March 10th, 2017 by The Morung Express

C M Y K

www.morungexpress.com

FriDAY • MArch 10 • 2017

DIMAPUR • Vol. XII • Issue 66 • 12 PAGes • 5

T H e

ESTD. 2005

P o W e R

Swift as the wind. Quiet as the forest. Conquer like the fire. Steady as the mountain Exit polls predict BJP win in states; loss in Punjab

‘Clean election may be the only solution’

PAGE 08

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

MUMbAI, MARCH 9 (IANS): The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Thursday said it will shortly issue new Rs 10 denomination currency notes, while clarifying that the old Rs 10 notes will also remain valid. “The Reserve Bank of India will shortly issue Rs 10 denomination banknotes in the Mahatma Gandhi Series-2005 with inset letter ‘L’ in both the number panels, bearing the signature of Urjit R. Patel, Governor, Reserve Bank of India, and the year of printing ‘2017’ printed on the reverse of the banknote,” a release issued by the apex bank said. “All the banknotes in the denomination of Rs 10 issued by the bank (RBI) in the past will continue to be legal tender,” it clarified.

Unscheduled power interruptions DIMAPUR, MARCH 9 (MExN): All the consumers under Medziphema, Jharnapani, New Chumukedima, Pherima, Piphema, Peducha and Sechu areas are informed that due to the ongoing relocation of electric poles, which has been necessitated by 4-lannning road works between Dimapur and Kohima, there would be unscheduled power interruptions during working hours from time to time. Electrical Division, Chumukedima Executive Engineer, Kasho Chishi in a press note informed that this will continue till the completion of the relocation works. “While all efforts are being made to minimize power interruptions, consumers and the public are requested to kindly cooperate with the Department for completing the works smoothly,” the Executive Engineer added.

15th NLA session from March 21

C M Y K

KoHIMA, MARCH 9 (MExN): The 15th session of to 12th Nagaland Legislative Assembly is tentatively scheduled from March 21-30, the NLA Secretariat official informed today. It was decided at a Business Advisory Committee meeting held under the Chairmanship of Imtikumzuk, the Deputy Speaker of NLA to finalize provisional programme for the ensuing 15th Session of 12th Assembly, informed a press release from Commissioner and Secretary N Benjamin Newmai. It holds great significance as several important issues will be taken up during the session. Among others, it will include the Chief Minister’s Vote of Confidences; presentation of C&AG Report; Annual Administrative Report; introduction of new bills, if any; and the annual budget presentation. The Assembly will also elect the new NLA Speaker during the ensuing session.

Barcelona pull off the mother of all comebacks PAGE 12

cambridge Uni exhibition Nagaland CM meets JCC showcases naga artifacts & NTAC, urges dialogue Dimapur | March 9

RBI to issue new Rs 10 notes, old ones to remain valid

T R u T H

— Sun Tzu

PAGE 02

Morung Express News

Ok mates. Let’s take an hour break to discuss the 33% reservation.

o F

An ongoing exhibition at Cambridge University in England is attempting to give voice to marginalized communities from India, among them the Naga people. On display since March 8, the ‘Another India’ exhibition at the Cambridge University’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA) showcases hundreds of objects from the Museum’s historic collections as well as newlycommissioned works from contemporary sculptors. Among the objects going on display are a headhunters skull, pieces of the Taj Mahal and a snakecharmer’s flute. The collection of Naga exhibits include a ‘headtaker’s skull,’ which the description says “was worn on the chest by a Konyak warrior who had captured an enemy head.” The monkey skull, with red, white and black hair woven into the crown, was collected by JH Hutton, Deputy Commissioner of Assam (then including the Naga Hills) and later a Professor of Anthropology at Cambridge, who put it in a glass jar and kept it in his office until he retired. The collection also includes photos of Naga men in their 80s and 90s displaying their tattooed faces and bodies.

(TOP) A head-hunter’s skull from Nagaland. It was worn on the chest by a Konyak warrior who had captured an enemy head. (University of Cambridge) (RIGHT) Image of a Naga man displaying his tattooed face that is part of the ‘Another India’ exhibition at the University of Cambridge’s Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology that focuses on India’s most marginalized communities. (University of Cambridge)

‘Another India’ tells the stories behind a remarkable collection of artifacts while confronting headon the role played by Empire and colonialism in the gathering together of this material. The exhibition also features 23 works acquired by its curator Mark Elliott, using a New Collecting Award from Art Fund. “This is an exhibition about the India – or the many Indias – that most people in the UK don’t know,” said Mark Elliott. “It’s about 100 million people of Indigenous or Adivasi backgrounds who are marginalised by majority populations and the state.

It’s an exhibition about identity, diversity and belonging; and the role that objects play in creating a sense of who we are.” “These are issues that affect all of us, particularly now when Identity – who we are, where we come from and where we belong – is being fought over here in Britain. Another important story is how these things came to Cambridge in the first place. Many of the artefacts were acquired through colonialism: sometimes fair exchanges, sometimes gifts, sometimes not. This is about legacies of empire for people in the UK and India,” he

added. ‘Another India’ is the centre piece of the University’s wider celebrations entitled India Unboxed. To mark the UK-India Year of Culture 2017, the University of Cambridge Museums and Botanic Garden, are hosting a shared season on the theme of India with a programme of exhibitions, events, digital encounters, discussions, installations and more within the museums and the city of Cambridge. Rooted in the Cambridge collections, the programme will explore themes of identity and connectivity for audiences in both the UK and India.

DIMAPUR, MARCH 9 (MExN): Nagaland Chief Minister, Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu today met members of the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) and the Nagaland Tribes Action Committee (NTAC) for dialogue to resolve misunderstandings, saying that he “believes any kind of misunderstanding or difference can be resolved only through discussions and free and frank deliberations.” A press note from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) informed that the CM interacted with a 4-member delegation of the NTAC/ JCC led by NTAC Co-convenor Neivor Rutsa and JCC Co-convenor Vekhosayi Nyekha, who called on him this morning to submit a memorandum. The Nagaland CM said as leaders, “all of us do things we believe are best for our people and society” and that if any mistakes have been committed, free and frank discussions should be held to reach better understanding among all stakeholders so that leaders can continue to contribute to the society at large. “There is no reason why we together cannot solve problems,” he said and appealed to the leaders to be “more patient, more steady and solve differences through dialogue.” Assuring that his government would do whatever is in the best interests of the people, the Chief Minister said “nobody

Alert sounded to prevent violence in Assam

GUwAHAtI, MARCH 9 (PtI): Assam police today sounded an alert across the state to prevent violence following the attack on the office of All Assam Students Union (AASU) in Dhemaji district and set up a SIT to investigate the incident. “We have sounded an alert and are determined to strictly stop any violence following the incident. If required, we will do it ruthlessly,” Assam Director General of Police Mukesh Sahay told reporters here. The attack was allegedly carried out by Nikhil Bharat Bengali Udbastu Samanvay Samiti (NBBUSS) on March 6 and protests by various organisations erupted across the state following the incident. The special investigating team (SIT) is headed

24-hour Assam bandh on March 10

DIbRUGARH, MARCH 8 (MExN): A 24 hour Assam bandh has been called on March 10, starting 5:00am. The bandh has been called by the Dibrugarh District Committee members of Tai Ahom Students’ Union (TASU) , Sutia Students’ Union (SSU), Gorkha Students’ Union (GSU) , Koch Rajbongshi Students’ Union (KRSU), Adivasi Students’ Union (ASU), Brihattar Axomiya Yuba Mancha ( BAYM) and various other organizations in protest against the Silapathar incident and in demand for the arrest of the mastermind. In a press release , the organizations besides demanding constitutional safeguard to the indigenous people of the State, informed that for the ongoing HSLC and Higher Secondary exams, all educational institutions including transport and essential services had been kept out from the purview of the bandh. by CID Senior Superintendent of Police Raja Martandan and will investigate the incident, he said adding anyone found guilty will be firmly dealt with as per law. “We will ensure a thorough and impartial investigation into all aspects of the incident, particularly the antecedents of the organisation that held the meeting at Silapathar which led to the violence,” Sahay said.

The situation, he said, has been brought under control by senior officials camping at the site and additional security reinforcements who were rushed there. Fourteen companies of Assam Police battalion along with 80 additional constables have been deployed in Silapathar, where the AASU office is located, while some companies of

Nagaland CM claims ‘perfect harmony’ within NPF & DAN

DIMAPUR, MARCH 9 (MExN): Nagaland State Chief Minister, TR Zeliang today asked the Congress party leaders to “exhibit their maturity in their statements.” The CM said this in response to recent statements by the NPCC, which the former termed as making “a mountain out of a molehill when party legislators had expressed their sympathies with the former Chief Minister who had to vacate his seat for the sake of peace and harmony in the society.” Claiming that there is “complete understanding and perfect harmony amongst the NPF and DAN Legislature Parties,” the CM viewed that “no individuals or political parties should try to create misunderstanding and

confusion in the minds of the general public.” “Unlike the Congress party which is used to have someone calling the shots from behind the Prime Minister as the world witnessed in the UPA regimes, the DAN Government is absolutely clear who the Chief Minister is and what his roles and responsibilities are, and there is no question of a dual Chief Minister in the State,” he stated. Regarding accusations of “bankruptcy of leaders in the NPF party,” the CM said the Congress “would do better if it were to look into its own party organization which is now devoid of most of the party stalwarts who had deserted the sinking ship and have now formed a new political party.”

paramilitary forces have been shifted from Jorhat and North Lakhimpur to Silapathar. “The army too has been kept on standby and their help will be sought in case of need,” the DGP said. Sahay said deputy commissioners have been directed to cancel all meetings and rallies of NBBUSS scheduled to be held in their respective districts.

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has already announced an inquiry by Additional Chief Secretary V B Pyarelal and directed him to submit the report within a month. NBBUSS members and supporters had on March 6 organised a meeting at Silapathar demanding Indian citizenship for Hindu migrants from Bangladesh. After the meeting its members took out a procession and then allegedly attacked an AASU office near NH15(B), ransacked and damaged its furniture and injured three members of the students union. Protests by different organisations have erupted across the state following the attack, the AASU and Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chatra Parishad being in the forefront.

gained out of the unpleasant developments in the recent past. Confrontations with our own people do not benefit anyone and the Government exercised maximum restraint.” The CM further called upon the JCC/NTAC leaders to “refrain from harbouring negative feelings” and to come forward for more discussions about “what will be good for the Naga society.” Reminding the leaders that the population of Nagaland is not even the size of a single colony in metropolitan cities, the Chief Minister suggested that Nagas should “learn to live together as a people and a family” rather than segregating ourselves into different communities and organisations. “Politics can be dirty at times, and some may take advantage of situations some times,” he said, according to the CMO press release, but reminded the leaders that “we ourselves can solve our problems and not by others.” Repeal or amend Nagaland Municipal Act, demands NTAC, JCC The Nagaland Tribes Action Committee (NTAC) and the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) have written to the Nagaland State Chief Minister, Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu reiterating their demand for the amendment or repeal of the Nagaland Municipal Act 2001.

A letter appended by NTAC President, KT Vilie and JCC Convener, Supu Jamir stated that Nagaland has been passing through a period of unrest and turmoil for the last many days, which it said emanated out of the holding of Urban Local Bodies elections leading to the loss of lives and causing huge loss to the Government. “All such occurrence of unpleasant situations is the by-product of holding ULB elections against the wishes of the people,” it said. The letter pointed out that the existing Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001 is “nothing but a bag of borrowings from other municipal laws which do not suit the cultural and social practices of the Nagas.” “We all know that the issue is very delicate but needs remedial measures so as to have a sound and comprehensive legislation to suit with the system applicable in Nagaland,” it said. The NTAC and the JCC stated: “it is deemed fit and appropriate to request your authority to constitute a Committee/ Law Commission consisting of eminent persons and experts in the field to examine for amendment/repeal of the Nagaland Municipal Act, 2001 at an early date preferably within a period of three months.” Till such steps are taken, the organisations felt it would not be appropriate to hold the ULB elections in Nagaland “in the best interest of all concerned.”

STSU opposes transfer of Hindi teacher from GMS (A) Shamator

DIMAPUR, MARCH 9 (MExN): The Shamator Town Students’ Union (STSU) has written to the Director of School Education calling for the nullification of the proposed transfer of the Hindi teacher at Government Middle School (GMS) Station ‘A’ Shamator Town. The STSU, in its representation, said that earlier the GMS Station ‘A’ at Shamator was deprived of its due share “as the department had never done redeployment against the transfer of teachers from the said school earlier. Thereby, the school was compelled to undergo numerous untold problems of shortage in terms of human resources.” The STSU opposed the

transfer of teachers from educational institutions under Shamator Town without their immediate reliever. It asked that the proposed transfer of the Hindi teacher be nullified or a reliever be re deployed in the greater interest of the student community. “Lethargy (if found) on the part of the concerned authority and failing to meet the demand as contained in this representation shall be treated as a direct challenge to the students community,” it cautioned, while further stating that the STSU “shall be compelled to protect and safeguard the interest of the students community through any means of appropriate and befitting democratic protest.”

NGBF for ‘separate political dialogue’ with NNPGs of Nagaland State DIMAPUR, MARCH 9 (MExN): The Nagaland GBs Federation (NGBF) held a meeting with the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) Working Group on March 9 in Dimapur, resolving that “Naga nation building must begin earnestly” and that “a separate political dialogue must be initiated between the Government of India and the NNPGs of present Nagaland State for an acceptable and honourable solution for mainland Nagas.” This was stated in a joint statement appended by NGBF President, I Shalem Konyak; General Secretary, Shikuto Zalipu; N Kitovi Zhimomi, Ato Kilonser, GPRN/NSCN; V Nagi, General Secretary, NNC-Parent Body and Wangtin Naga, President, NSCN (R). The statement informed that this aforesaid resolution was

Dignitaries who attended the meeting held between the Nagaland GBs Federation and the NNPGs Working Group in Dimapur on March 9.

made having “understood the official position of the Government of India that the issue of integration is not possible at a present time and juncture.”

The ultimate desire of the Naga people, it said, “is to live and progress as free and independent people and until such a time arrives, a solution for main-

land Nagas will go a long way in strengthening the Naga identity, preserve and promote emotional integration among Nagas and Myanmar.

FriDAY 10•03•2017

NAGALAND

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

‘Clean election may be the only solution’ NLSF campaigN For ‘Fair eLectioN’ takeS oFF

Phesama, march 9 (mexN): Following up the Nagaland Law Students’ Federation (NLSF) campaign for ‘fair election’ launched on February 2, the first drive was conducted at Phesama Village on March 7. Nagaland Voluntary Consumers’ Organisation (NVCO), President Kezhokhoto Savi as guest speaker highlighted the importance of ‘clean election’ with an earnest appeal to practice ‘one man one vote’. Savi stat-

ed that ‘Clean Election’ may be the only solution and the best opportunity is the forth coming State General Assembly Election. “In the context of Nagaland, our leaders are to be blame for weakening our economy and promoting inequality where richer are becoming richer and the poor are becoming poorer. Our leaders are fighting for leadership amongst themselves, continually indulging in illegal appoint-

ments, promoting scam, nepotism, delay payment of monthly salary to its employee, favouritism, corruption, wrong diversion

of public funds meant for development, deduction of commission such as minister/secretary, party fund, etc,” said Savi. NLSF President informed that the object of launching the fair election campaign is mainly for fair conduct of election in the forth coming Nagaland State Assembly Election 2018. The official of NLSF representing each district in Nagaland shared their experiences of the conduct

of election in the past. A press release stated that the campaign was participated by several of its members led by the chairman of Phesama Village Council and G.Bs, President of Phesama Youth Society, the Chairperson of Phesama Women Society and the President of Phesama Students’ Union. NLSF is promoting this campaign through All India Radio, Kohima talk and TV (DDK) live telecast.

CBSE ExamS 2017: Class 12 students sitting for the all India Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) board exams at Hollotoli School, Dimapur, on Thursday. The examination for class 12 under CBSE commenced on march 9 while class 10 exams (external) will start on march 10. all over the country, a total of 19,85,397 students from Classes 10 and 12 have registered for the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) board exams this year. Of them, 8,86,506 are from class 10 and 10,98,891 are from class 12. (Morung Photo)

Negpa scheme to address needs of farming community

Kohima, march 9 (mexN): Two day training cum workshop on NeGPA application and services on March 9 and 10 at National Institute of Electronic and Information Technology was organised by the Department of Agriculture under National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture (NeGPA). Nosezole Zao, Joint Director of Agriculture during her speech mentioned that the Government of India approved the centrally sponsored scheme NeGP-A during 2014-15 for Nagaland following which the Department of Agriculture officially launch it on July 29, 2015, and over the year of imple-

mentation the nodal department has setup sites and installation of Hardwares in 52 sites under Agriculture, Horticulture and Fisheries Department for service delivery to the farmers. She stated that, NeGPA is a scheme which aims to address the needs of the farming community and its stakeholders, through provision of relevant information and services through the various delivery channels, at present the services that are currently available for farmers to get information can be availed through link www.farmer.gov.in. This training cum workshop aims to upgrade the

Section of participants attending the ongoing training cum workshop on NeGPa application and services on march 9.

IT skills of the Officials and functionaries involve under NeGPA and called on all the participants to take advantage of this programme and to equip themselves with necessary

IT skill and work towards the implementation of the programme. She called upon the participants present to learn and interact, to take this programme seriously and take advantage of

NeGPA scheme for service delivery to the farmers. A press note on the event stated that the resource person for two days training cum workshop programme is A Morimenba Amer, Dy Director/ Scientist 'C' and Alongla Aier Pr Consultant, SPMU-Nagaland. The inaugural programme was chaired by Letkholal Hangshing, Joint Director of Agriculture and programme Officer NeGPA and vote of thanks was proposed by Kitoho Michael Swu, Agriculture Officer. The participating department for two days training programme are Agriculture, Horticulture and Fisheries.

along with the rest of the country the all India Secondary School Examination (aISSE) for ClassX and All India Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (AISSCE) for Class-XII under the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) got underway at Livingstone Foundation Hr. Sec. School, Dimapur from march 9. LFHSS is one of the CBSE Examination Centres of Dimapur. according to the Centre Superintendent of LFHSS Centre, andrew ahoto, a total of 220 candidates appeared for the National Level Board Examinations which was conducted smoothly.

Sakhi – One Stop Centre reaches out to women and children

DimaPur, march 9 ment was launched in Na(mexN): Sakhi – One Stop galand on June 2016. It proCentre, Dimapur, in col- vides free legal aid service, laboration with CHILD- police assistance, medical LINE, Dimapur organised support and psycho-social a community awareness support to women affected programme with the by violence. The centre is lotheme #BeBoldforChange cated near the District Hoson International Women’s pital, Dimapur. CHILDLINE Centre Day. The programme was organised for women and Coordinator also shared children at Chettywary on CHILDLINE 1098, a Colony, Westyard and Helpline outreach service (24 x 7) for children in Women and children with the Sakhi – One Stop Centre team at Chettywary Colony, Dimapur Grace Colony, Dimapur. Centre Administrator, need of Care and Protec- during the programme held on march 8. Residents of anitet Colony, Lengrijan in Dimapur undertake road soiling and stone gravelling in their colony on Thursday. The residents contributed money within its members to Sakhi – One Stop Centre tion. The services provided being has a right but WomSakhi- One stop Centre here at their doorstep. undertake the work. (Morung Photo) This was stated in a briefed the gathering on are Emotional Support and en and Children being more and CHILDLINE are some the services provided by the Guidance, Shelter, Restora- vulnerable the constitution of these provisions there- press release issued by Centre. The One Stop Centre, tion, Assists Missing Cases, of India has Created Legis- fore she urged the women Weri-u Mero, Centre Adan initiative of the Ministry of Abuse etc. She also men- lation and Provisions to pro- to come forward and avail ministrator, One Stop Centhese services which are tre- Sakhi, Dimapur. Women and Child develop- tioned that every human tect their rights. Kohima, march 9 (mexN): The de- minded the officers and staffs of the department of Sericulture organized farewell partment to carry forward the good legacy programme on March 9 in honour of the of the outgoing Director and also welcome outgoing Director Chandan Basera, who the incoming Director, Imtisosang Ao. In his farewell speech, Chandan Basera retired on February 28 after serving 35 yrs of public service. The programme was gave a brief account of his service life, chal- PheK, march 9 (mexN): A source person and his team. ing. “Every child is a unique individ- taught the teachers the various methblessed by the presences of E.E Pangteang lenges, experiences and achievements he combined ‘Teachers’ Animation On the first day, the resource ual who needs a special attention ods and practical techniques of class Konyak, Parliamentary Secretary, Sericul- had in the department. With his theme of Programme’ for the teachers of St. person enabled the teachers to re- and can’t be compared to anyone room management. He highlight‘Service before Self’ he impressed upon ture, Home Guards & Civil Defence. John School Razeba and St. Joseph alize who a teacher is and what she/ else…A compassionate teacher not ed the importance of lesson plan, C.M Tsanglao, IAS, Secretary, Sericul- the officers and staffs to work consistently School Zhavame was conducted he ought to be, informed a press only inspires but also creates an op- which he said is a powerful means to fulfill the missions with patriotism, sacture, while wishing the outgoing Director on March 7 and 8 with Rev. Fr. Filex release from Fr. James Sangtam. portunity for the students to come that equips teacher to make his/her a healthy and long happy retired life, re- rifice and professional excellence. Monteiro SJ, Principal of St. Paul Quoting the words of Rabindranath out with flying colours,” he added. teaching effective. He also reminded Institute of Education, Phesama as Tagore, “Teacher is a lamp who “The children learn by imitating the teachers that their lifestyle should burns himself and lights,” Rev. Fr. you, so teacher has to set a role be a channel of inspiration. the resource person. Altogether, 30 teachers parFr. James Sangtam on behalf of Filex said that a true teacher is like a model for every child,” Rev. Fr. Filex ticipated in the Animation Prothe management gave a brief in- mother who inspires and accompa- told the teachers. On the second day, Rev. Fr. Filex gramme. troduction and welcomed the re- nies a child in their journey of learn-

Sericulture dept bids farewell to outgoing Director

Combined ‘Teachers’ Animation Programme’ conducted

CS takes stock of offices affected by Feb 2 fire incident Kohima, march 9 (DiPr): A meeting was held on March 8 under the chairmanship of Nagaland Chief Secretary, Pankaj Kumar IAS at the Secretariat Conference hall Kohima for offices, departments and organisations affected by the fire incident at Kohima on February 2. The Chief Secretary in his address informed that the objective of the meeting was to take stock of the situation for the offices that have suffered damage during the incident. He expressed his concern over the issue and lamented on the extent of damages incurred in the incident. The Chief Secretary also informed about the Government’s proposal and to sanction some funds to help them stating that emergency measures were being taken up by the State government. He said that in many cases there is requirement of fund for the offices to allow functioning again. In this regard, he also said that the State Finance Department has earmarked some amount of fund to meet the most urgent requirement for the affected offices so as to allow them to function early. The affected offices, departments and organisations shared their problems faced by them. All affected offices are on the process of emergency shifting and accommodation where some are to shift to the Directorates, some to shift to some suitable place or house on rent basis until things are sorted out and some are still on the process of finalization. Nevertheless, the Chief Secretary requested all the offices, departments and organisations to get accommodated for normal functioning of office at the earliest in order to deliver services to the citizens. The State Urban Department, Planning Department and other line departments would be in coordination for the accommodation to be made at Capital Convention Centre and others as stated by the Chief Secretary. The Commissioner of Nagaland and the Deputy Commissioner Kohima are also in coordination to accommodate various departments. Departments functional again include Kohima Municipal Council, Nagaland State Legal Service Authority (NSLSA) Kohima, Assistant General Manager and Nagaland State Transport Kohima. Earlier, the Home Commissioner Nagaland, Abhijit Sinha highlighted about the important agenda to be discussed during the meeting. He said that the issue pertaining to shifting and accommodating of offices and departments will have to be solved amicably among all concern departments including all Directorates adding that it should be taken as everyone’s concern.

Friday 10•03•2017

NORTH-EAST 3

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Manipur mothers vow to 8 injured in Manipur re-poll violence continue fight against AFSPA Newmai News Network Imphal | March 9

Imphal, marCh 9 (pTI): Thirteen years after their naked protest here against the alleged rape of a 32-year-old woman by Assam Rifles troops, the "Mothers of Manipur" want their fight to go on till the controversial AFSPA is scrapped. It was on July 15, 2004 when the 12 elderly women staged the naked protest outside the historic Kangla Fort, then a camp of the Assam Rifles, holding placards that read "Come Indian Army Rape Us", which had shaken the conscience of the entire nation. The women, fondly called "Mothers of Manipur", now say their protest 13 years ago had not borne fruit and so they would continue to fight till the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) is completely withdrawn from the state. "We all felt like we are moth-

ers of the hapless girl who was gangraped and murdered. The women of Manipur have been the worst victims of insurgency. Both the militant groups and a section of security forces torture women as we are soft targets. Our mode of protest then came from within," 66-year- old Gyaneshori told PTI. "We wanted a message to be delivered to the whole world and the rest of the country that we too have the right to live with dignity and Manipuri women cant be just raped and killed," Gyaneshori says. Besides Gyaneshori, the other 11 elderly women who took part in that protest were Loitam Ibetombi, Thokchom Ramani (88), Keisam Taruni (83), Yumlembam Memma (82), Mutum Ibemhal (75), Soibam Momon (70), Ningthoujam Ongbi Sorojini (67), Chungkham Jamini (66), Lourenbam Ongbi Nganbi(64), Haobam Tombi (58) and

Angom Jibanmala (56). Loitam Ibetombi passed away in 2013 at the age of 67. Haobam Tombi says although the protest, which had drawn global attention, led to the Kangla Fort being vacated by the Assam Rifles and the AFSPA being withdrawn from seven Assembly constituencies in the Imphal municipal area, the fight will go on till the complete withdrawal of the law which gives the army enormous emergency powers. "The fight is not over until and unless AFSPA is withdrawn from the entire state and those involved in rapes and fake encounters are punished," she says. Manipur was brought under the AFSPA in 1980 after being declared a "disturbed area" due to insurgency in its hill districts. "The struggle of Manipuri women has been globally ac-

knowledged. Our courage, dedication and commitment to strive and fight for a better Manipur, where our next generation dont has to live under the shadow of the gun, have kept us going," Soibam Momon says. Mutum Ibemhal, who sells clothes in the traditional "Mothers market" or Ima-Kheitel in Manipuri, says, "Fighting for truth and justice has taken a toll on my family life. I have lost two of my sons. The womens movement in Manipur has slowed down in the last few years and we need to strengthen it." Lourenbam Ongbi Nganbi, who is still engaged in social work, feels although the protest in front of Kangla Fort in 2004 gained a lot of media attention, a lot more need to be done to ensure that the AFSPA is withdrawn and those violating human rights are punished.

Centre, Assam govt ignoring illegal migrants issue, say Bodo groups new DelhI/KoKrajhar, marCh 9 (IanS): Bodo groups in Assam, including the All Bodo Students Union (ABSU) and Bodo People's Front (BPF), are up in arms against the Centre and the state government for being "soft" on illegal migrants from Bangladesh, who they say are swarming Bodo-dominated areas. ABSU, which has revived its agitation for a separate Bodoland state in October 2016, accuses the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Assam government of adopting a "careless and mild approach" to the fast-rising population of illegal Bangladeshi migrants in their areas. The BPF, a party in coalition with the state government, maintains that the central leaders are not willing to solve the issue as they do not understand the

gravity of the problem. "Today the situation is such that illegal migrants have encroached not just on our forest lands but also other areas. The BJP state government is extremely careless on the issue. Assam is going to lose everything, as the indigenous Bodo people are facing the threat of major illegal migrants influx," Pramod Bodo, President of ABSU, told IANS. He said that only Bodos have rights to areas belonging to the community in Assam, and they won't accept any government decision to give land to illegal Bangladeshi immigrants, irrespective of whether they are Muslims or Hindus. He said the Bodoland Territorial Area Districts (BTAD) have been witnessing a constant rise in the number of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants for sev-

eral years, with the population now standing at nearly 250,000. In 2012, a major riot broke out between the Bodos and Bengali Muslims in BTAD which left over 70 people dead and rendered 400,000 homeless. BPF, which operates the BTAD, feels that the issue of illegal migrants has turned grave. BTAD areas include Kokrajhar, Chirang, Udalguri and Baksha -- a total of 8,969.98 sq km. "In Assam the problem of illegal immigrants is turning grave. Whichever government has come till now has not shown any interest in dealing with the issue. Our Indian national leaders are not interested. If they were keen then the problem would have been solved much earlier," Biswajit Daimary, a senior leader of BPF and a Rajya Sabha

MP from Assam, told IANS. According to Daimary, the central government "does not understand" the problem that rising population of illegal migrants poses in tribal areas of Assam. "If the central leaders, either the BJP or the former government, had cared to understand the problems of Bodos, then solving them would have become very easy," said Daimary. According to Assam Police, Bangladeshi immigrants have encroached on the land of Bodos, including reserve forest land. "There is a huge influx of illegal immigrants in the BTAD areas. In fact, large sections of them have started encroaching on the reserve forest situated in BTAD areas," said a senior Assam Police officer, who did not want to be identified.

Bangladeshi security man lynched in Tripura agarTala, marCh 9 (IanS): A Bangladeshi security man was lynched and another detained when 12 intruders attempted a robbery in Tripura, police said on Thursday. "Twelve Bangladeshis comprising eight Griha Rakshi Bahini personnel (equivalent of Indian Home Guards), two government employees and two civilians illegally crossed the India-Bangladesh border

and tried to rob Indian villagers on Wednesday night," South Tripura district Superintendent of Police Tapan Debbarma told IANS over phone. "When the villagers jointly hit back, the trespassers fled. However, a personnel of Griha Rakshi Bahini, identified as Nausad Mia, 62, died on the spot while another was injured in the retaliatory attack. The injured was later

shifted to the government hospital by the police," he added. The incident occurred at Siddhinagar village under the jurisdiction of Puran Rajbari Police Station in southern Tripura along the Bangladesh border. Around 12 Muslim families comprising 80 people have been residing in the village outside the border fencing. The police officer said

that the Bangladeshis came into Indian territory in two auto-rickshaw and fled on the vehicles when the villagers chased them. Senior Border Security Force (BSF) and police officers, along with reinforcements, have been camping in the tension ridden areas, 135-km south of here. Tripura shares a 856km border with Bangladesh a portion of which is still unfenced.

GNLA 'Foreign Secretary' surrenders in Meghalaya

Tura, marCh 9 (IanS): The outlawed Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) suffered a major setback when its socalled "Foreign Secretary" surrendered on Thursday, police said. Briyan R. Marak alias Milliam crossed over to India from Bangladesh on Wednesday night between Gausapara and Sibbari in Meghalaya's South Garo Hills district and surrendered to Abraham Sangma, the district police chief of South Garo Hill.

"It is a huge setback for the GNLA leadership (Sohan D. Shira). We were caught by surprise," Sangma told IANS. Marak was arrested on December 15, 2012 by the Rapid Action Battalion for illegally entering Bangladesh without valid travel documents. Ten months after being released from jail, Marak continue to stay in Bangladesh illegally besides crisscrossing the India-Bangladesh border to meet GNLA cadres in Garo Hills region

in Meghalaya. "Marak told us he decided to give up after realizing that the GNLA fight for a separate Garoland will not succeed besides growing dictatorial attitude of Sohan towards the cadres besides unwanted killings," Sangma said. However, the police officer said Marak came overground in the wake of the intensified combing operation launched by Meghalaya Police in Garo Hills. "They have been under intense pressure and the

only option for them was to surrender. We are hopeful more of them will follow suit," one officer said. The GNLA, which claims to be fighting for a Garoland in western Meghalaya, is headed by police officer-turned-rebel Champion R. Sangma, who is now in a Shillong jail after being arrested near the India-Bangladesh border in 2012. The GNLA has forged an alliance with the outlawed United Liberation Front of Asom-Independent.

Asked why the Police were not evicting illegal migrants from the forest land, the officer said, "There needs to be an order by the government. Until there is an order nothing can be done." The BJP has, however, denied that it is "soft" on the issue of rising illegal Bangladeshi migrants in Bodo areas or the rest of Assam. "The Assam government is certainly taking stringent initiatives against illegal immigrants in Assam. There is a legal procedure to identify them and we are doing it. The BJP is not at all soft on the issue of illegal immigrants," Bhabesh Kalita, General Secretary of BJP Assam Pradesh, told IANS.

AFFIDAVIT Regd. No. 46

I, Smt. Ruth W/o Watinungsang of Jalukie Town, PO & PS Jalukie, Peren Dist. Nagaland hereby declare that the name Ruth and Ibahale is of same person. I hereby declare that my correct name is Ruth and shall be used for all official purposes in the future.

Deponent 1st Class Magistrate

As many as eight BJP workers got hurt when Congress workers allegedly attacked them during re-polling in Andro Constituency of Imphal East on Thursday. The incident took place near Itham Moirangpurel village around 8 am. Re-polling was held at five polling booths falling under Andro constituency of Imphal East. Andro was one of the 38 constituencies which went to polls on March 4 in the first phase of Manipur assembly elections. Repolls were held on 34 polling stations in eight districts of Manipur on Thursday. One of the injured BJP workers, Thokchom Ningthem said the incident occurred when they

Voters wait in queue at Chingai Assembly constituency of Ukhrul district,during the final phase of Manipur on March 8. (NNN Photo)

went to inspect a booth at Itham Moirangpurel Tumukhong. He said some 10 Congress workers stopped and attacked them on their way using catapults and clubs before they were carried up to the top of a nearby hillock. There, the BJP workers were blindfolded and their hands tied behind their backs and brutally beaten up allegedly by the Con-

gress workers. A police team rescued them and brought to JNIMS hospital for treatment. Hospital sources said among the injured condition of two was critical. They were identified as Nahakpam Rakesh of Yairipok Mathak Leikai and Md Abothem of Yairipok Changamdabi. Security has been tightened in the area following the incident, police sources said.

49 gm heroin seized in Mizoram aIzawl, marCh 9 (pTI): Mizoram Excise and Narcotics department officials seized 49 grams of heroin from Champai district near Mizoram-Myanmar border and arrested a person from Myanmar in connection with it, its spokesman said today.

The contraband is valued at around Rs 1,5 lakh in the local market, he said adding it was seized from Kelkang village last night. A person hailing from Tahan in Myanmar was arrested for smuggling the contraband and booked

booked under various sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, he said. The man was produced before the Chief Judicial Magistrate of Champhai district today and remanded to judicial custody for 14 days.

Meghalaya owes Rs 527.07 crore in outstanding power dues ShIllong, marCh 9 (IanS): Meghalaya owe Rs 527.07 crore in outstanding dues to the governmentowned North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) and other central generating stations till March 2, 2017, Power Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar told the state assembly on Thursday. "Meghalaya Power Dis-

tribution Company Limited (MePDCL) is clearing the current power purchase bills every month but is unable to the clear the outstanding dues as the revenue collected is required to meet different liabilities," he said. Dhar, who was replying to queries during the Question Hour in the assembly, said the inability of the

MePDCL to liquidate the dues pertaining to power procurement is primarily due to fund constraints. Citing reasons for the accumulation of power dues, the Power Minister said that the inadequate realisation of outstanding dues from defaulters was one among the many reason for the accumulation of outstanding dues.

UNITED COLLEGE OF THEOLOGY AND MISSIONS 5th Mile Model Village, Post Box. No. 150, Dimapur – 797112, Nagaland. Regd. Rs. No. 1880, Govt. Per. No. 7703, Recognized by Govt. of Nagaland Higher Education, Accredited by Asia Theological Association, India (ATAI), and Indian Institute of Inter- Cultural Studies (IIICS). COURSES OFFERED Degree M. Div B. Th. Diploma in Mission Studies Certificate in Mission Studies. Short Term Missionary Course

Eligibility Duration B. Th. /B.A. 2Yrs/3Yrs 10+2 Passed 3 Yrs Class X Passed 2 Yrs Class X 1Yrs Mission Interested Candidate Five months

Entrance examination and interview for M. Div will be on 6th June 2017 at 9:00 AM. New session begins from 23rd June 2017. Kindly address all inquiries to: Principal : 9436830739 Academic Dean : 9856145668 Email : uctmministry@gmail.com Website : www.uctmnagaland.com

FREE EN

World Kidney Day observed in Guwahati

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Doctors and staff of Dispur Hospital, Guwahati take out Kidney Awareness March in Guwahati on Wednesday. Dhruva Saikia Guwahati | March 3

Along with the rest of the world, Dispur Hospital in Guwahati today observed the World Kidney Day to-

day with a daylong programme. In this connection, a Kidney Awareness Procession was taken out in the city which was flagged off by veteran journalist

Naba Thakuria, in presence of managing director of Dispur Hospital Dr. Jayanta Bardoloi. Later Dr. P M Deka, Dr T A Chaudhury, Dr. Jaynil Bhagwade and Dr Rohan

Batra conducted a free kidney check up camp in the hospital premises where 100 patients were examined, states a press release issued by the hospital.

SPONSORED BY:

RCH A M 1 1 AY D R U PM T SA 11AM - 5

Office nos.: 03862280874 | 03862280875 | Mobile: +917085318607 facebook.com/nagalandconservatoryofmusic

friDAY 10•03•2017

nagaland

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

GIAN course on landslide and debris flow systems underway Lumami, march 9 (mExN): GIAN course on ‘Landslide and Debris Flow Systems: Prediction, Control and Reclamation’ scheduled from March 7 to 11 is underway in the Department of Geography, Nagaland University (NU), Lumami. The course is sponsored by Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD), Govt. of India under Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN). The welcome session was held in the Conference Hall of the Department. The welcome address was delivered by Prof. M.S. Rawat, Host Faculty & Course Coordinator. He highlighted the course schedule and introduced Prof. Martin Haigh (Foreign Faculty), Emeritus Professor of Geography, Oxford Brookes University, United Kingdom. He also said that 12 faculty members (from the University’s Department of Geography and five other institutions

[r-L] Prof. M.s. rawat, Prof. Martin Haigh, dr. Krishnaiah, dr. Abemo, & dr. Lanusashi Longkumer, at the welcome session.

including colleges), 10 Research Scholars (from the Department of Geography and others), and 21 Post Graduate students were participants in the course. Dr. Abemo, Controller of Examinations, NU, conveyed the best wishes to the participants and applauded the University for creating a platform of national exposure. He exhorted the participants to be attentive, learn, and utilize the knowledge.

A special presentation was made by Dr. Temsulemba Walling, Asst. Professor, Department of Geology, NU. Dwelling on the topic of ‘Landslide Studies in Nagaland’, he also highlighted the research work being undertaken in the Department of Geology. On the research area of landslide studies: 5 research projects funded by DST, ISRO and NU have been completed; 6 PhD degrees have been awarded;

and research papers in International and National journals have been published. Prof. Martin Haigh, in his capacity as Foreign Faculty, briefly highlighted the GIAN Programme. Commenting on how ‘GIAN’ in Sanskrit means ‘knowledge’, he said India wants to be globally connected. He said the focus of GIAN, among others, is the hardcore sciences such as engineering, electrical,

nanotechnology, biotechnology, and global climatic issues. He said that through GIAN India wants to tap the talent pool of the Diaspora-those who left the country and made it big, and gained much respect for their contributions. Thousand of fellowships have been created to establish new networks and tap skills from abroad. Vote of thanks was delivered by Associate Professor Dr. Lanusashi Longkumer, organizing secretary, local organizing committee. He specially thanked Prof. Martin Haigh, who has a wide experience in a wide academic area, besides being an expert in the field of landslide studies—a happy coincidence as landslide is a common phenomenon in Nagaland. He also thanked the University, MHRD, Prof. M.S. Rawat, and encouraged the participants to put effort in learning and make the programme a successful one.

IGnoU study centre - 2037 Induction Program was held with IGnoU director dr. t.Iralu regional director, regional center Kohima on March 9 at Phek Govt College (old campus).

nagaland Police of Bhandari sub-division in wokha district seized 1413 spasmo Proxyvon capsules from the possession of one person identified as N. Sorenthung Odyuo on March 6. the banned drug was found hidden in the tyre tubes of his running motorbike, according to shambho Lotha, in-charge of Police Check Gate, Bhandari, who led the police team on duty. (DIPR Photo)

‘Swachh Shakti Week’ in Tsg Eloe Hoho Bhandari Town celebrates Int’l Women’s day TuENsaNg, march 9 (DiPr): International Women’s Day cum closing ceremony of ‘Swachh Shakti Week’ under Swachh Bharat Mission was celebrated in Tuensang on March 8 at CKS Hall, organised by PHED Department of Tuensang. Deputy Commissioner, Tuensang, Alem Jongshi, who was the chief guest, said that first priority of women as a home maker is maintaining clean surrounding and better sanitation and that woman has a role to play in stopping open defecation in society. The chief guest urged the gathering that men should also shoulder the same responsibility as women in maintaining better sanitation and pollution free environment to make India Clean. EE PHED Tuensang, Bursenla Ao spoke about Swachh Shakti, which mainly focuses on women who are the pillar in maintaining clean and pollution free environment. She added that better household toilet and sanitation can bring social security to women in society. Women’s role in Swachh Bharat Mission was presented by Noksen Ngamen. The chief guest gave away prizes to winners of inter school painting competition held on the theme ‘Dream and Vision of Clean Village’. Mongshai Shui of GHSS, Akhongnungla and Sentilenla of St. John Higher Secondary Tuensang were adjudged 1st, 2nd and 3rd winners respectively. The programme was attended by Angangwadi workers, ASHA workers, students and women organizations from Tuensang Town.

WoKha, march 9 (DiPr): International Women’s day was celebrated for the first time by the Eloe Hoho Bhandari Town on March 8 at Bhandari town hall with the theme “Be bold for change” APRO Bhandari, Lily Ngullie, said that change for a better world for women all over the world may take place in a gradual process and may also face hurdles before achieving the set goal of planet 50-50 by the year 2030. But if we are resolved in our commitment to pursue it, guided by a clear vision and prepared to overcome challenges for ourselves and our little girls,then a fair balanced world

Kohima, march 9 (DiPr): The department of Agriculture organized a programme in honour of Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Y. M. Yolow on March 8 at the conference hall, Directorate of Agriculture, Kohima. Yolow in his speech, said that Agriculture is an important subject and therefore, urged the officers and staffs to give their best effort in disseminating and imparting knowledge to the farmers. He further challenged them to be a pioneer in changing Nagaland and also uplift our next coming generation. APC and

CROSSWORD # 3881

Answer Number # 3876

AtMA dimapur Chumukedima Block conducted mobilization of FIGs on at razhüphe village (industrial) with noune FIG on February 28.

Commissioner and Secretary to the Government of Nagaland, T. Imkonglemba Ao, IAS in his address emphasized that the department should take up more cropping intensity instead mono-cropping in order to get more returns from a piece of land. The DAO’s of the respective districts also shared in a nutshell about the potentials and gave suggestions for further strengthening of the agriculture sector in their districts. Joint Director Agriculture (Planning), G. Ikuto Zhimomi, highlighted the various activities of the department. std code: 03862

DiMaPUR ACROSS 1. Brass instrument 5. Crest 9. A long way off 13. Weightlifters pump this 14. Weaving machines 16. Part of the outer ear 17. Clove hitch or figure eight 18. Sacred song 19. Gas or petrol 20. Glacial ridge 22. Not figuratively 24. Leg joint 26. Last 27. Adolescent 30. Chitchat 33. Noble-mindedness 35. Street urchin 37. Downturn 38. Potatoes 41. Ghost’s cry 42. Lacquer ingredient 45. Simpletons 48. Worn away 51. Venture to say 52. Rips 54. “Comes and ____” 55. Blade sharpener 59. Candied 62. Somersault 63. Avoid 65. False god 66. Wings 67. Cite 68. Standard 69. Delay or postpone 70. Graphic symbol 71. Historical periods DOWN 1. Kid 2. Coffee dispensers 3. Accountant 4. Aerial 5. A high alpine meadow 6. Not warm 7. Recurring theme

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

Game Number # 3877

sunday school teachers and CYe leaders were trained on counselling for tobacco users in west city building on March 9. during the training the roles which the Churches can play to create awareness about the hazards of tobacco use was discussed teachers and youth leaders were also trained on basic skills to deal with tobacco habits in children and youth. dr C tetseo and Imkumla were the resource persons.

Agri staffs called to be a pioneer in changing Nagaland

leisure

SUDOKU

may not be too far away. There is no one who is as multi taxed as a woman in whom a daughter, a wife, a mother and a human being is all rolled into one, she said further stating that facing challenges gracefully, bearing responsibilities ever gently, making success stories of the lives of the people she is involved with are just a little bit of what she does without a price. Other highlights were song presentation by Baptist, Catholic and AG churches,skit presentation by Tsumang, Zuvodong and Medical colonies, standup comedy by GHSS colony and women wrestling show.

8. It induces nausea 9. Forage plant 10. Offensively malodorous 11. Cain’s brother 12. Depend 15. Shorthand 21. Genuine 23. Telephoned 25. Auspices 27. It ebbs and flows 28. Ancient Roman magistrate 29. Clairvoyant’s gift 31. A diplomat of the highest rank 32. Flora and fauna 34. Muck 36. Prying 39. Accomplished 40. Catch 43. Dappled 44. Midmonth date 46. Hot rum drink 47. Straightaway 49. Consumer of food 50. Herdsman 53. Foul-up 55. Envelop 56. Puncture 57. Dash 58. Biblical garden 60. Daughter of Zeus and Demeter 61. Shade trees 64. Before, poetically

Answer to Crossword 3880

AdoPt BeAUtY BrAsH BrotHer CHIeF CoMPose dAte enerGY FLUte HeLLo HIdden Horns Host InHABIt JILt JoInt LAYer LIoness MoVeMent MoVInG

MUsIC nest PAttern PHones reCord reGULAr reVoKe sHed sHUt sIrs sPIrIt storY strInG strUM sYMMetrY teAs tees twItCH VoICe

std code: 03871

(formerly senapati)

Police station Fire Brigade

222246 222491

Civil Hospital

232224

emergency

229529 229474

MH Hospital

227930 231081

Fire Brigade

2222952

Faith Hospital

228846

naga Hospital

2222916

shamrock Hospital

228254

oking Hospital

2243339

Zion Hospital

231864 224117 227337

Bethel nursing Home

2224202

northeast shuttles

08974997923

KOHiMa

std code: 0370

Police Control room

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

131/228404

Airport Indian Airlines

229366 242441 225212

tseminyu Ps

8575045507

Officer-in-Charge 8575045517 8575045505

Kezocha Ps

nagaland Multispecialty Health & research Centre

248302, 09856006026

eden Medical Centre

248288

Officer-in-Charge 8575045516

Officer-in-Charge 8575045515

232032, 231031

Chiephobozou Ps 8575045506

Khuzama Ps

nikos Hospital and research Centre

8575045508

Officer-in-Charge 8575045518

railway

8575045502

Officer-in-Charge 8575045520

Apollo Hospital Info Centre 230695/ 9402435652

8575045501

Officer-in-Charge 8575045510

Chumukedima Fire Brigade 282777

TaHaMZaM

8575045549

Officer-in-Charge 8575045538

women Cell

8575045509

Officer-in-Charge 8575045519 Control room

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

65.21 80.9 8.13 50.03 46.34 49.68 57.81 68.8 1.81 0.0558 17.18 9.2

68.15 84.81 9.06 52.50 48.63 52.11 61.07 72.14 2.02 0.0622 19.14 10.24

friday 10•03•2017

NAGALAND

ICAR-NRC create awareness on scientific mithun rearing Dimapur, march 9 (mExN): ICAR-NRC on Mithun, the only such research Institute in the country, is mandated to carry out the research for continual improvement of Mithun and to create awareness in the society for scientific mithun rearing. In continuation of the ongoing efforts, ICARNRC on Mithun organized one-day Interface meeting on “Potential of Mithun Husbandry for Livelihood Improvement” with the officials of Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) of Nagaland State on March 9. While inaugurating the meeting, T. Imkonglemba Ao, IAS, the chief guest, highlighted the pros and cons of Jhum cultivation and role of the participatory land use for the upliftment of the village economy. He also suggested to undertake a study on Jhum

Participants at the first ever interface meeting between ICAR-NRC on Mithun and ATMA held on March 9.

mapping by the agricultural scientists and to integrate the Mithun farming with the jhum cultivation and urged to exploit the natural resources of Nagaland, including Mithun, rather than depending on the resources which are not na-

tive to the state. Dr. Abhijit Mitra, Director, ICAR-National Research Centre on Mithun welcome the dignitaries and emphasized the need for close collaboration with ATMA and other line departments for efficient

dissemination of laboratory technologies to its end users. Dr. I.P. Khala, Director, AH & VS, Govt. of Nagaland, Guest of honor and Dr. D J.Rajkhowa, Joint Director, ICAR-NEH region, Nagaland was also present as a special guest.

Meetings

9 AR seizes Illegal Liquor

BJP Peren district executive members to meet

Dimapur, march 9 (mExN): The 9 Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (North) seized 240 bottles of illegal liquor in small packages from a vehicle during an operation at Chizami Sub Division on March 7. The operation launched after specific input apprehended two persons identified as T Thsathrongse of Changcho Village and Tonny Tep of Village Teropuyu of Distt Kiphire, the AR informed in a press note. Both the individuals along with vehicle and illegal liquor were handed over to Police Station Chizami for further investigation, it added.

BJP Peren district unit has informed all its district executive members that there will be a meeting on March 11, 12:00 noon at the BJP office in Jalukie Town as per the directive of the party state unit. Therefore, all the executive members have been asked to attend the meeting positively.

LBA Revival Crusade Liangmai Baptist Association (LBA) Nagaland is organizing Revival Crusade in memory of former Women Secretary late Alice Chawang from March 11 to 12 at Tening Village Baptist Church. The Crusade is being sponsored by the family of late Alice. Liangmai Baptist Association’s Executive Secretary, Kitanwi Chawang has informed all the Liangmai churches under LAB to send two delegates each. Those who are willing to participate in the crusade have also been invited with their own arrangement of food and lodging. Former Executive Secretary of LBA Rev. Kamwang Rentta and Jalukie Town Baptist Church pastor Mongzeung Mpom will be the main speakers. There will be a healing hour on March 12 at 6:00 am.

PMEGP Wokha beneficiaries meeting All PMEGP beneficiaries of 2014-15, 2015-16, and 2016-17 who have been allotted to Bank of Baroda, Wokha Branch have been informed that there will be an emergency meeting on March 11, 10:30 am at Hotel Hornbill, Tsumang Colony, Wokha Town. Therefore, all beneficiaries concerned have been requested to attend the meeting without fail. This information was released by Yirao Kikon.

YSUK executive meet The Yimchunger Students' Union Kohima (YSUK) will hold an executive meeting on March 13 at 11:00 AM at its union treasure (near state museum) with the advisors. Therefore all the YSUK officials , executives and colleges representatives are expected to be present and in time. No leave will be entertained.

EDSYO general meeting There will be a general meeting of the East Dimapur Sumi youth organisation (EDSYO) on March 11 time 3:30 pm at Purana bazar village council hall. All the Sumi youth from the age group of 18 to 40, irrespective of your marital status, residing under the jurisdiction of East Dimapur are requested to attend the called meeting. The meeting will deliberate on any other agenda put forth by any of the bonafide members. Therefore, all the bonafide members are requested to attend the general meeting without fail and share their valuable inputs in strengthening the organization.

The inaugural programme was followed by technical sessions in which the deliberations were made on genetic resources, rearing systems, nutritional requirements, reproductive management and common diseases of mithun and its prevention, and scope of different value addition of mithun meat and milk products. More than 50 delegates including ATMA officials, Farmers, Scientists and policy makers participated in the programme. This is first ever interface meeting between ICAR-NRC on Mithun and ATMA. ATMA being the nodal agency for the dissemination of the technologies and package of practices to the block level, such Interface meeting will help to disseminate the information and technologies to the mithun rearing farmers located in the remotest villages of Nagaland.

National seminar underway at Economics department, NU

Photo taken after the release of the Souvenir of the two day national seminar on “Shaping the future of Indian Agriculture for sustainable livelihood: A SWOC Analysis” at the Department of Economics, Nagaland University, Lumami. Morung Express News fessor & President (NEEA), Manipur UniMokokchung | 9 March

A two day national seminar on “Shaping the future of Indian Agriculture for sustainable livelihood: A SWOC Analysis” got underway at the Department of Economics, Nagaland University, Lumami. The inaugural programme of the seminar was held at Old Cafeteria, NU with Prof. A.K. Singh, Vice-Chancellor Incharge, NU as the chief guest and Meyatoshi, Deputy Director & District Horticulture Officer, Mokokchung as the guest of honor. Speeches were given by both the chief guest and the guest of honor and the souvenir of the seminar was released by the chief guest. Prof. E. Bijoykumar Singh, Pro-

MEx FILE WRPF urges for fair judicial inquiry

Alleged arms dealer arrested Dimapur, march 9 (mExN): An alleged arms dealer was arrested when an operation based on specific input was carried out by 32 Assam Rifles along with police representative launched in general area Govinda Paira Colony, Burma Camp, Dimapur on March 6. An AR press note identified the individual as one Hekaho Sumi, a resident of Thilixu, Burma Camp under District Dimapur. A one Pt. 22 mm Pistol and Mobile phone recovered from his possession, it said. He was later NPF party women leaders from Dimapur greet Chief Minister Dr handed over to East Police Station, Dimapur for further inves- Shürhozelie at his office chamber at the Nagaland Civil Secretariat on tigation along with the recovered arms and items, it added. March 9. (Photo Courtesy/CMO)

Young Nagas are falling prey to tobacco consumption

Social work trainees of NEISSR with others during the community tobacco awareness programme held at Seluophe village on March 8.

Dimapur, march 9 (mExN): Social work trainees of North East Institute of Social Science and Research (NEISSR) organized a community tobacco awareness programme at Seluophe village on March 8. The programme was organized in collaboration with National Tobacco

Control Programme, Dimapur District. The trainees highlighted the ill effects of tobacco consumption through a street play. Dr. C. Tetso of the NTCP spoke on the rampant consumption of ‘gutkha’ especially among the Naga youth. “People do not pay much heed to the awareness

versity, Imphal was the keynote speaker at the seminar. The keynote speaker while addressing the seminar topic stressed on the agriculture scenario in the North east region and gave a SWOC (Strength Weakness Opportunities Challenges) analysis of the agriculture scenario in the region. The welcome address at the inaugural function was given by Prof. B. Kilangla Jamir, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Giribabu. M, Organising Secretary of the seminar. The technical sessions were held at the Department of Economics where papers were presented in two lecture halls by academicians, professors and research scholars from different universities from across the nation. The seminar will culminate on March 10.

about the ill effects of tobacco consumption. Even those who are well aware and educated about the impact of tobacco on health still hold on to their habit of tobacco consumption as the immediate detrimental effects is not felt”, Dr Tetso said. He added that many young Nagas are fall-

ing prey to tobacco consumption. ‘The most obvious effects are lesion, cancer of mouth and other body organs. However, not many are aware that tobacco has subtle effects like hypertension, fluctuation in body weight etc’, he asserted. He also proposed to the leaders and youth present to think and work towards making Seluophe, a tobacco free village and set example for the other villages to follow. It may be mention that Seluophe is adopted as a model village under the Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana Scheme. The programme was attended by 30 youth from the village along with the soial work trainees who are at Seluophe for a 10 days Rural Camp. Pamphlets and information brochures on the ill effect of tobacco were also distributed.

Wokha, march 9 (mExN): For a “speedy, free and fair justice” in the January 31 Dimapur firing incident, Wozhuro Range Public Forum (WRPF) has appealed to the Nagaland State government to institute a Judicial Inquiry Commission “which may preferably include an eminent personality from an NGO.” In a representation to the Chief Secretary of Nagaland, the Forum stated “it is only through a fair judicial inquiry, justice can be delivered and nail whoever is responsible for the lapses committed or take action as per the findings of the judicial commission.” Meanwhile, WRPF felt it is “premature” to insist for suspension of any official unless such an impartial inquiry report is settled which will also be made available in public domain. “It is prayed…that the government of the day will uphold the principle of Justice and Equality in its strongest terms in matter of dispensing good governance,” the representation added.

Transport Commissioner Office shifted Dimapur, march 9 (mExN): The office of the Transport Commissioner has been shifted to Solidarity Park, Nagaland Civil Secretariat Area, informed a department official statement today. Transport Commissioner, Elias T Lotha in a press statement said that all official correspondences to the department can be intimidated to its new address at: Office of the Transport Commissioner, Nagaland, Kohima, Solidarity Park, Civil Secretariat Area, Kohima. Telephone no – 03702270373 Fax – 2270378 e-mail Address – commrtransngl(@) nic.in

DIC Peren invites trainees Dimapur, march 9 (mExN): The DIC Peren has informed all interested persons to submit application for cutting and tailoring training to be held its office in New Peren from April 1. The duration of the training will be nine (9) months and the last date of submission of application is March 28 while the date of interview is fixed on March 30, DIC Peren S Imliwabang informed in a press note. The minimum qualification is class VIII and the minimum age should not be less than 18 years of age and all interested person can apply through a written application addressed to the General Manager, DIC Peren, it added.

Mental health prog held in Mkg Heads of sec schools acquainted Dimapur, march 9 dents but also anyone suspect- with management of schools (mExN): Teacher’s under Dis- ed to be suffering from mental Liangsi to head NPF legal cell trict Mental Health Programme illness in their locality for early kohima, march 9 incorporating the co-curricular today attended a one day training programme at IDSP, Conference Hall, IMDH Mokokchung. The resource persons were Dr. Temsuyanger Nodal Officer DMHP and Akumjungla Msc. Psychiatric (Nurse). During the training, Dr Temsuyanger said the teachers were the torch bearers of the society especially in the rural area and urged them to act as an agent to identify and refer not only stu-

treatment. Different types of mental illness, the plight of those suffering as well as their relatives, and the myths related to the mental illness were also presented and discussed during the training programme. Earlier, the programme started with encouragements to the teachers by The Superintendent of IMDH Dr Medem Medical, informed a press note received here.

‘Every parent has a role to play in educating the child’ phEk, march 9 (mExN): St. John School, Razeba conducted one day seminar for the parents on March 4 with the topic, ‘How parents can help their children at home.’ Rev. Fr. Dr. Philip Abraham SJ Principal of Nazareth High school, Pfutsero was the resource person. At outset of the seminar, School Children presented a welcome song and invocation was pronounced by Vekuyi Dozo. The resource person told the parents that every child is a precious gift of God and therefore every parent has a role to play in educating the child in collaboration with the school authority. He emphasized the importance of parents keeping constant in touch with their children’s performance and give constructive feedback to the concern authority for improvement. He added, a good parent will always encourage and support to the Institution by taking a special care of the child at home. He also interacted with the teachers and appreciated them for their selfless sacrifice they render to the Institution. All together 80 parents participated in the seminar.

(mExN): A meeting of the newly appointed heads of secondary and higher secondary institutions was held on March 7 in the conference hall of the Nagaland Board of School Education, Kohima. The purpose was to acquaint them with the management of schools and the various activities of the Board for over-all improvement of the educational system of the state. The meeting was attended by heads of institutions representing 82 schools. The meeting began with prayer by Vihuto Sümi, Principal, Emmanuel Hr. Sec. School, Zunheboto. The programme was chaired by the Controller of Examinations, Rangumbuing Nsarangbe, who on behalf of the Chairman, NBSE welcomed the participants and also convey regret on behalf of the Chairman Asano Sekhose, her inability to be with them. The participants were first briefed about the different activities/programmes of the Board by the officials. Iluheing Nsarangbe, Sr. Academic Officer dwelt on the academic matters related to the Board and the important role of the schools in

activities in the school plan. Kekhrielhoutuo Nakhro, Coordinator (IT) highlighted on the features on Board’s website and emphasised on the use of net facilities and encouraged the school’s to have its own email i.d. for easy communication. He also demonstrated on the use of the new software developed for online submission of forms. Ekyimo Shitiri, Deputy Secretary (Accounts) dwelt on the accounts and financial matters relating to the school. He emphasised on prompt respond from the schools and encourages them to go for cashless transactions. Rangumbuing Nsarangbe, Controller of Examinations dwelt on the examination reforms adopted by the Board and proper conducting of examinations. He also reminded the participants that as the Head, one should be a role model, an agent of change and reminded them of the trust placed on them. He urged the heads to encourage their teachers to undertake professional studies and also to the proper infrastructure setup of the schools.

Dimapur, march 9 (mExN): The President of Naga People’s Front, Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu has appointed Liangsi Niumai as the Convener of the party Legal Cell Central. The appointment in the interest of the party is with immediate effect, informed an NPF press note.

KCSU forms search committee Dimapur, march 9 (mExN): The Kohima Chakhesang Students' Union (KCSU) on its official meeting on February 28 and elected a search committee to elect the new executives for the tenure 2017 - 2019. A KCSU press release informed that the committee members are as follows, Wekhrope Marhu Convernor; Veshekhoyi Chizo Member Secy; Sekhotso Rhakho Member; and Hukhoto D. Vadeo as ex-officio. All the Interested candidates are requested to contact the committee members before March 24 at the following numbers: 9612788383/9612713250/8119889060/908 9261178.

MGMHSS celebrates IWD Dimapur, march 9 (mExN): MGM Higher Secondary School (MGMHSS) celebrated International Women’s Day on March 8. A special assembly was conducted by class 9B, where Manwara read the word of God, Ronsulo read the news, and Anwara led the prayer, informed a press release. Vivek, Kajaol and Nethan delivered short speeches. Fr. P.S. Varghese also highlighted the importance of the day.

friday 10•03•2017

IN FOCUS The Power of Truth

The Morung Express volume XII Issue 66 By Witoubou Newmai

A placid voting pattern

ssues related to human rights violation, corruption, Manipur territorial integrity, Naga aspiration, Inner Line Permit (ILP), Kuki aspiration and unemployment have been dogging Manipur without interruption in the past 20 years or so, and things seem to indicate that, these issues are here to stay for a longer period than many may think. In the face of these issues, Manipur assembly elections go and come without affecting much to the placid voting pattern. For the hill people in Manipur, it appears that there is a huge disconnect between elections and issues. In short, issues seldom determine election verdicts in the hills in Manipur. This scenario, however, does not mean that the hill people are not concerned with the issues. Given this record and background, a poor performance of any candidate or political party pro to the issues may not necessarily be placed as an index or a reflection of the people’s attitude towards the issues. Ordinary voters in the hills who are constantly disturbed by the thought of basic facilities, their needs become the immediate balm to soothe their headaches. And, it is during the times of elections that the poor voters find opportunities to address their needs. The last 15 years record on the behavior of the voters will confirm this point. Picking the case of the Nagas to elucidate the point, there is always overwhelming support to the Naga political issue from the ordinary Nagas in the south even though their voting pattern indicates otherwise. Grounds and streets in Naga areas will always be filled by the ordinary Nagas whenever the need arises on the issues pertaining to the Naga aspiration. However, of late, due to lack of suitable mechanisms, coercion has become a tool to channelize the ordinary Nagas in times of elections, thereby inviting a dangerous portend. Extreme care is the language today to address the hurt sentiment. An intervention of maturity and wisdom has become an urgent call of the day. Coming to the valley districts, Irom Sharmila quit her 16 years long fast to join electoral politics with the main poll plank of “repeal Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA)” slogan. For decades the people in the valley districts have been campaigning against “fake encounters,” for which AFSPA is attributed as the principal cause. The same people have also been accusing the State Government as well as the Union Government of resorting to callous measures in the form of imposing AFSPA. As we all know, cases of human rights violation have been the reasons for the anti AFSPA campaign in the valley in the past 16 years or more, with the public calling the Ibobi Singh Government as too weak, insipid and unfit to be called a people’s government. But during elections, the same people have voted the Ibobi Singh Government to power for three consecutive terms. The same people also voted the Congress party to represent the valley people in the Parliament in the past Lok Sabha elections. It is either because of the Ibobi Singh Government’s stiff and unwavering position on the ‘Manipur territorial integrity issue’ or a case of the electorate succumbing to material benefits during polls. Or, even both, that the voters in the valley districts find charm in Ibobi Singh and his craft. Now, the Irom Sharmila-led People’s Resurgence and Justice Alliance (PRJA) has fielded three candidates in the ensuing assembly election of Manipur. Sharmila herself is in the fray. The question now is, will the comfort level of the people campaigning against “fake encounters”, AFSPA and corruption be affected if these three candidates are defeated by the peoples’ votes? The placid voting pattern is likely to be there, both in the hills and in the valley, for a longer period.

lEfT wiNg |

Andrew Purchase Our Better World

What if you were the weakest?

y law firm recently held an event for foreign domestic workers in Singapore. We organised a carnival for them, and on the side, we hosted a talk on their legal rights and offered free legal counselling. A colleague and I were tasked with putting the event together. We had a popcorn stand, a candy-floss machine, a roti prata man and a kacang puteh station (see definitions at singlishdictionary.com). And we hired an ice-cream seller (along with his motorbike, his umbrella and his wife) to give out free ice-creams. There was a photo booth and a card-making station with a post-box right next to it so the ladies could get a shot with their friends and then pop it in the post-box and send it home. We paid for the postage. Next we hired a caterer and threw a wild buffet, over-catering on purpose to create a sense of lavishness. We got in a music-man and turned it up loud. We packed goodie bags and gave away prizes. Then we amassed a series of carnival games and organised a scavenger hunt. We asked our colleagues to give up their Sunday to man the bases to provide a day of cheer and reinvestment into the community. It took a bit of work. It was challenging and inconvenient to organise a whole-day event with many moving parts. But it was not without reward. I think foreign domestic worker is often a euphemism for USP: Unthanked Service Provider. Justice as fairness There's poetic symmetry in serving those who serve you. I thought a lot about John Rawls' theory of justice when I was on this project. (Especially the occasion when I found myself in the ungainly position of acquiring building sand from a building waste dumpster for my Smash It carnival game). Why was I born into relative wealth and fortune? Why are others born into less? I find turning the tables on myself every so often a very healthy past time. The served serving the server is good medicine for me. Empathy is putting yourself in another's shoes. Humility is putting the other in your shoes. O, and what about John Rawls' theory of justice? It's quite simple. It's "justice as fairness". He had an idea: Imagine trying to design a society behind a veil of ignorance. Put yourself in the Original Position - a place where you don't know what gender you'll be, how rich you'll be, how powerful you'll be, how smart you'll be, what job you'll have. You'd want the weakest to be taken care of - just in case you turn out to be the weakest. You could be the most advantaged; you could be the most disadvantaged. So why not live in a world where the most disadvantaged get the greatest possible benefit? Maximise what the minimum gets. Serving those who serve us is a good way to remind ourselves that we had very little control over what station of life we were born into, but we can choose to offer justice to those around us.

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

C O M M E N T A R Y

Mark Olden Thomson Reuters Foundation

Can the Sámi survive climate change & logging?

Reindeer herding is central to the Sámi people’s survival and culture - but climate change and logging threaten an ancient way of life

e drive through an icy wilderness on the back of a snow mobile, multiple layers of clothing protecting us from the -23 degree Celsius temperatures. A frozen lake stretches off into the distance behind us. The rapidly fading light casts a magical glow over the landscape as we head into pine and spruce woodlands cloaked with snow. Around 300 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle, Lapland’s fairy-tale beauty can distract from just how treacherous this environment can be. So to work outdoors as reindeer herders – as our Sámi guides Leo Aikio and Antti Tervaniemi have done most days since they were knee-high – takes a special kind of resilience. Aikio’s and Tervaniemi’s forefathers were reindeer herders as far back as they can trace, and herding has been integral to the Sámi people’s survival for millennia. The meat is sold or eaten. The skins provide warmth. The antlers and bones are used for handicrafts and utensils. What’s more, herding is intimately tied to the Sámi’s connection to their land, and their knowledge of how to survive in it. “You wouldn’t do this if you didn’t love it,” says Aikio, who solicitously keeps checking how we’re bearing up in the cold. For him, the life of a reindeer herder is freedom. “When you go out to the forest in the morning, you never know where you’re going, or when you’ll be home.” Tervaniemi, who is younger and quieter than his colleague, says that he got in at 2 am the night before. We stop. Aikio beckons us over. He digs beneath the surface layer of snow with his hands, and pulls up a big slab of ice. “Catastrophe,” he says, shaking his head. Climate change, which is happening faster in the Arctic than in most of the rest of the world, is taking its toll: dramatic changes in temperature throughout the long winter mean rain falls and then freezes, leaving layers of ice beneath the surface snow. The ice stops the reindeer from reaching ground lichen, which along with the tree hanging arboreal variety, is their main food during the harsh winter months. That’s not all. As we continue our journey, the reality of Finland’s industrial logging becomes plain: 44 per cent of the productive forest lands here – within an overall area of 2,682 square kilometres – have been logged. The clear cutting of these boreal primary forests spells both short and long-term disaster, the herders say. First, destroying old growth forests means destroying tree hanging lichen, further choking the reindeers’ food supply. Second, once felled these trees can take around 170 years to grow back in this unforgiving climate, condemning future generations to the same fate. “It will not be possible to live with reindeers here if they keep on with this logging,” says Aikio. “This culture is going to die here.” That evening we join him and his wife, Tiina SanilaAikio, at their home. Sanila-Aikio is a reindeer herder and singer (whose song Uuh was the first single in the Skolt Sámi language ever to chart in Finland), and current President of Finland’s Sámi Parliament. She sees logging and climate change on a par with historic existential threats to the Sámi way of life, such as the boarding school system that the Finnish government introduced in the 19th century which removed Sámi children from their homes and stripped them of their language and culture. “Are we still an indigenous people if we don’t have a connection to the nature?” she asks. “We have been talking a lot about what type of future our daughter will have. Sometimes it’s too stressing and too hopeless. Can we even risk that she will follow in our steps and be a reindeer herder?” She sees a grim portent of the future in the lives of many retired reindeer herders. “These old guys have been herding all their lives. They get to retirement age and they try to keep on going. When they finally stop they lose themselves and they die in a year or so. They can’t manage to survive.” The next day, we meet Osmo Seurujärvi, chair-

Jarmo Pyykkö (Greenpeace), Mark Olden (Fern), and reindeer herder Leo Aikio examine a block of ice. Climate change is causing dramatic temperature shifts which means rain falls and then freezes leaving layers of ice beneath the surface snow. (Photo: Hannah Mowat)

man of Muddusjärvi reindeer herding co-operative, which has about 60 members and 5,200 reindeers. He explains that the scarcity of lichen means the herders are now buying other feedstock for the reindeers. This is not simply a matter of added expense, but something more fundamental: a seismic shift both in the reindeer’ diets and the co-operative members’ way of life. “So far it’s still possible to have reindeer on natural grazing grounds. But if this continues we will have to take the reindeers inside fences. The situation is already so tight, if the logging is increased we will lose the reindeer. You cannot change the system so that you go totally to artificial feeding. Their stomachs cannot take it, so it would mean a generation [of reindeer] would die.” Seurujärvi has to rush back to “the office” (the forest). As he leaves, we ask if he has a message for Finland’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the architect of the country’s forest policy. He does, and it’s blunt: “Leave also some space for us.” CArBON dISPuTE The Sámi’s plight is part of a story whose significance reaches beyond Finland’s forest policy, and into the complexities of how countries account for the carbon emissions cuts they’ve pledged to make under the Paris Climate Agreement. As Europe’s most heavily forested nation, Finland’s economic fortunes have long been tied to its forests. Following the economic crash of 2008, and the slump in fortunes of Finland’s tech pin-up Nokia, the forest industry took on renewed significance for Finland’s policymakers, who looked to them for economic salvation. The emerging bio-economy – driven by international climate policies encouraging countries to switch from burning fossil fuels to renewable energy – appeared as a lifeline for an economy on the brink. In Europe, renewable energy largely means burning wood. This in turn, means chopping down more trees. Last year, the Finnish government announced its intention to increase harvesting the country’s forests by a staggering 23 per cent between now and 2030. This might make short-term sense for Finland’s economy, but not for the climate. Forests absorb carbon dioxide when they live and release it when they are dead. So the less carbon there is in Finland’s forests, the more there is in the atmosphere. Finland’s own impact assessment shows that even if the country cuts its fossil fuel use,

its overall emissions won’t be reduced in the next decade or so because of this increased logging. Finland is currently embroiled in a debate with the European Commission over how it accounts for these extra forest emissions under the Paris Agreement. It argues that its forests are so extensive that they will continue to absorb more carbon than they release. But its critics claim that Finland is trying to bend the carbon accounting rules in the devilishly complex land and forests sector – otherwise known as LULUCF – in its favour. Among them is the Finnish Green Party MP Satu Hassi, who points out: “Even if you dupe most policymakers in Brussels, you can’t dupe the atmosphere.” It’s not the only nation attempting to do so – and Finland succeeds it will set a precedent for the rest of the world, with a real danger that the carbon in the world’s forests will dramatically shrink. For the Sámi, who are already suffering the consequences of both climate change and Finland’s industrial logging policy, this is not an abstract concept. For if Finland continues along its current path, it could prove fatal to a culture and lifestyle that’s survived for centuries. Some, like the Sámi artist Jenni Laiti, are turning to activism as a means of resistance. Laiti, who grew up in Inari, is among a younger generation of Sámi radicalised by life on the frontline of global warming, who have linked with climate activists around the world. Laiti is at the forefront of a campaign to stop a major mining company drilling in the Swedish area of Sápmi - the traditional Sámi lands stretching across Finland, Sweden, Norway and Russia - and took part in a 4,500 kilometre ‘climate justice’ relay from her homeland to Paris for the 2015 climate talks. “I’m not an expert on climate change, but I see what’s happening around me,” she says. “It’s like death. Things are just dying… It’s mostly about the land because the land is where we come from. We can’t survive without the land.” Fighting external threats – whether nature’s extremities or outsiders – has been a running theme through Sámi history. Tiina Sanila-Aikio draws inspiration from this. “As long as we have Sámi children living in Sámi areas, children whose family practise traditional livelihoods, then we have hope,” she says. Mark Olden is a journalist and press advisor to the forests and rights NGO Fern. His report with Hannah Mowat is Arctic Limits: How Finland’s forest policies threaten the Sámi and the climate.

What do I need to know about the CIA's hacking programme? Source: Reuters

ikiLeaks, the website that specializes in exposing secrets, on March 7 released what it said were thousands of documents that described internal U.S. Central Intelligence Agency discussions on hacking techniques it has used to circumvent security on electronic devices for spying. Reuters could not immediately verify the contents of the published documents. The following are some questions and answers users of consumer electronics may have:

CIA's hacking programme? A. WikiLeaks published documents that it says describe CIA tools for hacking into devices including mobile phones, computers and smart televisions.

Q: The documents suggest that the CIA can access information in encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal. I thought they were safe from even government spying? A: No system is perfect. The documents describe ways to get information in those apps on Android devices, but only after gaining full control of those phones. Reuters has not found evidence in the documents released by WikiLeaks that the CIA had figured a way to break the encryption in those apps.

Q: How can you hack a TV? A: WikiLeaks said it identified a project known as Weeping Angel where U.S. and British intelligence agencies developed ways to take over Samsung smart TVs equipped with microphones, forcing them to record conversations when the device appeared to be turned off. Experts have Q: Are iPhones also vulnerable? Q: Are the documents authentic? long said smart TVs and other InternetA: The documents discuss ways to A: It appears at least some are real. connected devices can be exploited to get into iPhones as well. One appeared While the CIA has declined to com- monitor a target. to show a list of Apple iOS security flaws purchased by U.S. intelligence ment, independent cyber security exQ: Are these revelations new? agencies so they could gain access to perts and former intelligence agency A: While the specific details are those devices. employees who have looked through them say that they appear to be au- new, it is well known in the cyber secuQ: What should I do if I'm worthentic, citing code words used to de- rity community that intelligence agencies are constantly trying to leverage ried? scribe CIA hacking programs. flaws in technology products to conA: Most people do not need to worry about being targeted by intelligence Q: What did we learn about the duct espionage.

wRiTE-wiNg

agencies. But everybody should stay on top of software patches so all their computers, mobile phones and other connected devices are running software with the latest security updates. Consumers should balance security concerns with their need to use smart devices. Q: Is this as big as the leaks from former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden? A: The Snowden leaks revealed that the NSA was secretly collecting U.S. call metadata on ordinary Americans. The materials released by WikiLeaks on Tuesday did not appear to reveal the existence of unknown any unknown programs. Instead they supplied details on how U.S. intelligence agencies work to discover and exploit security flaws to conduct espionage. Q: How did WikiLeaks get the information? A: Unclear. Someone inside the agency may have leaked the information. Or, someone outside may have figured out a way to steal it.

Letters to the Editor should be sent to: The morung express, House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur - 797112, Or –email: morung@gmail.com All letters (including those via email) should have the full name and Postal address of the sender. Readers may please note that the contents of the articles, letters and opinions published do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form.

Friday 10•03•2017

PERSPECTIVE

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Half a Century of Struggle against Underdevelopment Pablo Piacentini Inter Press Service

he idea of creating Inter Press Service (IPS) arose in the early 1960s in response to awareness that a vacuum existed in the world of journalism, which had two basic aspects. Firstly, there was a marked imbalance in international information sources. World news production was concentrated in the largest industrialised countries and dominated by a few powerful agencies and syndicates in the global North. By contrast, there was a lack of information about developing countries in the South and elsewhere; there was hardly any information about their political, economic and social realities, except when natural disasters occurred, and what little was reported was culturally prejudiced against these countries. In other words, not much of an image and a poor image at that. Secondly, there was an overall shortage of analysis and explanation of the processes behind news events and a lack of in-depth journalistic genres such as features, opinion articles and investigative journalism among the agencies. Agencies published mainly ‘spot’ news, that is, brief pieces with the bare news facts and little background. Clearly this type of journalism did not lend itself to covering development-related issues. When reporting an epidemic or a catastrophe in a Third World country, spot news items merely describe the facts and disseminate

broadcast striking images. What they generally do not do is make an effort to answer questions such as why diseases that have disappeared or are well under control in the North should cause such terrible regional pandemics in less developed countries, or why a major earthquake in Los Angeles or Japan should cause much less damage and fewer deaths than a smaller earthquake in Haiti. Superficiality and bias still predominate in international journalism. While it is true that contextualised analytical information started to appear in the op-ed (“opposite the editorial page”) section of Anglo-Saxon newspapers, the analysis and commentary they offered concentrated on the countries of the North and their interests. Today the number of op-

eds that appear is much greater than in the 1960s, but the predominant focus continues to be on the North. This type of top-down, North-centred journalism served the interests of industrialised countries, prolonging and extending their global domination and the subordination of non-industrialised countries that export commodities with little or no added value. This unequal structure of global information affected developing countries negatively. For example, because of the image created by scanty and distorted information, it was unlikely that the owners of expanding businesses in a Northern country would decide to set up a factory in a country of the South. After all, they knew little or nothing about these countries and, given the type of report-

ing about them that they were accustomed to, assumed that they were uncivilised and dangerous, with unreliable judicial systems, lack of infrastructure, and so on. Obviously, few took the risk, and investments were most frequently North-North, reinforcing development in developed countries and underdevelopment in underdeveloped countries. In the 1960s, those of us who created IPS set ourselves the goal of working to correct the biased, unequal and distorted image of the world projected by international agencies in those days. Political geography and economics were certainly quite different then. Countries like Brazil, which is now an emerging power, used to be offhandedly dismissed with the quip: “It’s the country of

the future – and always will be.” At the time, decolonisation was under way in Africa, Asia and the Caribbean. Latin America was politically independent but economically dependent. The Non-Aligned Movement was created in 1961. IPS never set out to present a “positive” image of the countries of the South by glossing over or turning a blind eye to the very real problems, such as corruption. Instead, we wished to present an objective view, integrating information about the South, its viewpoints and interests, into the global information media. This implied a different approach to looking at the world and doing journalism. It meant looking at it from the viewpoint of the realities of the South and its social and economic problems. Let me give an example which has a direct link to development. The media tend to dwell on what they present as the negative consequences of commodity price rises: they cause inflation, are costly for consumers and their families, and distort the world economy. Clearly, this is the viewpoint of the industrialised countries that import cheap raw materials and transform them into manufactured goods as the basis for expanding their businesses and competing in the global marketplace. It is true that steep and sudden price increases for some commodities can create problems in the international economy, as well as affect the population of some poor countries that have to import these raw materials. But generalised and constant complaints about com-

modities price increases fail to take into account the statistically proven secular trend towards a decline in commodity prices (with the exception of oil since 1973) compared with those of manufactured goods. IPS’s editorial policy is to provide news and analyses that show how, in the absence of fair prices and proper remuneration for their commodities, and unless more value is added to agricultural and mineral products, poor countries reliant on commodity exports cannot overcome underdevelopment and poverty. Many communications researchers have recognised IPS’s contribution to developing a more analytical and appropriate journalism for focusing on and understanding economic, social and political processes, as well as contributing to greater knowledge of the problems faced by countries of the South. Journalists addressing development issues need, in the first place, to undertake critical analysis of the content of news circulating in the information arena. Then they must analyse economic and social issues from the “other point of view”, that of marginalised and oppressed people, and of poor countries unable to lift themselves out of underdevelopment because of unfavourable terms of trade, agricultural protectionism, and so on. They must understand how and why some emerging countries are succeeding in overcoming underdevelopment, and what role can be played by international cooperation. They also need to examine whether the countries of the North and the international

institutions they control are imposing conditions on bilateral or multilateral agreements that actually perpetuate unequal development. World economic geography and politics may have changed greatly since the 1960s, and new information technologies may have revolutionised the media of today, but these remain some important areas in which imbalanced and discriminatory news treatment is evident. In conclusion, a journalist specialised in development issues must be able to look at and analyse information and reality from the “other side.” In spite of globalisation and the revolution in communications, this “other side” continues to be unknown and disregarded, and occupies a marginal position in the international information universe. An appreciation of the true dimensions of the above issues, the contrast between them and the information and analysis we are fed daily by the predominant media virtually all over the world – not only in the North, but also many by media in the South – leads to the obvious conclusion that there is a crying need for unbiased global journalism to help correct North-South imbalance. To this arduous task and still far-off goal, IPS has devoted its wholehearted efforts over the past half century. This oped was written by the Argentinian journalist Pablo Piacentini, cofounder of IPS to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the agency in 2014. IPS is republishing it now to celebrate his life. Piacentini passed away in Rome on March 1.

Women in South Asia: United By Harassment Arab world’s 1st ordained female pastor is historic Ammara Ahmad

Newslaundry

f you talk to people from Right-wing parties in Pakistan about Benazir Bhutto, Pakistan's first female Prime Minister, chances are they'll have plenty of stories to tell. Most of these stories will be unflattering — centering on her ‘sex life’ from her time at Oxford or on the ‘half-a-dozen men she's had affairs with’. All Bhutto had done to attract this sort of slander was to challenge Islamist military dictator Zia ul-Haq. And as it is with such smear campaigns, there’s little proof or even a loose link to support the claims. Indeed women in Pakistan are vulnerable to similar kind of threats and slandering as Gurmehar Kaur witnessed recently in India. Take the case of Pakistani human rights lawyer Asma Jahangir, who has been accused of having ties with deceased Shiv Sena leader Bal Thackeray. The evidence? A photo of Jahangir from 2008 that shows her sitting next to Thackeray; that too wearing an orange salwaarkameez. For those bent on maligning her, it did not matter that Jehangir had met Thackeray as United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion. This vilification and coercion of facts have become easier with social media. Pages on Facebook and hundreds of social media accounts can now erupt to attack a woman who has taken an ideological stance of her choice. The strange thing is that it quickly becomes an acceptable truth. Hina Rabbani Khar, former Foreign Minister of Pakistan, was targeted after Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) had a fallout with Pakistan's Army over the Kerry-Luger Bill, which sought to put military aid under civilian supervision. Khar was made the target of vicious online campaigns that fallaciously stated that she was romancing PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. The story is so bizarre that neither Bilawal nor Khar will ever challenge it openly. Therefore, it stays online. And on some or the other random website, there will always be photos of two Indian actors with the caption "Bilawal kissing Hina Khar". All major political parties in Pakistan have social media wings. Recently, security agencies in Pakistan have also acquired a hefty social media

presence. What this means is hundreds of accounts working towards trending hashtags and attacking anyone critical of their ideals, leaders or personnel. The Army is particularly sensitive about Balochistan or the Chief of Army Staff. Journalists who challenge information about Balochistan or leak news about the Army's secret operations (like Cyril Almeida did last year) face a series of smut campaigns and threats. Marvi Sirmed, a human rights activist based in Islamabad, is a loud proponent of minority rights and challenges the two-nation theory. She is also against Pakistan depicting India as the enemy and Saudi Arabia as a friend. Sirmed's attire -- a saree and a bindi -- have been the subject of repeated attacks against her. She is a staunch critic of Imran Khan and therefore often at the receiving end of his political party's trolls. Just before the 2013 elections, pictures of Sirmed's face were Photoshopped on the body of a barely-dressed model and circulated. Women are more vulnerable to such attacks, and this is why in Pakistan, female political figures, like the sitting PM Nawaz Sharif's daughter, top women ministers and former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto's daughters keep a strategic distance from the public. Apart from the fact that such slanderous campaigns can be a cause of immense distress, they also take away from the original issue at hand. Consider the case of Kaur, who has been at the receiving end of online conspiracies and slander from the Right wing. What the trolling and smear campaigns ultimately achieved was a shift in focus from the violence at Ramjas College to Kaur's nine-month old video, her motivations and her background. The issue of vandalism on campus took a backseat; instead Kaur’s patriotism and even fidelity to her father’s legacy took centrestage. Kaur’s support for peace with Pakistan was presented as an attempt to demoralise the Indian soldier -- a stand Bharatiya Janata Party has often taken to quell even minor variations from its stance on Pakistan. However, it is not hard to see why Kaur’s support for peace with Pakistan irked so many BJP supporters. Being someone who has lost a parent in Kargil makes her a first-hand sufferer of war and conflict, lending her

more authority on the topic as well as more plausibility. Kaur is educated, understands social media’s strength and above all, she remained steadfast on her stance of wanting peace between the two nations even as she dealt with intense media scrutiny. This is similar to her counterparts in Pakistan, like Sirmed and Jahangir. Hopefully, women stalwarts of BJP, like Sushma Swaraj, Smriti Irani, Meneka Gandhi and Shazia Ilmi, will take a stance against manufactured hate campaigns against women. And they will do it publicly, so that everyone who thinks they’re furthering BJP's cause, gets the message. Hopefully, laws will also be enacted and enforced to prevent women from being threatened with sexual violence by online trolls. Kaur isn’t alone when it comes to peace activism. American war veterans from Vietnam, Afghanistan and especially Iraq have led movements for peace, particularly before the second invasion of war. Veterans and their families have shared their suffering and first-hand experiences to negate pro-war jingoism. However, these people are not dubbed as anti-America overnight. As a Pakistani, I stand in support of Kaur’s brave and mature stance, and her decision to not fall for hollow nationalism. It is clear that the loss and absence of her father have taught her the price of armed conflicts. She isn't asking India to give up defending itself, but to refrain from rushing in. She makes an appeal to both nations to solve the problem: “Enough state-sponsored terrorism. Enough state-sponsored spies. Enough state-sponsored hatred. Enough people have died on both sides of the border. Enough is enough.” Above all, Kaur's voice is important because as women, we pay the bigger price for war and conflict, not just owing to the sexual violence, but also because of loss of family and infrastructure. More women like Kaur, who understands that women are stakeholders in conflict resolution and peace processes just like men are, should have their voices heard. I hope some Pakistani Army officer’s daughter will also gather the courage to say what Kaur did and develop a counter-narrative of peace in these nations obsessed with overpowering each other.

Halim Shebaya openDemocracy

ola Sleiman made history. She now carries the title of ‘Reverend’ of the Presbyterian Church, the first woman to be ordained in a Middle Eastern Church on February 26, 2017 in Tripoli, Lebanon Her ordination was “an act of love and justice”, those present at the ceremony heard in the sermon, and her comment to journalists after the ceremony was “Christ’s justice has been finally fulfilled”. Rola had shown signs of cautious optimism in 2012 about her ordination: “It is not something that I dream of day and night. Whatever happens, I will not be discouraged.” But she tells me that she never imagined this day would come. She was very (pleasantly) surprised with the result of the Synod’s vote of 23-1 in favor of her ordination. The historic nature of the event was not evident at first sight. She says “it’s not a big deal. I was serving my Church and I will continue serving.” Indeed, she had already been serving as a licensed preacher and, since 2008, as pastor of the Church and was able to perform all the functions except for the two sacraments (baptism and communion). She was able to officiate marriages and funerals, but in practice, there was always an ordained male pastor present during these ceremonies. So what’s the big deal? The fact that Rola, as a woman, now has spiritual authority over her congregation comprised of men and women is extraordinary. Previously, a male ordained pastor had to be present with her during the sacraments, marriages, and funerals. The historic nature of her ordination lies precisely in this apparently minor fact that she is now able to perform these tasks in her own person. She no longer needs a male pastor by her side. It may be difficult to comprehend the significance of this ‘spiritual’ detail at a time when debate around women’s empowerment and gender equality is centered on politics, the workplace, and the criminal justice system.

Rev. Rola Sleiman

Indeed, some may ask, what does the spiritual realm of priests and sacraments have to do with women’s rights? In short, it’s a question of authority, and her assuming ‘spiritual authority’ takes on a special meaning in a Lebanese (and Arab) context where women are, as Human Rights Watch put it, “unequal and unprotected”. Rola herself is cognizant that she lives in a patriarchal society and understands that hers is an important mission to set an example for young girls and women to follow in her path. Her ordination is doubly significant in a context where women are assumed to be of an inferior status to men when it comes to certain functions: theologically (priesthood reserved to men only), politically (vast underrepresentation of women in local and national politics), and legally (discrimination in law). In the life of the Church, women are considered to be important, from the exalted status of Mary and female saints in Catholicism and the Orthodox Church, to the fact that Jesus chose to reveal himself after his resurrection to a woman. Furthermore, Churches in Lebanon who do not ordain women will point to the status of the Theotokos (Mother of God) who in the Orthodox tradition is “more honorable than the cherubim and more glorious beyond compare than the seraphim”, and in Catholicism is considered “after her Son, exalted by divine grace above all angels

and men.” Still, when we get down to the day-to-day business of running the Church, it is only men who hold power and authority based on the Catholic and Orthodox Churches’ interpretation of Scriptures and their adherence to Holy Tradition. For the Catholic Church, Pope Francis has considered the matter of female ordination to be closed, referring to John Paul II’s 1992 Apostolic Letter where it was affirmed that priestly ordination “has in the Catholic Church from the beginning always been reserved to men alone.” While these Churches do not understand the notion of priesthood as a matter of “rights”, Rola’s ordination has a highly symbolic significance in Lebanon whereby it touches on the thorny issue of “tradition”, “rights”, and “cultural relativism”. Indeed, arguments of tradition and cultural relativism are used to deny women and minorities human rights that should be universal, Human Rights Watch had noted in its 2013 World Report in relation to the Arab world. At the end of the day, Rola’s ordination may be marginal to the cynical eye. The Presbyterian Church is a minority in Lebanon and her ordination remains an exception rather than the norm and will never be replicated in the context of the larger Catholic, Orthodox, or Coptic Churches in the region. But none of this casts a shadow over the historic moment that took place on February 26. Her ordination

is a welcome move that will hopefully have a positive impact on the hearts and minds of Churchgoers and Lebanese citizens who are not used to seeing a woman in power, be it spiritual or temporal. Ultimately for Rola, she kept insisting to me that it all boils down to God’s love saying, “Christ is love, and love does not distinguish between men and women.” When I asked her how she viewed her ordination in the context of a country rampant with discrimination and with an active civil society fighting for women’s rights, she responded with a question: “If the Church discriminates against women, what should we expect of the state?” And who would disagree that this message of equality and non-discrimination is exactly what Lebanon and the Arab world needs, regardless whether it comes in religious or non-religious language. Halim Shebaya is a Beirutbased analyst and researcher. He teaches in the School of Arts and Sciences at the Lebanese American University and has worked on social and political affairs for a number of local and international organisations. His articles have appeared in the World Post, Huffington Post, Al-Jazeera English, Jadaliyya, Legal Agenda, Annahar, Assafir, and Al Akhbar. He holds an M.Div. in Theology (NEST), M.A. in Middle Eastern Studies (SOAS), and an L.L.M. in Public International Law (Nottingham).

FriDAY 10•03•2017

INDIA

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Exit polls predict BJP win in states; loss in Punjab Exit Poll rEsults

Prime Minister Narendra Modi (Reuters File Photo)

New Delhi, March 9 (reuterS): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's party is well ahead of rivals in an election in the country's most populous state, Uttar Pradesh, but may fall short of an absolute majority, four major exit polls showed on Thursday. Victory for Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Uttar Pradesh, which is home to 220 million people, would boost his chances of winning the 2019 general election and underscore his popularity after he made himself the face of the party's campaign. The prime minister would also see success as vindication of his sudden decision in November to abolish high-denomination banknotes to rein in corruption. The move was seen as politically risky, because most transactions in India are carried out in cash and millions of Indians were forced to join long queues outside banks to deposit their old bills or get hold of new ones. Indian elections are notoriously

Uttar Pradesh NDTV (poll of exit polls): SP+Congress 122, BJP 211, BSP 61, Others 9 Today's Chanakya — BJP - 285±18, SP-Congress - 88±15 , BSP - 27±12 , Others 3±2 India Today-Axis — SP+Congress - 88-112, BJP - 251-279, BSP - 28-42, RLD 2-5, Others 4-11 India News — BJP -155-167, SP+Congress - 135-147, BSP - 81-93, Others - 8-20 ABP — BJP - 164-176, SP+Congress - 156-169, BSP - 60-72, Others - 2-6

hard to call, and polls taken before and after voting are often wrong. Pollsters were left red-faced in 2015 after mistakenly predicting a BJP win in the state of Bihar. Results in Uttar Pradesh, as well as four other state ballots, will be announced on Saturday. The BJP would need to win 202 seats to secure a majority in the 403-seat assembly in Uttar Pradesh, where voting ended on Wednesday almost a month after the first of seven voting phases kicked off. If no groups wins a majority, parties on Saturday will start trying to form a governing coalition. The BJP would win 179 seats, according to an average of four exit polls compiled by news channel NDTV, ahead of an alliance between the ruling Samajwadi Party and the Congress party that is seen picking up 136 seats. Modi threw himself into the battle for Uttar Pradesh, where his BJP won by a landslide in the 2014 general election, to shore up its core Hindu voter base after his party's campaign

Two suspected LeT ultras among three killed in Kashmir gunfight

SriNagar, March 9 (iaNS): Two suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists and a civilian were killed on Thursday in a gunfight between militants and security forces in south Kashmir's Pulwama district. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), who conducted the operation along with police, said the gunfight started around 4 a.m. in Padgampora village following a tip-off. Those killed were LeT militants Mohammad Safi Shergujari, 25, and Jahangir Ahmad Ganie, 23, and civilian Aamir Wani, the police said. However, it was not immediately clear whether the civilian was fatally hit by a stray bullet during the gunfight or was killed during a protest by a group of villagers. "Our troopers from 130 Battalion and the SOG (Special Operations Group) of Jammu and Kashmir Police killed the two militants after a tip-off that four-five suspects were holed up in Padgampora," CRPF Deputy Inspector General M. Dinakaran told IANS. "A group of people started pelting security forces with stones at the gunfight site. Police dispersed the crowd by bursting teargas shells," the officer said. Following the gunfight, the Bannihal-Baramulla train service was disrupted since the tracks are close to Padgampora village.

Modi hopes for 'breakthrough' on GST New Delhi, March 9 (iaNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has exuded confidence on the passage of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Bill in the Budget session of Parliament which resumed on Thursday. "There will be detailed discussion on the Budget and I am sure the level of debate and discussion will be of good quality. It will be focused on the issues pertaining to the welfare of the poor," Modi told the media. Citing positive response from the states and other political parties, Modi said he hoped the GST, the country's biggest tax reform, would be in place by this session itself. "We are hopeful of a breakthrough in the GST. One of the reasons for our optimism is that all the states have cooperated in a positive manner. All the political parties have also been extremely positive and cooperative in their response," he added. "We have been able to move forward in this direction after arriving at a consensus on certain decisions subsequent to detailed discussion on this issue in a democratic manner," the Prime Minister said. "The efforts are on to enlist the cooperation of all to ensure that the GST is in place by this session," added Modi.

got off to a weak start. "Exit polls are not able to assess the real voting patterns. The truth will be out on Saturday and we are confident of our victory," said Samajwadi Party national spokesman Ghanshyam Tiwari. Most people in Uttar Pradesh vote along social and religious lines, forcing parties to appeal to more than one group to clinch a vote share of more than 30 percent that can deliver a landslide win under India's first-past-the-post system. Thursday's exit polls also forecast a neck-and-neck race between Congress and the anti-corruption Aam Aadmi Party in Punjab, where the ruling coalition, of which the BJP is a member, faces a drubbing. Polls predicted that Modi's party would retain power in the small state of Goa and take the northern state of Uttarakhand from Congress, and put the BJP narrowly ahead in Manipur, a small region bordering Myanmar. The BJP last ruled Uttar Pradesh in 2002.

Uttarakhand NDTV (poll of exit polls): Congress - 23, BJP - 43, Others 4 India Today — Congress - 12-21, BJP - 46-53, BSP -1-2, Others 1-4 News24 — Congress -15+, BJP -53, BSP -0, Others -0 Today’s Chanakya — BJP -53 ± 7, Congress -15 ± 7, Others -2 ± 2 C-voter — Congress -32, BJP -32, Others -5 MRC — Congress - 38, BJP - 30, others - 3 PUnjab NDTV (poll of exit polls): Congress -55, BJP + Akali Dal -7, AAP -54, Others -1 India Today — Congress -62-71, BJP + Akali Dal -4-7, AAP -42-51, Others -0-2 Today’s Chanakya — AAP+ -54 ± 9, Congress -54 ± 9, SAD-BJP -9 ± 5, Others -0 ± 2 C-Voter — Congress -45, BJP + Akali Dal -9, AAP -63, Others -0-2 ManiPUr NDTV (poll of exit polls): Congress -26, BJP -24, Others -10 India TV — Congress -17-23, BJP -25-31, Others -9-15 C-voter — Congress -20, BJP -28, Others -12 Goa NDTV (poll of exit polls): Congress -13, BJP -17, AAP -4, Others -6 India Today — Congress -10, BJP -15, AAP -7, Others -8 C-voter — Congress -12-18, BJP -15-21, AAP -0-4, Others -2-8

No charge for adding money to Sri Lanka assures of probe into wallet using credit card: Mobikwik Indian fisherman's killing: MEA

New Delhi, March 9 (iaNS): A day after digital payments firm Paytm announced 2 per cent charge for adding money to its wallets using credit cards, mobile wallet major MobiKwik said that it will continue to offer free uploading of money. "In order to popularise the government's vision of a cash-less society, we at MobiKwik have decided not to charge 2 per cent on credit card recharges so that more people can transact online without having to worry about additional charges," MobiKwik Founder and CEO Bipin Preet Singh said here on Thursday. MobiKwik, which currently

serves over 55 million users and 1.4 million merchants, said that by the end of 2017, it aims to increase its user base to 150 million and serve over 5 million merchants. Paytm, starting Wednesday, has announced a charge of 2 per cent on adding money to its wallet using a credit card. "When you use your credit card to add money to Paytm wallet, you will be charged a refundable 2 per cent fee. The refund will be in the form of a gift voucher that you can use at businesses where you usually use Paytm wallet - eg. to recharge phones, pay bills," Paytm had said in a blog post on Wednesday. The 2

per cent is applicable only on adding money to wallet and not on payment of bills, recharges or purchases on Paytm, it had said. Paytm said that the charge was announced because some users started funding their wallet with their credit cards and transferring it to the bank all for free. "To avoid this misuse, we are making the changes. However, this 2 per cent fee charges on credit card would be reversed in the form of a gift voucher for the same amount which will be issued within 24 hours of adding money. This hopefully keeps unintended misuse of our platform away," it had said.

New Delhi, March 9 (iaNS): The Indian government on Thursday said Colombo had assured of a thorough probe into the killing of an Indian fisherman allegedly by the Sri Lankan Navy. "The Sri Lankan government has assured us of a very thorough investigation into the matter. Let us await its outcome," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Gopal Baglay said. India approached the Sri Lankan government through its High Commission in Colombo and conveyed its concern regarding the Monday night killing.

Referring to Indian fishermen detained in Sri Lanka, Baglay said: "The government of Sri Lanka has informed the High Commission of India in Colombo that all 85 Indian fisherman currently in Sri Lankan custody will be released." "We understand that instructions to authorities concerned in Sri Lanka have been issued in this regard. We are awaiting further orders," he said. In the latest incident of its kind, six fishermen from Thangachimadam in Ramanathapuram district were fired at on Monday night while they were fishing near the Katchatheevu

islet in Palk Strait. Fisherman K. Britjo was killed and another injured, who was hospitalised in Tamil Nadu. On Thursday, Lok Sabha members also raised the issue in the house and sought action from the Indian government. AIADMK leader M. Thambidurai said Indian fishermen were regularly being troubled by the Sri Lankan Navy which, at times, also took away their fishing equipment. Colombo initially denied Sri Lankan Navy's involvement in the killing but later promised a thorough probe into the incident.

Proud of slain terror suspect's father for not accepting body: Rajnath in Lok Sabha New Delhi, March 9 (Pti): The National Investigation Agency will probe suspected terror cases, including the Lucknow encounter in which an alleged terrorist linked to a train blast was killed, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said on Thursday. While the Uttar Pradesh police shot dead suspected terrorist Mohammad Saifullah on Wednesday, six suspects have been arrested by cops in Madhya Pradesh and UP on terror charges, Singh said in a statement in the Lok Sabha. Members thumped desks when the minister lauded Saifullah’s father Mohammad Sartaj for

his refusal to accept his son’s body saying “if he could not be loyal to the country, how can he be ours”. “The government is proud of him and I am sure Parliament too is,” he said. Saifullah was suspected to be linked with the blast in the Bhopal-Ujjain train in Madhya Pradesh on Tuesday. Giving details of various cases registered in the two states following the blast which injured 10 persons, he said the state police arrested three suspects in Hoshangabad in Madhya Pradesh, following which the UP cops acted in various parts of the state following information provided by the accused and nabbed

three persons. “The above sequence of events presents an excellent example of coordination amongst state police and central agencies. Due to the prompt action taken by the police of both the state, a possible threat to national security was successfully averted. “Further investigations will be handed over to the NIA,” he said. The home minister also informed the House that eight pistols, 630 live cartridges, Rs 1.5 lakh, three mobiles phone, four sim cards, two wireless sets and some foreign currency were recovered from the place where Saifullah lived.

india accuses uN Human rights chief of Maneka Gandhi hails passage silence on Pakistan's state-sponsored terror of Maternity Bill in Parliament

uNiteD NatioNS, March 9 (iaNS): India on Thursday accused UN Human Rights Commissioner Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein of being "silent" on Pakistan's state sponsorship of terror - in an unusually strong and open criticism of the official. "The central problem in Jammu and Kashmir is cross-border terrorism, and hence, we are a little surprised that the High Commissioner was silent regarding Pakistan that uses terrorism as an instrument of state policy," Ajit Kumar, India's Permanent Representative to the UN office in Geneva, told the UN Human Rights Council meeting in the Swiss city. Kumar also took issue with Zeid for using the phrase "Indian-Administered Kashmir", which, he said was "artificial" while referring to the Indian state. He was responding to Zeid, who had spoken of

his office's "difficulty in obtaining access" to Jammu and Kashmir. While presenting his annual report to the annual meeting of the Human Rights Council on Wednesday, Zeid mentioned "both sides of the Line of Control in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir and Pakistan-administered Kashmir" among areas where the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) could not get access. Kumar said, "The whole state of Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India. Pakistan remains in illegal occupation of a part of our territory. The two cannot and should not be equated. "The neutrality of the phrase 'Indian-Administered Kashmir' is, therefore, artificial. Furthermore, the State of Jammu and Kashmir has an elected democratic government that

represents all sections of the people, unlike the situation in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir." While acknowledging "the role sought to be played by the OHCHR in effective promotion and protection of human rights", he questioned the way it went about it. "More would be gained if primacy were accorded to cooperation over confrontation with the States concerned," he said. Kumar said that "the robust and mature Indian democracy" had proved again that it had the strength and the mechanisms to deal with internal problems resulting from external incitement. "Normalcy has returned as 99 per cent of the students of Jammu and Kashmir have taken their high school examinations and schools have reopened," he said. Last week, Pakistan's Law Minister Zahid Hamid

had also brought up Zeid's request to send a team to Kashmir. Replying to Hamid's statement, Kumar accused Islamabad of being the "epicentre" of terrorism and carrying out "an intense campaign to destabilise" Jammu and Kashmir through "infiltration and cross-border terrorism; inciting, promoting and glorifying violence". Last year during the unrest in Jammu and Kashmir, Zeid cited "grave concerns about recent allegations of serious human rights violations" and asked India and Pakistan to allow a team from his office to visit Kashmir. India, which holds that Kashmir developments are an internal matter of India, did not respond to his request. Pakistan said if India allowed in the OHCHR team, it would also permit it to visit the part of Kashmir it occupies.

In his speech in Geneva on Wednesday, Zeid mentioned Ethiopia, Syria, south-east regions of Turkey and Venezuela along with Kashmir as areas where OHCR faced difficulty in obtaining access. He went on to say, "In several areas where we have received indications of severe violations and where access has been refused, my office has begun remote monitoring and (deploying) fact-finding mission to neighbouring countries." It was not clear if this applied to Jammu and Kashmir also. Zeid did make a general statement on terrorism, but avoided mentioning state-sponsorship. "This past year has witnessed considerable bloodshed at the hands of extremists and terrorist groups and I take this opportunity to once again strongly condemn all such violations in every instance."

New Delhi, March 9 (Pti): Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi Thursday hailed the passage of Maternity Bill, which allows paid maternity leave of 26 weeks, in Parliament, calling it a “historic” decision. The Lok Sabha passed the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Bill, 2016. The Bill had already been passed by the Rajya Sabha during the Winter Session. It entitles the women working in the organised sector to paid maternity leave of 26 weeks, up from

12 weeks. “I am very, very happy that we have made history today. This will help thousands of women and produce much healthier children. We have been working on it for a long time,” said Maneka. She also wrote a message on Change.org addressing the women who had petitioned her on the issue. “This is a historic decision taken by our government. I had requested Honourable Minister for Labour to make these changes in relevant laws

and I am grateful to him for taking up my request. “While congratulating all working women who are planning to have a child, I assure you that we will continue to work for women in the country,” the Minister said. Maneka also acknowledged that ensuring organisations implement the Bill by providing mothers the mandatory 26 week leave and making provisions for a creche will be an uphill task. The Minister refrained from commenting on the issue of paternity leave. She had earlier courted controversy when she remarked that paternity leave will just be a holiday for men. The Bill also provides for maternity leave of 12 weeks to mothers adopting a child below the age of three months as well as to commissioning mothers. It also makes it mandatory for every establishment with more than 50 employees to provide creche facilities within a prescribed distance.

fridAY 10•03•2017

WORLD

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

CIA contractors likely source of latest WikiLeaks release WASHINGTON, MArcH 9 (reuTerS): Contractors likely breached security and handed over documents describing the Central Intelligence Agency’s use of hacking tools to antisecrecy group WikiLeaks, U.S. intelligence and law enforcement officials told Reuters on Wednesday. Two officials speaking on condition of anonymity said intelligence agencies have been aware since the end of last year of the breach, which led to WikiLeaks releasing thousands of pages of information on its website on Tuesday. According to the documents, CIA hackers could get into Apple Inc (AAPL.O) iPhones, devices running Google’s Android software and other gadgets in order to capture text and voice messages before they were encrypted with sophisticated software. The White House said on Wednesday that President Donald Trump was “extremely concerned” about the CIA security breach that led to the WikiLeaks release. “Anybody who leaks classified information will be held to the highest degree of law,” spokesman Sean Spicer said. The two officials told Reuters they believed the published documents about CIA hacking techniques used between 2013 and 2016 were authentic. One of the officials with knowledge of the investigation said companies that are contractors for the CIA have been checking to see which of their

The logo of the Wikileaks website is pictured on a smartphone in this picture illustration taken in Tokyo. (REUTERS File Photo)

employees had access to the material that WikiLeaks published, and then going over their computer logs, emails and other communications for any evidence of who might be responsible. On Tuesday in a press release, WikiLeaks itself said the CIA had “lost control” of an archive of hacking methods and it appeared to have been circulated “among former U.S. government hackers and contractors in an unauthorized manner, one of whom has provided WikiLeaks with portions of the archive.” The CIA, which is the United States’ civilian foreign intelligence service, declined to com-

ment on the authenticity of purported intelligence documents. The agency said in a statement that its mission was to collect foreign intelligence abroad “to protect America from terrorists, hostile nation states and other adversaries” and to be “innovative, cutting-edge, and the first line of defence in protecting this country from enemies abroad.” The CIA is legally prohibited from surveillance inside the United States and “does not do so”, the statement added.

would be normal for the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the CIA both to open investigations into such leaks. U.S. officials previously have confirmed that prosecutors in Alexandria, Virginia for years have been conducting a federal grand jury investigation of WikiLeaks and its personnel. A spokesman for the prosecutors declined to comment on the possibility of that probe being expanded. It is not clear if the investigation of the latest CIA leaks is part of the probe. Contractors have been recONTrAcTOrS MuST Be vealed as the source of sensi‘LOYAL TO AMerIcA’ tive government information A U.S. government source leaks in recent years, most nofamiliar with the matter said it tably Edward Snowden and

Harold Thomas Martin, both employed by consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton (BAH.N) while working for the National Security Agency. U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein of California and a Democrat on the intelligence committee, said the government needed to stop the breaches. “I think we really need to take a look at the contractor portion of the employee workforce, because you have to be loyal to America to work for an intelligence agency, otherwise don’t do it,” Feinstein said. Both U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives intelligence committees have either opened or are expected to open inquiries into the CIA breach, congressional officials said. Some cyber security experts and technology companies have criticized the government for opting to exploit rather than disclose software vulnerabilities, though an interagency review process set up under former President Barack Obama was intended to err on the side of disclosure. Those concerns would grow if U.S. authorities did not notify companies that CIA documents describing various hacking techniques had been compromised. Apple, Alphabet Inc’s (GOOGL.O) Google, Cisco Systems Inc (CSCO.O) and Oracle Corp (ORCL.N) did not immediately respond when asked if they were notified of a CIA breach before WikiLeaks made its files public. At Apple, none of the vul-

nerabilities described in the documents provoked a panic, though analysis was continuing, according to a person who spoke with engineers there. Google’s director of information security and privacy, Heather Adkins, said in a statement: “As we’ve reviewed the documents, we’re confident that security updates and protections in both Chrome and Android (operating systems) already shield users from many of these alleged vulnerabilities. Our analysis is ongoing and we will implement any further necessary protections.” LARGER NUMBER OF CONTRACTORS One reason the investigation is focused on a potential leak by contractors rather than for example a hack by Russian intelligence, another official said, is that so far there is no evidence that Russian intelligence agencies tried to exploit any of the leaked material before it was published. One European official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the WikiLeaks material could in fact lead to closer cooperation between European intelligence agencies and U.S. counterparts, which share concerns about Russian intelligence operations. U.S. intelligence agencies have accused Russia of seeking to tilt last year’s U.S. presidential election in Trump’s favour, including by hacking into Democratic Party emails. Moscow has denied the allegation. One major security problem

was that the number of contractors with access to information with the highest secrecy classification has “exploded” because of federal budget constraints, the first U.S. official said. U.S. intelligence agencies have been unable to hire additional permanent staff needed to keep pace with technological advances such as the “internet of things” that connects cars, home security and heating systems and other devices to computer networks, or to pay salaries competitive with the private sector, the official said. Reuters could not immediately verify the contents of the published documents. A person familiar with WikiLeaks’ activities said the group has had the CIA hacking material for months, and that the release of the material was in the works “for a long time.” In Germany on Wednesday, the chief federal prosecutor’s office said that it would review the WikiLeaks documents because some suggested that the CIA ran a hacking hub from the U.S. consulate in Frankfurt. “We will initiate an investigation if we see evidence of concrete criminal acts or specific perpetrators,” a spokesman for the federal prosecutor’s office told Reuters. Chancellor Angela Merkel is scheduled to visit Washington on March 14 for her first meeting with Trump, who has sharply criticized Berlin for everything from its trade policy to what he considers inadequate levels of military spending.

People on treatment with China says more than 20,000 from Lack of good cholesterol suppressed HIV levels can’t Myanmar seek refuge across border may up heart attack risk transmit virus: HIV/AIDS group Stray shells and bullets had fallen NeW YOrk, MArcH 9 (IANS): While it is widely WASHINGTON, MArcH 9 (reuTerS): When the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is successfully suppressed by medication, people with HIV can’t transmit the virus to others, according to a coalition of community health and HIV/AIDS organizations. Modern drugs for HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, can often achieve viral suppression, meaning levels of the virus have been reduced to undetectable levels in the blood. This week, the AIDS United Public Policy Committee issued a statement that said virally suppressed people on treatment can’t pass HIV to others, and it recommended that healthcare providers and educators share this message with the public. “We feel that the science is very strong on this and felt comfortable making that statement,” said Ronald Johnson, AIDS United’s vice president of policy and advocacy in Washington, D.C. An expert not involved in the coalition told Reuters Health she didn’t completely agree - but she did say the risk of transmission in such cases would be “negligible.” People who start treatment for HIV with so-called antiretroviral therapy (ART) can be virally suppressed within 12 to 24 weeks, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Viral suppression can be lifelong if people stay on their medicine. Over 1.2 million people in the U.S. are currently living with HIV, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Of those, 86 percent are aware of their diagnosis, 37 percent are on treatment to stop the virus from replicating and 30 percent are virally suppressed. A study published last year in the Journal of the American Medical Association examined the risk of transmission between a person living with well-controlled HIV and their HIV-negative partner. Among 548 opposite-sex and 340 same-sex couples having unprotected sex, only 11 of the HIV-negative partners became positive over about a year and a half of follow up. None of the new infections could be traced back to the partners with HIV. (See Reuters Health story of July 12, 2016 here: reut.rs/2aMSuE9.) Those researchers and others, however, did not go so far as to say the risk of transmission is zero. They emphasized that more data is needed - particularly for condomless anal sex. “We felt looking at these studies, there is substantial evidence that we can come to the conclusion that people living with HIV that have sustained and undetectable viral load cannot transmit HIV,” Johnson told Reuters Health. Dr. Michelle Cespedes, associate professor of infectious disease at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York, said it’s impossible to say transmission would never occur with condomless sex. “To say there is absolutely no risk is maybe a little overstating it, but based on the evidence to date it’s a reasonable conclusion,” said Cespedes, who was not involved with the AIDS United statement but described the risk as negligible. She said she always recommends condoms and she offers pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) to HIV-negative patients, which also significantly reduces their risk of contracting the virus. The new statement calls for the HHS Antiretroviral Guidelines Committee to examine the issue and update its language. It also calls for laws and policies regarding HIV in the U.S. to be modernized to reflect current science. Johnson said such changes, along with public knowledge that people living with HIV can’t transmit the infection while on treatment and virally suppressed, will reduce stigma. AIDS United also endorsed a consensus statement last year issued by the Prevention Access Campaign that made a similar determination about the risk of HIV transmission when the virus is suppressed.

Refugees who fled Myanmar walk at Mae La refugee camp. (REUTERS Photo)

BeIJING, MArcH 9 (reuTerS): More than 20,000 people from Myanmar have flooded into border camps in neighbouring China, seeking refuge from bitter fighting between ethnic groups and security forces in the country’s north, China said on Thursday. Thousands of people have crossed China’s border in recent months to escape the conflict, which threatens Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi’s top goal of reaching peace with minorities. This week, about 30 people were killed in an attack by ethnic Chinese insurgents in Laukkai, a town 800 km

(500 miles) northeast of Myanmar’s commercial hub Yangon. China is providing humanitarian assistance while taking steps to ensure peace and tranquility in the border region, Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said. He reiterated a call for all sides involved to “exercise restraint and immediately cease fire” to keep clashes from escalating. “China supports Myanmar’s peace process and hopes all sides can use peaceful means to resolve their differences via dialogue and consultation,” Geng told a regular news briefing.

into China territory, injuring one Chinese person living there and causing some other damage, he added, but did not elaborate. Suu Kyi’s nearly one-year-old government is increasingly besieged by ethnic rebels, grappling with an alliance of militias in Myanmar’s north and a new insurgency by Rohingyas rebelling against decades of persecution in the northwest. Suu Kyi swept to power in 2015 on promises of national reconciliation and the meeting was aimed at giving fresh impetus to the stuttering peace process. In this week’s attack, fighters of the predominantly ethnic Chinese Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) launched a predawn raid on police, military and government sites in Laukkai, the capital of the northeastern Kokang region. MNDAA is a part of the Northern Alliance coalition of rebel groups comprising one of Myanmar’s most powerful militias, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), and two smaller groups caught in a stand-off with the military since 2015 clashes in the region. Many died and tens of thousands fled during that fighting, which also spilled into China and led to the death of five of its people, angering Beijing.

known that cholesterol may be bad for the health of the heart, a new study has showed that not having enough good cholesterol can also be bad. The findings showed that for young individuals, under the age of 50, having abnormally low good cholesterol may increase the risk of heart attack than those with elevated bad cholesterol. While elevated LDL-C, known as “bad” cholesterol, is considered a risk factor for a heart attack or stroke because it suggests that arteries are clogged with deposits known as plaque, HDL-C, known as “good” cholesterol, acts like a scavenger, scouring the blood to get rid of excess fat and bad cholesterol. “In this study of younger heart attack patients, low HDL-C was the most common abnormality, seen in approximately 90 per cent of the men and 75 per cent of the women,” said lead author Bradley Collins, student at Harvard Medical School. Healthy levels of HDL-C (above 40 in men, above 50 in women) may protect against heart attacks and strokes, partly due to HDL-C’s role in clearing bad cholesterol from the arteries, reducing inflammation and preventing blood clots, whereas low levels of HDL-C have been shown to increase risk. “This finding suggests that low HDL-C should be considered a marker of increased heart attack risk in younger patients particularly,” Collins added. The study will be presented at the American College of Cardiology’s 66th Annual Scientific Session in Washington. For the study, the team identified 813 men under 45 years old and women under 50 years old who had been treated for a heart attack. HDL-C is often a “modifiable” risk factor for heart disease and can be raised by giving up smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, and eating more fruit and vegetables while avoiding unhealthy fats, such as trans-fats, the researchers suggested.

Fire at Guatemala shelter kills 21 girls, police blame arson GuATeMALA, MArcH 9 (reuTerS): A fire tore through a home for abused teenagers and children in Guatemala, killing at least 21 girls on Wednesday after some residents set mattresses ablaze following an overnight attempt to escape from the overcrowded center, police said. A crowd of relatives, some wailing with grief, gathered outside the government-run Virgen de Asuncion home for youths aged up to 18, in San Jose Pinula, 25 km (15 miles) southwest of the capital, Guatemala City. Local hospitals reported at least 40 others being treated for burns. The blaze started when a group of young people who had been isolated by authorities after a riot and an escape attempt at the center on Tuesday night set fire to mattresses, said Nery Ramos, head of Guatemala’s national police. Authorities were investigating whether those who started the blaze were the same ones who tried to escape, Ramos added. “What happened is extremely serious, and even

more so for the fact that it could have been avoided,” Anabella Morfin, Guatemala’s solicitor general, told a news conference. “This should never have happened.” Burnt bodies partially covered in blankets were strewn across the floor of a blackened room in the home, pictures posted to Twitter by the firefighters showed. President Jimmy Morales declared three days of national mourning, and the government criticized conditions at the home. Mayra Veliz, secretary general of the attorney general’s office, pledged a transparent investigation into the cause of the blaze. She said a group of disabled girls had been bused to another shelter as detectives scoured the site. Plagued by Latin America’s worst rates of child malnutrition and street gangs like the Mara Salvatrucha that often prey on minors, Guatemala can be a traumatic place to grow up. Conditions in the Central American nation’s public institutions are often dismal with widespread

overcrowding. DISTRAUGHT RELATIVES On Tuesday night, riot police went in to quell unrest over the home’s conditions. Dozens of residents escaped, but 54 were recaptured and isolated, Ramos said. The Virgen de Asuncion home has long suffered from overcrowding, with Guatemalan media reporting that more than 500 people were crammed into the center designed to house 400. Distraught relatives said abuse was common at the center, which is run by the Ministry for Social Welfare, and presidential spokesman Heinz Heimann condemned what he described as the shelter’s open living arrangements. “It shouldn’t be possible that girls who simply were suffering, that didn’t have any problems with the law, are mixed with young people who have committed crimes,” Heimann said. “This can’t be allowed to continue.” Domestic worker Alicia Lopez, 50, had been out-

Family members react as they wait for news of their loved ones after a fire broke at the Virgen de Asuncion home in San Jose Pinula, on the outskirts of Guatemala City, Guatemala on March 8. (REUTERS Photo)

side the home for hours trying to find out what happened to her autistic 12-year-old son who came to the center with a drug addiction. She said he had been raped there last week. “I still don’t have information. ... I want justice for him,” Lopez said at the home, which takes in abandoned children as well as victims of abuse and traf-

ficking. Andrea Palomo told reporters in tears that she had brought her 15-yearold son to the home to discipline him. He told her he was mistreated and complained that gang members there tattooed the children, she said. Guatemala’s ombudsman for human rights decides whether children are

placed in the home and some parents praised it. Cristina Puac, 59, said her adopted teenage daughter Gladys was placed there for being rebellious and aggressive, and stealing things. “When I came to see her, everything seemed fine,” she said. “She never complained about anything.”

FriDAY 10•03•2017

public discourse

Eduardo Faleiro

he question of an Uniform Civil Code is one of the most controversial issues in Indian politics today. The Uniform Civil Code is intended to replace personal laws based on customs and religion of the major communities of India by one common law covering marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption and maintenance and governing every citizen. Art. 44 of Constitution, a Directive Principle, says that the State should endeavour to secure for all citizens an Uniform Civil Code throughout India. This provision does not supersede Art 25 on the Fundamental Right to freedom of religion. Pandit Nehru supported the idea of an Uniform Civil Code but did not want it to be forced upon any community. In 2003, replying to my special mention in the Rajya Sabha, then Union Law Minister Arun Jaitley stated that the Uniform Civil Code was not on the agenda of the Government. He said that regarding personal laws, the policy of the Government was to enter into

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Uniform Civil Code

consultation with the religious communities concerned. This approach of the Vajpayee Government has obviously been set aside. Recently, Government of India urged the Supreme Court to examine the validity of triple talaq and the legality of polygamy. The Supreme Court refused to hear the Uniform Civil Code issue along with the triple talaq matter. The hearing on triple talaq will begin in the Supreme Court on May 11 next. Triple Talaq is based on the Shariat Law. Under this law, a husband can divorce his wife on pronouncement of talaq in three successive ‘tuhrs’, broadly three consecutive months. The first and second pronouncements are revocable. It is the third pronouncement that dissolves the marriage. A later day innovation is the pronouncement of talaq at one sitting called talaq-e-bidat to get an incorrigibly acrimonious couple part ways as quickly as possible. Justice Baharul Islam of the High Court of Orissa, later a Supreme Court Judge, held in Jiauddin Ahmed vs Anwara Begum (1978) that “The correct law of talaq as ordained by the

Holy Quran is that talaq should be for a reasonable cause and be preceded by attempts at reconciliation between the husband and the wife by two arbiters, one from the wife’s family and the other from the husband’s; if the attempts fail, talaq may be effected”. In the 20th century, several Muslim countries have modified the Islamic personal law. Turkey adopted a modified Swiss Civil Code in 1926 taking away the religious inputs and allowing for judicial control. Egypt framed a law in 1929 terming triple talaq pronouncement at one sitting as a single pronouncement open to easy revocability. In Iraq, since 1959, divorce can be effected only after approval by the personal status courts. Algeria has adopted the same law making further provision for completing the reconciliation process within 90 days. In 1963, the Pakistan Supreme Court ruled against triple talaq at one sitting. In Tunisia since 1956, divorce is possible only through a court which examines if there is scope for rapprochement between the parties before granting the relief sought.

Indonesia is the largest Muslim majority country in the world. Their national motto is ‘unity in diversity’. Religious diversity is recognised through freedom of religion provisions in the Constitution and through the recognition of the legal consequences of religion. For example, Muslims have Islamic family and inheritance laws applied to them and Christians have their religious marriage given automatically the legal effects of a civil marriage. Indonesia takes religious pluralism seriously as a means of respecting the diversity of its citizens. Islamic personal laws are enforced in several countries where Muslims are in a minority such as in Britain, Israel, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Singapore, Uganda, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya and Tanzania. In India, we have the Special Marriage Act, 1954 which is optional and enables every Indian citizen to marry outside the realm of his or her religious personal law. The Special Marriage Act is available throughout India except in Jammu and Kashmir. Under this Act, polygamy is illegal and inheritance and succession are gov-

erned by the Indian Succession Act. On the question of polygamy, the community wise data as per the census of 1961, the last census to record such data, is Adivasis 15.25 %, Buddhists 7.9 %, Jains 6.72 %, Hindus 5.80 % and Muslims 5.70 %. In Mizoram, a Christian sect practices polygamy. Polygamy is decreasing continuously in every community. It is sometimes alleged that Goa is one State in India with an Uniform Civil Code. This is not true. Some usages and customs of Hindus and Muslims have been safeguarded by the Civil Code operating in Goa. For instance, Catholic marriages in Church have civil effects automatically whilst in other communities the marriage has to be registered before the Civil Registrar. Adoption is not permitted to Catholics and Muslims whilst it is permitted to Hindus. On invitation from the Governor of Goa a delegation consisting of twenty five highly qualified Muslim women doctors, writers, engineers, social workers, advocates, students and housewives met the Gov-

ernor at Cabo Raj Niwas on October 14 last. They opposed the idea of an Uniform Civil Code and expressed satisfaction with the present Muslim personal law in the country. All questions related to legal aspects of marriage, inheritance, adoption, joint or nuclear family, divorce etc were answered in the light of the Holy Quran and the teachings of the Prophet and it was clear that all the members of the delegation were in favour of the Muslim personal law as it exists in the country at present. They pointed out difficulties faced by the Muslim community in the working of the Civil Code in Goa. The Union Government seeks to enact an Uniform Civil Code, irrespective of religion, whilst there are still some laws that provide economic and social benefits merely on the ground of religion. The Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order of 1950 states that only Scheduled Caste persons who profess the Hindu religion can be treated as Scheduled Caste. The Scheduled Caste status was extended to Sikhs and Buddhists of Scheduled

Caste origin in 1956 and 1990 respectively. Given the fact that Scheduled Caste status and benefits which go with it are aimed at redressing historical caste based socio-economic deprivation, the dalit Muslims and dalit Christians have a compelling case for the Scheduled Caste status under the Constitution. People of scheduled caste origin, converts to Christianity or Islam, may have changed their religion but this did not alter their social or economic status. The Constitution (Scheduled Caste) Order should be amended and all benefits under it should be available also to Christians and Muslims of Scheduled Caste origin. A Consultative Committee may be constituted by Government consisting of former Supreme Court and High Court judges mainly from the Muslim community, moderate religious scholars and women representatives to assess the viability of an uniform civil code. It should uphold communal harmony in a manner that every community is confident that its religious and cultural identity is not threatened. (The writer is a former Union Minister)

Kachins have the right to independent Crop Residue Management (CRM)

Naga Wondin

he Kachins were an independent nation from time immemorial ruled by their own Du was without falling into foreign domination or Burmese Kingdom in their history. It was only from 19 to 20 centuries, that the British Colonialist ruled the Kachins under the Kachin Hills regulations of 1894. The British however, allowed the Kachin Duwas to rule their own people according to their traditional norms and Laws without the Burmans interference. The British ruled Burmans according to Burma Act of 1935. This shows the fact that the Kachins and Burmans were different nations even in the British Colonial era. During the World War II, the Burmans fought for their independence under the banner of Burma Independent Army (BIA) but no Kachin nationalist joined in, and also after post World War, the Burmans formed Anti-Fascist People’s Freedom League (AFPFL)again to attain their freedom, no Kachins joined the AFPF Leither, because the Kachins had no interest to fight for their independence jointly with the Burmans. But in 1947, the Kachin Duwas changed their mind and decided to demand independent jointly with the Burmans, which resulted in signing of the Panglong Accord on February 12, 1947. The Accord was signed by the national leaders fromfour separate nations;i.e. Kachin, Chin, Shan and Burmanfor the interest of a Union, and hence a Union known as the Union of Burma was immergedin the history of Southeast Asia. Before the Panglong Accord, there was no such Union. The Burman leaders however, deliberately and unilaterally abrogated the Panglong Accord on their own accord when the Military dictators abolished the Constitution of 1947 in 1962 and adopted a new Constitution in 1974. Againin 2008, Gen. Than Shwe wrote another Constitution in tantamount to reject the Panglong Accord. Moreover, Mrs. Aung San Suu Kyi convened another 21stPanglong Conference started from August 31, 2016 and nullified the Panglong Accord of the 1947 which was done by her father Gen. Aung San. As the Panglong Accord was time and again rejected and thrown by the Burman leaders, it wasno more legally existed in the history andno Union of Burma existslegally either. Not only the Burmans broke down the Panglong Accord, but also abrogated the ceasefire Agreement on 9th June 2011 which was signed with the KIO/KIA on February 24, 1994 and re-escalated heavy offensive war against the Kachins and causing more than a hundred thousand civilians to become internally displaced people (IDP). In this operation, the Burma Army committed horrendous atrocities such as inhuman and barbaroustorturing of the civilian, molesting and raping women, pillaging and plundering the properties of the Kachins, burning the villages and churches, some Church leaders were inhumanly

tortured and killed, also some people were burned alive. The Kachins have thus suffered untold miseries in the hands of marauding Burma Army. Before the Panglong Accord, the Kachins have no treaty or agreement with the Burmans bounding for a Union, but only the Panglong Accord was the boundfor a Union with Burmans. However, as the Burmans broke down the Accord with the Kachins, Chins and Shans; the three nations have the right to declare that they are free from the bounding accord of Panglong and have become free nations. It is only through treaty and agreement that bound different nations to be a Union, but when the treaty and agreement legally breaks down, there is no Union. In August 1991, the Baltic countries; Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia declared they withdrew from all the treaties and agreements with the USSR, they became independent nations. The world immediately recognized them as independent nations, because their declaration was a legal act. In the case of Kachins, they need not declare their withdrawal from the Panglong Accord or from the Union of Burma, because the Burmans had done already to break down the Union by abrogating Panglong Accord as mentioned above. The Kachins therefore only need to address the truth that the Burmans broke down the Union/the Panglong Accord, and that Kachins automatically become an independent nation again as in ancient time. The history tells the fact that the Kachins had exerted all of their efforts to build the Union of Burma even rejecting the suggestion of the British leaders for a separate independent nation of Kachins, and signed the Panglong agreement instead for a Union of Burma in 1947. And also, when the Union of Burmawas endangered to break down when Yangon was almost capturing by the ethnic resistant group in 1949, the Kachin resilient and valiant soldiers vigorously defended the Union of Burma. Again, when the Communist Party of Burma (CPB) became strong and threatened the Union of Burma, there too Kachin soldiers helped to fight against the CPB. Moreover, when the Burma was stepped into reformation under the leadership of Gen. (retd) Thein Sein a quasicivilian Government, the KIO/ KIA led the Ethnic Armed groups under the banner of Union of Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC) since 2012andattempted to solvethe protracted problem through peaceful and amicable means despite the heavy operation has been carrying on by the Burma Army in Kachinl and since 2011. But the Burman leadersrepaid good for evil and mounted to crash the KIO/ KIA once for all by using all of their armed strength such as Tank, heavy artilleries, Jetfighters, Aerial Bombardments, Helicopter gunships to help fight the infantry soldiers, and even sent the soldiers from Navy force to fight against Kachins even though the ships cannot sail up to the Kachin Hills.It seems they used all strength they have

to fight against the Kachins. Even then they have seen no sign of KIO/ KIA tremble for surrendering to the Burma Army, instead they become more strengthened, reunited and build up solidarity to defend the Kachinl and at all cost. The Burma Army captured or overrun some posts of KIA here and there at the cost of pyrrhic. But from the side of KIA,it is not a loss or surrender, because it was compelled them to evacuate some of their posts due to heavy aerial bombardments.Therefore, it is not a victory at all for the Burma Army. Thisbitterwar itself shows the fact that the Burmans are kicking out the Kachins from the Union, if not there was no reason for the Burmans to fight against the Kachins while they were striving to build up the Union of Burma. This may be a purpose of God for the Kachins to be a separate nation on this earth, and so He made the Burman leaders to abrogate the Panglong Accord unilaterally and gave the Kachins the right to be an independent nation in the world. The Kachins now have no time to be confusedfor their future since God’s purpose for them is clearer than ever before. Because even when the enemy attempted to pulverize them by using all of their strength,they united themselves more strongly and withstand against the enemy’s repressive measure. That is a marvelous work of God. But it is a time for Kachins to be careful becausethe enemy is attempting to defeat the Kachins politically knowing the defeating them by Armed might become a futile exercise, and hence forcing the Kachins to sign Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA).This is nothing but forcing the Kachins to accept the Peace Road Map of Thein Sein and Gen. Main Aung Hlai and to ratify the Constitution of 2008 by signing the NCA.The peace Road maps are for surrendering the ethnic armed groups and the 2008 Constitution is to entrench the rule of Burma Military dictators forever in the country, but not for leading to a Federal Union.The signing of NCA therefore will lead Kachins nowhere to reach their destiny, either federal union or awmdawm (freedom). The Kachins have much experiences in the past more than sixty yearsthat they have no peaceful co-existence with the Burmans and the Burmans have no fidelity and adhereto any accord and agreement whatsoever. If they easily infringed and abrogated the Panglong Accord and 1994 ceasefire agreement, how can the Kachin people trust the Burmans again for another agreement? Hence, the Kachinshave nothing to chooseexcept to stand for the truth; that is, the Burmansdestroyed the concept of a union by abrogating the Panglong Accord, which madethe Kachins become an independent nation again as in ancient time.To stand for the truth is legal in itself and against no one or Burmans. If they steadfastly uphold the truth and fight for their nation it will lead them to a victory, as God our Lord Jesus says:“You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.”(John 8: 32).

crop residue is as any vegetative material remaining in the field after harvest and thrashed. Crop residues are good sources of plant nutrients as about 25% of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), 50% of sulfur (S), and 75% of potassium (K) uptake by cereal crops are retained in crop residues, making them valuable nutrient sources. Crop residue is not a waste but rather a tremendous natural resource and is important components for the stability of agricultural ecosystems. Burning of crop residues In areas with high yield potential and with the advent of mechanized harvesting, farmers prefer to burn the residues left in the field as the crop residues may interfere with tillage and seeding operations for the next crop. The burning of crop residues leads to the following:• Air pollution due to the release of carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide, ammonia, and particulate matter in the atmosphere, which

harms environment and contributes to global climate change. • Substantial waste of precious nutrient resources and organic matter in the soil, especially nitrogen as it is reported that 40 to 80% of the nitrogen in wheat crop residue is lost as ammonia when it is burned in the field and also the ash left on the soil surface after burning crop residues causes an increase in urease activity and may cause N losses from soil and applied fertilizer. • Deterioration of soil physical properties as burning residues leads to a corresponding loss in soil fertility. • Residue burning can have a beneficial shortterm effect on the N supply to subsequent crops, but has negative long-term effects on overall N supply and soil carbon levels. Crop residues as animal feed In areas with low yield potential, crop residues are use as animal feeds where animals are left to graze freely on harvested fields or straw is collected off the land and taken to

the pen to feed livestock or silage and also use as a bedding material for the animals. This scenario, if not managed sustainably, often results in deteriorating soil fertility as nutrients are removed from the land and not returned and the bare soil is exposed to wind and water erosion. An adequate amount of residue must be left on the field to provide soil surface protection. Crop Residue Management (CRM) practices comprises of:• CRM systems include conservation tillage practices such as zero-till, reduced till, bed planting, and other practices that provide sufficient residue cover to protect the soil surface from the erosive effects of wind and rain. Also, successive crops can be sown using zero-tillage after straw is left on the soil surface. • CRM is a year-round system, which includes all field operations that affect the amount of residue, its orientation to the soil surface and prevailing wind and rainfall patterns, and the evenness of residue distribution throughout

the period requiring protection. • Crop residues and their appropriate management suppress the weeds: through their physical presence on the soil surface as mulch; by restricting solar radiation reaching below the mulch layer; by direct suppression; and by controlling N availability. • CRM and tillage practices also influence the efficiency of soil-applied pre-emergence herbicides. Because pre-emergence herbicides are applied to the soil and the amount and quality of residues left might affect their effectiveness. This means that a higher rate of herbicide application is often needed to achieve effective weed control. Thus, the main advantages of crop residue management over conventional systems include fuel and labour savings, as well as long-term benefits as crop residue, being an organic material, leads to an improvement in soil structure and fertility status of soil. Dr. T Esther Longkumer ACTO-Soil Science KVK Phek, ICAR-NRC on Mithun

Wither..?

I Longkumer

nation that is preoccupied with internal bickering and greed is a nation without soul and vision. When people engage in activities that are detrimental to the society and nation at large, a hole is created in the nation, which only works to the interests of outsiders. With each passing day, the hole gets bigger and bigger, which emboldens the outsiders to take advantage of the nation’s weakness and wreak havoc upon. The outsiders are helped in their mischievous endeavor by crooked people within the nation, who sway easily to the sound of copper coins. They are also no less than willing to sell off their land and spill the blood of their fellow countrymen. In the process, the common man is subject to untold sufferings and misery. The remaining ‘good’ people who are considered righteous, refuse to speak out against the evils perpetrated for fear of their own safety. Injustice prevails. The outsider comes in different forms. Some come carrying a mountain of wealth, some with large flags and banners, some with the promise of paradise and some even come singing tunes of strange melodies. The outsider does not rest till the goal of tearing the nation apart is achieved. In order to rid the body of illnesses, one must make sure that the internal mechanism is strong. This can happen only when one is careful and alert not to consume dangerous substances which could otherwise harm the body and shorten the lifespan. Likewise, a nation in order to rid itself of the many evils and misfortunes, must first suppress the bad elements within before taking any step towards neutralizing the destructive outside forces. Only when this is realized and executed can a nation witness the sun shining brightly over its land with the promise of a new dawn. Urra Uvie!

HAHA HALVING NAGA LovIsEnLa

half walks half prayers halving the naga mutiny multitasking soft gender to asunder only here brawn is mightier! sharpen daos and spears chop, chop, chop! lopping off their true glory as you glorify the gory sons, where are your mothers, sisters, aunts, betrotheds, female friends, other halves? they've gone to the rice fields where no crows fly to bury their crowning glory we sell average lives half shows lives lost in intervals expecting full recompense hybrid fools we are residing in kacha palaces and pukka caves haha halving all the way!

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.

Friday 10•03•2017

EntErtainmEnt

Black Sabbath officially call it quit after 49 years

lack Sabbath played what they said was their final-ever gig together last month in their hometown of Birmingham. Fans weren't necessarily worried, though, as bands do this all the time: they announce a farewell tour, release a very last album, and swear that this time it's for real. But on Tuesday (March 7), Ozzy Osbourne and the gang appeared to make it official, posting their obituary on Facebook with the hashtag, #TheEnd. Reaction to the news varied widely, with one fan quipping "the Rolling Stones have their final tour every 3 years," while another wrote "Black Sabbath will live on through their recordings for people to discover and enjoy the band for a long time to come."

After nearly a half century together, the group which, on its final tour, included singer Osbourne, guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler and Tommy Clufetos replacing original drummer Bill Ward embarked on their The End Tour in January 2016, putting an end to a 49-year, 19 studio album career that began in Birmingham in 1968. Sabbath is considered one of the most influential heavy metal acts of all time, putting its stamp on the sound of everyone from Guns N' Roses to Iron Maiden, Slipknot, Foo Fighters, Metallica and the Smashing Pumpkins thanks to such thundering psychedelic hard rock tunes as "Black Sabbath," "Behind the Wall of Sleep," "War Pigs," "Paranoid," "Iron Man" and "Sweet Leaf."

Now ShowiNg revIseD TICKeT rATes (silver) : `.120 (Gold) : `. 200 (recliner) : `. 400

Source: Billboard

charges Bieber impersonator Ben Affleck Australia with more than 900 child sex offences & Jennifer A

Cancel Divorce

ustralian police on Thursday urged fans of Justin Bieber and their parents to stay vigilant on the internet, after they filed charges over more than 900 child sex offences against a man who impersonated the popstar online. Bieber, a 23-year-old Canadian with more than 92 million followers on social network Twitter, ranked among Forbes' most powerful celebrities from 2011 to 2013, is visiting Australia on his Purpose World Tour. Queensland police had already charged the 42-year-old man with serious offences related to possession of child exploitation material and use of the internet and social media to groom those younger than 16. But an examination of his computer led to the filing of an additional 931 charges against the man, who has not been named by police. Police alleged the man used online platforms such as Facebook and Skype to communicate with victims and seek ex-

plicit images from young children, in offences dating from 2007. A lot of child exploitation material was found on his computer, they added. "The fact that so many children could believe they were communicating with this particular celebrity highlights the need for a serious rethink about the way we educate our children about online safety," Jon Rouse, an official of a police taskforce to fight child exploitation online, said. The incident highlights both the vulnerability of children using social media and communication applications and the global reach and skill child sex offenders have in luring victims, he said in a statement. A lawyer who represented the man in November, at the time initial charges were filed, did not answer his telephone on Thursday. Bieber will be playing in Melbourne this week before moving to Sydney and Brisbane next week. Source: Reuters

Disney confirms 'Star Wars Rebels' season 4

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early two years after they split up amid rumours of infidelity, Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner have apparently called off their divorce and vowed to give their marriage another try. The couple, who have been married for nearly 12 years and have three children together (Violet, 11, Seraphina, 8, and Samuel, 5), split back in June 2015, just a day after their tenth wedding anniversary, after it was widely reported that Affleck had had a relationship with the children’s nanny. However, they have always been adamant that living arrangements would be focussed around the needs of

their kids – with Affleck for a while said to have been living on the same property as Garner even after the separation. Divorce proceedings were halted in July last year to “focus on the kids”, but now an inside source has told People that Bennifer is officially back on, after they realised that they still love each other. “Jen has called off the divorce,” the source said, intimating that it was 44 year old Garner who had the change of heart. “She really wants to work things out with Ben. They are giving things another try.” “There is always a chance of reconciliation. They love each other. They also really, really love their kids, and those kids

love their parents.” The pair had been photographed together increasingly regularly in the last few months, hosting a small gathering at their house to mark Samuel’s birthday just after the Oscars. Although neither Ben nor Jen has ever commented publicly, a source told Us Weekly last July that this was a possibility. “Jen mentioned that the divorce was going through very soon, and then a few weeks ago, things changed. It does not seem to be moving in that direction.” “Jen seems to still be in love with Ben but doesn’t allow her mind to go there. She just focuses on the kids.” Source: Contactmusic

isney XD has confirmed that Star Wars Rebels will have a renewal and the fourth season is on the cards. The next season of the much-appreciated animated series by LucasFilm will be premiering later this year and the production works are already underway. Marc Buhaj, senior vice president, programming, and general manager, Disney XD said in a press statement, "The team behind Star Wars Rebels delivers epic storytelling that has captivated fans of all ages across the globe. We're excited to continue sharing the journey of these fan-favorite rebels with our audience in the fall." With a third season underway, fans are already on the edge of the seats after the introduction of the show's threatening villain Grand Admiral Thrawn, a direct connection to Rogue One: A Star Wars Story with

life with all sorts of incredible abilities and powers,” said lead actor, Chris Hemsworth. “No one cares what prince or king Thor may have been in another world. Also, his strength is pretty easily matched with those he finds himself amongst.” Director Taika Waititi also addressed the film's more comic tone: “I think sometimes people mistake a tonal shift as ‘We’re just going to make some ridicu-

lous broad comedy where no one gives a s**t what happens and everyone gets stoned and sits around talking about saving the universe. We want people to care what happens and care that the hero succeeds. I think tonally it’s like a slight shift. I don’t feel nervous — I feel good about it.” Thor: Ragnarok will be released on October 26 in Australia, October 27 in the UK and November 3 in the US. Source: IGN

an appearance by Saw Gerrera, and the legendary Maul on a journey for his ultimate revenge. The third season also has Freddie Prinze Jr. as Kanan, Vanessa Marshall as Hera, Steve Blum as Zeb, Tiya Sircar as Sabine, Taylor Gray as Ezra, Dee Bradley Baker as Captain Rex, David Oyelowo as Agent Kallus, Forest Whitaker as Saw Gerrera, Sam Witwer as Maul, Tom Baker as Bendu, and Lars Mikkelsen as Grand Admiral Thrawn. "Fans can look forward to more details and an announcement about the exciting fourth season of Star

he THAAD issue closed the prospect for the Korean actors to star in new commercials for Chinese products and it includes the Descendants of the Sun actor Song Joong-ki who used to endorse the Vivo phones in China. However, the actor recently got a new partner, and has become one of the endorsers of an online marketplace known as, 11th Street, in Thailand. According to the reports, the Running Man actor will be paired with a Thai actress Mew Nittha, with whom the actor made an appearance in Bangkok for a store launch, in February. It was during the same time that Joong Ki's dear friend Park Bo Gum was also in Bangkok for his fan-meet and the My Fair Lady actor came as a special guest into the event. According to Campaign Asia report, after the launch, 11th Street placed the outdoor ads on the busiest Bangkok Mass Transit System stations such as in Siam, Chit Lom, and Phrom Pong. They also have two TV and digital ads that went on air on Feb. 16. The campaign was really successful as it is very evident from the 11th Street's Facebook page which exceeded 1 million, according to the agency behind the marketing campaign, Cheil Thailand. In other news, the actor may make an appearance on the new JTBC action suspense drama Man to Man. According to the reports, the actor recently completed filming the scenes for his cameo role in Park Hae Jin's new drama. According to Korea Portal, the actor was recently spotted on the sets of the upcoming drama and was photographed there. The said filming site also unveiled the look of the actor who was spotted in a business suit. However, it is not yet known as to whether Song Joong Ki's cameo role in Man to Man is that of a businessman or that of a banker. Source: Ibtimes

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Hillstar Wars Rebels during Star Wars Celebration in Orlando this April," the statement added. The Star Wars Rebels series is set between the events of Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith and Star Wars: A New Hope. It has included Star Wars icons like Darth Vader, Yoda, and Princess Leia, along with fan favorites such as Ahsoka Tano and Captain Rex from the Star Wars: The Clone Wars animated series. Fans are already on cloud nine after the announcement of the renewal and we just cannot wait for another thrilling season.

NOW SHOWING kong: skuLL isLand(3d)

Source: Ibtimes

‘Thor’ has a new look In Ragnarok, Song Joong-ki bags a new commercial new plot details revealed in Thailand amid THAAD issue

new reveal for the upcoming Thor: Ragnarok shows that Thor has changed for his third solo outing - at least his haircut has, anyway. Revealed by the new Entertainment Weekly cover, alongside Thor's shorn locks, we also get our first look at Cate Blanchett as antagonist, Hela, and Tessa Thompson as Valkyrie: Alongside that, it's a fresh look at Thor's new costume - seemingly a little more gladiatorial, which would tie in well with the film's Planet Hulk-inspired story - plus the dual blades he'll apparently be rocking while he doesn't have access to Mjolnir. EW also offers up a little more detail on Ragnarok's set-up. Hela is apparently released from imprisonment by mistake, and it's the Goddess of Death who will send Thor to Planet Hulk setting Sakaar, seeing him face him off against its most popular fighter, The Hulk. “[Sakaar is] basically where every wormhole across the universe dumps out its trash, so you get people from all walks of

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Barcelona pull off the mother of all comebacks

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BARCELONA, MARCH 9 (REUTERS): Barcelona completed one of the most extraordinary comebacks in European football history to knock Paris St Germain out of the Champions League on Wednesday with a 6-1 victory that rewrote the record books. No team had ever overturned a four-goal deficit in a knockout tie, but Sergi Roberto's stoppage-time goal completed a 6-5 aggregate win that sparked delirious scenes of celebration inside the Nou Camp and sent Barca through to the last eight. Edinson Cavani looked to have wrecked Barcelona's dreams by volleying in an away goal to make the score 3-1 but two late strikes from Neymar set up a thrilling finale before Roberto sealed the Spanish side's unlikely triumph. "This is a crazy, unique sport. Children and adults here tonight will never forget what happened," Barca coach Luis Enrique told reporters. "I dedicate this win to all Barca fans who kept faith in us. We were massively criticised after the first leg." Barcelona began to believe in the impossible dream of clawing back their shock 4-0 loss from the first leg when Luis Suarez headed over the line in the third minute and a Layvin Kurzawa own goal gave them further hope before the break. Lionel Messi's penalty five minutes into the second period had the Nou Camp on its feet but Cavani's strike in the 62nd was a sucker punch to Barca's ambitions from which Luis Enrique's side took a while to recover. A curled free kick from Neymar in the 88th minute gave them hope and the Brazilian converted a penalty before substitute Roberto slid in to knock the ball beyond Kevin Trapp

Dortmund eliminate Benfica from CL DORTMUND (GERMANy), MARCH 9 (IANS): Borussia Dortmund cruised past Benfica 4-0 in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League's last 16 tie here. Dortmund' s top striker PierreEmerick Aubameyang played a major role in the victory on Wednesday night after providing a hattrick to edge Benfica 4-1 on aggregate from Europe's elite club competition, reports Xinhua news agency. Dortmund had a bright start on home soil as Aubameyang broke the deadlock just four minutes into the game after heading a corner to the far post to shock the visitors from Portugal. Despite the setback, Benfica recovered and settled to gain a foothold into the match. However, the visitors lacked in penetration to overcome the Dortmund defence. Dortmund ensured a perfect start to the second half as Christian Pulisic utilized a through ball from Lukasz Piszczek to chip the ball over onrushing Benfica goalkeeper Ederson, making it 2-0 with

Barcelona coach Luis Enrique and Sergi Roberto celebrate after the game. (Reuters)

"Barcelona are capable of doing from a chipped free kick and send that. It was all or nothing for them in Barca through. the final minutes," he said. “It’s a negative experience for me DEJECTED FIGURE PSG coach Unai Emery, who had and for the club. We need to learn been brought to the club in the close from it.” An electric atmosphere gripped season with the express purpose of adding onus to the vast resources of the Nou Camp before kickoff after the Qatari-owned outfit and propel- Suarez and Luis Enrique had said ling them to success in Europe, cut a they truly believed a comeback was on and the players caught the wave of dejected figure.

optimism by swarming all over PSG from the first whistle. Trapp struggled to cope with the early pressure and flapped at a high ball, allowing Suarez to jump ahead of him and force the ball over the line. PSG had a penalty appeal turned down when Julian Draxler's low cross struck Javier Mascherano's arm but it was one of few forays forward from PSG in the first half as Barca did all the

attacking. The Catalans owed their second to another piece of slack defending, however, as Iniesta nudged his way past Marquinhos in the area to knock the ball back into the danger zone and it bounced off the swinging leg of Kurzawa and into the far corner. PSG riled Barca supporters by coming back on to the pitch after the break a few minutes late but the Nou Camp was soon celebrating a third as

59 minutes played. The hosts gained momentum and extended the lead through Aubameyang, who made use of Marcel Schmelzer's cross to mark his sixth goal in seven Champions League outings to flabbergast the visitors. The Gabon international remained in the thick of things, as he wasn't done with the scoring. Erik Durm played his way through on the right wing to square pass into the box where Aubemeyang tapped in his third goal of the night at the back post with five minutes remaining. "We had chances and didn't make the most of them. We faced a great team with fantastic attacking abilities," Benfica defender Nelson Semedo said. "You cannot expect that you will score four goals against a team like Benfica. We had the selfconfidence to turn the tie around and the team demonstrated that tonight, especially in the second half," Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel said. Messi powered a penalty past Trapp after Neymar had been tripped by Thomas Meunier. Cavani hit the post but made amends by smashing a loose ball home, although he should have added another but was denied by the feet of Marc-Andre ter Stegen. At the time it did not look to be a crucial miss but Barca had other ideas, scoring three times in six minutes to complete an incredible comeback.

27th Charity School sports meet kicks off

kOHIMA, MARCH 8 (MExN): The 27th Annual Sports Meet of the Charity School Kohima began here at the D. Khel Ground, Kohima on March 8. Under the theme, beyond the surface, over 300 students taking part in various disciplines likeFootball, Volleyball, Olympic Handball, Basketball, Futsal, Tug or War, Mad Olympic and Square Ball. The students taking part were divided into four groups – CSK Challengers, CSK Knight Riders, CSK Sunrisers and CSK Warriors and the events will culminate on March 10. Inaugurating the opening of the event of the 27th Annual Sports Meet, Chief Guest, Oken Jeet Sandham, President of the Muaythai Federation of India (MFI), expressed his happiness on seeing at a large number of students turning up to take part in the three-day students’ Sports extravaganza. The Chief Guest, who is

also Editor of NEPS News, encouraged the students taking part in the sports to develop the sporting culture and said that the Nagas could excel in the field of sports. He urged them that they should take the sports seriously. He, however, regretted the lack of sports infrastructures and

also no qualified coaches in their State. He also suggested that those youngsters who wanted to take up sports seriously should focus on mostly individual sporting disciplines like boxing, martial arts, archery, cycling, gymnastics, tennis, badminton, etc. as they

had ample chances to excel in these areas rather than team-games like hockey, football, basketball, etc. He called the students to develop the culture commitment, dedication and most importantly discipline which was essential towards achieving their goals. The headmaster of the Charity School Kohima, Kushilto delivered greetings to the Chief Guest, students and teaching faculty for their works in making the three-day sporting event of their school a grand event. He urged them to continue with the same spirit and expressed the hope that students would surely bring names for their schools in future. Assistant headmaster Avilie Dzuvichu chaired the inaugural function while Teacher Shanti Raikhan pronounced invocation. A large number of teaching and non-teaching staffs also attended the grand opening.

Students of the Government High School Khaghaboto, which kicked off its three days school sports meet on March 8.

Wokha veteran football tournament in April

WOkHA, MARCH 9 (DIPR): The monthly District Planning and Development Board meeting was held on March 9 at DPO conference hall, Wokha. Vice Chairman DPDB, Wokha and Deputy Commissioner Wezope Kenye chaired the meeting. The board after delib-

eration approved recast of scheme for LADP 2016-17 under 39 Sanis A/C. President Wokha District Veteran Football Association apprised the members about the 8th edition of Nagaland veteran football association tournament which is scheduled to be held at Phek from April 3 to 8. In this con-

nection the Chairman requested all board members to extend possible help to enable them to take part in the forthcoming NVFA tournament. District Programme Officer, DAPCU presented the HIV/AIDS scenario of Wokha district. The board also ap-

proved the shifting of SubTreasury Office from Baghty to Bhandari to higher authority for recommendation. Power point presentation was also presented by Sericulture department highlighting the various departmental activities and programmes.

Fans' views will influence Arsene Wenger's future

Officials and others during annual Sekrenyi Inter Peli Tournament on March 9 at T. Khel Ground, Kohima village. Meanwhile, the TYO and T. Khel Peli Union will also be organizing a mass social work on March 11 to construct/repair Vurie Pe/Seichieru Pe and Dzuchu Pe. For this, different work distribution has already been given to all the different Peli.All the Peli members have been requested to look after their respective allotted spot. The organizers also requested the Khel leaders and elders to supervise the works.

Sumi games and sports underway at Kuhuboto

DIMAPUR, MARCH 9 (MExN): The 9th edition of All Sumi Games and Sports got underway this morning at Kuhuboto town with the parliamentary secretary for Irrigation and Flood Control, Jacob Zhimomi as the chief guest during the inaugural function. Jacob Zhimomi conveyed greetings and best wishes from Nagaland chief minister Dr. Shurhozelie Liezietsu. Stressing on the role of sports in promoting peace, chief guest said games and sports help to bring a sense of universal connection between people and thereby inculcating brotherhood, respect and appreciation Parliamentary secretary Jacob Zhimomi kicking off the event for one another. He said at the inaugural function on Thursday

sports are an international language and powerful tool that is able to cross cultures and bridge social and ethnic divides, and also encourage integration and social tolerance, which are necessary for lasting peace. Such platform bring individuals and communities together, highlighting what people have in common, he maintained. On the economic growth and livelihood security, Jacob said success in sports comes with name, fame and wealth but for which one has to have self determination, discipline and tolerance to pursue excellence in sports, as success is only for those who work hard. He said sports provides ample job opportunities and govern-

ment will help and support those who excel. He encouraged the participants to maintain utmost respect of each other and sporting spirit as such principles are equally important and equal to winning the trophy. Wishing the event to be a successful one necessary, Jacob was hopeful that many talented sports persons would be nurtured through Sumi Games and Sports. The event which is being organised by All Sumi Games and Sports Association and hosted by Kuhuboto Ghakhu Sports Association has drawn participation from all across the state.

LONDON, MARCH 9 (REUTERS): Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will take into consideration the views of the club's divided fan base before deciding whether to extend his 20-year reign at the north London side. Arsenal supporters staged protests calling for Wenger, who is out of contract at the end of the season, to leave prior to Tuesday's 5-1 home loss to Bayern Munich, with some even accusing the manager of "killing" the club. "It will influence. But it won't be the most important factor," Wenger told reporters on Thursday when asked if protests would affect the decision on his future. Wenger rejected the notion he would be tarnishing his legacy if he prolonged his stay. "I don't work for my image, I work for this club. How I look is not really my problem," he said. Theo Walcott has urged his team mates to stop fighting amongst themselves after it British media reported Alexis Sanchez had a heated verbal exchange with Laurent Koscielny last week after the Chile winger allegedly walked out of a training session.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger looks dejected. (Reuters)

"I think a lot has been said about that is exaggerated," Wenger said. "We can show how united we are. On that front, I don't worry," he said, adding: "A lot has been said. We have a good united and determined group. When you go through disappointing results, you have disagreements." Criticism of Wenger has grown more vociferous this week after Arsenal crashed out the Champions League in the last-16 for a seventh straight season with a 10-2 aggregate defeat by Bayern. Wenger, however, defended his record in Europe's elite club competition. "In the last nine years only once have we been the worst performing English club in the Champions League," the Frenchman said.

Wenger was also taken aback by media reports suggesting midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is looking to leave the club. "I am surprised. I rate him highly ... I hope he stays here," Wenger said. Wenger gave the strongest sign yet that he could draw the curtains on his Arsenal career when he recently said he would manage next season, but did not know if it would be "somewhere else". A run of three defeats in four Premier League games that has seen the club drop outside the top four has also not helped Wenger's cause. Arsenal have the perfect chance to put their painful Champions League exit behind them as they prepare for Saturday's FA Cup quarter-final at home to non-league Lincoln City.

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