebrate the government's decision.

replace the ordinance and amend the PCA Act paving the way for holding jallikattu without any hindrance will be introduced and adopted in the Tamil Nadu Assembly's session which begins on 23 January. Panneerselvam thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support. "On behalf of the government and people of Tamil Nadu, I thank you for all your support and assis-

tance in enabling jallikattu to be held in Tamil Nadu once again during the Pongal season, upholding the culture and tradition of the people of Tamil Nadu," he told Modi in a letter. Recalling his earlier interaction with the prime minister on 19 January to enable conduct of jallikattu, Panneerselvam said the Tamil Nadu government issued an ordinance after obtaining prior instructions of the Pres-

ident as envisaged under Article 213 of the Constitution. "The ordinance was promulgated today by the government of Tamil Nadu and Jallikatu is to be conducted with customary fervour all over the state with all necessary safeguards," he said. Earlier in the day, Modi said all efforts are being made to fulfil the cultural aspirations of the people of Tamil Nadu. "We are very proud of the rich culture of Tamil Nadu. All efforts are being made to fulfil the cultural aspirations of Tamil people," he said. Modi said the central government is fully committed to the progress of Tamil Nadu and will always work to ensure the state scales new avenues of progress. Several people across the state welcomed the decision, saying jallikattu was part of Tamil culture and steps should be taken immediately to make it a permanent feature. "We want an assurance from the central government that it would amend the PCA Act in the upcoming session of Parliament if the Supreme Court quashes the ordinance sometime later," said Anbumani Ramadoss, who is Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) youth wing president and son of party president S Ramadoss. Jallikattu supporters staged a rail blockade at Madurai during the day, even as train services continued to remain affected due to the ongoing stir. The Southern Railway announced cancellation of some trains besides diversion of others.

soldier, handed over to India

amrItSar, January 21 (IanS): Pakistan on Saturday released Indian Army soldier, Sepoy Chandu Babulal Chavan, who had inadvertently crossed the LoC and was in the captivity of the neighbouring country since September last year. Pakistan defence and border authorities handed over Chavan at the WagahAttari joint check post to Indian border guards on Saturday, Border Security Force (BSF) officials said here. He was handed over to Army authorities after his return to India. Chavan, 22, of 37 Rashtriya Rifles, was taken into custody by Pakistan Army after he inadvertently crossed the Line of Control (LoC) in the Mendhar sector of Jammu and Kashmir in September last year. The incident took place just hours after the Indian forces carried out surgical strikes on September 29 inside Pakistani territory to destroy terrorist launch pads. The Pakistan Army in a statement earlier said that Chavan had "deserted his post at the LOC due to his grievances of maltreatment against his commanders". "He wilfully crossed LOC on September 29, 2016 and surrendered himself to Pakistan Army," the Pakistan Army's media wing said. It said that "as a gesture of goodwill and in continuation of our efforts to maintain peace and tranquility along LOC and WB (International Border, Sepoy Chandu Babulal Chavan has been convinced to return to his own country and will be handed over to Indian authorities at

Chandu Babulal Chavan (PTI)

Wahga Border on humanitarian grounds." India had been in regular touch with Pakistan for the release of Chavan. Family, friends of soldier celebrate his release Dhule (maharaShtra), January 21 (IanS): Indian Army sepoy Chandu Babulal Chavan's kin and residents of his native village Bohivir in northern Maharashtra were overjoyed on his release on Saturday by Pakistan. His family thanked authorities for securing his safe return. Scores of villagers came out into the streets to greet the Chavan family, who were overwhelmed by the unexpected turn of events, laughing and crying at the same time. Chavan's elder brother Bhushan said: "We are extremely grateful to the government for securing his safe release. We shall remain indebted to (Minister of State for Defence) Subhash Bhamre for all his help in ensuring his return home." "It is unbelievable and the news is still sinking in. We are so happy... for us, its like all festivals -- Diwali, Holi -- coming together simultaneously and we shall celebrate when he

comes home after such a long time," his married sister Rupali Patil said wiping away tears of joy. Pakistan defence and border authorities on Saturday released Chavan -- who had inadvertently crossed the Line of Control in September 2015 -and handed him over to Indian authorities at the Wagah-Attari Joint Check Post, Border Security Force (BSF) officials said. Chavan, 23, of 37 Rashtriya Rifles, was taken into custody by the Pakistan Army after he inadvertently crossed the LoC in the Mendhar sector of Jammu and Kashmir, just hours after the Indian forces carried out surgical strikes on September 29 across the LoC to destroy terrorist launch pads. After hearing of the news of Chavan's capture, his aged grandmother suffered a heart attack and died a few days later. Bhamre--whorepresents Dhule constituency where Chavan's village is -- maintained regular touch with his family all these months. At a function in Mumbai 10 days ago, Bhamre had indicated the possibility of securing Chavan's early release from Pakistan though he did not specify any time-frame.

EC censures Kejriwal; AAP leader to approach court Bihar forms world's largest human chain against liquor

new DelhI, January 21 (IanS): The Election Commission of India (ECI) has censured Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal for violating the Model Code of Conduct, warning him of stern action in case of similar violations in future. The Aam Aadmi Party leader said he will approach a court of law on what he termed as a "wrong" order. "The Election Commission hereby, censures you (Kejriwal) for violating the provisions of the MCC and expects you shall be more circumspect in your public utterances during election time," said an EC order to Kejriwal. The order was issued on Friday but became public only on Saturday. Kejriwal tweeted: "The EC order against me (is) completely wrong. Lower court gave order in

my favour. EC ignored court's order. (I) Will challenge EC's latest order in court." The EC order reads: "You (Kejriwal) may also note that in case of similar violation of MCC in future the commission will take stern action against you and your party, using all powers available to it, including action under Para 16 A of the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order of 1968." Kejriwal is said to have violated the Model Code by "deliberately and intentionally" instigating the public to take bribes for voting in Goa assembly elections on February 4. Speaking at four rallies in Goa on January 8, Kejriwal said people should not just accept Rs 5,000, but demand Rs 10,000 from politicians keen on offering them money, but

vote for the AAP. "If the Congress or the BJP people offer money, don't say no. It is our own money; at least you are getting some of it back... but when it comes to pressing the EVM (electronic voting machine) button, vote for AAP," Kejriwal allegedly said at a rally. Following Bharatiya Janata Party's complaint, the EC issued a notice to Kejriwal on January 16 and sought a reply by January 19. Though Kejriwal replied through his attorney Kailash Gahlot, the EC said it is not satisfied with the reply, saying it was not at all convincing. As per the Model Code of Conduct, political parties and candidates need to scrupulously avoid all activities that are corrupt practices and offences under the election laws.

Hong Kong withdraws visa-on-arrival facility for Indians

BeIJIng, January 21 (IanS): Indians will no longer have the visa-on-arrival facility while travelling to Hong Kong and will now have to complete a pre-arrival registration. "The Pre-arrival Registration for Indian Nationals will be implemented on January 23, 2017. The online service for 'Pre-arrival Registration for Indian Nationals' is now opened," the Hong Kong

Immigration Department said. "Indian nationals must apply for and successfully complete pre-arrival registration online before they can visit or transit the HKSAR visa-free (if seeking to enter the HKSAR during transit). Pre-arrival registration is not required for Indian nationals in direct transit by air and not leaving the airport transit area," the statement added. '

UP ELECTION

Congress rejects Samajwadi Party’s offer of 99 seats, alliance in trouble luCknow, January 21 (agenCIeS): The alliance between Samajwadi Party and Congress Party has reportedly not materialised as Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav on Saturday had offered 99 seats to the Congress party as against their demand of 110 seats for the upcoming assembly elections in the state. Several rounds of talks, going on since last few days, remained inconclusive even on Saturday with both camps blaming each other for the failure. Congress consultant Prashant Kishore met chief minister Yadav late in the afternoon but the talks, which continued till evening, failed. “We have had enough. There can’t be any understanding as of now,” said both the camps late on Saturday evening. “The Congress had only 28 MLAs in the outgoing Vidhan Sabha. How can the party bargain for 100 plus seats?” said sources in the Samajwadi Party camp. The Congress camp said, “The Samajwadi Party initially agreed to 141 seats. After the SP patron gave a list of 38 seats to chief minister Akhilesh Yadav, the SP

backtracked and offered 121 seats. Now the party is offering 99 seats. It’s nearly over,” said sources in the Congress camp. “The SP is keeping good seats in its own quota. It is offering only such seats to the Congress where the party has no base,” said a Congress leader. “The Congress wants to take even smaller parties along. The SP wants an alliance only with the Congress. The Congress has been pushing for an alliance in view of larger interest and to give a united fight to the communal forces. So the party will like to have more seats and accommodate possible allies,” said the Congress leader. Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) president Raj Babbar said that the Congress would like to take smaller parties along and form an alliance. On Friday, the Congress’s screening committee met in Delhi to shortlist names for the first two phases. Voting will held for 73 seats on February 11, 67 constituencies will go to the polls in the second phase on February 15. Polling will be held in seven phases, result declared on March 11.

Patna, January 21 (PtI): Bihar on Saturday claimed to have formed the world's largest human chain with Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, political leaders, cutting across party lines, and citizens held each other's hand to reaffirm commitment towards liquor ban. The 45-minute-long human chain started at 12:15 PM at the historic Gandhi Maidan when Chief Minister Nitish Kumar floated colourful balloons, and ended at 1 PM. The chief minister joined hands with RJD supremo Lalu Prasad on the one side and state Legislative Assembly Speaker Vijay Kumar Chaudhary on the other to begin the chain of people to express unity in support of prohibition. Legislative Council Chair-

man Awdesh Narayan Singh, Deputy Chief Minister Tejaswi Yadav, state Congress President and minister Ashok Choudhary, NCP General Secretary and MP Tariq Anwar and a host of ministers and legislators held each other's hand at the beginning of the chain which branched to different directions to stretch across Bihar. Opposition BJP which lent support to the human chain joined the queue in Siwan, where their two-day state executive committee meeting is beginning on Saturday. Top BJP leaders Sushil Kumar Modi, Union minister of state Ramkripal Yadav, Leader of Opposition in Bihar Assembly Prem Kumar, party national spokesman Shahnawaz Hussain and party MP

from Maharajganj Janardan Singh Sigriwal joined each other's hand in Siwan as part of human chain. The CM, Lalu Prasad and other leaders stood in lines to form a map of Bihar in Gandhi Maidan. A picture of liquor bottle with a cross sign was drawn in the middle of this map to give the message against alcohol. Bihar was written in dark black colour in the middle of the map so that a clear picture of the event is captured through ISRO satellite, drones and helicopters. To display communal harmony, four children dressed in traditional attires of Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs and Christians stood by side of the CM and Lalu Prasad. The human chain is esti-

mated to cover a distance of 11,292 km involving two crore citizens. The Bihar human chain is tipped to be the world's largest so far. The previous record is of 1050 km long human chain which was formed in Bangladesh in 2004. Though reaction of the CM on today's mammoth event is yet to come, RJD supremo Lalu Prasad told reporters all parties and citizens in general were together to fight evil of liquor. Congress state President and minister Ashok Choudhary, whose Education department is the organiser of the human chain programme told reporters that it was the biggest social congregation of people in the country after Independence.

Protectionism fears remain, but US & India collaboration to continue: FinMin, Industry

new DelhI, January 21 (IanS): With Donald Trump taking over the reins of the US, industry stakeholders in India and the government feel that the fears of protectionism and curbs on H1B visas will remain, but that the US will continue its financial and technological collaboration with India. "We believe that US will continue to support global growth with financial and technological collaborations and investments," Finance Secretary Ashok Lavasa told IANS. "We hope to build strong relationship between two dynamic democracies for the mutual benefit of the two biggest economies for the well being and prosperity of its people," Lavasa added. "The focus of the new regime in the US is clear and they will be looking inwards. Not much of globalisation is expected. They will have the preference and support to their own people which is natural. Indian Industries have to reinvent itself. Indian industries have to take the opportunity in terms of goods and services, investing in the US," Sunil Kanoria, President, Assocham and Vice Chairman Srei Infrastructure Finance Limited told IANS. "Apprehensions over possible negative impact on India's IT industry is nothing but exaggeration. Indian IT professionals are known world over for their expertise in providing affordable IT products and solutions and the same has

been acknowledged globally," D.S. Rawat, Secretary General of industry chamber Assocham, told IANS. However, industry chamber Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) said Indian industry is very optimistic about the incoming administration under President Trump and future of India-US relations under the incoming new US administration. "The optimism about President Trump stems from the fact that he promises major tax cuts and reforms, which may instil the US back on a 3-4 per cent growth path, reviving not only the US economy but boosting the global economy," the chamber added. State Bank of India chief economist Soumya Kanti Ghosh felt that the US will go for some sort of fiscal expansion - through increased infrastructure spending or tax cuts - which will lead to some capital outflow from India. "If the US goes for fiscal expansion then countries like India will be at a disadvantage because there will be capital outflow from India," Ghosh told IANS. "Protectionist trend is another thing that India is fearful about. It could harm the developing economies more than the developed economies. It could be a drag on the developing economies. Lower growth in India-US trade could be problematic for India," he added. Ghosh, however, said the true

impact of Trump becoming the 45th President of the US needs to be assessed after the initial 100 days as his policies unfold because the impact on India could be both positive and negative. The worst fear is the effect on Indian IT industry in terms of curbs on H1B visas as promised by Trump. The stakeholders, however, felt that the issue has always been there and the apprehension could turn out to be an exaggeration. "H1B visa is a bowl of contention. The issue is there for a long time. It is just getting more attention now because the US President has specifically mentioned it. But we should not give too much attention to it," Ghosh said. R. Chandrashekhar, President, Nasscom, said the Indian IT industry looks forward to working with the Trump Administration and the new Congress on issues of great importance. "Our members provide critical services to thousands of companies, government agencies, nonprofits and others across America. Indian IT companies work with 75 per cent of the Fortune 500 firms and help meet the needs of US businesses for skilled IT solutions to innovate, open new markets and expand operations, and thereby create thousands of jobs for Americans," Chandrashekhar told IANS. Indian IT firms have also significantly invested across the US. A survey found 84 of 100 Indian

companies plan to invest in the US over the next five years, building on a presence in all the 50 states already. "Contrary to some mis-perceptions and political rhetoric, the Indian IT sector has long contributed to the US economy in more ways than one. Besides making the US firms more efficient and competitive, the Indian IT industry has helped them develop new technologies and new products over the years, benefiting their customers and the American job growth," B.V.R. Mohan Reddy, former Chairman, Nasscom told IANS. With the rhetoric of Trump fading into the past, Reddy said that the US administration would take a balanced approach to highskilled visas and the contribution of India's IT sector to its economy. Nidhi Goyal, Managing Director-Tax and Regulatory Affairs, Protiviti, told IANS: "Indians working abroad on H1B visa may not get extension to continue working in the US as its own citizens will be given preference over non-US citizens." Experts feel the equity markets will react strongly. "President Trump's remark 'Buy American, Hire American' is extremely disturbing. Protectionist nationalism is bad for global economy, global trade and markets. Stock markets will view this negatively," V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit BNP Paribas, told IANS.

sundAY 22•01•2017

WORLD

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

US asks SKorea to arrest former UN chief Ban Ki-moon’s brother

NEW YORK/SEOUL, JaNUaRY 21 (REUtERS): The U.S. government has asked South Korea to arrest a brother of former U.N. SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-moon on charges that he engaged in a bribery scheme to carry out the sale of a Vietnamese building complex, a U.S. prosecutor said on Friday. During a court hearing in federal court in Manhattan, Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Noble said that a request had been made for the arrest of Ban Ki-sang, who was an executive at South Korean construction firm Keangnam Enterprises Co Ltd. Noble said the United States plans to seek his extradition, “but as of yet, he has not been apprehended.” South Korea’s Justice Ministry was discussing the request to arrest Ban but “it is not yet a formal consultation,” Yonhap news agency quoted an unnamed source in the country’s judiciary as saying. Officials at the Justice Ministry could not be reached for comment. An official at the foreign affairs section of the national police said the agency had yet to receive a formal request to arrest Ban and declined to give further details. Ban Ki-sang could not be reached for comment. An official at Keangnam said Ban had left the com-

pany in March 2015 and it was not aware of his whereabouts. Ban Ki-sang was one of four people charged on Jan. 10 in a case that has complicated his brother’s expected run for president of South Korea following his recently finished term at the United Nations. The case has already resulted in the arrest of another of the former U.N. chief’s relatives, Joo Hyun “Dennis” Bahn, a real estate broker living in New Jersey who is Ban Kimoon’s nephew and Ban Ki-sang’s son. Ban Ki-moon, who is ranked second in opinion polls among potential candidates for South Korean president, issued an apology on Saturday in Seoul and said he hoped any cooperation between authorities in South Korea and the United States would be “strict and transparent.” “I have absolutely no knowledge of this case,” Ban, who has yet to formally declare his candidacy, said in a statement, adding he hoped authorities were able to clear up all suspicion among the South Korean public. According to an indictment, amid a liquidity crisis at Keangnam, Ban Ki-sang, 69, arranged for it to hire his son to broker a refinancing on the Landmark 72 building complex

in Hanoi, which cost over $1 billion to construct. The indictment said that in March 2013, Bahn through an acquaintance met Malcolm Harris, a selfdescribed arts and fashion consultant and blogger who has also been charged in the case. Prosecutors said Harris told Bahn he could help get a deal via his connections, which he said included members of a Middle Eastern royal family, and offered to arrange the Landmark 72’s sale to a sovereign wealth fund by bribing an official. In April 2014, Bahn and Ban Ki-sang agreed to pay an upfront $500,000 bribe and another $2 million upon the sale’s closing to the official, prosecutors said. But prosecutors said Harris did not have any connection to the official, and after the men sent $500,000 to his company, Muse Creative Consulting LLC, to pay bribes as a middle man, he stole the funds. He spent the money on airfare, hotels, lavish meals, furniture, rent for a Manhattan apartment and a six-month lease for a penthouse in the fashionable Brooklyn neighborhood of Williamsburg, the indictment said. Both Bahn, 38, and Harris, 52, have pleaded not guilty.

Ban apologises over family in bribery case

SEOUL, JaNUaRY 21 (REUtERS): Former U.N. SecretaryGeneral Ban Ki-moon, who is believed to be considering a presidential run in South Korea, apologised on Saturday for causing public concerns over his family members who had been named in a bribery case in the United States. Ban said in a statement he hoped any discussions between law enforcement authorities of South Korea and the United States - if they were taking place as reported - would be “strict and transparent” so that there is no suspicion left in the South Korean public. He also reiterated he has “absolutely no knowledge” of the case. A U.S. prosecutor has said Washington has asked South Korea to arrest Ban’s brother, Ki-sang, on charges he engaged in a bribery scheme to carry out the sale of a Vietnamese building complex.

South Korea’s culture minister arrested over arts blacklist in political scandal

SEOUL , JaNUaRY 21 (REUtERS): South Korean prosecutors arrested the culture minister on Saturday for suspected involvement in drawing up a blacklist of artists, writers and entertainers critical of President Park Geun-hye amid a graft scandal that led to her impeachment. Cho Yoon-sun became the first sitting minister ever to be arrested, the special prosecutor’s team investigating the scandal, said. Cho has offered to quit, Yonhap news agency reported, adding that Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn, serving as acting president while the Constitutional Court decides what happens to Park, would accept her resignation quickly. South Korea has been gripped by crisis for months, and Park

could become the first democratically elected leader to be removed from office if her impeachment by parliament is upheld. Seoul Central District Court said on Saturday in a text message to reporters that minister Cho was arrested because her crime had been “verified and there were concerns over destruction of evidence”. The special prosecutor’s office on Wednesday asked the court to issue warrants to arrest Cho and a former presidential chief of staff on suspicion of abuse of power and perjury. The former chief of staff, Kim Ki-choon, was also arrested. The same court on Thursday refused to grant an arrest warrant for the head of Samsung Group,

the country’s largest conglomerate, on charges of bribery, embezzlement and perjury amid the corruption scandal. The reprieve for Jay Y. Lee, 48, may only be temporary, as the prosecutors said they would pursue the case. The prosecution team questioned Cho and Kim this week over allegations that they created the blacklist of actors, writers and other cultural figures considered critical of the current administration, which both have publicly denied. Park has been accused by legal authorities and lawmakers of putting pressure on the entertainment industry in retaliation against satirical attacks and criticism. The allegations have evoked bad memories of the oppression suf-

China sees ‘grim’ situation in Northern Irish children suffered decades of cruel abuse: report JaNUaRY 21 (RE- conference applauded Hart as he by the Northern Irish governrelations with Taiwan this year BELFaSt, UtERS): Children in Northern concluded his more than two- ment, where up to 144 children

BEIJING, JaNUaRY 21 (REUtERS): Relations between China and Taiwan this year will be “even more complex and grim” and Beijing will resolutely oppose any form of separatist activity, a senior Chinese official said, but added China would also maintain peace and stability. Yu Zhengsheng, the ruling Communist Party’s fourth ranked leader, was speaking at an annual work conference on policy towards the self-ruled island. His comments came in the wake of concerns that, under a new presidency, the United States is shifting its stance toward Taiwan. U.S. President Donald Trump, who was inaugurated on Friday, broke with decades of precedent last month by taking a congratulatory telephone call from Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen. That, along with subsequent comments by Trump that the “one China” policy was up for negotiation, has infuriated Beijing, which views Taiwan as a wayward province, to be brought under its control by force if necessary. Proudly democratic Taiwan has shown no interest in being run by China. China is deeply suspicious of Tsai, whose ruling Democratic Progressive

Party espouses the island’s formal independence, a red line for Beijing, and has cut off a formal dialogue mechanism with the island. China must “resolutely oppose and check any form of ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist activity, maintain national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and maintain the peaceful development of cross-Taiwan Strait relations and peace and stability”, state-run Xinhua news agency paraphrased Yu as saying. In a letter to Pope Francis released by her office on Friday, Tsai said Taiwan aspires to create a “new era” of peace with China as military action cannot resolve problems. Defeated Nationalist forces fled from China to Taiwan in 1949 after losing a civil war with the Communists. The report made no mention of Tsai’s letter to the Pope. The Vatican is one of a handful of countries to maintain formal ties with Taiwan. Yu said that China would seek to “unite” all parties and groups in Taiwan that accept both sides of the Taiwan Strait are part of “one China”. China will also look at ways of making life easier for Taiwanese people to invest, work and live in China, Yu added, without giving details.

Ireland suffered decades of cruel sexual, physical and emotional abuse in institutions run by the state, charities and the Catholic and Protestant churches, an official report said on Friday. Instances of sexual abuse by priests and lay people were detailed in a 2,300 page, 12-volume report that identified widespread systemic failings and extended responsibility to the Northern Irish government and church authorities. “Some institutions providing residential child care were responsible for a range of institutional practices which constituted systemic abuse,” Sir Anthony Hart, a retired High Court judge who chaired the four-year inquiry, told a news conference. “There were individuals who provided excellent care and others who were cruel and abusive, physically and emotionally towards the children for whom they were responsible. This abuse has affected many people for the rest of their lives.” Victims at the news

hour findings. “We have waited a lifetime. Today were are vindicated, our time has come,” Margaret McGuckin, a campaigner for fellow abuse victims, told reporters. The Historical Institutional Abuse Inquiry (HIAI) heard evidence from hundreds of people who spent their childhood in homes from 1922 to 1995, the latter three decades against the backdrop of conflict during Northern Ireland’s “Troubles”. Hart said the poverty, social conditions and government policies of the period had a significant impact in creating the setting in which the abuse occurred. Of the 22 institutions investigated, systemic failings to “a greater or less degree” were found in 20. Rather than protecting children, institutions sought to protect their reputations and individuals, the inquiry said. Those failures also included the running of the so-called child migrant scheme, administered

as young as four were sent to residential homes 15,000 kilometres away in Australia. It was wrong to send children so young, Hart said, and to deny parents truthful information when they inquired over their whereabouts or when children sought to trace their parents. Hart said the institutions and the Northern Irish government should formally apologise to the victims, who he said should be entitled to compensation of up to 100,000 pounds each. Sinn Fein President Gerry Adams, whose party has shared power in Northern Ireland since 2007, welcomed the publication and said he hoped victims had a sense of vindication. The inquiry follows harrowing reports in recent years in the Irish Republic, where priests were found to have beaten and raped children over decades in Catholic-run institutions, shattering the authority of the church in Ireland.

Asian media decry isolationist Trump, fear economic and diplomatic turmoil tOKYO, JaNUaRY 21 (REUtERS): A day after Donald Trump became U.S. President and vowed to put “America First”, Asian media decried his isolationist policies, fearing they will chill the global economy and sow widespread international discord. In a defiant inaugural address, Trump said U.S. workers have been devastated by an outflow of jobs overseas, one of the main themes of a divisive campaign that emphasized making America strong again. In Japan, one of Washington’s oldest and staunchest Asian allies, newspapers across the political spectrum criticised the new administration, with more than one saying the world was now in “unpredictable territory.” “Has there ever been a new U.S. administration that began by spreading unease, not expectations, throughout the world?” said the conservative Yomiuri Shimbun, adding that Trump appeared ready to take both alliances and global norms lightly if they didn’t benefit the United States. The liberal Asahi Shimbun went further and said Trump, who called on allies like Japan and South Korea to shoulder a greater share of defense costs or face the possible withdrawal of U.S. troops, posed a risk to the freer global order born after World War Two and the Cold War. “Will the unpredictable Trump whirlwind cross the U.S. borders to spread division and conflict? The new master of the White House must realise the heavy responsibility that accompanies his words and actions”,

Trump, in Oval Office, signs first order on Obamacare

WaSHINGtON, JaNUaRY 21 (REUtERS): President Donald Trump directed government agencies on Friday to freeze regulations and take steps to weaken Obamacare, using his first hours in the White House to make good on a campaign promise to start dismantling his predecessor’s healthcare law. Heading into the Oval Office shortly after the conclusion of his inaugural parade, Trump signed an order on the Affordable Care Act that urged government departments to “waive, defer, grant exemptions from, or delay the implementation” of provisions that imposed fiscal burdens on states, companies or individuals. It also called for efforts to give The name of U.S. President Donald Trump can be seen in the sky above states greater flexibility in implea protester as she carries a sign during the first of hundreds of womens’ menting healthcare programs while marches organized around the world in a show of disapproval of the new developing “a free and open market President in Sydney, Australia, January 21. (REUTERS) in interstate commerce for the offer-

ing of healthcare services and health insurance.” Health experts had speculated that Trump could expand exemptions from the so-called individual mandate, which requires Americans to carry insurance or face a penalty, or the requirement that employers offer coverage. Experts also believe the administration could try to reduce the “essential benefits,” such as maternity care and mental health services, that insurance plans must cover. The White House did not provide further details about the executive order. Trump’s spokesman Sean Spicer said the White House also directed an immediate regulatory freeze for all government agencies in a memo from Trump’s chief of staff, Reince Priebus. He did not offer details.

it said. State media in China, accused of stealing U.S. jobs during Trump’s campaign, said they hoped his government understood the importance of relations with China but that Beijing should also brace for the worst. “What’s crucial is to control and manage disputes and find a way to resolve them,” said the overseas edition of the ruling Communist Party’s official People’s Daily. Worry about friction between the two superpowers loomed over many in the region.

leader. “It is wisest to hope he succeeds,” added The Australian in an editorial titled “President Trump Seals the Deal.” But uncertainty prevailed for the most part. “Under Trump, the United States is apt to be as edgy and unpredictable as his former television reality show,” said Thailand’s The Nation on Friday. “The reality show has become reality. We are about to discover whether America can become great again - and whether the word ‘great’ takes on unexpected meanings.”

“As an exporting nation reliant on both China and the U.S., we would suffer from greater U.S. protectionism and any trade war,” said the Sydney Morning Herald. “We may have to negotiate our way through a new world order not just regarding trade and China but also climate, Russia and regional security given Trump’s lack of interest in the U.S. playing the role of sheriff.” A less-engaged Washington could also lead to shifting alliances and more reliance on regional net-

works. “India must not only prepare for a more protectionist America, but also prepare of a United States that does not plan to mess around with other people’s affairs or squander blood and treasure in the name of promoting democratic values,” wrote policy analyst C. Raja Mohan, head of Carnegie India, in the Indian Express. A few said they expected U.S. political institutions to prevail and that Trump should be given the benefit of the doubt as the duly-elected U.S.

fered when Park’s late father, Park Chung-hee, ruled the country. BLACKLIST? WHAT BLACKLIST? The presidential Blue House denies that such a blacklist exists. Culture Minister Cho has said many times that she has heard reports of such a list but that she had nothing to do with it. Park was impeached by parliament in December after accusations that she colluded with long-time friend Choi Soon-sil to pressure big businesses to donate to two foundations set up to back the president’s policy initiatives. Park, 64, remains in office but has been stripped of her powers while the Constitutional Court decides whether to uphold the impeachment.

Turkish parliament approves prez system, paving way for referendum aNKaRa, JaNUaRY 21 (REUtERS): The Turkish parliament has backed a plan to strengthen the powers of the presidency, paving the way for a referendum on the issue in spring which, if passed, could allow President Tayyip Erdogan to stay in office until 2029. Erdogan says the reform will provide stability in the European Union candidate country at a time of turmoil and prevent a return to the fragile coalitions of the past. His opponents fear it will herald increasingly authoritarian rule. The constitutional reform bill was approved overnight with 339 votes in the 550-member assembly, parliament said on its official Twitter account on Saturday. The legislation needed at least 330 deputies to support it in order to go to a public vote. “A new door in Turkish history and in the lives of the Turkish people has been cracked open today. With our people’s ‘yes’ vote, this door will be completely opened,” Justice Minister Bekir Bozdag wrote on Twitter. The leader of the main opposition CHP, Kemal Kilicdaroglu, said after the voting that his party would fight the changes in their referendum campaign. “This is a betrayal by the parliament of its own history. Our people will certainly thwart the game that was played in parliament...we will go from door to door and explain this to our people,” Kilicdaroglu said. The reform would enable the president to issue decrees, declare emergency rule, appoint ministers and top state officials and dissolve parliament - powers that the two main opposition parties say strip away balances to Erdogan’s power. Erdogan assumed the presidency, a largely ceremonial position, in 2014 after over a decade as prime minister with the ruling AK Party, which he co-founded. Since then, pushing his powers to the limit, he has continued to dominate politics by dint of his personal popularity. With the reforms, the president will be allowed to retain ties to a political party, potentially allowing Erdogan to resume his leadership of the AK Party, in a move that opposition parties say will abolish any chance of impartiality. The plans envisage presidential and general elections to be held together in 2019 with a president eligible to serve a maximum two five-year terms. Critics accuse Erdogan of increasing authoritarianism with the arrests and dismissal of tens of thousands of judges, police, military officers, journalists and academics since a failed military coup in July. Erdogan and the government say the extent of the crackdown is justified by the nature of the threat to the state from July 15, when rogue soldiers commandeered tanks and fighter jets in a violent bid to seize power. Turkey has also been hit by a spate of deadly bombings and gun attacks by Islamic State and Kurdish militants over the past year and a half.

sundAY 22•01•2017

PUBLIC DISCOURSE

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

The Politics and Economy of Corruption: Reading the Bible Faithfully

M. Sashi Jamir

he word “corruption” has become ubiquitous among the Nagas. Contextually, corruption simply means misuse of public money by those who are endowed with the responsibility to govern the state and its citizens (and so called as the public servants). The kind of governing system we have today is well comprehended by what is called as the proprietary theory of the state. Proprietary theory states that the governing class considers political power a prize to be sought for the rewards it offers rather than an opportunity to serve the public. Efforts to raise the living standards of the common people are rare, efforts at self-aggrandizement commonplace. Government offices are bought and sold like pieces of property, which the purchasers then use to obtain the greatest possible profit. Officeholders demand payment before they would act, and justice is typically sold to the highest bidder. Further more proprietary theory of the statedefines the state as a piece of property that its owners may use, within broad and ill-defined limits, for their personal advantage. Guided by such thinking, the public servants see nothing immoral in the use of what we would call “public office” for private gain. For many of them, it is simply the legitimate use of what they regard as their “patrimony.” One reason for such thinking and

practice could be that the “common goods” for all the people of the state are limited and therefore the elite sucks up all the resources belonging to the people. Another reason could be the want to maintain power, security, and perhaps prestige by the elite. Yet, these two cannot be distinguished from one another. In fact they are inter-connected. As a result the governing class calibrates its system in such a way that all the goods are divided among themselves and its allies. The danger with this kind of system is that factors such as power, security, and wanting to amass wealth are insatiable and therefore, the governing class and its allies will try and continue to keep the system of extraction intact and protected. In this manner a dysfunctional system yet a system of “absorbing wealth and power” is created at the expense of proper and good public infrastructure and welfare. The effect of such a system among the common people is that of apathy – that paralysesthe capacity to imagine “outside” the system of “absorbing wealth and power.” It makes the mind of the common people hapless and resigned to their listless life asif it were fate or for some even normal! Reading the Bible Faithfully Interestingly the Bible was written much within such kind of context – a context of “absorbing wealth and power.” The book of Exodus describes

the totalizing power of Pharaoh who wanted to keep the Hebrews under the bondage of his absorbing power. The book narrates (Exodus 3) that the Hebrews cried out to God. In other words they mobilized God. It is not God who initiated the exodus event. It is only in the crying out of the common people that a “messiah” was born. As the story unfolds, God sentMoses, who was inspired from “outside” the totalizing power of Pharaoh, to champion the exodus or the departure of the Hebrew slaves from the totalizing power. This led the Hebrews into the wilderness, which means outside the reach of the Pharaoh and the Hebrew slaves discoveredthat there was enough food for all beyond the system of absorbing wealth and power even in the wilderness! Then the Hebrews received the Ten Commandments at Mt. Sinai. The Ten Commandmentswere a guideline for an alternative system to that of the system of “absorbing wealth and power.” These were rules to prevent the economy of extraction. The alternate system was that of neighborliness: thou shall not covet/ extract your neighbor’s property and bear false witness against them (see Ex 20: 16-17). Thus the Sinai law was a law on neighborliness and how to live neighborly with one another. Again Israel during its monarchic period, especially beginning from the reign of Solomon, instituted such “absorbing power. “ Solomon began

his career in good relationship with God but as time elapsed he began to amass wealth, wives, horses etc. This accumulation of wealth came from his heavy taxation and forced labor among his own people (1 Kings 4). Such totalizing system within Israel itself (who were once slaves themselves) gave rise to the prophetic movement in Israel who were too inspired from “outside.” The prophets (such as Hosea, Micah, Isaiah, and Jeremiah),basing on the law of neighborliness, were critics of the totalizing power and their message of divine judgment basically meant that the system of corruption was not going to sustain. Consequently the Babylonians demolished Jerusalemas predicted by the prophets. Finally, the narrative of Jesus took place within the context of the totalizing power of the Roman Empire. The way the Romans did this was to find Jews to sign on with Rome to collect tax. The Jews taxed their own people for Rome and whatever surplus they could extract was for them to keep. It was a lucrative industry for the tax collectors! Little wonder Jesus had lot of encounters with the tax collectors who were Jews themselves and yet were sold out to the Roman governing system. In Luke 19 Jesus encountered a tax collector in Zacchaeus. In this meeting Jesus remindsZacchaeus that he was a son of Abraham who carried the promise of God. It is like telling the Christians

that,“you are God’s people who have forgotten your identity and baptism in Christ.” Besides Jesus’ engagement with the tax collectors he alsohad the opportunity to elaborate the concept of neighborliness when he was questioned, “who is my neighbor?”(Luke 10). A neighbor is anyone who is in need. Jesus dared to envision an alternative system of neighborliness – to that of the economy of corrupt extraction – which threatened the status quo and perhaps, contributed to his tragic and selfless death. Neighborliness An Alternate Vision Neighborlinessencapsulates the vision of the biblical God for humanity. It is what was found in the Old Testament wilderness and utilized imaginatively both by the prophets as well as by Jesus. Neighborliness boils down to a care for the commons, care for the well-being of the whole, that which hold for the sake of all. Neighborliness welcomes all into community. It stands for hospitality, the taking care for one another. The neighborly concept is not a utopian theory or another pietistic voice without any substance. The concept of neighborliness demands a change of heart and intellect. To initiate such an alternate vision into realitycommon people mustintentionally cry out about their plight meted out by the dysfunctional system of absorbing wealth and power, realiz-

ing that there is abundance of means for all beyond such a corrupt system. The neighborly concept is based on trusting God and his mystery – trusting that even in the wilderness there is abundance of means for all the people in the community, and trusting in a God who has made the wild lilies more beautiful than Solomon in all his glory and majesty [which Solomon ironically achieved by accumulating wealth from the common people! (Matthew 6)].Simultaneously, every consciouspublic servant should realize that a society or state is one big family of community. Instead of accumulating wealth for one’s own purpose – for instance accumulating money to send our kids to the best school outside our state or building houses not only for our children but also for grand children – if the wealth is utilized for the development of everyone then it is simple but powerful commonsense that ourown purposes will be fulfilled without misusing public wealth and without tarnishing our integrity. Neighborliness is a concept whereby everybody can grow together in a well developed state system having good schools, hospitals, roads, housings, businesses, food and so on. Let’s dare to envisage such a society because at the end, life is not about accumulating wealth (has any one carried his/her wealth to the grave?) but life is all about celebrating God’s gift of life through the act of neighborliness.

TO OVUNG'S RESPONSE TO MY Was Luke the gospel writer Christian? REPLY ARTICLE ON THE POWER OF THE PEOPLE Thepfulhouvi Solo, IFS Retd (RR-68) Retd Principal Secretary, Nagaland

uke the Gospel Writer was not heard baptized anywhere, he was not heard a Member of any Church in Judea or elsewhere. The name recorded as Lucius among the first Christians at Antioch Syria in the Gospel of Acts 11:26, could not be the Gospel Writer because by then Luke was not seen in contact with any of the followers of Jesus. We heard him first only in Troas when Paul reached that City in his Second Missionary Journey Luke himself wrote in ACTS of the New Testament. Scholars have remarked Luke more likely is a Macedonian of Philippi than his namesake Lucius from Cyrene in the ACTS. If so Luke is the only nonJew and gentile Gospel Writer. Luke more likely a Gentile was not reported or seen enter any Jewish Synagogues in any of the Cities Paul preached. We have not heard him enter the Temple at Jerusalem. However, the most important information that Luke a Gentile is found in Paul’s letter to the Colossians (4:11) in which Paul mentioned the names of the Circumcised who were with him in his last days, and in the list he did not include Luke; he included Luke in the list of the non-Jews. In his well-educated Writings, Luke more often used Greek term ‘Master’ for the Jewish ‘Rabi’. His independent quotations of Old Testament passages are fewer in number than that of Mathew who has 28; perhaps the most except that of Paul’s. This perhaps supports the view that Luke a Gentile had not much Old Testament background. Luke wrote Paul’s Second Missionary Journey (Act. 15:38-40) and described Paul’s Tour Group in Pronouns of ‘We’, ‘Us’ and ‘Our’. Before that he

used ‘They’, ‘Them’ and ‘Their’ for the Group. His Grammar indicates He accompanied Paul from Troas to Philippi and then to other Cities until Paul returned to Jerusalem from Philippi, and Luke stayed back at Philippi. Luke was a Physician Doctor, says Scholars, because Luke in his writings used universal medical phrases like ‘thrown down to the Ground’ for Epileptic seizure. When quoting Jesus, describing the difficulty of Rich Men entering the Kingdom of God, Luke used the word ‘balone’, -Greek- for Needlethan ‘raphis’ the Tailor’s Needle, says Scholars. Luke instinctively used the Doctor’s term of Balone for Needle because he was a medical Doctor. Luke was an educated person too and those who know Greek say his Greek is good. When Paul was in Asia near the border of Macedonia, he saw a Vision of a Macedonian inviting him to Macedonia. Immediately, leaving Asia Minor, Paul crossed over to the Roman Colony of Philippi in Macedonia and to other Gentile Cities. All along, Luke was with Paul until Paul returned to Philippi and started for return Journey back to Jerusalem. Sometime after his Second Journey, Paul made a 3rd Visit Journey apparently alone (Act 18: 23) to the West. At Philippi, (Act. 20: 6) Luke again joined him; possibly Luke is a native of Philippi (the Writer’s own view). From then on, Luke faithfully was with Paul up to Paul’s final farewell departure for Jerusalem. At Jerusalem, Paul was promptly arrested near the Temple on allegation of defaming the Jewish Scripture and the Sacred Temple. The Jews plotted to kill Paul and Luke was with him; however, strict Law & Order abiding Roman Centurion plucked out Paul from the Mob and the Commander secretly at night sent him under strong Guard of 400 Soldiers and 70 Horseman to the

Mediterranean Port of Roman Government Head Quarter City Caesarea 60 miles away. Paul remained there in detention for 2 years. In all these years, Luke faithfully stayed with Paul, then finally accompanied Paul to Rome, and stayed with him there until the last. Why did an unknown Gentile stuck to the company of an unknown Jew preaching a strange new Creed call THE WAY? Scholars say Luke must have written the ‘Gospel of Luke’ during his 2 years in Caesarea. From dates of Transfers and Postings of the Governors of Judea in the Records of the Roman Empire, we know Governor Festus of Judea handed over the Charge to Felix during 56-58, it is generally taken Luke could have written the Gospel of Luke from Caesarea during 56 – 58 AD. Luke was not an Eyewitness of Jesus; he wanted to thoroughly know the life of Jesus who Paul preached the Son of God, the Savior of All Man; at Caesarea, Luke had great opportunities of meeting Christians from Jerusalem and Antioch Churches who had Eyewitness account of Jesus. He gathered his information of Jesus from other Eyewitnesses and contemporaries too. People talked about the wonderful story of ONE JESUS whom Paul vouched prepared to give his own life! Luke gathered the information of not only from his Mentor Paul but also from the Apostles of Jesus, Peter, John, Jakob and even from the brothers of Jesus of Nazareth, Mary the mother of Jesus had stories of Jesus stored in her Heart, and very carefully so. Luke’s accounts are a meticulous compilation from the accounts from those who have been Eyewitness and contemporaries of Jesus. Mathew’s list of ancestors of Jesus surprisingly included Women like former prostitute Rahab and non-Jew

Ruth. Mathew starts the list from Joseph and ends in Patriarch Abraham. However, Luke starts the list from Joseph and ends in Adam then God. Luke’s account of the Gospel of Christ is very exhaustive. Luke’s Story of the life of Jesus changed an uncircumcised like he into a circumcised of Heart for Jesus and Luke wanted to tell the whole story to Theophilus. Who is this Theophilus? Theophilus, as the name suggest must have been likely a high Gentile Roman Government Official. The Gospels records several Roman Officials become ‘Worshiper of God’ and followers of Jesus. To this Writer however, whom could the one Roman Official nearer to Luke be than the one at ACTS 16: 25– 34, very sincere in his duty, very compassionate at heart and humble, the Jailer of Prison at Philippi. After the sudden Earthquake, the Jailer found Paul and Silas with the other Prisoners free of the Chains that bound them, inside Paul’s open door Cell with no intension of running away; the Jailer “fell trembling before Paul and Silas and asked Paul”: “Sirs what shall I do to be saved”? Paul and Silas replied: “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved –you and your household. Then they spoke the Word of the Lord to him and all the others in his house” To whom would Luke want to write to, as soon as possible, than to this Jailer who fell trembling before his Prisoners, washed them of their wounds, dressed them, take them to his own Residence and fed them at 12 O’clock at Night and recommend them to be released from the Jail? A decade or so after the incident, Luke longed now, to let the Jailer know the whole story of “the Lord in an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus”!

Robert A. Silverstein

r. Mhondamo Ovung has responded to my article of January 18th, 2017 in an article dated January 20th, 2017 in The Morung Express. This is my reply to him and to the readers who have read the three articles in the series. (I originally was responding to an article by Jonas Yanthan.) Ovung has clearly indicated, as did Yanthan, that he has no idea what the most important principle in any society is to prevent that society from spinning into chaos, the principle of “the rule of law.” When the author questions whether the Nagaland state Assembly is democratic, which he does throughout his article, and questions whether it is doing what it is “for the good of the electorate, their people, or are they doing so to infringe on the rights of the electorate and to torture them and make them slaves, in their own land”, those are legitimate questions. But how you address those questions is the issue here. I have laid out in my article the hierarchy of law in India, from the Indian constitution to the lowest village customary law. To abide by that hierarchy is necessary to avoid chaos. If you choose to skip that procedure, and to use self-help, that is, to simply choose to disobey the state Assembly, instead of trying to pass a law to change things, that leads to chaos. For example, to have ACAUT and student groups do the criminal investigations because the police and judicial bodies are not doing their jobs, that is a sign of chaos. When the soldiers of Camp Hebron and the NSCN (IM) have most of the police power of the state rather than the state government itself, that is chaos. There are two things the Naga people can do to change things legally, both difficult. First, they can there, I am told and Apau once re- bring legal actions in the courts, sided there because he held that office. Perhaps that was a reason why the road was given Apau’s name. I do not know. Whatever the rationale may be, Apau’s memory and identity has simply faded out of our Naga society’s history. “Like the ink on a piece of writing being washed away by a spilled glass of water. He was so easily forgotten.” We are so easily forgotten. But the important thing I. Vitokhe Assumi is that Apau, as well as each one of ince the majority Naga us, whether remembered by othpublic are not supporting ers or not, is remembered by God. the ensuing polls of both And that’s what really matters. It is the Municipal and Urwith this assurance, above all, that I hope we can lean on when we feel ban Local Bodies polls and since forgotten, disregarded, insignificant the sixty Legislators are the prodbecause human history may for- uct of the 60 (sixty) constituenget about him, as it has forgotten so cies, whereas, the State Assembly many and will unfailingly forget so Election is being at the door step many more. But our names, Apau’s (2018), it will become the suicidal name, Lhuviniu Lungalang, is en- exercise on the part of the present graved on God’s hands, and writ- State Government also. ten in the Book of Life, and again, as Hence, as a senior man and acI remind you, I remind myself that tive social worker, for Peace among not only is that the MOST important the Nagas at all level, I am bound thing, it is the ONLY important thing. to suggest to Nagaland Govern-

A Remembrance of Apau: Lhuviniu Lungalang

Miniona Menuokuou Ichudaule Lungalang

cannot recall any memories, of my own, of my paternal grandfather, Apau, as we called him in Zeliang. Lhuviniu Lungalang as others, especially the older generation may remember him. I know this may sound absurd, disrespectful even, to make a confession about my own father’s father but let me explain. It was the summer of 1991 when my twin and I were on the cusp of turning 4 that cancer released Apau to his eternal rest. We were simply too young to remember. What memories we have of him are only aided by a video of Atsa and him on their 45th wedding anniversary. Photos of sitting on Apau’s lap as he held us or us standing beside him or simply just being near him. Of course, as we grew older, and grew in cognizance, our parents, families, extended and otherwise, reminded us about who Apau was and what he was able to accomplish both in his personal and public life. To mention a few, I’d like to believe that the editor of the Nagas in Nagaland: Who’s Who (1990) aptly described, not THE essence but, AN essence of Apau when

she likened him a pioneer. Because, in many ways, he was just that. Apau was the first science graduate with distinction amongst the Nagas from Calcutta University in 1938. He organized the first Naga student’s conference when he was a student himself in 1936. Apau was also the Chief Secretary from 1971-1973 of what was the newly formed state of Nagaland in 1963. Apau was also a founding member of the Nagaland Peace Center and became active in the peace efforts of the State as a member of the Liaison Committee of the Nagaland Peace Council (NPC). Maybe I personally cannot recall any memories, of my own, of my grandfather. But as I have come to learn about the man from my family, friends of the family, sometimes even relative strangers, who did not withhold their generosity to honor the man they once knew and remembered in the manner they spoke of him, I have felt a deep sense of pride to be Lhuviniu Lungalang’s granddaughter. I am honored to have a name that is embedded synonymously with a man who truly committed to his calling to serve

others. And despite Apau’s demise at a very early season in my life, I have had the privilege of getting to know him and learn about who the man my grandfather was. For all his shortcomings, of which I do not doubt there were many, because he was flawed, as all of us, who have honestly examined our own selves can stake claim, Apau was a hardworking man with integrity, heart, honesty and determination. Above all, he was principled. However, it is perhaps fair to say that there may be no one who may remember this particular man from Benreu Village, today. This is understandably so, because memory is fragile. At least, to the public, once he mattered; now he is almost forgotten, reduced to anonymity. This is evident in the manner that I sometimes wonder if anyone else knows or even cares to know who the man behind the name Lhuvini-u Road is in Kohima. It is the road that begins from Martyr’s Park where the Kohima Town Hall is located right above. The Development Commissioner’s residence was once located

and if the state courts are not effective, go to the higher courts on appeal. The other thing, and the most effective thing, is to nominate and elect honest politicians to the Assembly. But that seems to take more energy and more imagination and courage than the Naga people have. So instead they protest. But you should not blame the state government if it disburses “peaceful rallies with water Cannon and tear gas.” The reason you have no basis for complaining is that the state government manipulated the state law in such a way that the rally was illegal where it took place. Do I think the state government used the law improperly to stop a legitimate rally? Yes. But the legal way to stop them from doing this is what I mentioned above. Go to the courts and stop the state from hiding behind the law to prevent people from expressing their grievances. But that is not the worst of it. If the Naga people had any courage and imagination, it would not have allowed the state government to spend years not paying teachers, not mandating contractors to finish the repair of roads, allowing corruption to go on in the face of the people with police and prosecutorial agencies doing nothing, and much more. But instead of doing the hard and courageous work of changing the system by working within it, you protest and avoid using the system that the PEOPLE put in place to correct the things around them, the laws of the state and the nation. When the people justify not respecting the law because they view the law as unjust and refuse to change the unjust law by using the law itself to address grievances, the “rule of law” breaks down and the people are stuck with nothing but chaos and the rule of the most powerful and the most corrupt.

Suggest that the ensuing polls of both the ULB and Municipal should be reviewed

ment not to confront with 80% of the Naga public but extend the polling date and compromise with the peoples’ voice than take the next decision with public support. Because, all the major five Tribes, supported by ENPO and Naga Hoho Apex Body will be too much over-load for Nagaland Government, as and when we look from the distance the Act seems to become ‘Anti-People.’ Therefore, I am suggesting to Nagaland State Government not to confront with the parent bodies, but compromise with public of Nagaland for your tomorrow. Advised.

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.

sunday 22•01•2017

EntErtainmEnt

Sushmita Sen on judges panel for Miss Universe F

ormer Miss Universe and Bollywood actress Sushmita Sen will be on the judges panel of the upcoming 65th edition of Miss Universe pageant, which will take place here on January 30. It's special for her as she had won her crown in Manila itself in 1994. "Getting ready with a dancing heart! I am so excited, emotional and looking forward to returning home to the Philippines after 23 years," Sushmita tweeted alongside a photograph of herself from the make-up room. She added: "It's where it all began Manila 1994, Miss Universe 1994. Life comes a full circle, from winning Miss Universe, to having owned its Indian franchise to now. Returning back to Manila this time as a judge at the 65th Miss Universe pageant! "To all my Filipino friends who have been graciously asking. I can now confirm... Yes, I am coming!" The event will take place at the Mall of Asia Arena, Pasay, Metro Manila, Philippines. Roshmitha Harimurthy will represent India at the contest.

This is how Jimmy Kimmel complimented Priyanka Chopra!

riyanka Chopra made on an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live! yesterday to promote the return of her show Quantico. Her show will return to TV every Tuesday from January 24 onwards only on Star World and Star World HD. Priyanka who plays the role of Alex Parrish on Quantico, spoke about her concussion, her experience of working in New York and the euphoria of winning a People's Choice Award for the second time on Jimmy Kimmel Live. Kimmel complimented Priyanka Chopra and admitted that she really smelt good. While talking to Jimmy, she praised New York and revealed that she felt at home in the city. The first season of Quantico was shot at Montreal and then shifted to NYC for the second season. Speaking about how the experience of shooting there is, she said, "I love New York. First of Source: IANS all its really close to home for me, it’s a 14

hour flight which is really close to home for me. It’s like taking a cab, it’s good. That is amazing, the food is incredible, the spirit of New York is great and plus you can put a camera anywhere, it’s a beautiful set, so picturesque." But she also said, "Yes I live in Mumbai, I mean I work for 9 months in a year in America but I still live in Mumbai, I like to say that." Kimmel was at his hilarious best, goading the actress to reveal if she knew that she was going to win the award for the second time, but Priyanka dodged the bullet and joked, "I am just going to go (to the awards) every year, I'll go every year just in case." As quick witted as Kimmel is, Priyanka kept the audience in splits with her charming personality, watch the actress give it right back to Kimmel tomorrow on Jimmy Kimmel live at 11PM only on Star World and Star World HD. Source: DNA

'Dangal' mints over Rs 375 crore in India ‘Star Trek: Discovery’ to feature Spock’s father Sarek

ollywood superstar Aamir Khans sports drama "Dangal" which has already garnered the "highest grosser of Hindi cinema" is going strong at theatres even after four weeks since its release. The film had raked in Rs 376.14 crore at the domestic box office till Friday. The Nitesh Tiwari di-

rectorial, which released on December 23 last year, has become the first Bollywood film to cross the Rs 375 crore mark after collecting Rs 1.19 crore on its fifth Friday in theatres, read a statement issued on behalf of the makers. "Dangal" is based on the life of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat. It has been

lauded by the audiences for its powerful portrayal of the story of Phogat, who, much to the disapproval of his wife and his whole village, trained his daughters Geeta and Babita to wrestle. Apart from Aamir, the film features Fatima Sana Shaikh, Sanya Malhotra and Sakshi Tanwar. Source: IANS

Natalie Portman to write film during maternity leave

C M Y K

ctress Natalie Portman, who is expecting her second child with husband Benjamin Millepied, says she is going to use her maternity leave to write a new film. Portman is due to give birth in few weeks. The Oscar winner is going to take a break from acting to focus on her new baby, but she also wants to use that time off to create a big screen project which she can direct. "I will be having some

maternity leave. I need to write, to take some time, get a little focus," Portman, who previously directed 2015 drama film "A Tale of Love and Darkness", told theguardian.com. Portman is determined to use her craft to promote feminism in the world and thinks it's "crazy" that there are not more "women's voices" being heard in films. "Every year it's exclusively male-directed, written and filmed movies

that we're talking about in awards season. Not that men shouldn't be making films. I love watching men's films. It's just crazy that there is such a minority of women's voices out there," she said. "If someone notices that there's only one woman at the table they need to make a change. Or if they notice that there are no minorities getting prominent roles in film they need to make a change," she added.

pcoming American TV series Star Trek: Discovery will feature Spock's father, Sarek as an important character. In the wake of this development, the premier of the CBS All-Access show currently stands delayed. The series was initially dated to air in May this year, reported Entertainment Weekly. This is the second time the debut date of the date has changed. Sarek's is the first character to get on board the new series, who has appeared previously in the Trek franchise. Actor James Frain, who played mayor Theo Galavan (aka Azrael) on Fox's Gotham recently has been cast for the role, sources say. The series will start shooting in Toronto next week.

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Case filed against Swami Om, Salman Khan and Colors CEO for obscenity

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alman Khan- hosted show Bigg Boss 10 and its ex-contestant Swami Om has made news once again. Now, a case has been filed against the actor, the self-acclaimed godman and CEO of Colors TV Raj Nayak for promoting obscenity and hurting religious sentiments. The case was lodged in the court of chief judicial magistrate of Bareilly on January 18, Wednesday. According to a report in Hindustan Times, lawyer Anil Dwivedi has said in his complaint that the reality show is promoting obscenity, use of foul language and is responsible for hurting the sentiments of Hindu community. The lawyer has also blamed the actor and the CEO of the channel. “He (Swami Om) was shown consuming meat while wearing that dress thus demeaning the importance of saints in the Hindu religion,” reads the complainant as quoted in the report. The complainant has

Presents requested the court to register a criminal case against all three of them. CJM Kusumlata Rathore has set February 13 as the date for hearing of the case. Bigg Boss season 10 has unapologetically kept itself in the news, and this time for all the bad reasons, all thanks to Swami Om and Priyanka Jagga. Interestingly, this case has been registered right after Salman was acquitted in Arms Act case by a Jodhpur court. Swami, on the other hand, has been making news every day by releasing new statements about Bigg Boss show and Salman Khan. His latest comment in an interview reads that he would “break Salman Khan’s bones” on the finale of Bigg Boss season 10. For now, the channel has not issued any statement about this development and Salman was also unavailable to make comment on it. Source: Indian Express

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SUNDAY 22•01•2017

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Ageless Nadal outlasts teen at Aus Open, Serena cruises

[LEFT] Spain's Rafael Nadal celebrates. (Reuters Photo) [CENTER] Alexander Zverev in action during the Men's singles third round match against Nadal at the Rod Laver Arena. (Tennis Australia) [RIGHT] Serena Williams in action. (Tennis Australia)

Melbourne, January 21 (aFP): Rafael Nadal's ageing legs outlasted German teenager Alexander Zverev in an epic five sets as Serena Williams sailed into the last 16 at the Australian Open on Saturday. Nadal needed all his trademark grit against Zverev, 19, dubbed "the future of tennis", and his superior fitness told as he ground out a thrilling 4-6, 6-3, 6-7 (5/7), 6-3, 6-2 win. Germany's Zverev looked in discomfort as he won a punishing 37shot rally nearly four hours into their contest as Nadal, still full of running, pressed his advantage in the final set. C M Y K

It means Nadal, 30, follows fellow veteran Roger Federer into the last 16 of a contest now missing defending champion Novak Djokovic after his stunning defeat to Denis Istomin. "Everybody knows how good Alexander is," said Nadal, who will play France's Gael Monfils in the fourth round. "He's the future of our sport, and the present." Williams, by contrast, had no such trouble as she brushed off fellow American Nicole Gibbs 6-1, 6-3 to maintain her charge towards a 23rd Grand Slam title. Williams, back after an injury

State-level ‘Khelo India’ at IG Stadium from Jan 23 KohiMa, January 21 (Mexn): A two day long state level Khelo India will start from January 23 at Hockey Ground, Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima under the aegis of the Department of Youth Resources & Sports, Nagaland. National footballer Shankhi Konyak will administer oath to the participating teams at the inaugural. The tournament will be marked by football, volleyball, table tennis and badminton Under-14 & 17 years for both boys and girls. The winners will represent the state at the forthcoming national level Khelo India in Chennai this year.

Sania, Bopanna win in mixed doubles first round

Melbourne, January 21 (ianS): India's Sania Mirza and Rohan Bopanna won their mixed doubles first round matches at the Australian Open tennis tournament here on Saturday. Bopanna and his Canadian partner Gabriela Dabrowski battled past New Zealand's Michael Venus and Slovakian Katarina Srebotnik 6-4, 6-7, 10-7 in a super tie-breaker. Second seeded Sania and Croatian Ivan Dodig defeated Germany's Laura Siegemund and Croatian Mate Pavic 7-5, 6-4.

I-League: Lajong beat Minerva Shillong, January 21 (ianS): Local boy Rupert Nongrum and new Cameroonian striker Aser Dipanda Dicka scored a goal each as Shillong Lajong FC registered their first points with a 2-1 victory over Minerva Punjab FC here on Saturday. Loveday Okechukwu reduced the margin for Punjab moments before the final whistle. It was Shillong's first home match of the tournament and they used their advantage to jump up to the seventh position in the points table. Rupert scored his first I-League goal in the 17th minute. He was later rewarded for a fine performance with the Man of the Match award. The second goal was scored in the 42nd minute when Minerva defender Loveday Okechukwu failed to clear the ball and the resulting skewed clearance fell nicely into the path of Dicka who did the rest. Loveday made up for his first half mistake by netting with a fierce shot in the second minute of added time to reduce Punjab's deficit. Lajong's next game is against Mumbai FC on January 28. In Pune, Churchill Brothers FC recorded their first points with a 1-1 draw away at DSK Shivajians. The home side took the lead in the first-half, on 21 minutes through Korean forward Kim Song Yong. But a late 86th-minute header from Adil Ahmed Khan levelled the scoreline.

break at the end of 2016, has been in brilliant form and she will take some stopping as she zeroes in on Steffi Graf's Open-era record. The next player to take on Williams will be Barbora Strycova, who ousted France's Caroline Garcia to earn a shot at the world number two. "Obviously I'm here for one reason," said Williams, who again lifted her index finger in celebration at her victory, symbolising the number one. "But at the end of the day, this is all bonus for me and I look forward to

playing (Strycova). I'm ready for her." Elsewhere 117th-ranked Istomin built on his win over Djokovic by beating Pablo Carreno Busta 6-4, 4-6, 6-4, 4-6, 6-2 to reach the last 16 for the first time. David Goffin halted towering Croatian Ivo Karlovic, who won a tournament-record 84-game match in the first round, to set up a clash against Austrian eighth seed Dominic Thiem. "I was ready to fight until midnight if I had to," grinned the Belgian. Roberto Bautista Agut ousted fellow Spaniard David Ferrer 7-5, 6-7

(6/8), 7-6 (7/3), 6-4 and will next play third seed Milos Raonic, who beat Gilles Simon 6-2, 7-6 (7/5), 3-6, 6-3. In the women's draw, Britain's Johanna Konta maintained her sizzling form with a dominant 6-3, 6-1 victory over former world number one Caroline Wozniacki. "Against someone like Caroline, she's not going to give it to you. You really do have to earn it and win it till the very last point. I'm just very happy I was able to keep that pressure on," said the ninth seed. Konta's prize is a round-of-16 rematch with Russia's Ekaterina

Makarova, whom she edged at the same stage last year, going 8-6 in the final set. Makarova, seeded 30, beat sixth seed Dominika Cibulkova in a three set marathon. Mirjana Lucic-Baroni, who hadn't won an Australian Open match since 1998 before this year, extended her fairytale run by beating Greece's Maria Sakkari 3-6, 6-2, 6-3. Next up for the 34-year-old Croatian, who put her career on hold to flee her abusive father, is American qualifier Jennifer Brady, who upset 14th seed Elena Vesnina.

Liverpool title challenge dented by Swansea sensation liverPool, January 21 (reuTerS): Liverpool were on the end of the biggest sensation of the Premier League season when bottom club Swansea City repelled a dramatic comeback from Juergen Klopp's title chasers to earn their first-ever league win at Anfield on Saturday. The Welsh strugglers leapt out of the bottom three with a quite extraordinary win that stunned Liverpool fans who had not seen their side lose a home league match there since defeat by Manchester United a year ago. Spanish international Fernando Llorente was the hero in Swansea's first league victory under new manager Paul Clement, toe-poking the ball home two minutes after halftime and heading home another five minutes later. After Roberto Firmino had dragged Liverpool back into the game with two superb goals, it seemed wholly unlikely that the visitors could survive the onslaught until the ball broke for Gylfi Sigurdsson to slot home their 74th minute winner.

Rooney breaks Man United scoring record in draw at Stoke

SToKe, January 21 (reuTerS): Wayne Rooney curled home a superb free kick deep into injury time to become Manchester United's all time leading goalscorer and give his side a 1-1 draw against Stoke City in their Premier League clash on Saturday. Stoke went ahead in the 19th minute following a quick counter-attack when Manchester United's Juan Mata steered Erik Pieters' Liverpool's Roberto Firmino scores their second goal. (Reuters Photo) cross-shot from a tight anThis was the first of four comed back Philippe and the nearest to a first- gle into his own goal. Jose Mourinho's side games at Anfield in three Coutinho for his first league half goal was when Carroll, separate competitions start since November, dom- signed from Tottenham over the rest of the month inated proceedings from Hotspur in midweek, saw that will do much to shape the opening minutes but his shot from a narrow an- Wijnaldum's looped cross Liverpool's season and found Clement's side, in- gle deflect off Dejan Lovren on his chest before half-volleying home a thunderous both Klopp and his bench cluding new signings Tom and strike the post. Still, there was no sign left-foot strike. looked crestfallen. Carroll and Martin Olsson, With Anfield baying of the drama immediately "We came back and compact and organised. for a comeback winner, after halftime when Llorplayed really good and the Emre Can should have most disappointing mo- done better with a free ente struck twice, his sec- it seemed just a matter of time but when Carroll ment was the third goal. header from Jordan Hen- ond after 52 minutes be- made a rare foray towards I have no explanation for derson's pinpoint delivery ing a magnificent, soaring the heart of Liverpool's this," Klopp told BT Sport, and Adam Lallana bal- header from Carroll's cross. defence, the ball fell kindly Liverpool roared back, for Sigurdsson and the feeling that Sigurdsson looned an extravagant midFirmino heading in James Icelander was typically cool should never have been al- air volley high. lowed the freedom of the Yet for all of Liverpool's Milner's 55th minute cross with his precision finish. domination of possession, and then producing subbox. Liverpool came Liverpool, who wel- these were rare openings lime skill to take Georginio desperately close to

squandered plenty of chances to equalise, with Mata spurning a superb chance to redeem himself by sending Zlatan Ibrahimovic's pass over with the goal at his mercy. United won a free kick deep into stoppage time and Rooney curled it spectacularly into the top corner to notch his 250th goal for the Red Devils, breaking Bobby Charlton's previous record. United host Hull in their next game, while Stoke are also at home, where they will face Everton. equalising when Lallana's deflected shot hit the bar and his follow-up header flew over but this was a dreadful setback for a team that has lost momentum, having won just one of its last six matches in all competitions.

Scores:

West Brom 2-0 Sunderland Crystal Palace 0-1 Everton M'brough 1-3 West Ham Bournemouth 2-2 Watford

Ramos sinks Malaga as Real increase lead at top

barCelona, January 21 (reuTerS): Sergio Ramos made amends for his untimely own goal last week at Sevilla by scoring twice as Real Madrid bounced back from two successive defeats by beating Malaga 2-1 on Saturday to go four points clear at the top of La Liga. The Real Madrid captain headed his side in front in the 35th minute by powering Toni Kroos' outswinging corner beyond Carlos Kameni and struck again in the 43rd by sliding in a free kick from his German team mate from close range to net his third goal in four games. It was the perfect response from the Spain international six days after putting through his own net against Sevilla and inadvertently helping his former side win 2-1 to halt Zinedine Zidane's side's remarkable 40-game unbeaten run. Ramos has now scored six league goals this term, bettering his previous record of five in a season with still half the campaign to go. Cristiano Ronaldo had a frustrating outing as he struck the post and was twice denied by Kameni, who almost committed an embarrassing error when he allowed a back pass to trickle through his legs but managed to scramble it away before it crossed the line. Real lead the standings on 43 points, four clear of Sevilla and five ahead of champions Barcelona, having played 18 games. Barca visit Eibar on Sunday while Sevilla travel to Osasuna Real have a game in hand on their two closest rivals. Published, Printed and Edited by Dr. Aküm Longchari from House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur at Themba Printers and Morung Publications , Padum Pukhuri Village, Dimapur, Nagaland. RNI No : NAGENG /2005/15430. House No.4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur 797112, Nagaland. Phone: Dimapur -(03862) 248854, Fax: (03862) 235194, Kohima - (0370) 2291952

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