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www.morungexpress.com
The Morung Express
Dimapur VOL. X ISSUE 87
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www.morungexpress.com
Tuesday, March 31, 2015 12 pages Rs. 4
Our main business is not to see what lies dimly at a distance, but to do what lies clearly at hand Modi govt says to push for cow slaughter ban in India
Kangana Ranaut: I was ill-treated and considered untouchable
Miscreants vandalise building in Dimapur
By Sandemo Ngullie
Morung Express News Dimapur | March 30
Mr Tesla nearly paid for the electricity he stole with his life.
Man found murdered in Kohima Morung Express News Dimapur | March 30
2 bears from Nagaland in exchange for 2 tigers
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THIrUVaNaNTHaPUraM, MarcH 30 (TNN): City zoo officials gearing up for a trip to Nagaland to bring Himalayan bears by train have demanded an entire bogie with full reservation. The reservation has been sought for to and fro journey and if the railways turn it down, zoo officials will drop the idea to bring the bears by train. The zoo officials have reached an agreement with Rangapahar Wildlife Sanctuary and Zoological Park, Dimapur, Nagaland for an exchange programme under which two Himalayan bears will be brought to the capital zoo in exchange of two Bengal tigers. The trip has been scheduled for April 3, but so far no notification has reached zoo officials regarding the reservation. A single bogie will have 20 seats and space for luggage. If the bogie is not reserved, the officials will opt for road transport despite the risk. The officials even tried getting Nagaland zoo authorities to transport the animals till Kolkata, but they declined.
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teenAGe PreGnAncY: Disturbing link with rape
reflections
Kohima police on Monday recovered the dead body of a man in the outskirt of Kohima. The deceased was later identified as Tepumecie (Meciebo) Lcho (38). According to police, the deceased was found with his hands and legs bound at a spot between the New Secretariat and Meriema village. A nylon rope was also found wound around the neck and various injury marks suspected to have been inflicted by blunt weapons was evident on the victim’s body. The police suspect that the man was murdered elsewhere and his body dumped. A mobile phone, believed to be the deceased victim’s, led to the identification. Police added that the deceased was a small time businessman, who was a resident of Jail colony, and hailed from Viswema village. Stating that a case was registered at Chiephobozo Police Station, the Kohima police informed that investigation was on. Meanwhile, the Rachü Youth Organisation (RYO), Viswema village, Kohima has condemned the murder. The RYO, through a press release, while extending condolences to the bereaved family, termed the murder as an act of cowardice and urged the law enforcement agencies to nab the culprits.
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– Thomas Carlyle
Serena defeats 15 year old at Miami Open; Nadal loses
Mahathir is last of SE Asia’s old guards
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A Kashmiri man stretches his hand to help a local evacuate from a flood affected area in Srinagar, Indian-controlled Kashmir on March 30. Hundreds of Kashmiris in both India and Pakistan moved to higher ground Monday as rain-swollen rivers swamped parts of the disputed Himalayan region placed under an emergency flood alert just six months after some 600 people died in flooding that left the region in shambles. (AP Photo)
There is a disturbing link between teenage pregnancy and rape that is seldom investigated and only kept in the closets of countless homes. While there are no research statistics or data to indicate teenage pregnancy and abortions rates in Nagaland; its high prevalence is considered to be a ‘matter of fact’ going by information shared by forthcoming doctors, counselors and NGOs dealing on the issue. The scenario is pernicious. Rape or sexual violence has been constantly found to be linked with the prevailing teenage pregnancies. At Mother’s Hope, Dimapur, from 200 young mothers that came to give birth, only about 20 of them became pregnant through consensual sex, reveals Moamenla, the founder and director of the NGO institution in a startling revelation. “Only 10 % of the mothers that came to us got
pregnant by consensual sex. The rest, mostly teenagers, revealed they were sexually assaulted by persons known to the victim,” she disclosed. In most cases, the victims mostly aged between 17-19 years refused to file any police complaint because the perpetrators are known to them. Besides, parents would rather keep it hushed up in order to ‘save their face’ while squarely blaming the girl for promiscuity. Mother’s Hope is one of the few NGO institutions in Nagaland that provides a home for young unmarried girls facing crisis pregnancies, temporary home for babies and children awaiting adoption. At present, Mother’s Hope has 15 ‘parentless’ children with the oldest at one and half years old and the youngest two months old. In most cases, fathers refuse to acknowledge the child as theirs; the mothers, mostly teenagers, prefer to leave their newly born under the care of the institution for adoption.
Early in 2001, Moamenla carried out an independent study on the abortion scenario in Dimapur. The findings shocked her. In one month alone, there were 556 abortions reported from six nursing homes. “That was way back in 2001. Just imagine the number of nursing homes and pharmacies that now exist in Dimapur. The abortion figures would be phenomenal,” she points out. According to doctors, the figures quoted were just ‘off season abortion.’ The number of abortions rise drastically after the holiday seasons, they reported. And what is more appalling is that, from among these women that gave birth at Mother’s Hope, only two fathers came forward to own up responsibility. The rest refused to have anything to do with the children or the mother. “Now where are the fathers?” Moamenla sought questions. “At least the girl accepts responsibility and give birth to the child instead of opting for abortion, even despite oppo-
sition from unsupportive and hostile parents that only seek to blame her. They should be held equally responsible.” There are many reasons that teenagers become pregnant in Nagaland scenario - date rape; forced sex by a known person, having their drinks spiked, pressured to have unprotected sex, not thinking, getting caught up in the moment, lack of awareness, etc. A large section of Naga society still consider the underlying concept of rape, as sexual abuse by strangers - one reason why rape committed by known person is most of times touted as ‘embarrassing or unfortunate incidents’ that would best be swept under the carpet. While there is big outrage when a rape is committed by a stranger, there is a hush for silence if it is committed by someone known to the victim-and therein the bigoted contradiction and denial of Naga society. This the first story of a three part series
‘Killing of journalists ‘Naga shawls need protection under GI’ Home Minister urges YTC to attend tripartite talks should be a war crime’ Our Correspondent Kohima |March 30
HONG KONG, MarcH 30 (aP): The president and CEO of The Associated Press called on Monday for changes to international laws that would make it a war crime to kill journalists or take them hostage. Gary Pruitt said a new framework is needed to protect journalists as they cover conflicts in which they are increasingly seen as targets by extremist groups. “It used to be that when media wore PRESS emblazoned on their vest, or PRESS or MEDIA was on their vehicle, it gave them a degree of protection” because reporters were seen as independent civilians telling the story of the conflict, Pruitt said. “But guess what: That labeling now is more likely to make them a target,” he said in a speech at Hong Kong’s Foreign Correspondents’ Club. Last year was a particularly deadly year for the AP -- four of the news cooperative’s journalists were killed on assignment. Globally, 61 journalists were killed in the line of duty in 2014, bringing to more than 1,000 the number who have died since 1992, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. Pruitt said existing international laws should be updated to protect journalists. He proposed creating a new protocol to the Geneva Conventions to make the killing of a journalist a specific war crime. He also suggested adapting articles of the International Criminal Court, which deals with war crimes, to specifically cover journalists. While acknowledging that these measures would not necessarily prevent
journalists from getting killed, Pruitt said it would raise awareness of the idea that media workers, like doctors and nurses, should not be targeted during war. Journalists deserve such protection as the nature of war changes, Pruitt said. Journalists are increasingly becoming targets of extremist groups because such groups don’t need media organizations to deliver their message — they can use social media instead. “They don’t need us, they don’t want us. They want to tell their story in their way from start to finish
‘It used to be that when media wore PRESS emblazoned on their vest, or PRESS or MEDIA was on their vehicle, it gave them a degree of protection’ with nothing in between, and a journalist is a potential critical filter that they don’t want to have around,” he said. “The larger world, however, needs us. They need us to get the real facts out or the complete story out. Not just one side as they want to tell it,” he added. The rising trend of terrorist and extremist groups resorting to kidnapping and ransoming journalists to raise money is also making it more dangerous to report from conflict zones, Pruitt said. Even more worrying, such groups are also increasingly killing journalists to get attention.
Terming Naga shawls as unique, Dr. Arvind Chitra, Patent Attorney, Rajeshwari & Associates, New Delhi today expressed hope that the shawls would be protected under Geographical Indications (GI). A geographical indication (GI) is a name or sign used on certain products which corresponds to a specific geographical location or origin (e.g. a town, region, or country). In this regard, she said any individual or organization established by or under the law can apply trademarks for the same. Applicants must represent the interest of the producers. She said once such a trademark is done, it will prevent others from doing the same. Speaking at the one day workshop on “Intellectual Property Rights” (IPR) under the aegis of Patent Information Centre (PIC), Nagaland Science & Technology Council, Department of Science
& Technology here, Dr. Chitra said that GI is a mechanism that helps producers to differentiate their products from others in the market and helps in building reputation and good will around the products. GI also enables local populace to derive economic benefit out of their produce, Dr. Chitra said adding that GIs are a marketing tool which benefits farmers and local producers, give legal protection and preventing from unauthorized use and preserves local culture and resources. CM Tsanglao, Secretary to Government of Nagaland, department of science & technology said the mode of IPR will largely benefit the society. “Our designs have to be protected,” said Dr. Zavei Hiese and added that the Naga shawls, traditional dresses, etc. can be patented. He said Nagaland possesses a thousand variety of paddy, 300 varieties of maize and lots of crops not found in other parts of India, which re-
quire protection. According to PIC leaflet, IPR refers broadly to the creations of the human mind. Protection of intellectual property rights plays a key role in gaining an advantageous position in the competitive technological game for achieving economic growth. It protects the interests of creators by giving them property rights over their creations. A patent is a set of exclusive rights granted by a government to an inventor or applicant to make, use and sell an invention for a specified number of years. A patent is a personal property which can be licensed or sold like any other property. To provide patent related services, a single window Patent Facilitating Cell (PFC) was created by the TIFAC, Department of Science & Technology and as a state level extension, PIC was established in Nagaland at Nagaland Science & Technology Council, Department of Science & Technology, Kohima in 2011.
SHaMaTOr, MarcH 30 (MExN): Nagaland Home Minister, Y Patton today appealed to leaders of the Yimchunger Tribal Council (YTC) to attend the upcoming tripartite talks to be held on April 7, 2015 at Kohima. Speaking at the Shamator public ground Monday, the Minister acknowledged the roles played by various civil societies including Chang Khulie Setshang (CKS) and YTC, church leaders, district administration, police and individuals in bringing normalization in the areas in the wake of recent violence in Tuensang. “I make this special request to YTC leaders that please come and attend the upcoming tripartite talk and share your problems there,” he said. “After sharing with whatever you have in your mind, we will take decision as to how we will move forward for amicable and lasting solution to your problems.” The Minister also expressed concern at the recent developments regarding the NSCN (K) and called upon all Naga national workers to seriously work for reconciliation and unity among them. “Without unity, we cannot achieve a lasting and permanent peace in our land,” he said. “Peace is prerequisite for all round development.”
Unwise for Aos to remain silent: Kitovi
DIMaPUr, MarcH 30 (MExN): GPRN/NSCN Ato Kilonser, N Kitovi Zhimomi on March 28 called upon the Ao National workers at his official residence at council headquarters and discussed on national policy with special regards to the Ao people and their contributions. According to a press release issued by MIP, GPRN/NSCN, the Ato Kilonser in his brief message to the Ao community, stated that it would be unwise on his part to preach or teach the Ao community about Naga nationalism or their contributions towards it, as Aos have always been one of the frontrunners and pioneering people towards the social changes of the Naga society. Urging the Ao people to be firm in their commitments, Kitovi said it would be unwise on the part of the Aos if they were to remain silent and suppressed, because it required not just the wisdom of a leader in nation building, but a collective wisdom and effort of every member that helps in strengthening a leader in making decisions for
In this image released to the media GPRN/NSCN Ato Kilonser, N. Kitovi Zhimomi is seen here with Ao National workers at their council headquarters.
a brighter nation building. The Ato Kilonser further encouraged the Ao national workers to go back to their community and share ideas on their aspiration, dreams and future and added, ‘I want to see that Ao people alone decide the future of the Aos’. In another statement, Moa Walling, secretary attached to the collective leadership stated that “for the
past ten years or a little more, Aos in general have participated little or none with the GPRN/NSCN.” Walling said the GPRN/NSCN civil wing had tried and utilized “every possible way” to negotiate or come about with a co-ordination, “yet yielding no result, which showed something was wrong within the community, especially under Mokokchung district.”
“More efforts will be given to initiate that every member from the Ao community will be able to speak their minds out,” Walling assured. The secretary also said it is not against any individual, group, union or organization, but an initiative towards restoring the glory and unity of the Ao people, an endeavour to determine the future of the Aos.
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Dimapur
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31 March 2015
The Morung Express
“Safety, No Road Accident” ‘DOs’ & ‘DON’Ts’ FOR DRIVERS
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Miscreants vandalise building in Dimapur
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DOS • Follow traffic signals & signs • Wear seat belt • Follow the speed limit • Pay attention while driving • Be courteous towards other drivers • Give pedestrians the right of way • Keep vehicle documents and driving license • Show hand signals • Obey the instruction of traffic police • Use dipper at night • Always give way for ambulance and fire tenders
DGP Nagaland L.L. Doungel and others during the launching ceremony of traffic awareness week in Kohima on March 30. (Morung Photo)
Traffic awareness week underway i Our Correspondent Kohima | March 30
A traffic awareness week with the theme “Safety, No Road Accident” under the aegis of Kohima traffic police in collaboration with Kohima Village Youth Organization (KVYO) got underway here this morning. It will continue till April 2. The purpose of the traffic awareness week is to make people understand the im-
portance of road safety as road traffic accidents have become the single largest threat to the community. Speaking on the occasion as the chief guest, L.L. Doungel, IPS, DGP Nagaland called upon the vehicle users (Drivers) to have a good traffic sense and show courtesy to one another. Stating that the weeklong programme will also be targeting younger lot particularly the school children, he said such step will help them understand the basic traffic rules and enable them
to sensitize their respective families thereafter. Joseph Hesso, Sr. SP. Kohima said that road accidents have become one of the highest death in the country. “It is time to wake up and take care before it is too late,” he said. He called upon all concerned to obey traffic rules and drive carefully so that one stay lesser time in traffic jam. He also stated that Kohima traffic police is planning to initiate interactive session with police drivers
in Kohima and all the drivers posted at secretariat Kohima on “Rules of the Road Regulations.” Two educational institutions in Kohima have also been selected as pilot project (G. Rio Higher Secondary School and Mezhur Higher Secondary School Kohima) wherein lecture on road safety will take place in those schools on March 31. Atu Zumvü, SDPO Kohima and Tekasosang Jamir, Dy. S.P (Traffic) Kohima will deliver lecturers at G. Rio Higher Secondary School at 10:30 and
DON’TS • Drink & drive • Talk on your cell phone while driving • Engage in other activities • Play your car stereo loudly • Stop the vehicle on the middle of the road for any reason • Over speed • Park the vehicle in “No Parking Zone’ • Leave your valuables in your vehicle • Let your emotion & frustration get better of you • Over take while in heavy traffic Mezhur Higher Secondary School Kohima at 8:45 AM respectively. Hesso said the idea behind touching the school children is to make them aware of the basic traffic rules so that they can become law abiding citizens. Soliciting the support of the general public, he said “Help us to serve you better and make the road safer.” The function was
chaired by Tekasosang Jamir, Dy. S.P (Traffic) Kohima. The programme was followed by traffic awareness coverage at the various traffic points and streets assisted by KVYO. Kohima deputy commissioner Rovilato Mor, Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) administrator Kovi Meyase, KVYO officials and several others also present on the occasion.
Patton lays Langa Bridge foundation stone Special health camp at Shamator & Chessore TuENsaNg, march 30 (mExN): Tuensang District Health Society and District Planning Board under the Chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Tuensang Alem Jongshi (NCS) conducted a special health camp at Shamator PHC and Chessore PHC on March 27 and 28. A press release issued by the CMO office stated that
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the health camp in Chessore Block was conducted on March 27 at PHC Chessore, altogether 149 patient turn up for medical treatment. SDO (civil) T Yanthan and his team supervised the camp .the Shamator Block Health camp was conducted on March 28 at CHC Shamator, 405 patients were treated during the camp. Shiayang Phom ADC Sha-
mator and his team also supervised the camp. The medical team from Tuensang District comprised of Dr. T. Pangjung Sangtam CMO, Dr. Temsu Longchar DPO, Dr. Asangla SMO, , Dr. Baungan Phom MO, Dr. Nongosal Kirah MO, Dr. Chumdemo Kikon MO, Martula DPHNO Akumla, FWA and Putusola DCM Shri Jona LDA.
One of the rooms seen damaged. (Morung Photo) Morung Express News Dimapur | March 30
Unidentified miscreants on Monday morning vandalized a building where Apna Hotel is housed at Nyamo Lotha Road, Dimapur. Reason behind the vandalism is unknown but it was suspected to be a property feud. No injury was reported in the act. However, the miscreants damaged properties inside Apna Hotel and several rooms on the first and second floor of the building. At least five tenants including students and a teacher were displaced owing to the damage as the miscreants completely damaged doors and partition walls inside the rooms.
An FIR has been filed in this connection by one of the aggrieved parties. Office of the Nyamo Lotha Road Business Owners’ Association (NLRBOA) formerly known as Church Road Business Owners’ Association was also damaged. Through a press statement, NLRBOA General Secretary Khekishe Aye and Treasurer, Nihoto Chophy condemned the act and appealed the law enforcing agencies to apprehend the culprits and punish them as per the law of the land. They said any issues should have been resolved at an appropriate forum and without affecting the tenants in such a manner.
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UPHC Kohima organises free medical camp
Y. Patton unveiling foundation stone of Langa Bridge held on March 30. (DIPR Photo)
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TuENsaNg, march (DiPr): Lying of foundation stone of Langa Bridge was held on March 30 with Home Minister Y. Patton as chief guest. Addressing the gathering, the chief guest said public cooperation with the government was the main reason for timely completion of the bridge without confronting any obstacle and hindrance. He also said, when there
is no peace there is no development in any area. Therefore, the public or any group should not violate law and order. He further said, government was willing to do any developmental activities in the district if there is peace and tranquility in the area. The chief guest was accompanied by Parliamentary Secretary for CAWD, Economics & Statistics R.
Tohanba, Deputy Speaker NLA, Levi Rengma, IGP Nagaland, DIG Tuensang Range, Commandant 3rd NAP, SP Tuensang, Additional Chief Engineer R&B, EE Tuensang etc DC Tuensang, Alemjongshi, chaired the programme while President Yimchunger GB Union, Lakiumong, delivered welcome address. VC Chairman Y. Annar proposed vote of thanks.
Kohima, march 30 (mExN): In an effort to uplift the health of the public, the Urban Primary Health Centre (UPHC), Kohima under the aegis of the Office of the Chief Medical Officer, Kohima held eleven outreach health camps since its inception in 2014. According to a press release, several patients with diverse ailments were treated and medicines distributed free of cost to the patients in all these camps. The camps held so far have been a huge success with more than 1270 local population benefitting by this initiative. The medical team con-
sisted of Dr. Aomeren, MO-UPHC and Subonglemla, Program Consultant-NUHM Kohima along with the UPHC staff were responsible for providing medical treatment in general health care. Apart from medical facilities, public were also oriented on family planning measures, personal hygiene and sanitation. These outreach camps are organized in liaison with the ward panchayat in their respective community Halls. The health camps are held every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month in any of the wards in Kohima. The medical camps are planned as part of the special out-
reach activity under NationA pipe running in the middle of a drain at Eros Lane Colony, al Urban Health Mission. obstructing smooth flow of sewage. (Morung Photo)
About UPHC The Urban Primary Health Centre, in operation since June 2014 at Seikhazou offers free medical services ranging from OPD services and consultation to basic laboratory tests. UPHC is also a designated 24/7 delivery point. UPHC functions under one Medical Officer in Charge with seven paramedical staff including GNMs, ANMs, Lab Technician and family welfare assistant. The program is managed by the Urban Health Consultant, Kohima.
Morung Express News Dimapur | March 30
Continuing with its second phase developmental activities, the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) on Monday undertook a major cleaning of drainage at Eros Lane area. While cleaning the drainage, the workers found that a pipe belonging to BSNL in the middle of the drain was obstructing smooth flow of sewage. It may be recalled that the DMC workers also came across similar obstructing
pipes at MP Road. The DMC has appealed the department to look into the matter. Eros Lane Colony GB, Vikuto also visited the cleaning site and expressed appreciation to the DMC led by its administrator, H. Atokhe Aye for taking up sanitation activities. Eros Lane Hotelier Union also extended financial support for providing refreshment to the workers. Atokhe thanked the public for extending support and cooperation towards the DMC in its effort to give a facelift to Dimapur town.
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GPS upgraded at Officer’s Hill Colony Jakhama BLOs trained in NERPAP
Kohima, march 30 (mExN): The up-gradation programme of the Officers’ Hill Colony Government Primary School (GPS) to Government Middle School (GMS) was formally held at the school premises on Monday with Rokovolhoulie Nagi SDEO, Kohima as the chief guest During his speech, Rokovol-
houlie exhorted the teachers to take good care of the students as the future depends on them. The SDEO, Kohima felt that the Officers’ Hill Colony; being quiet, peaceful and free from disturbances, is a perfect location for the school. He also made an appealed to the gathering not to neglect the government programs as it has an important role for
the student’s career. The program was chaired by Azho Sophie, Chairman WEC, invocation by S Anungla, Pastor, Chang Baptist Church, Kohima, welcome address was delivered by Khrielakuo Sekhose, Chairman OHCC, special number was presented by the students of GMS Officers’ Hill Colony. A brief his-
LRD Kiphire officials visit villages
Director of Land Resources, Mhathung Yanthan along with others during the visit to villages.
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KiPhirE, march 30 (mExN): Director of Land Resources, Mhathung Yanthan, along with the officials from the Directorate visited Tetheyo, Huronger, Yinsikiur, Phuvkiu, Zimkiur and Pungro villages in Kiphire District on March 23 to 26, to get first hand information from Watershed Committee and User groups of different villages of various project activities taken up by the Department under IWMP. During their visits, the officials interacted with the beneficiaries and urged them to customise their traditional method of cultivation into modern scientific method of cultivation, which will give
them high yielding rather long sustenance. Director and the officials of LRD, handed over power tiller to Tetheyo Village Council, inaugurated an Integrated Model Farm at Huronger Village and released a Pamphlet on 'Wetland Garlic Cultivation', which was compiled and published by LRD Kiphire Team. LRD Kiphire officials in a press note said that in spite of difficult topography and bad road conditions, the Kiphire Team, led by Ahozhe Sumi, DPO and P. Natso, APO are doing their best to preserve natural resources and also for guiding the farmers for the sustenance of their economy life.
tory of the school was read out by Mimi Yhoshu, Secretary WEC, while vote of thanks was delivered by Y.Yanthan, Advisory Board OHCC. The program was attended by various organisations of the colony, Senior citizens, Chairman from Naga Hospital Colony, former ADC, SSA (DMA), SIS School Education Department.
ADC & ERO Peren inform electors
JaKhama, march 30 (DiPr): A Training Programme on National Electoral Rolls Purification and Authentication Programme (NERPAP) with BLO of 14th & 15th southern Angami assembly Constituency was held at DBS Court Jakhama on March 28. Assistant Election Officer, Kohima R Mhathung Ngullie gave a detailed briefing on the objectives of NERPAP
where linking and Authentication of Epic data of electors concerned of multiple entries pertaining to them and disposal of such cases within 15 days by the concerned electors, correction of Errors or any relevant entry pertaining to electors within 15 days on production of cogent documentary evidence, Improvement of image quality wherever requested by following the due procedure, obtain-
ing and feeding in the ER database the mobile and Email address of the electors. Also addressing on the methology of Aadhaar feeding, replacement of Epic on payment on request meeting and briefing of political parties at district and assembly constituency levels with request to nominate BLOS for Every polling station, Training to be imparted to BLOS/ BAGS.
PErEN, march 30 (DiPr): ADC & ERO Peren, Dr. Kadambari Bhagat IAS in a press release informed all the Electors of Peren district to submit their EPIC & AADHAR NO details to their respective BLOs for the ongoing NERPAP. Also, any correction of Errors or any relevant Entry pertaining to Electors voluntary disclosure by the Elector concerned also regarding multiple entries pertaining to him/her in the Eroll would also be carried out during the programme. All the Electors, Political parties, NGO's and Media are requested to extend their co-operation for the success of the NERPAP.
Training on NERPAP held at Mangkolemba maNgKolEmba, march 30 (DiPr): A training programme on National Electoral Roll and Authentication Programme (NERPAP) for the Supervisors and BLOs on March 30 at Mangkolemba. Briefing the officers, SDO (C) Mangkolemba, Renbomo Ezung informed that NERPAP exercise was being carried out with a target to make India 100% error free E-roll. Highlighting on the programme, Renbomo also said the programme was launched across the country on 1st March 2015 and that the deadline for all the district would be 31st July 2015. He further added by 15th August 2015 India would announce 100% error free E-roll. Earlier, Border Magistrate, Tsurangkong, Nyempo, urged all the officers to work sincerely while collecting the data and to make the villagers In a wake of scarcity of water, people fetch drinking water from a stream in Kohima aware about the importance of the programme. district. (Morung Photo)
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The Morung Express
Tuesday
31 March 2015
Dimapur
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allows prepaid cell service FCI to ferry more rice to Tripura via Bangladesh Centre in NE and J&K for two more years
AgARTALA, MARCH 30 (IANS): Another 10,000 tonnes of rice will be ferried to Tripura via Bangladesh this week as train services have been stopped in the southern part of the northeast region of India due to gauge conversion, a minister and officials said here on Monday. Train services in Tripura, Manipur, Mizoram and southern Assam have been suspended since last October for two-phase track conversion from metre-gauge to broad-gauge being undertaken by the Northeast Frontier Railways (NFR) and scheduled to end March 2016. The first phase, covering a 210-km route -- LumdingSilchar (in southern Assam) line -- has been completed and the inaugural goods train carrying about 2,300 tonnes of potatoes from West Bengal reached Silchar on March 27. According to NFR officials,
the gauge conversion work on the Silchar-Agartala section would be completed by March next year. "The Food Corporation of India (FCI) informed us that it will transport another 10,000 tonnes of rice for Tripura via Bangladesh this week," Tripura Food and Civil Supplies Minister Bhanulal Saha told IANS. He said: "The Tripura government has urged the central government to carry rice for the state regularly via Bangladesh till the railway's gauge conversion works are completed. We want to create a buffer stock of food grain in Tripura before the beginning of the monsoon in June." The monsoon starts in June and continues up to September creating a gigantic problem in ferrying food grains, essentials and other goods from other parts of India to the northeast via mountainous roads, as the areas
Northeast Briefs Assam among top list of states with maximum fake LPG connections NEW DELHI, MARCH 30 (BuSINESS STANDARD): Uttar Pradesh has the largest number of fake Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) connections among states followed by Maharashtra, Assam and Telangana. These connections, identified as "multiple connections" by the Oil Ministry, account for 7.2 per cent of the total registered cooking gas consumers in the country. These are the findings of the ministry's latest data on LPG usage. According to the Ministry's data, India had 12.7 million multiple LPG connections as on 1 March 2015. While all of these connections have been blocked, 173,000 of these connections have been surrendered by consumers. UP had 1.8 million, Maharashtra had 1.3 million while Assam had 999,000 fake LPG connections that were blocked. Also, of the total 12.7 million fake connections, 6.3 million were being serviced by Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), India's largest fuel retailer, alone followed by 4.4 million fake connections with Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL) and 1.9 million by Hindustan petroleum Corporation (HPCL). "The possibility of malpractice or irregularities in subsidized domestic LPG cylinders by unscrupulous elements cannot be ruled out due to the lower retail price of subsidized LPG for domestic use as compared to the market price for commercial LPG," petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan said in response to a question asked in parliament recently. With the implementation of DBTL scheme, under which subsidy is transferred directly into the beneficiary bank accounts, consumption of commercial non-subsidized LPG grew by a whopping 27 per cent in February, the second month of growth. India had 176 million LPG connections as on 1 November 2014. This included 174 million subsidized and another 2 million non-subsidized connections. OMCs' under-recoveries on subsidized sales of LPG stood at 46,458 crore in 2013-14, a third of the total Rs 139,000 crore losses on sales of all subsidized petroleum products.
Meghalaya fails to realise taxes worth Rs. 598 Crore SHILLoNg, MARCH 30 (PTI): The Meghalaya government failed to realise taxes worth Rs 598.25 crore in 2013-14, Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has said. Checks of the records of taxes on sale, trade, state excise, motor vehicles, forest receipts and other nontax receipts conducted during 2013-14 has revealed this loss of revenue in 283 cases, CAG said in its latest report. During the same period, government departments have also accepted under-assessment/short/ non-levy/loss of revenue of Rs 439.19 crore in 213 cases and recovered only Rs 34 lakh, it said. Meghalaya Accountant General (Audit) Rajesh Singh admitted that proper measures should have been adopted to check revenue loss in 2013-14 which would have been helpful to tide over the present financial crisis in the state. Of these cases, the failure of the enforcement branch to detect movement of as many as 85,622 trucks, carrying load in excess of the permissible limits, resulted in short realisation of fine amounting to Rs 43.96 crore. In another case, the Divisional Mining Officer in West Jaintia Hills district failed to realise royalty to the tune of Rs 27.76 crore on coal from seven manufacturing units, including five cement plants operating in Jaintia Hills region. These cement companies procured 5.48 lakh MT of coal within the state between April 2012 and March 2013, on which royalty of Rs 31.60 crore was payable but only Rs 3.84 crore was deposited by these units. The CAG said that no action was taken to realise the balance royalty from these manufacturing units and this resulted in short-realisation of royalty of Rs 27.76 crore.Some of these cement companies had also concealed purchase of 1.95 lakh cubic metre of sand primarily due to lack of coordination among government departments and evaded payment of royalty of Rs 59 lakh during the same period.
are highly prone to landslide. An FCI official said the new consignment of rice is expected to start reaching Tripura on Tuesday or Wednesday. The FCI last year ferried 10,000 tonnes of rice in two phases to Tripura from Visakhapatnam port in Andhra Pradesh via Bangladesh. "Several ships carried the rice from Visakhapatnam port to Kolkata port, then to Ashuganj port in (eastern) Bangladesh. From Ashuganj port, Bangladeshi trucks ferried the rice to FCI warehouses in Nandannagar near Agartala," the FCI official said. Ashuganj port over the Meghna river in eastern Bangladesh is 57 km from Tripura capital Agartala. The FCI has decided to carry a total of 35,000 tonnes of rice in different phases for Tripura via Bangladesh by this year's end. The eight northeastern states,
the Mount Everest twice in 10 days in 2011, scaled the peak again on May 18, 2013, for the third time. Anshu (30) scaled Lobuche (6,119 m), Pokhalde (5,896 m) and Island Peak (6,189 m) — successively in six days from May 13 to May 18 during her Mt Everest expedition in 2013. She remained undeterred during her trek, even after a deadly avalanche killed 16 Sherpas just above her camp site. During the expedition,
After Tripura, it is likely that food grains will be ferried in a similar way to other northeastern states, the FCI official said. Transportation via Bangladesh is much easier as road connectivity is a big factor for the mountainous northeastern states which share boundaries with Bangladesh, Myanmar, Nepal, Bhutan and China. There is only a narrow land corridor to the northeastern region from India through Assam and West Bengal but this route passes through hilly terrain with steep gradients and multiple hairpin bends, making plying of vehicles, especially loaded trucks, very difficult. For instance, Agartala via Guwahati is 1,650 km from Kolkata by road and 2,637 km from New Delhi, while the distance between Agartala and Kolkata via Bangladesh is just about 620 km.
Inter State training on Horticultural crops DIMAPuR, MARCH 30 (MExN): A total of 23 participants from 9 villages under Tamenglong district, Manipur attended an interstate training-cumexposure programme on Horticultural crops at the Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH), DAC, GoI, Medziphema on March 26 and 27. Entitled, ‘Rejuvenation, propagation, Disease management of Khashi Mandarin & cultural practices of summer vegetable crops,’ the programme was organised by CIH in collaboration with ATMA, Tamenglong district, Manipur. Dr. Lallan Ram, Director, CIH addressing the trainees stated that the ‘decline or die back’ in citrus fruit is
100 MW Monarchak power plant in Tripura starts generation AgARTALA,MARCH 30 (PTI): The 100 MW gasbased Monarchak power plant in West Tripura district, about 50 km from here, started generation, a project official said today. "Now we are generating in the Monarchak Project on a trial basis and hope that within seven days commercial generation will start," Asit Chowdhury, coordinator of the project said. The project was run by the North East Electrical Power Corporation (NEEPCO), a government undertaking. The Tripura unit of ONGC is supplying gas for the project. Chowdhury said the 84 MW gas-based thermal power project at Ramchandraghat in Khowai district was converted into a combine cycle project and an additional 26 MW was now being commercially generated. An additional 5 MW Solar Power was being commercially produced from the Monarchak since February 15 as a green project, he said. With this, Tripura is now a power surplus state, which produces 726 MW from the gas-based thermal power project at Palatana, in Gomati district, about 60 km from here and provide power to all the North Eastern states. Another 100 MW would be given to Bangladesh from Palatana for which transmission lines were being drawn up by both the countries. Earlier, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar had requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to provide 100 MW to Bangladesh from the share of Tripura, citing that without the help of that country, the project would not have been possible as they allowed their water and roadways for carrying the over-dimensional machines for the project.
Anshu on mission to conquer Mount Everest for fourth time ITANAgAR, MARCH 30 (TNN): Arunachal Pradesh mountaineer Anshu Jamsenpa is set to climb the Mount Everest for the fourth time early in April. She is likely to leave Arunachal on April 4 for the Everest mission and would reach the Kathmandu base by April 6. Her expedition is expected to be completed by the last week of May. Anshu, who holds the record of being the only mother in the world to have scaled
including Sikkim, are largely dependent on Punjab, Haryana and other larger states in India for food grains and essential commodities. The central government has also floated bids to import rice from Myanmar for Manipur and Mizoram. Following diplomatic parleys, the Bangladesh government agreed to allow transportation of food grains for Tripura across its territory without charging any duty under a special transit facility. Earlier in 2012, Bangladesh had allowed state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation to ferry heavy machinery, turbines and over-dimensional cargoes through Ashuganj port for the 726-MW Palatana mega power project in southern Tripura. The Indian government had spent several millions of rupees to develop the Ashuganj port and related infrastructure.
she trekked through three high passes — Cho La (5,330 m), Reno (5,360 m) and Kongma La (5,533 m). Referring to the six risks involved in such sports, she said a single mistake can lead to a fatal end, therefore in such sports one needs to overcome fear and be prepared not only physically but also mentally. She has successfully conquered several peaks since she started mountaineering career in 2010.
due to combined effect of biotic & abiotic factors, a major problem causing reduced vigor and poor productivity. The only measure to combat the problem is to follow rejuvenation approaches through adoption of various management practices and to follow proper calendar of operation, he informed. He also deliberated on the importance of improved production technologies in vegetables for enhancing productivity. Practical on rejuvenation approaches, propagation techniques, diseases management for Khashi Mandarin; and lay out, preparation of nursery bed, seed treatment, seed sowing in pro trays, application of ma-
nures, fertilizers and transplanting of seedlings in main field for vegetables were done at CIH farm on the first day. The trainers at the programme were by Dr. Thirugnanavel, Scientist (Horti), ICAR, Jharnapani, Dr. Anamika Sharma, Programme coordinator, KVK, Dimapaur and Ms. Sentiyangla, Horticulture specialist, CIH. It also included an exposure cum field visit to Bade village, Dimapur where the trainees interacted with the Chairman of FPO Dimapur, Chozukhwu. At the end of the training, certificate along with reading materials thought at the training were distributed to the entire participant by Director, CIH, informed a press note received here.
NEW DELHI, MARCH 30 (PTI): Prepaid mobile services in Jammu and Kashmir and the Northeastern states will be allowed to continue for two more years from Wednesday in a decision on Monday by the government that will benefit the existing 33 million subscribers there. The licence of the telecom operators for providing pre-paid services in these areas expires on Tuesday. A high-level committee headed by Union Home Secretary LC Goyal discussed the matter after which it was decided to give the nod for continuance of these pre-paid services, official sources said. The Home Ministry, while granting permission, reiterated to the service providers that they have to maintain utmost precaution in issuing SIM cards and ensure
Some people trying to create complexities in NRC: Assam govt guWAHATI, MARCH 30 (PTI): Assam government today said 'some people' were trying to create complexities in the ongoing preparation of National Register of Citizens (NRC) in the state. "My doubt is that some people want to create complexities in the issue (the process to prepare NRC) ...Please do not do that," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Rockybul Hussain said in the Assembly. He was responding to a volley of queries, mostly by AIUDF MLAs, regarding preparation of the NRC and the faulty names in the supporting documents that a citizen has to submit to the authority. He said the authority will accept any valid document from the list of prescribed supporting documents and will update the name accordingly.
Assam govt slams Centre for fund reduction guWAHATI, MARCH 30 (PTI): Criticising the Centre for reduction in fund allocation to the state, the Assam government today said it has provided employment opportunities to around 1.2 lakh people since 2001. "We have to give jobs to people in Assam as there is no industry. Since 2001, we have given jobs to 1.2 lakh youths," state Planning Development minister Ajanta Neog said at the Assembly. Responding during a discussion initiated by BJP MLA Ranjit Kumar Das about the financial health of Assam during the Zero Hour, she said, the Centre has reduced the quantum of funds allocated to Assam under various heads in the last few months. "The 14th Finance Commission (FC) has cut
JOB VACANCY
funds for Assam and it said only for two fiscal - 201516 and 2016-17 - the support will be given. Even our neighbouring states in North East will get more funds than us," Neog said. She said the Centre asked to spend only 35% of state revenue to salary and pension, while the actual expenditure would touch 65% soon due to lack of any alternative source of income such as corporate sector. "The Centre calculates that as only 35% will be spent in salary, Assam will be a surplus state and so cut allocation to us... The CM has requested to restructure the fund allocation of 14th FC," Neog said. The minister also said many schemes were being delinked from Central assistance and the state govern-
ASSISTANT ACCOUNTANT
A Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC), Ganpati Stock Ltd. having its corporate office in Kohima seeks applications from qualified applicants to staff the position of Assistant Accountant, with a starting salary of Rs. 1.5 Lacs per annum including Health Insurance and other Incentives.
Minimum Requirements 1. Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce or Accounting 2. Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Tally 3. At least 3 years’ working experience in the field of accounting &Financial Management. 4. Commitment to work for minimum of 3 years. Serious candidates willing to work hard may submit their applications along with CV/Resume to the Corporate Manager, GSL,(Above EATACOL Office)PWD Junction, Next to traffic Police Point, Kohima by 6th April 2015. You can also email your CVs to ner.gspl@gmail.comor call +91 370 2243152 | 8974539456
proper verification. J and K shares borders with Pakistan while most of the northeastern states share international borders with countries like China, Myanmar, Bangladesh and Bhutan. Of the roughly 35 million telecom subscribers in the three circles of J and K, Assam and Northeast, about 33 million have opted for pre-paid services. Telecom companies offering services on the GSM and CDMA technology platform had permission to continue the same in these sensitive regions till March 31. Pre-paid SIM cards issued in these three regions will, however, continue to remain non-operational outside their telecom circles and, similarly, prepaid numbers issued outside these circles will not be operational in these areas.
AUCTION INFORMATION
ment was asked to generate its own source of funding. "Assam is a Special Category state because of this, we were given central projects with 90% funds from the Centre," she said. "The state government still does not know how much fund it would get from the Union Budget for 2015-16 as nothing has been specifically mentioned yet," she added.
1. Auction of under mentioned items of this unit will be carried out on 04 April 2015 at 1030 hours which has been declared unserviceable as per Annual Stock Taking board of officers for the Financial year 2014-2015:(a) Electronic equipment. (b) Utensils. (c) Furniture. 2. For the above purpose all the concerned are invited and contact No- 09774041872 Mr. Aditya Mishra. 3. Auction place : Zakhama Military Station, 9 BIHAR location at RP gate. (JPS Sandhu) Maj Adjt, for offg Co
St. JoSeph’S College, Jakhama B.A.
Economics Education English History Political Science Sociology
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B.Com. B.B.A. Ph: 0370-2231009; 9436437544; 9402832288 9436004768; 9436213924; 8730938796 Website: http://stjosephjakhama.ac.in Email: stjosephc@gmail.com
OFFICE OF THE
NAGA PEOPLE’S FRONT
CENTRAL HEADQUARTERS, KOHIMA, NAGALAND. NPf-4/MEETiNg/2015-2020/32
Dated: Kohima, 30th March 2015
NoTifiCATioN
Whereas, in exercise of the power conferred on him vide Article V Section (3) of the NPF Constitution, the President, Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu, convened the emergency meeting of the Central Executive Council (CEC) on 30th March 2015 at the NPF Central Office Kohima Nagaland from 1 PM onwards. Whereas, the said CEC Meeting was convened by the President in conformity with Article IV Section (3) Clause (c), Sub-clause (ii) of the NPF Constitution. Whereas, in consonance with Article IV Section (3) Clause (B) Sub-clause (xi), the CEC in its meeting held on 30th March 2015 at the Central NPF Office Kohima, Nagaland decided to summon the General Convention on 30th April 2015 at Kohima from 11 AM onwards. Whereas, the CEC further endorsed the President to issue Notification for summoning the General Convention in view of the directive by the Election Commission of India (ECI) to resolve the present crisis within the party by invoking Article XV (Article XIV of the Sixth Amendment) of the NPF Constitution. Now, therefore, in pursuance to the decision of the CEC dated 30.03.2015, the President NPF hereby summon the General Convention of the NPF party on 30th April 2015 at Kohima from 11 AM onwards. The Issue to be tabled in the General Convention shall be: 1. To discuss and deliberate the ongoing crisis within the NPF Party owing to the formation of a new group by the NPF dissidents. 2. To put to vote by way of raising hand as to whether the General Convention held on 26.11.2014 at Kohima vis-a-vis election of Dr. Shürhozelie Liezietsu as the President NPF along with new team of Office bearers for the tenure 2015-2020 should stand valid or should be treated as null and void. Furthermore, it is made clear that this particular General Convention is summoned in compliance to the directive of the ECI vide its order dated 27.03.2015 and in consonance with the Article XV (Article XIV of the Sixth Amendment) of the NPF Constitution. It is also made clear that only and only Active Members whose names are enrolled in the party office record as on 12.01.2015 shall be allowed to attend and eligible to vote in the General Convention schedule to be held on 30th April 2015 at Kohima, Nagaland. (K. g. KENYE) Secretary general, Naga People’s front.
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Dimapur
businEss
Tuesday 31 March 2015
The Morung Express
Lincoln Continental, the car of presidents, is returning Dee-Ann Durbin AP Auto Writer
Elvis Presley had one; so did Clark Gable. It was even the sedan of presidents. Then the name vanished amid an invasion of newer luxury cars from Europe and Asia. Now, the Lincoln Continental is back. Thirteen years after the last Continental rolled off the assembly line, Ford Motor Co. is resurrecting its storied nameplate. The new Continental debuts in concept form at this week’s New York auto show. The production version of the full-size sedan goes on sale next year. After more than a decade of toying with alphabetical names like LS and MKS to be more like its foreign rivals, Ford’s 98-year-old Lincoln brand is embracing its heritage. It’s a measure of the growing confidence at Lincoln, which is finally turning around a decades-long sales decline. And it’s a nod to the importance of China, where customers know the Conti-
This product image provided by the Ford Motor Co. shows the new Lincoln Continental concept. Thirteen years after the last Continental rolled off a Michigan assembly line, Ford Motor Co. is debuting the new Continental in concept form at the New York Auto Show on Monday, March 30.The production version goes on sale next year. (AP Photo)
nental name and appreciate brands with a rich history. Ford CEO Mark Fields says the Continental always represented the best of Lincoln. Resurrecting it sets higher expectations, both within the company and outside of it. “When we get a chance to work on an iconic nameplate like that, it’s a mixture
of pride and a mixture of fear, because when you put that name out there, it’s got to deliver,” Fields told The Associated Press in a recent interview. The Continental was born in 1938, when Henry Ford’s son Edsel commissioned a convertible he could use on his spring vacation. Thrilled by the reception he got as
he drove the elegant sedan around Palm Beach, Edsel made the Continental part of Lincoln’s lineup. The Continental soon became the pinnacle of American luxury. Warner Brothers gave Elizabeth Taylor a 1956 Continental with a custom paint color to match her eyes. A darker historical note: John F. Ken-
nedy was riding in the back of a 1961 Continental convertible when he was assassinated in Dallas. Continental sales peaked in 1990 at 62,732. But after that, Lincoln’s sales began slipping. Ford had acquired other luxury brands such as Jaguar and Volvo. Lincoln’s designs got dull and failed to stand out
from lower-priced Fords. The Continental was also squeezed by competition from the midsize Lincoln LS, which debuted in 2000, and the bigger Town Car. Ford also underestimated the threat posed by German rivals, who were expanding their lineups, and newer Japanese luxury brands. By 2000, Lexus was the top-selling luxury brand in the U.S.; last year, BMW was. To make its way back, Lincoln isn’t trying isn’t trying to be sporty like BMW or showy like Cadillac. Instead, Fields says, it wants to give drivers an experience that is elegant and serene. “We want folks to get into our vehicles and — for lack of a better term — chill,” Fields said. It appears to be working. Lincoln’s U.S. sales rose 16 percent last year, making it one of the fastest-growing luxury brands in the market. The midsize MKZ was the brand’s top seller. Full-size sedans like the Continental are a tough sell in the U.S., where buyers
tend to prefer midsize sedans or SUVs. U.S. sales of Lincoln’s current full-size sedan, the MKS, fell 24 percent last year. But globally, the segment is growing, Fields says. Ford has high hopes for the Lincoln brand in China, where it’s opening dazzling new dealerships complete with waterfalls. Ford began selling Lincolns in China late last year, and the company will open more than 20 dealerships there this year. The concept car being unveiled Monday in New York is painted a deep Prussian blue, an homage to Continentals of the 1950s and 1960s. But there are few other references to its history. Lincoln’s split-wing grille, a feature that dates to the 1940s, has been replaced by a tight, rectangular mesh grille, its shiny chrome patterned with tiny versions of Lincoln’s rectangular logo. The sides are smooth; even the door handles are hidden within a narrow strip of chrome at
the beltline. The concept is a technology showcase. The driver’s seat has a patented split cushion, so if the driver holds one leg out further than another, it will support each leg separately. The moonroof glass turns opaque with the touch of a button. Another button automatically moves the front passenger seat forward and fully reclines the rear passenger seat. That’s another nod to China, where luxury car owners often have their own drivers. Under the hood is a 3-liter V6 EcoBoost engine that’s unique to Lincoln. Ford isn’t yet revealing more details, like whether the car is front- or rearwheel drive. The Continental switched to a frontwheel-drive sedan in the 1980s, but many of its current competitors — the Infiniti Q70, Mercedes Benz S-Class and Lexus LS — are rear-wheel drive. The Continental is expected to replace the seven-year-old MKS, which currently sits atop Lincoln’s c ar lineup.
IndiGo gets approval to import 400 aircraft over next 10 yrs India to become 3rd largest auto manufacturer by 2020: Ford New Delhi, March 30 (ageNcies): IndiGo has received approval from the government to import 400 additional aircraft over the next 10 years. The airline already has in place an approval (granted in May 2010) to import 150 A320 neos till 2025. If the import approvals are anything to go by, on an average IndiGo will be importing one aircraft every week for the next 10 years making it the fastest and largest fleet expansion programme for any scheduled airline in India’s civil aviation history. The country’s nine scheduled airlines operate between them around 375 aircraft currently. To put things in perspective, IndiGo itself has inducted on an average one aircraft every month since it started operations on August 4, 2006. At present, it has an operational fleet of 93 aircraft. IndiGo had a lion’s share — 37.1 per cent — of the traffic in the domestic market as of last month. A senior official in the ministry of civil aviation said, “IndiGo had applied for permission to import 400 additional aircraft in December last year. The same has been granted to them. They have been given in-principle approval to im-
port these aircraft over the next 10 years till 2025.” A spokesperson for IndiGo confirmed the development said, “The import approval for 400 aircraft include orders for 250 planes placed in October last year, additional purchase rights for 100 aircraft and 30 optional aircraft purchase rights pending from an earlier order placed in 2011.” In the largest single order for aircraft maker Airbus, IndiGo in October last year signed an agreement to buy 250 A320neo planes. The companies did not disclose the deal value. Going by the list price, it could be $25.7 billion, though airlines usually get a discount in such deals. The airline had options to exercise additional purchase rights for another 100 aircraft. IndiGo president Aditya Ghosh had said the deliveries under the new order would begin from 2018 and overlap with those under the 2011 one. Before this, IndiGo had made two mega orders for Airbus aircraft — for 100 A320s in 2005, and 180 planes (150 A320neos and 30 A320s) in 2011. The 2011 order, though, was later modified to 180 A320neos. Airbus has said the
A320neos, with their new engines and enlarged wing-tip devices, will deliver fuel savings of 15 per cent from day one. In November last year, the country’s only profitable airline had completed induction of 100 planes from its 2005 order (two years ahead of schedule). It had then decided to take 12 planes on lease from Tigerair to stay ahead of competition. The deliveries of A320neo planes under its 2011 order will begin from October 2015. No other Indian airline has such big pending orders. Among peers, GoAir has ordered 72 Airbus A320neos and SpiceJet for 42 Boeing 737 Max. IndiGo’s massive fleet induction plans come at a time when the market is rife with speculations about a possible initial public offering later this year. According to reports, the airline is looking at raising $ 400-450 million from an IPO, which will be managed by six investments banks. The red herring prospectus for the planned debut on the stock exchange is likely to be filed by May this year. IndiGo follows a sale-and-leaseback model. While most of its planes are on lease for six years, a few are on financial lease for 10-12 years.
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LEISURE
Simple Rules - There is just one simple rule: “Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.”
SUDOKU Game Number # 3181
New Delhi, March 30 (DNa): India’s automotive industry is expected to reach 7 million vehicles milestone by 2020, making the country the third-largest auto manufacturer in the world, behind the US and China, a top official at Ford Motor has said. The automotive sector has a direct bearing on the economy with a near 7
per cent contribution to the GDP, playing an important role in the development of other crucial sectors as well, David Dubensky, President and Managing Director, Ford Motor Private Ltd, said. Addressing the students at the graduation function of the Kumaraguru College of Technology, Dubensky said India is one of the larg-
est automobile manufacturers in the world and as the country moves towards this milestone, the opportunities to build a career in the automotive sector are tremendous. He said by working together as one global team over the last 110 years, Ford been able to fully leverage the resources around the
world. “We are building great products, creating strong business, and contributing to a better world”, he added. Advising students to be open, flexible and willing to learn, even if the lesson is a hard one, Dubensky said, “Bring people together, and work together, for something bigger than yourself.”
Government banks may move to CTC structure New Delhi, March 30 (TNN): If the state-run banks have their way, the just concluded wage settlement for close to one million employees may be the last such exercise. Public sector players and the government have held preliminary talks on the issue of moving to a new system under which each bank will work out its own salary structure and simultaneously move to costto-company system that is the norm across the corporate sector. Bankers believe that the industrylevel wage settlement is a relic from the past and puts undue pressure on some of the smaller and less efficient players. Besides, it inhibits the ability of the
better-managed lenders to attract good talent. Banks and unions just agreed to a 15% hike in wages, which will result in an annual burden of around Rs 5,000 crore, along with holidays on second and fourth Saturdays. As a result, even the loss-making entities will have to bear the burden although their financial health may not permit them to do so immediately. While the next settlement is due only in November 2017, the road map worked out by bankers has suggested that sometime next year, banks should start the process of moving out of the industry-level initiative and negotiate for productivity-linked settlement. “It should be on a cost-to-company
DAILY CROSS WORD
CROSSWORD # 3191
Answer Number # 3180
(CTC) basis, based on the paying capacity of each bank,” said a senior executive at a top public sector lender. Although IDBI Bank had moved to a productivity-linked system a few years ago, while opting for a higher increase in salary, it had to junk the first part of the new strategy due to internal opposition. Executives had pointed out that the bank had worked out a new mechanism without putting in place a system to measure productivity. For other banks too, the transition is not going to be easy and is expected to face stiff resistance from the unions, which have, for years, settled for an industrywide package.
DIMAPUR Civil Hospital:
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G Z F P R D Y P F G S X J K Z O U X J F
ACROSS
1. Talon 5. Iron oxide 9. To cast aside (archaic) 13. Assistant 14. ___ alia 16. River of Spain 17. Guns an engine 18. A keyboard instrument 19. Swerve 20. Hard fats 22. Proclaimed 24. Require 26. Path 27. Implore 30. French for “Again” 33. Seeming 35. All tuckered out 37. Arrive (abbrev.) 38. Renders senseless 41. Fitting 42. Utilizers 45. Recreational sailors 48. Arousing 51. Epicurean 52. A financial examination 54. Cry 55. Made joyful 59. Philippine tribal chief 62. Standard
63. Acknowledge 65. Perished 66. Murres 67. Pariah 68. Solitary 69. Break 70. Optimistic 71. Terminates
DOWN
1. Automobiles 2. Place 3. Explorer 4. A cowboy movie 5. Tear 6. Module 7. Begin 8. Incumbency 9. Gain through experience 10. Assist in crime 11. No charge 12. A shallow area in a stream 15. Ancient empire 21. Sow 23. Photos 25. Speaker’s platform 27. Brother of Jacob 28. Like the Vikings 29. Explosive 31. Absolution
32. Habituate 34. Chap 36. Exam 39. Henpeck 40. Flat-bottomed boat 43. Chart showing routes and streets 44. An upright in a wall 46. Tinted 47. Foot lever 49. Something to shoot for 50. Clinker 53. Pace 55. Wildebeests 56. Forsaken 57. Diva’s solo 58. Perishes 60. Care for 61. Poems 64. Attempt Ans to CrossWord 3190
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LOCAL
The Morung Express
Tuesday 31 March 2015
Dimapur
5
NPF Shurhozelie urges Goi, NPGs CNTC urges ‘warring’ to expedite political dialogue NPF groups to reconcile KOHIMA, MARCH 30 (MExN): Dr Shurhozelie Leizietsu has summoned a general convention of the Naga Peoples’ Front (NPF) on April 30 at Kohima from 11:00am onwards. A notification from the Secretary General of the Shurhozelie led NPF, KG Kenye informed that this decision was made on March 30, during a CEC meeting of the party in Kohima. This move comes after the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) directive to the NPF to hold a general convention and resolve
the dispute within the party internally. The general convention, informed Kenye, will discuss and deliberate the ongoing crisis within the NPF Party and put to vote by way of raising hand as to whether the general convention held on November 26, 2014 at Kohima vis-a-vis election of Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu as the NPF President along with a new team of office bearers for the tenure 20152020 should stand valid or should be treated as null and void. It further informed
that “only active members whose names are enrolled in the party office record as of January 12, 2015 shall be allowed to attend and be eligible to vote in the general convention.” In a separate press statement, the NPF led by Dr Shurhozelie Leizietsu has appealed to the Government of India and the Naga political groups to expedite political dialogue for early solution to the Naga political problem. It further “appreciated the government under the leadership of TR Zeliang for the inclu-
sive government having all political parties representation in the state.” Reiterating support to the leadership of Dr Shürhozelie Liezietsu and TR Zeliang, the party acknowledged the decision of the ECI in referring to the Constitution of the NPF Party. It informed that the ECI had sent an invitation to the NPF Central Office Kohima to attend the consultative meeting of all political parties in the country at Nirvachan Sadan on March 30. The party added that two representatives,
one from Nagaland and another from Manipur, have been sent to attend the same. The NPF led by Dr Shurhozelie further clarified that the clause cited in the ECI’s recent directive involves Article 15 in view of the 7th amendment of the NPF constitution and not Article 14. Meanwhile, the CEC meeting also resolved to set up a Finance Committee comprising of TR Zeliang, CL John, Y Patton, C Kipili Sangtam, Nuklutoshi, P Longon and Y Vikheho Swu.
Scope & importance of beekeeping in Nagaland DIMApuR, MARCH 30 (MExN): Agricultural Technology Management Agency Niuland Block organised Kisan Ghosthi on March 24 at Hovukhu village, where resource person Nzanbemo, Team Member (Dimapur), Nagaland Beekeeping & Honey Mission explained thoroughly on ‘Scope & importance of Beekeeping in Nagaland.’ He said that beekeep-
ing is regarded as a poor person’s activity, unworthy of investment and support, and in many developing countries, beekeepers lack assistance and the services they need. However, he pointed out beekeeping has various advantages – no landownership required, low investment, less time consuming, produces honey & by-products, provides medicines & maintains biodiversity. He
further emphasized that in Nagaland, it is an age old practice; technology and productivity is still at a low level and lacks market initiative. He also said that Nagaland has vast potentials in beekeeping as it has rich biodiversity, vast bee foraging areas, rich traditional practices, availability of skilled carpenter and timber, ideal climate and negligible use of pesticides. Since 80% of the area
is covered with vegetation and agriculture being the backbone of Nagaland, he encouraged all the farmers to take up the activity as it increases crop production by acting as pollinating agent. In light of the observation that beekeeping seemed more suitable around litchi and rubber plantations, the farmers were taken to a rubber plantation farm where
Nzanbemo explained on the topic “Handling of scientific Beekeeping tools and equipments”. He demonstrated and showed equipments like boxes, extractor, swarm bag, bee veil, etc and how to locate and use it in rubber farms. ‘Awareness on effects of crop residue burning’ was also presented by Longshithung Odyuo, AFA, Department of Agriculture, to all the participants.
‘The tussle between the two groups has dragged the whole state, in all aspects, to a chaotic situation’
DIMApuR, MARCH 30 (MExN): The Central Nagaland Tribal Council (CNTC) has appealed to the two “warring” NPF groups – one led by Dr. Shurhozelie Liezietsu and the other by Noke Wangnao – to come together and reconcile in the spirit of “forgive and forget” as directed by the Election Commission of India and as desired by the people of the State to end the “mess”. A press statement issued by CNTC president Hokiye Yeptho stated that
the tussle between the two groups has “dragged the whole state, in all aspects, to a chaotic situation, which the people of the state do not deserve.” Pointing out that the State machinery has come to a virtual standstill owing to the imbroglio, CNTC stated the “unwarranted paralysis” of the State government has emboldened the “anti social elements” to create law and order problem and “the recent ugly incidents in the State is a clear text book cases.” The fact of the matter,
it stated, is “the general public are becoming restless and impatient and the angst is at an all time high.” CNTC further asserted that the overwhelming mandate of the people in the last general election should be respected by all parties of the DAN alliance. “The government of the day should fully function and we felt that it is the constitutional and political obligation of the government to provide fair and secure governance to the people,” it added.
BJP Dimapur ends primary membership drive DIMApuR, MARCH 30 (MExN): BJP Dimapur District held the final state-wide BJP primary membership drive at DMC Marketing Complex, Marwari Patti, Dimapur on March 30. A press release from BJP Dimapur District president informed that several party leaders and public supporters gathered at the venue and collectively made
effort to register Dimapur citizens into the party fold. Short speeches to bolster the membership drive were given by the Chief Guest HK Khullu (Retd. Addl. Secretary, Govt. of Nagaland), Yanghose Convenor of the Membership Drive 2015, Bimal Sethi, Treasurer of State BJP Prashant Arora, Gen Secy (Org.), Medom Angami, National Execu-
tive Member, and Yambos Murry, National Executive Member of ST Morcha, the release said. Several businessmen and passersby registered themselves as BJP members during the day, it was informed. The release further informed that interested public can still register themselves at the party office at Supermarket Dimapur.
Public SPace Eleven join GPRN/NSCN Relief given to March 14 Railway Colony fire victims
Laughter
An untraced phenomenon For many –young and old alikeThat has potentiality to ease our mind And delivers us from angst. Here stood laughter, The best medicine; A gift that resonate, That alters one’s mindset From pessimism to optimism And sooner or later end up triumphantly. Laugh, but not to be meaning smirk, For that may be identified. Give your inmost beauty of smile That may fade your wrinkle and gloomy outlook.
DIMApuR, MARCH 30 (MExN): Eleven people from different Naga political groups have joined the
Name
Lanu Lemba Nitoho Tovika Athui Gangmei Imyataba Tiamongba Imchen Asang Vicky Changwang Aliba Imkong
GPRN/NSCN fold. A press release issued by MIP, GPRN/ NSCN mentioned the following as the new members:
Rank
Lieutenant 2nd Lieutenant 2nd Lieutenant Sergeant Major Sergeant Sergeant Sergeant Sergeant Sergeant Corporal Corporal
Region
Ao Region Sumi Sumi Zeliangrong Ao Ao Ao Ao Arunachal Sangtam Ao
From
NSCN IM NSCN K NSCN IM NSCN K NSCN K NSCN IM NSCN IM NSCN IM NSCN IM NSCN K NSCN K
DIMApuR, MARCH 30 (MExN): A relief camp was organised for the victims of March 14 fire incident at the colony by Railway Colony Council (RCC), Dimapur recently. The programme was chaired by the Secretary of Nagaland Bhojpuri Samaj, Yogendra Gupta and the chairman of RCC Zed Chakesang welcomed and lauded all the organizations that had come forward to help.
ACYA observe ‘Way of the Cross’
Niekhoyi Rhakho Stephen
Forming more factions is not a solution for the Nagas
I
t will be yet another shock news for the Nagas that Mr. Wangtin and P. Tikhak are going to form another new faction giving their promise they will “work for peace and national reconciliation and build a better society for the Naga people.” The same promise and declaration had been given in 2005 by Singnya group, in 2007 by brokeaway U-NSCN and in 2011 by Khole and Ketovi NSCN group. But nothing happens according to their promise and declaration. But factions are remained as factions to collect various taxes from the people. The Nagas have faded-up with the factions and forming more factions is not a solution for the Nagas. The fact the Nagas know that creation of a new faction is not a process of reconciliation or building a better society of the people. In the past years the Nagas have experienced more enough of lawlessness activities of factions, which neither for building of Naga nation nor better society, but torn apart the well fabrics of Naga society. Our forefathers had founded the Naga nation and Naga society on the solid rock which can neither shake off by the hurricane or earthquake. This foundation still remains for the Nagas to stand on as a nation and a people; and to be reconciled to it who strayed away from it. This is
the only way and means to do for building our nation and better society, but not by forming many factions. The NSCN was formed, thinking in a short period of time it will achieve the Naga national goal. But it has done nothing to be recorded as a landmark of history in the past more than thirty years. Who can deny it? The NSCN-IM has been negotiating with the Government of India (GoI) since 1997 on the basis of Suisa proposal (31-point competencies) for a solution within the framework of Indian Constitution, is not a landmark for the Nagas. Because, this will hamper the recognition of Nagas as a sovereign and independent nation by the world, like the socalled Naga People’s Convention (NPC) did to hamper Phizo’s achievement in those days 1960s by accepting a puppet State under the Indian Union. I greatly valued the statement of Mr. Wangtin which appeared in Nagaland dailies on September 15, 2011 stating: “I think our leaders have committed irreparable political mistake even in the formation of NSCN in 1980. Why should they condemn the mandated Naga political institution i.e. NNC? The Naga people therefore should hope that he (Wangtin) will not take a wrong step like the others did in the past. Thomas, NNC Member
The Morung Express is introducing “Public Space” as part of our intention to provide deliberate space for the opinions of the people to be expressed and heard through this newspaper. Nonetheless, The Morung Express points out that the opinions expressed in the contents published in the “Public Space” do not reflect the views and position of the newspaper or the editor.
ACYA members during the observance of the ‘Way of the Cross’.
KOHIMA, MARCH 30 (MExN): The Angami Catholic Youth Association (ACYA) central executives along with unit office bearers had a get together at the Cathedral church, Kohima on Saturday last. The programme was part of a religious ceremony, a ceremony that reflects Christ’s sufferings and death to redeem all sinners, a press release received here informed. “The catholic call this “Way of the Cross”- a symbol reverence, where the faithful accompany and share Christ agony and
pains through prayers; contemplating on the 14th momentous events known as the fourteen stations, when Christ toil up carrying a heavy cross enduring extreme sufferings for us. It is mostly done during the Lent season till the Good Friday (Catholics),” the release added. Around 120 ACYA members, representing the four regions of Angamis, attended the programme. They assembled in front of the ‘North Gate’ for invocation of God’s blessing by Parish Priest Very Rev. Fr. N. Carlos, and proceeded
upward saying the prayers, halting and reflecting the passion of Christ in every station. “During the journey we believed we have had also proclaimed the death and resurrection of Christ. We have prayed not only for self but for peace in the world and particularly peace in our state. In addition we prayed for unity among churches, tribes, denomination,” the released stated. To programme concluded with a talk on the brief history of the ‘Way of the Cross’ by R. Rocus Chasie.
Victims of March 14 fire incident at Railway Colony with RCC officials and donors.
In the programme, Pramod Singh representing the Bhojpuri Samaj contributed essential materials for the students such
Labour wages and carriage rates under KMC KOHIMA, MARCH 30 (MExN): Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) has fixed latest labour wages and carriage rates for implementation within its jurisdictions. A press release from KMC administrator Kovi Meyase informed that copies of the rates are available in the office of the KMC and can be collected anytime during office hours. Suggestions, if any, maybe submitted (in written) to the KMC office within 15 days from the date of publication of this notice for consideration, if found justifiable, by the Joint Committee for Regulation & Fixation of Labour Rates in Kohima, the release said. After that, the rates will be strictly enforced and defaulters will be held liable and penalised as per the provisions of the law, it added.
ATMA Niuland Block conducts series of demo programmes DIMApuR, MARCH 30 (MExN): Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA), Niuland Block organised demonstration programme for Toshiho village and Nihokhu village on March 19. Resource person Dr. E Kapfoh, VAS & BTT Convenor, Niuland Block spoke on ‘Livestock Management.’ He emphasized on various methods of breeding, selection of stock, system of rearing, housing, gestation, farrowing, feeding, control of swine diseases, etc. He also threw light on ‘Rabbit Farming’ saying it assumes high popularity among farmers in Nagaland. This is mainly attributed to its numerous advantages over other livestock in terms of prolificacy, rapid multiplication, quick returns and largely because it is cheap and easy to rear.
Vizokhonyu Yhome, AO-II, Department of Agriculture, spoke on ‘Package of practices of Soyabean’ where he said that the optimum temperature for rapid germination of soyabean is 30⁰C, whereas the minimum is 5⁰C and the maximum is 40⁰C. For better seedling establishment, there should be sufficient moisture in the field, he added. Further, illustrating on the topic “Prospects of organic farming”, he said that basic organic farming comprises of five categories - green manures, crop rotation organic manures, biopesticides and biofertilizers. Nchumbemo, AO-II, Dept of Agriculture, explained on ‘Tea cultivation’ practices in around Niuland block. He highlighted the various techniques of planting tea saplings and how to improve their quality. He mentioned that tea
growers are on the rise in various villages of Niuland and most of them send the plucked tea leaves to nearest tea factory in Assam as there is no tea processing unit in Dimapur. ATMA Niuland Block also conducted demonstration programme at Kiyezu-B village and Zutoi village on March 21 and 23 respectively. At Kiyezu-B village, P. Temsu, Supervisor, Mushroom Development Centre, Department of Horticulture demonstrated on ‘Oyster Mushroom Cultivation.’ He performed step-by-step procedures and said that Oyster Mushroom Cultivation is cheap and easy. Kinilo Khing, Senior Inspector, Cooperation Department elaborated on the topic ‘Organization of Cooperative Societies’ to various SHG members present. He said that a co-operative
society is another means for forming a legal entity to conduct business besides forming a company. At Zutoi village, Yachulo Rengma, EO, Dept of Sericulture spoke on the different methods of rearing silkworm. The participants were shown cocoons of different silkworms like Eri, muga, tassar and informed that the primary host food for rearing of silkworms is Som and Soalu. He also spoke about nurseries for raising som seedlings, rearing of Muga silkworm, spinning and harvesting of cocoons, etc. Temjentoshi, AO, Department of Agriculture (Niuland SDAO), spoke on the methods of planting hybrid maize and how to intercrop it with other crops. He also briefed on the precautions and measures to be taken in terms of pest treatment.
as books, copies, school bags etc., while the Bengali Samaj, represented by KK Paul, provided school uniforms for the students.
Further, the Fruit & Vegetable Wholesalers Committee, Murgipatty Dimapur provided clothes, utensils, mosquito nets, blankets etc for the fire victims. Monetary contributions were also made by MLA Tovihoto Ayemi, Pukhavi Yepthomi, Captain, and DCC. This was informed in a press release issued by Yogendra Gupta, Secretary, Nagaland Bhojpuri Samaj.
MEx FILE NPF (N) CEC meeting today DIMApuR, MARCH 30 (MExN): The emergency meeting of the Central Executive Council (CEC) of the Noke-led NPF called on March 31 will be held at 11:00 am at Nousi Auditorium, Niathu Resort, Chumukedima. In this regard, President Noke Wangnao has requested all the members to attend the meeting without fail.
Dimapur Phom Union requests restricted holiday DIMApuR, MARCH 30 (MExN): The Dimapur Phom Union has requested all heads of departments (govt/private) and all heads of educational institutions (govt/private) under Dimapur district to grant restricted holiday to all Phoms on April 2 on account of Phom Monyiu. A press release from Dimapur Phom Union president, Pongshi Phom and general secretary, Philip Buchem informed that Phom community in Dimapur district, under the aegis of Dimapur Phom Union, is celebrating its Monyiu Festival on April 2 at Dimapur District Sports Complex (DDSC) with Chief Minister TR Zeliang and ENPO President S Khoiwang Konyak as the chief guest and guest of honour respectively.
KDCC meeting on April 1 KOHIMA, MARCH 30 (MExN): The Kohima District Congress Committee (KDCC) has called an emergency meeting of all the ACCC presidents and general secretaries, KDCC officials, frontal chiefs on April 1, 11:00 am at its office. Informing that the meeting has been called to discuss some important issues, KDCC general secretary (admin), Viseyienuo Keretsü has requested all members concerned to attend the meeting positively.
Bangdi Iheilung mourned pEREN, MARCH 30 (MExN): Speaker of Zeliang People Organisation Nagaland, KS Nguhie and former general secretary of Zeliangrong Baudi Nagaland, Azeu Namcyn Hau have stated that the people of Peren district in particular and the Zeliangrong people in general are pained to learn of the demise of Bangdi Iheilung on March 27 at Jalukie Town. “Late Iheilung was a committed and devoted leader who had worked selflessly for the Nagas and the Zeliangrong people in particular,” the two stated in a condolence message. “His numerous contributions towards the Naga Society will always be cherished with fond memories.” They further conveyed condolences to the bereaved family.
Ganja seized DIMApuR, MARCH 30 (MExN): Assam Rifles found 15 kg of ganja at the residence of A. Lorhii during a search carried out at Sodzulhou Village, Dimapur. The case was forwarded to Excise Department for further investigation and accordingly, the accused was booked under relevant section of NDPS Act for possession of ganja and forwarded to judicial custody, a press release from Superintendent of Excise Dimapur informed. The release added that during the month of March, the State Excise, Dimapur District detected and seized 4267 bottles of assorted liquor from different pockets of Dimapur town and registered 144 cases. 46 offences were also detected from New field Excise Check gate during the period, it said, adding all the seized consignment are kept in the Excise Malkhana and will be destroyed in the next destruction.
6
IN-FOCUS
The Power of Truth
The Morung Express
C O M M E N T A R Y
THE EDIT PAGE
G. M. Tamás
TuEsDAy 31 MArcH 2015 voluME X IssuE 87
Making the Critical Transition to Participatory Development
O
ne of the most critical times of any peoples’ struggle takes place during the transition into a more democratic or liberated space where the rule of law prevails. This transition involves designing a new paradigm shift that ensures rising out of the struggle itself, and for an alternative democratic system to be put in place at that very moment. Structural adjustments at all levels are essential during this time in order for the alternative system to be firmly rooted in the tenets of justice that facilitate and nurture the growth of democratic and egalitarian values through an inclusive participatory development process. How does a process of reconstruction begin that creates pluralistic democratic institutions of governance where real political, cultural, religious, economic and civil rights are ensured? How do we ensure gender equality where men and women are equal partners in decision making? The response to these questions that is driven by the people’s true aspirations will make the transition possible to develop into a democratic ‘nation of communities.’ Promoting and protecting human rights within the societal context based on participatory development, non-discrimination, accountability, transparency are fundamental to the process of reconstruction. Similarly the issues around good governance practices can be explicitly linked to human rights that emphasize the principles of dignity, shared responsibility, and inclusiveness. People-based organizations are positioned to provide the necessary intervention as they are in the forefront and have the critical edge to redesign the societal infrastructure that is people centered and driven by the grassroots. In this way, people’s organizations have the best access to raise the people’s voices. Any transition is greatly influenced by intergenerational perspectives and reflects the specific issues surrounding how different generations approach the process. While the older generation feels they have earned the right to determine the course of the future, younger generation, on the other hand, feels they know what is best for them and are not willing for their elders’ past history to dictate their shared future. Everyone across the continuum of generations has a vested interest in building a shared future making ongoing dialogue essential for voicing these interests. The process of reconstructing a democratic egalitarian and participatory entity is further made possible with the active and balanced or representative involvement of women and men together. The prophetic nature of women’s role was expressed eloquently by Thoraya Ahmed Obaid the Under Secretary-General and Executive Director of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the first Saudi head of a UN agency who told BBC news online that, "Women are not only victims in times of conflict, they are peacemakers in taking care of their families, cross geographical, tribal and geopolitical lines. Their work at community level is an essential part of nation building. It is women who try to bridge differences and create the building blocks of reconciliation.” People’s full participation – men and women across the generations - is essential in order for society to bring about a transition that will ensure the vibrancy of an enduring democracy. Trust-building is at the heart of any movement working for profound structural socio-economic and political transformation. Everyone needs to examine why relationships are damaged and extend the olive branch across all groups and generations. Trust can open space to create a better society and let go of our fears and uncertainties. Conflict affected societies such as the Naga experience have much to gain by trusting each other as we take steps toward reconstructing our lives.
lEfT wiNg |
Mazie Nakhro, Ph.D
The coming of the one World Dictator Thought-Provoking Question: The emergence of Cyberspace, the instant Internet communication, the increasing requirement for electronic IDs, the growing global economy, and the unification of Europe--are these advances, combined with the popular rejection of the Creator God, setting the stage for a one world government? What does God say? Read Revelation 13:1-18 Both Daniel and the apostle John predicted about the rise of the world’s last and most powerful dictator (Dan. 7:78; 2 Thess. 2:1-12; Rev. 17:3,7-18; 19:19-20). At a future time when ten nations come together as a confederacy, the Antichrist will appear and conquer three of them. From then on, he will be regarded as the ruler of all ten. Although he is a human being, the Antichrist will possess supernatural power. Satan will give him all the power in exchange for his soul. As such he cannot die easily. Yes, he will suffer a fatal attack, but he will be miraculously restored to life in imitation of Christ’s resurrection. Following this the entire world will be astonished and will worship him. Hence, he will be able to put together a one world government and thus exercise “authority over every tribe, people, language, and nation.” But he will persecute or kill all those who stand in the way of his ambition. While the Antichrist will exercise an oppressive political power, a false prophet will appear with a seductive religious power. This man is Antichrist’s lieutenant, who will enforce the worship of Antichrist by performing miracles. The Antichrist will control the global economy. An image of him that can breathe and speak will be invented. This could possibly be the most sophisticated electronic marvel of all time: a robotic “double” of the real Antichrist. There is also a number 666, the number of the Antichrist, which again could be an electronic chip implanted either on the forehead or right arm of anyone who wants to be part of the new global economic system. The Antichrist will use this device to control and manipulate the world market. As for those without the mark, they will not be able to buy, sell or do any business. Okay, so now what? We must remember that both government and religion can become Satan’s tools and arenas of operation; he can use them to coerce or deceive people. With God’s help, may we protect our government from falling into Satan’s hand! Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I pray that there will be division of power among us so that our destiny does not rest in the hands of one person. Amen. Taken from the book “Breakfast with the King: The 100-Day Devotional” by Mazie Nakhro
O
n the idea of solidarity many bien-pensant authors have written a great deal. Like ‘fraternity’ and unlike liberty and equality, it is considered soft and fuzzy, a matter of leading articles on national holidays and solemn anniversaries. As if it were not a concept. But it is. In a famous study, Jeremy Waldron has shown how the universalist notion of human dignity has its historical origin in the not very universalist – to wit, feudal – idea of ‘rank’, the dignity attached to status. The idea of solidarity has its roots in the history of the workers’ movement, and as this is usually excluded from conventional tales of human endeavour, it is seldom understood. What has ‘solidarity’ meant for the workers’ movement in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries? Looked at from the outside, the workers’ movement was a set of organizations for and of an exploited, oppressed and politically unrepresented class which was trying to improve its lot. It was, in particular, an attempt to introduce politics into an area from which it was legally banished. Modern, that is, bourgeois society is based on a series of separations. One of the most important separations – on which the social equilibrium, the balance of social forces depends – is the distinction between public and private. The public – the realm of the common good – is identified with the affairs of the state, the only realm in modern society where legal coercion is accepted and where obedience and deference to authority is obligatory. In the sphere of the private, in ‘civil society’, it is contractual, that is, free and voluntary acts that are the rule (private citizens normally don’t have the right to coerce fellow citizens into obedience). Such is the case, according to official doctrine, of labour contracts and, in general, of labour that is seen legally and jurisprudentially as a private affair between two contracting parties, the employer and employee, where money will usually change hands, going from employer to employee, for the performance of voluntarily assumed duties prescribed by contract, custom, technology and the like. The law is there only to ensure that the implied promise of performance is kept and that the agreed salary is faithfully paid. But the substantive and material content of the labour contract remains a private affair in which no ‘third party’ is allowed to interfere, as such an interference would hurt the freedom of contract, one of the fundamental prerequisites of any civilized, that is, commercial society. It is good to remember that once upon a time strikes were considered illegal precisely because they constitute a breach of contract. Moreover, they use violence – by closing down machinery or other technological devices etc. – to force one of the contracting parties, the employers, under the threat of financial loss, to change the terms of contract previously accepted. This is, of course, a disloyal and unfaithful breach of promise, a promise that people are supposed to observe under penalty of law. Why did the striking workers – apart from the wish to improve their economic and social position, e. g. to increase their wages, shorten their working day and improve their working conditions, including various social advantages, such as unemployment benefit, old-age pensions, paid holidays, social housing, free healthcare and the like – think that they were justified in changing the terms of a fundamental, perhaps constitutional arrangement essential for the inner peace and for the existing system of liberties? For it is undeniable that for secular bourgeois societies the system of separations is necessary for upholding individual autonomy, by making private life, private affairs and their framework, civil society, inviolable by political authority, in other words, by the state. Why did the workers’ organizations believe that it was morally permissible to use coercion, sometimes physical violence to force the employers (or the employers in general, the ruling class) to give up some of their privileges and advantages guaranteed by another fundamental right, the right of property? (This is why socialism was and sometimes still is seen as an enemy of freedom, a tendency to make politics, that is, the state, absolute and one which is bent on destroying the autonomy of civil society and of the individual.) Plainly, albeit discourteously formulated, they obviously thought that they were in some sense morally superior to their adversaries, which would justify coercive, sometimes violent, but in any case illegal tactics which have questioned the constitutional order, even one of its foundations, the customary distinction between public and private or, if you prefer, between politics and the economy (and the ‘social’). Moral superiority Let us examine this idea of moral superiority, which is of course alien to Marxism, but which has influenced the followers of Proudhon, Lassalle and Bakunin, in many respects more influential than Marx in the practical movements of the nineteenth century, and an idea revived in the anti-war movement after 1914, in the Russian revolution in October 1917, in the anti-colonial or ‘national liberation’ movements, and which has indeed coloured the Bolshevik version of Marxism for nearly a century. This fight for seemingly humdrum and mundane
On Solidarity The idea of solidarity has its roots in the history of the workers’ movement, and as this is usually excluded from conventional tales of human endeavour, it is seldom understood
goals may appear as a rather poor reason for the kind of sinful pride affirming moral superiority. How could be such a feeling sustained? Bourgeois society was regarded by olden-time proletarian revolutionaries as a régime of selfishness. After all, liberal capitalism, especially its early version, was constructed as a régime of self-representation. Built as a clash of wills, a clash of interests, regulated, tempered and moderated by an overarching constitutional order ensuring that conflicts of interests would be conducted in a peaceable manner, decided by elections and court trials, where everybody’s rights will be respected, but otherwise the (peaceful) battlefield is open for all. Quite apart from the traditional advantages of the wealthy, of the well-educated and of the well-connected, this was held by the proletarians – even if it was not a sham or a fraud – to be quite contemptible, as it was governed by self-interest and decided by force, both damned by Christian morality. But what then was the difference? Were the workers not fighting for their own advantage or interest, just like the bourgeois? But the proletarians – an identification that was tantamount to being called a socialist, a communist or an anarchist – did not regard the class struggle as a zero-sum game or merely the aspiration for the lowly material advancement of a group of people united by their similar economic and social condition. They did not believe that they represented only themselves and their narrowly defined interest. Their own authentic aspiration could be told apart from the aspirations of the rest by the principle of solidarity. Solidarity This had many features. First, they did not recognize the uncoerced, voluntary character of the labour contract, the alternative of which, if you were unwilling to sign, was starvation. Hence, they did not recognize that labour was in the private realm and that as such it was not political. (This is the intuitive foundation of every version of anti-capitalism, even today.) So the fight for higher wages and for a shorter working day and working week had the dignity of politics, formerly the preserve of the upper classes, barring revolutions. Second, they did not recognize the absoluteness or exclusiveness of property rights as, in accordance with natural right, they regarded wealth as a source of obligation for the promotion of the common good (or of public interest) and thus subordinated to the superior claims of the quest for a better human society. (This is obviously also the claim of the ecological movements.) Third, in agreement with the young Marx, they believed that the working class heralded the dissolution of all classes, that it was the quintessential nonclass, defined as an aspect of the human condition in which the self-interest of some would mean the end of all sectional interests and so, the emancipation of the human race. By opposing property and power, they did not want to acquire property and power for themselves, but to destroy property and power for ever and in all respects. This was not supposed to be reduced to a political interference in civil society, on the contrary: it was supposed to mean the obliteration of the duality civil society/state by putting an end to class/state coercion and to its law. Hence, this was not self-representation (this would be a miscontrual of old social democracy, in a way that has become familiar from current histo-
riography, which has always been so wary of ideas) but a battle fought on behalf of humankind as such. And as this fight was always understood as unselfish, generous and heroic, as the fight of the weak against the strong, the virtues that went with it were similarly generous and heroic: they were essentially virtues of self-sacrifice. During and after strikes and rebellions, workers were laid off and thrown into jail: this was a badge of honour and a mark of the highest moral pride, always construed as suffering for a noble goal at the hands of the flunkeys of the ruling class – gendarmes, gaolers, professional soldiers, spies, scabs, snitches, prosecutors, judges, priests, bourgeois politicians, kings and journalists. Voluntary suffering for the noble goal is naturally also Christian in origin: it is the secular version of the idea of martyrdom. Also similar to Christian moral theology: this was the proof of the essential justice of the noble cause. And the highest proof was solidarity with other workers, especially that which took the form of internationalism. One of the main instruments of bourgeois society, then as now, is the cross-class solidarity of the nation – the main moral competitor to the workers’ movement. National interest was supposed (this is the bourgeois standpoint) to supersede ‘selfish’ and material class interest (the bourgeois interpretation of the proletarian stance) particularly in the way this supercession was demanded and expected in wartime. The proletariat had (or should have had) the effrontery to doubt the legitimacy of this claim, through three natural right-style principles, typically forgotten: • equality between nations, • friendship between peoples, • world peace. In this, the workers’ movement was the true heir of Immanuel Kant, despised as an ‘idealist’ not only by the General Staff, but also by most political theorists, in the first place by Carl Schmitt, so much admired these days by the baddies. Kant’s assumption of ‘publicness’ as the sole guarantor of an international law conducive to perpetual peace is parallel to the demand of ‘publicness’ by socialists as regards labour and property. Perpetual world peace through ‘hospitality’ (not philanthropy, but right, says Kant) means the extension of regular democratic politics to a territory from which it was banished earlier. In exactly the same manner, socialism extends politics to civil society. The end of peace In his influential book about the crisis of the European Union, Jürgen Habermas acknowledges the changes in the official international doctrine of a universal rule of law after 1945 – in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in the UN Charter and a number of national and regional constitutions, conspicuous among them that of the Free State of Saxony, which was accepted and enacted after 1989 – where it appears that the recognition of universal and equal dignity plays a role previously unknown. He does not spell this out in precisely these terms, but it is glaringly obvious that this development took place thanks to the influence of socialism, as it enjoyed its brief moment of international legitimacy immediately after the victory over the Third Reich. One of the institutions dreamed up to ensure peace at least in Europe – which is of course unthinkable without the cognate principles of ‘equality between nations’ and ‘friendship between peoples’ – was the European Union, or ‘Europe’ for short. There is no need for extraordinary acuity to discover that the most recent European crisis, not caused by but only made visible by the Syriza government in Greece, presents us not with a banal instance of the difference between theory and practice, principles and interests, but with a deeper and more worrying malfunction: this appears to be the renunciation of egalitarian principles on the international level, where once the idea of solidarity was injected into an exceptional historic moment. Now the ejection of solidarity heralds the end of international or, in this instance, European peace. Such a peace, already broken in the former Yugoslavia and now in the former Soviet Union (Ukraine/Russia) is nearing its conceptual and moral end, also within the narrower confines of the European Union. The disappearance of socialism from the political mix – and with it, of solidarity, acted upon as a principle, and not merely an empty emotional phrase in May Day speechifying – demonstrates the close of an epoch. It is the first time in European history that capitalism is alone, unresisted by socialism or, for that matter, by Christianity. The international solidarity evinced in anti-imperialism and anti-colonialism seems also defunct. There is no question, that the proud faith in the moral superiority of the solidary proletariat has become obsolete. Contemporary anti-capitalist protesters – sons and daughters of the middle class and of the intelligentsia or rootless bohemians of working-class ‘backgrounds’ kept alive by the bourgeois welfare system – do not advocate and practice selfrepresentation, they are rebelling on other people’s behalf. But those people are strangely silent. Solidarity is a social ideal that always tries to become a politics. Its chances are slim.
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TuEsday
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
31 March 2015
NEWS ANALYSIS, FEATURE AND DISCOURSE
O
ur experiences are our greatest teachers. As we live our lives (whether individual or societal), the things that we experience, the things that we achieve, the things at which we fail, the mistakes which we commit should all go towards making us better, wiser, more thoughtful, more prudent and more practical. Indeed it is from our mistakes that we learn the maximum. History is a witness that we have learnt some of our greatest lessons from some of our biggest mistakes. The recent alleged rape case and the subsequent lynching of the accused in Dimapur have also in a way made us learn and realize many harsh realities about ourselves and the many issues confronting our land and people today. One can only hope that these lessons will go on to make a better, wiser and more matured people in the coming days thereby enabling us to deal with our issues with a pragmatic approach and broadmindedness rather than being swayed away by our emotions, anger, impatience, egoism and our spirit of vengeance. For years, some of our leaders have worked selflessly to garner international attention and support for our noble cause but we have never been able to get the international attention and support we so genuinely deserve. But for once, in the first week of March 2015, we did manage to get international attention but all for a very different, totally unexpected and undesirable reason. Even today, Nagas are known to many outsiders as descendants of headhunters and a people who eat everything that moves. And on the 5th of March, we ourselves reaffirmed all these outrageous reputation about us. By now, it is undeniably clear that the recent Dimapur incidents have placed Nagas and Nagaland in very poor lights. This is so because a mob has no name, no face, no limits and can be easily taken (considered) as being the whole society. We have heard of women being abducted and raped inside moving buses and cars and then abandoned in the streets. We have also heard of women and girls being raped by professionals and staff in schools, colleges, hospitals and clinics. But this is the first time we are hearing of a rape case where a girl was raped thrice on a single night by a single rapist at three different locations in town. And the shocking revelation is that even after being raped twice at two different locations, the victim still willfully accompanied the accused rapist to a hotel room to be raped again. All these accounts have indeed made the present case a very rare and unusual rape case raising many eyebrows. And the accused rapist must have been a person with a very high libido to be able to rape someone three times within a period of 8 – 10 hours. When a man and a woman together willfully go to a hotel room especially at night, sex is always usually the primary motive and what happens inside the four walls of the hotel room is beyond the purview and intervention of anybody including the hotel management until and unless the woman herself raises an alarm. In other words, when a man takes a woman to a hotel room, the implications are all too obvious. A man does not take a woman to a hotel room to play ludo, carom or Chinese checkers or to watch a TV serial or to transact official business. Therefore when a woman says that she had been raped inside the hotel room by the very man whom she seemed to have willfully accompanied
T
7 PERSPECTIVE A Date with Infamy
he story of Tuesday’s Germanwings plane crash, which killed all 150 people onboard, has only gotten more tragic as more details emerge. On Thursday, audio from the plane’s black box showed that co-pilot Andreas Lubitz apparently locked the commanding pilot out of the cockpit, and seems to have intentionally crashed the plane. On Friday, news coverage turned to speculating about Lubitz’s mental state, in an attempt to answer the haunting question that floats above the wreckage of every man-made tragedy: “How could someone have done this?” "Everything is pointing towards an act that we can't describe: criminal, crazy, suicidal,” said French Prime Minister Manuel Valls, according to Agence France-Presse. Criminal. Crazy. Suicidal. That Valls would group those three words together says a lot. It hints at a dangerous equivalence. Suicidal doesn’t equal homicidal. Criminal doesn’t equal crazy. And crazy is an unkind thing to call someone who’s suffering. What evidence we have of Lubitz’s mental health or lack thereof is still scant. The New York Timesreports that he “had a medical condition that he hid from his employer.” Investigators found a doctor’s note at his home that would have excused him from work on the day of the crash, as well as another, ripped-up, note. The BBC says German media are reporting that Lubitz’s training was interrupted in 2009 so he could receive treatment for depression. While his employers at Lufthansa airlines have confirmed he took time off, they have not said why. Yet Friday morning’s headlines were frantic about the possibility that Lubitz could have been depressed. The Daily Mail, ever over-the-top, went with: “Masskiller co-pilot who deliberately crashed Germanwings plane had to STOP training because he was suffering depression and 'burn-out.'” CNN’s homepage blared “Unfit to Work” in all-caps. “It’s kind of natural to say ‘This just has to be deeply crazy,’” says Jeffrey Swanson, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Duke University who studies violence and mental illness. But people who commit mass murder “are really atypical of people with mental illness,” he says. “The vast majority of people with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder,
to the room the previous night, it is just like someone complaining about being made to drink beer after willfully accompanying his / her friends to a beer bar. Similarly, after spending a night with a man in a hotel room, even if a woman actually wakes up in the morning with her undergarments intact and untouched, nobody will believe because the guesses of what must have happened inside the confines of the room are a foregone conclusion. The mob fury that resulted in the Dimapur lynching on 5th March was undoubtedly fueled and made uncontrollable by the allegation that the alleged rapist was an IBI. With such a mass campaign and sensitization currently going on in our land on the IBI issue, perhaps what happened on 5th March had been just simmering to explode the way it did. However, in the aftermath of the recent incident, we are made to realize that all Bangladeshis may be muslims but all muslims are not necessarily Bangladeshis. The number of muslims living in India far outnumbers even the population of Nagaland. As far as the menacing IBI issue confronting the Nagas today is concerned, it would be worthwhile to ponder over some of the following matters. Firstly, Nagaland state does not share any international border with Bangladesh. Therefore it is obvious that the IBIs are entering Nagaland via states like Assam, Tripura, Mizoram and Meghalaya which share international border with Bangladesh. Thus, if the IBIs are reaching as far as Nagaland after passing unhindered through these neighboring states, then indeed Nagaland definitely needs to be concerned and alarmed. But I guess this IBI menace is actually a much more serious issue and concern for states like Assam and Tripura which share borders with Bangladesh. And I also feel that Assam, Tripura, Mizoram and Meghalaya are in a much better position to effectively deal with this menace than Nagaland because they share borders with Bangladesh. As such they can effectively check this unabated influx to a great extent by appealing to the national government to seal off its international borders not only by erecting formidable fences but also by deploying the needed armed personnel. An IBI in Nagaland will never say that he is from Bangladesh. Rather he would usually say that
he is either from some remote parts of Assam or Tripura. And for Nagaland to prove this would be like searching for needle in a stack of hay. Secondly, this IBI menace confronts the whole North-East today with the gravest stakeholders being Assam and Tripura who share international borders with Bangladesh. As such, if Nagaland is trying to deal with this menace on its own without any interaction or coordination with its neighboring states, the Nagas will continue to fight a losing battle against overwhelming odds. This menace can be effectively tackled only if there is an effective network between the states of the North-East coupled with the needed sensitization and mobilization of the effected people. Thirdly, as indicated above, the unabated influx of these IBIs into our lands clearly means that India has not been able to guard its borders well. Indeed this menace is not a regional issue confined just to the North-East. Rather this menace has arisen due to some serious lapses, shortcomings and lackadaisical attitude on the national front. Therefore, it is only befitting for the NE states to seriously take up the issue with the centre. Fourthly, let us also recall that there is a contingent of the Indian armed forces called the BSF (Border Security Forces). Are not these forces supposed to be manning India’s borders 24 hours a day and 365 days a year be it war or peace? The unabated influx of IBIs into our lands also implies inadequacy and ineffectiveness in the deployment of these forces. Therefore time is now ripe to revitalize these seemingly dormant forces on the issue so that they may effectively identify the main entry points from where these IBIs are entering into the NE region and take corrective measures. More effective vigil and alertness on the part of these forces will definitely bring forth effective result I have no doubt about that. By all accounts, it is now clear that Syed Farid Khan was a womanizer and probably a habitual sexual offender. Unconfirmed reports say that this man was also earlier beaten black and blue and chased away for a sexual offence in Chumukedima after which he disappeared from Nagaland for some years….. but resurfaced again in Dimapur. The alleged rapist was married to a Naga lady and even has a child. Uncon-
Depressed doesn't mean dangerous News reports are focusing on the Germanwings pilot's possible depression, following a familiar script in the wake of mass killings. But the evidence shows violence is extremely rare among the mentally ill Julie Beckmar The Atlantic or major depression are not likely to do anything violent and never will.” By one measure, only 5 percent of violent crime is actually attributable to mental illness. For depression specifically, a study of more than 47,000 people in Sweden found that 3.7 percent of men and 0.5 percent of women diagnosed with depression committed a violent crime, The Guardian reported. In the general population, those numbers were 1.2 percent for men, and 0.2 percent for women. Depression is a risk factor, then, but a very small one. “There’s this disconnect, but that becomes a prism through which we see these problems,” Swanson says. People are understandably upset by this portrayal of Lubitz, which makes the leap to equating mental illness and violence, using only the very limited evidence of this one situation. Masuma Rahim, in an op-ed for The Guardian, worries that news reports blaming depression could “further [demonize] those with mental illness.” To conclude that his role in the crash was the automatic consequence of any history of mental illness would be irresponsible and damaging. There has been no suggestion that males should be prohibited from becoming pilots, that Germans are unfit to fly, or that 27-year-olds should not be let loose in the cockpit. Only one factor has been picked over: Lubitz’s mental health. This is an all-too-familiar progression. Within the past few years alone, theNewtown shooting, the Aurora shooting, and the Navy Yard shooting all come to mind, for how quickly the conversation turned from the killers’ actions to their minds. The
impulse is understandable. Mental illness can be treated, and in the face of horror, people want action. What can we do to prevent this from ever happening again? "If I could magically cure schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression, the overall amount of violence in society would go down by about 4 percent." “A horrifying act like this, on the face of it, is deeply irrational, it’s terrifying and it seems unpredictable,” Swanson says. “It’s everything that we don’t want our everyday life to be. We want everyday life to make sense. We want to be able to predict what’s going to happen when we get on a plane, get in a car, or go to a shopping mall.” Now, in the wake of the Germanwings crash,people are calling for better mental health screenings for pilots. Better screenings, earlier intervention, improvement of the mental health system all-around— these are noble goals. But unfortunately, the impact they could have on preventing future violence is probably small. “If we were to take schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression…if I could wave a wand and magically cure those three illnesses, the overall amount of violence in society—any minor or serious violent act, pushing and shoving or using a weapon—would go down by about 4 percent,” Swanson says. “Ninetysix percent of it would still be there.” Though the link between violence and mental illness is slight at best, the public tends to believe otherwise. One report found that “between 1950 and 1996, the proportion of Americans who describe mental illness in terms consistent with vi-
firmed reports also say that the alleged rape victim and the alleged rapist were not only neighbors but had been acquaintances for years. Now, despite knowing that the accused person was already a married man with a child, if the alleged victim did not hesitate to roam around with him in his car at night and had even gone to a hotel room with the accused man for whatever reason, this depicts a very uncomfortable picture of our Naga women and girls living in Dimapur. Of course, I am not stereotyping all the Nagas girls here. But in the olden times, our Naga women usually hesitated to even interact with the people from the mainland far from befriending them. In today’s time of living side by side in close proximity with the mainlanders in all fields of our daily activities, we cannot forbid our womenfolk from interacting or socializing with them. But at least it is advisable and desirable that our girls maintain a safe distance from these people because we are a totally different lot in every aspect be it political, historical, racial, cultural or religious. Now it is speculated that around 80009000 people gathered outside the Dimapur central jail on that fateful day of March 5. And they say that such a huge crowd could possibly not have gathered in one place in such a short span of time had it not been for the amazing technological wonder that everyone of us today holds in our hands the mobile phone. Indeed today we live in a world and time where a single sms can make or spoil our day. We may wake up in the morning with some definite and concrete plans for the day but a single sms or call received in the morning may make us change all that. There was a time in the past when we made a great deal about the socalled speed-post facility in our postal departments, about the e-mail facility, about the internet, about the tape- recorders, about the tiny portable video cameras etc. But now with all these facilities installed in our tiny mobile-handsets, every one of us has become a postman, a net-server, a voice-recorder, a cameraman everywhere we go and we can listen, watch and record anything anytime anywhere. Therefore it is no wonder that after the recent Dimapur happenings, this impressive technological wonder also came under the scanner of scrutiny. However, it may be mentioned here that all the advanced technologies around us today were created with the intention to benefit us and not to harm us. It is only when we take advantage of these technological wonders for the wrong reasons and purposes that we find ourselves in troubled water. Or else, it would be illogical to blame our advanced technological wonders for all our misfortunes, mistakes, blunders and shortcomings. After all, machines do not operate by themselves; it is we the people who operate and utilize them. And I have absolutely no doubt that our technologies can do us much more good than harm if we are to use them in the right way for the right purpose and for the right people. It is said that prostitution is the oldest profession in the world and that one or the other form of it had been prevalent in almost every society since time immemorial. The recent Dimapur events were presented to us as a story of a rape which ignited a mob fury resulting in the horrific public lynching of a hapless non-Naga rape accused. And I do hope that this peculiar case is really such a case only……. and that there is nothing more to it than this…….. olent or dangerous behavior nearly doubled.” This attitude persists today. A 2013 Gallup poll conducted shortly after the Navy Yard shooting found that 48 percent of people blamed the mental health system “a great deal” for mass shootings. Thirty-two percent blamed it “a fair amount.” And it paints an incomplete picture to look at mental illness alone, without all the other factors at play. For example, studies by Seena Fazel at the University of Oxford have found that people with substance abuse problems in combination with mental illness are more likely to be convicted of violent crime than people with mental illness alone. And Swanson says he’s done research on three big risk factors, one of which is substance abuse. The others are being a victim of violence while young, and witnessing violence in your surroundings. "Something was wrong with this man" is an answer that can soothe the pain of not-understanding, if not the pain of loss. “It’s important not to use this direct causal language,” he says. “When there is a terrible incident and it turns out the perpetrator has a mental illness, what you find is that the general public and media seize upon this as the master explanation—‘That’s what it was! Now we know. Of course.’ Maybe that’s a contributing factor, but violent behavior is a very complicated human behavior that is almost always caused by a whole lot of factors interacting in complex ways.” And “violent behavior” is a vague term, that can encompass anything from punching someone in the face, to purposefully crashing a plane full of people. The two things are more different than they are alike. The world is now faced with the latter. Wanting an explanation, something to blame, is a human reaction to atrocity. “Something was wrong with this man” is an answer to hold onto. It can soothe the pain of not-understanding, if not the pain of loss. “But if you generalize that kind of view toward all the people diagnosed with and struggling to recover from serious mental illness, we end up treating people with scorn and seeking distance from them," Swanson says. Something people do too much already.
“arena of Mind” portrays a space for idea germination, a field where ideas from multi-disciplinary viewpoints fertilize the world of intelligence. The writers aspire to envision a new future by exploring the mind, discovering new seeds of insights and unleashing them to enlightenment.
Knowing thyself Rukutalu Veswuh
L
St. Joseph’s college, Jakhama
ife is simply the process, or journey, of knowing ourselves. The ultimate reason for life is self-discovery. Yet, many people spend their entire lives getting farther and farther away from their own true, inner nature. Most people are constantly distorting their own idea of themselves, only because they do not know what they truly are. They are not even aware that this identity they hold of themselves is false, since they do not know who they truly are. How can we expect someone to discover their true inner nature when they are constantly being distracted by society as well as constantly interacting with others who themselves also do not know their own true nature. The self that we must come to know is not an artificial creation of the mind. Rather it is the mind itself. We go through life projecting who we think we are. This false self is nothing more than an artificial creation of the mind, yet we fully believe that this is who we are. No! This is a projection of the barbaric society humanity has created for itself. This false self is the person we project in hopes that somehow we are projecting our deep, divine self. Once again, we do not consciously project this false self. Instead we are mistaken and have not come to know our true inner nature. The false self is the person that others bring out of us. We act and think with this false sense of self completely oblivious to our true inner nature. Even though we may have lived our entire life thinking of ourselves as a false identity, we still have our inherent power to come to know ourselves. In fact, we must all eventually come to know our own true inner nature. Most people spend their entire lives running away from their true selves, only to come crashing back to knowing themselves through the transition that we call death. The true self cannot possibly die, nor could it ever be born. It has always been. The true self is the Infinite Being at the heart of our soul. It is our Essence. God has always been a symbol of the true self. Modern society is made up of distractions. These distractions consume our lives. They ensure that we remain oblivious to our true inner nature. Almost every pastime or activity that we can name is a distraction! This even includes working and accomplishing goals. Even most spiritual growth or personal development information is a distraction. When we are holding a false sense of self, this information feeds it. Although, these distractions may help to give us clues as to our true nature, they cannot directly trigger self-realization. The only source of truth we have in our life is our own inner nature. Although these information products may guide us, the path to knowing ourselves is a personal and intimate journey. We should dedicate ourselves to understanding the inner workings of our mind. If we choose this path, we must pursue it with an unrelenting passion for the mind as well as openness to the unexpected and unbelievable intricacies of its true nature. This is how we will come to know our true nature. Do whatever it takes! If enough of us choose this path of running towards ourselves, the next great age of humanity will arise from selfknowledge. We have so much to learn from the workings of our own mind. Society as we know it is fundamentally flawed. The false self is a result of this sick society. And, the false self is also what keeps us from recognizing the deep flaws in our current ways of living (or society in general). This creates a vicious circle that perpetuates the false sense of self and our barbaric society. Truly knowing ourselves is the only way we can ever transform society. Humanity must literally awaken to its own true nature in order for us to create a new world. Actually, once humanity realizes it’s true self, we will not have a choice in creating a new world. In other words, we will not even be able to live in the old ways of being. The process of knowing ourselves is a continuous one. The true journey of knowing the deep, inner nature of our mind can be difficult to initiate. But once we start discovering ourselves, it will have a profound impact on everyone we come in contact with. This wave of self-love will begin to radiate through society. Eventually vibrating to a level where society will be transformed. There are no set-rules or guidelines for self-discovery. We must simply learn to surrender to our own mind. It may be helpful to acknowledge and reaffirm our intent to know ourselves every day. The only source of truth we have in life is our own inner nature. We are all on a journey of self-discovery. Once we get past all of our false needs and desires, we will come to know whom we truly are. It is a very personal process that we must painstakingly go through. Nobody can possibly tell you who you truly are. Stop trying to tell yourself who you are and truly listen within. Right now, you have the potential to realize that you simply are, never forget this potential within you.
Readers may please note that, the contents of the articles published on this page do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form.
8
Dimapur
NATIONAL
Tuesday 31 March 2015
The Morung Express
Floods ravage Kashmir, 17 dead so far
SriNagar, March 30 (iaNS): Up to 16 people were killed on Monday as a devastating flood in the Kashmir Valley forced thousands to flee to safer places as rain-fed streams rushed down the mountains, flooding parts of Srinagar. A man was washed away by a swollen river in Jammu region. As the water level in the Jhelum river rose menacingly, a high alert was sounded in the region. Fearing a repeat of the terrible September 2014 floods that killed over 200 people, entire families deserted their homes in lowlying areas. For Nisar Hussain, 65, who lives in Gogjibagh area of Srinagar with his 60-year-old wife and 27-year-old daughter, this was the second uprooting in six months. A landslide in Laden village in Budgam district buried two houses, trapping 16 people from two families under the debris. While six bodies were found by evening, all others are feared killed, officials said. The dead included four women, a man and a 22-day-old baby. A vehicle carrying cattle on way to Udhampur from Doda was caught in flash floods in Jammu. A young
Unseasonal rain kills seven across India New Delhi, March 30 (iaNS): The fury of unseasonal rain in different states of north and east India since Sunday evening has left at least seven people dead and damaged standing crops in thousands of hectares, officials said on Monday. In Bihar, at least five people, including two children and a woman, were killed on Monday when they were struck by lightning in two separate incidents, officials said. Three deaths - of the children and the woman - were reported from two villages in Munger district, while the other two people were killed in Ramnagri Diyara under Barh in Patna district. Weather department officials said that the rainfall was unseasonal. In Uttar Pradesh, at least two people were killed in lightning strikes and two others were reportedly electrocuted widespread rain, accompanied by thunder and lightning, flattened standing crops.
Kashmiri men assist a woman and a child to evacuate from a flooded area in Srinagar on Monday, March 30. Authorities in Kashmir issued alerts Monday and asked people to move to higher ground after heavy rain flooded several parts of the Himalayan region. (AP Photo)
man, Angrez Singh, was washed away. In Srinagar, a worried Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed visited the water-logged city centre Lal Chowk and interacted with traders and common people. He assured the traders that the government would take up on priority basis providing relief to businessmen who suffered in 2014. Sayeed announced Rs.25 crore from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for
the worst hit Kashmir Valley and Rs.10 crore for Jammu region. Flood-hit resident Nisar said he had to quickly shift his family after a flood alert was sounded by the authorities on Sunday night. "This is traumatic. My daughter refused to live at Gogjibagh after news about the rising Jhelum river was flashed on TV," he said. Ghulam Rasool, a 56-year-old in flood-hit Rajbagh, did not even wait for the authorities to issue
the flood warning. "I left everything behind and shifted out of my home with my family hardly four hours after it looked like the rain was unending on Saturday night," he said. Flood waters inundated the Jammu-Srinagar highway at Pampore town, 12 km from Srinagar, snapping road links between the state's winter and summer capitals. The Jhelum was flowing at 22.8 feet at Sangam
in Anantnag, at 19 feet at Ram Munshi Bagh in Srinagar and at 11.55 feet at Ashim in Bandipora, an official told IANS. People living along the banks of Jhelum were told to move to safer places. And residents in floodprone areas of Srinagar, especially those in Rajbagh, Jawahar Nagar, Wazir Bagh and some more places, hurriedly shifted to safer places. The process began on Sunday evening. Many shopkeepers
along the Residency Road and Lal Chowk commercial hub moved their merchandise to safer places. These were the worst hit in 2014. Authorities said more than 80 public and private properties were damaged in the incessant rains. An avalanche warning was sounded in the higher reaches of the state. All examinations have been postponed till April 3. Inter-district connectivity has been severely
In Punjab and Haryana, the food grain states, rainfall and high velocity winds damaged more standing crops in various parts in the past 24 hours, officials said in Chandigarh on Monday. A central team headed by union Food and Public Distribution Minister Ram Vilas Paswan and Minister of State for Agriculture Sanjeev Kumar Balyan will visit Chandigarh on Tuesday to assess the damage to crops in the region, said a spokesman of the agriculture department. In Himachal Pradesh, various areas were lashed by thundershowers while the upper reaches experienced snow on Monday, causing the temperatures to drop sharply. Shimla, which recorded a low of 8.2 degrees Celsius, experienced rain and hailstorm.The majestic Dhauladhar ranges near Dharamsala wore a fresh blanket of snow, as did the nearby hills of picturesque tourist resort Manali.
affected in the Kashmir Valley. The weather office has forecast better days. "There will be a decrease in precipitation from today (Monday). Another western disturbance is likely to hit the state on April 2 but the intensity is going to be much less," Sonam Lotus, director of the local Met Office, told IANS. The central government was in constant touch with Jammu and Kashmir
and monitoring the flood situation, officials said. Home Minister Rajnath Singh spoke to Chief Minister Sayeed. Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi visited the Kashmir Valley and promised government assistance to people to tide over the crisis. Two teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) have been deputed and four other teams are on stand-by.
Indian pilots may undergo mid- PM Modi among 31 leaders to have India, Japan vow to build strong defence ties term tests after Germany crash personal details leaked at G20: Report
New Delhi, March 30 (PTi): Pilots of Indian air carriers may now be subjected to mid-term psychometric tests to ensure that they are mentally fit to fly, following the deliberate crashing of German airliner by the co-pilot last week. 9 commercial airlines in India employ well over 3,000 pilots who are subjected to such tests at the point of induction but there are no subsequent appraisals of their mental state. They, however, undergo physical fitness tests every 6 months. The government is mulling "mid-term" psychometric tests in the backdrop of the action of Andreas Lubitz, copilot of a Germanwings flight last week who crashed the Airbus A320 plane into the French Alps killing himself and 149 others. Reports thereafter have said that 27-yearold Lubitz was suffering from depression but had hidden this from the airline. Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Mahesh Sharma told PTI that psychometric tests should be carried out on pilots in India from time to time. The Ministry would hold consultations with the aviation regulator DGCA soon to prepare fresh rules keeping in mind the crash of the German airliner, he said.
lONDON, March 30 (PTi): Prime Minister Narendra Modi is among 31 world leaders whose personal details were inadvertently compromised at the G20 summit held in Australia last year, a media report said today. An email error by an employee of Australian immigration department accidentally sent the passport numbers, visa details and other personal identifiers of the heads of government attending the G20 Leaders' Summit in Brisbane last November to the organisers of the Asian Cup football tournament, the Guardian reported. Besides Modi, US President Barack Obama, Russian President Vladimir Putin, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Indonesian President Joko Widodo and British Prime Minister David Cameron were among those whose
details were exposed, the report said. The Australian privacy commissioner was contacted by the director of the visa services division of Australia's Department of Immigration and Border Protection to inform them of the data breach on November 7, 2014, and seek urgent advice. But the newspaper claimed that it was not considered necessary to inform the world leaders of the privacy breach. "The personal information which has been breached is the name, date of birth, title, position nationality, passport number, visa grant number and visa subclass held relating to 31 international leaders attending the G20 leaders summit," the officer wrote. The recommendation not to disclose the breach to the world leaders may be at odds with privacy law in some of their countries.
Modi govt says to push for cow slaughter ban in India Krishnan N Das Reuters
India will use all its "might" to ban cow slaughter across the country, Home Minister Rajnath Singh said in a speech to spiritual leaders, as the Hindu nationalist government moves to fulfil a poll promise of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A renewed thrust by Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to protect cows, worshipped by majority Hindus, has led to a clamp down on beef trade run
mostly by Muslims. India is the world's second largest beef exporter and fifth biggest consumer. Maharashtra, India's second most populous state, extended a ban on the slaughter of cows to bulls and bullocks this month. Other BJP-led states such as Jharkhand and Haryana have also tightened curbs. "How can we accept the fact that cow slaughter is allowed in this country?" Singh said on Sunday. "We will use all our might to ban it. We will
try to build a consensus." Critics say tougher anti-beef laws discriminate against Muslims, Christians and lower-caste Hindus who rely on the cheap meat for protein, and fear they could pave the way to a nationwide ban that would threaten thousands of jobs. India has some 300 million cattle, and animals foraging for food are a familiar sight on the rubbishstrewn streets of towns and villages. Their numbers could swell by 200,000 in Maharashtra alone as
farmers abandon animals they can't sell, according to the beef trade. Modi, who in his election campaign last year criticised the previous government for promoting beef exports, in 2011 spearheaded a ban on beef trade in his home state of Gujarat that he led for more than a decade. There is no central law on cattle slaughter though various states have brought in their own legislation. Maharashtra's latest ban has been widely ridiculed on social media and traders
in Mumbai have shut abattoirs for days in protest. Mohammad Ali Qureshi, president of the Bombay Suburban Beef Dealers Association, said a nationwide ban on beef will fail as people in several regions enjoy the meat that is a cheap source of protein. "A nationwide ban on cow slaughter is impossible," Qureshi said. "If the government takes any such decision we won't sit quiet and their will be nationwide protest. They will have to regret their decision."
Indian Defense Minister Manohar Parrikar, right, reviews an honor guard with his Japanese counterpart Gen Nakatani, left, upon arrival at Defense Ministry in Tokyo Monday, March 30. (AP Photo)
New Delhi, March 30 (PTi): India and Japan today agreed to build a strong relationship in defence and security as Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar held talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo. Highlighting that Japan is the first country he is visiting since assumption of office, he said this clearly conveys the importance India attaches to strengthening bilateral defence and security cooperation. He said that he would like to see a strong partnership with Japan in defence equipment and technology. Abe said that he wants to build a strong relationship with India not only in economic field but also in defence and security field. He said that a strong India-Japan partnership is not only in the national interest of the two countries but is also important
Bharat Ratna, Padma awards conferred on prominent people
The President of India along with the recipients of Bharat Ratna and Padma awards, India’s top civilian honours. It was conferred on Monday by President Pranab Mukherjee on a galaxy of prominent people who have done the country proud. (Courtesy: Rashtrapati Bhavan/Facebook)
New Delhi, March 30 (iaNS): India's high civilian honours - the Bharat Ratna and Padma awards - were on Monday conferred by President Pranab Mukherjee on a galaxy of prominent people who have done the country proud. Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award, was bestowed posthumously on
freedom fighter and eminent educationist Madan Mohan Malaviya at an investiture ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Monday evening. Former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who too was honoured with the Bharat Ratna, was presented the medallion and the scroll of the award last week at his residence because of
his ill health. President Mukherjee, in a simple yet elegant ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, presented the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri to a host of leaders and prominent people from various walks of life. The awards, which are announced on the eve of the Republic Day every
year, this year included two Bharat Ratnas, three Padma Vibhushans, 12 Padma Bhushans and 34 Padma Shris. BJP leader and former deputy prime minister L.K. Advani, Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and Jagadguru Swami Rambhadracharya received the Padma Vibhushan. Journalists Swapan Dasgupta and Rajat Sharma, Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates and his wife Melinda Gates were awarded the Padma Bhushan. The Gates couple, however, could not come to personally receive their awards. Poet-lyricist Prasoon Joshi, filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and playwright Tarak Janubhai Mehta were some of the well-known people who received the Padma Shri. Rajat Sharma shook hands with Prime Minister narendra Modi as he stood to receive Padma Bhushan. People from the sports
world included wellknown wrestler Satpal, who received the Padma Bhushan for his outstanding performance in various international tournaments. Renowned badminton player P.V. Sindhu and Indian hockey team captain Sardar Singh both received the Padma Shri. The Durbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan was overcrowded as relatives and friends of the recipients occupied most of the chairs. Vice President Hamid Ansari, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, many cabinet ministers and government officials were present. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal was also present at the awards ceremony. He was seen interacting with the media freely after the function. Relatives and friends of the recipients cheered when the names of their loved ones were announced to receive the awards. Some of them put their
hands up while clapping and were seen pointing at the recipients of the honour. On March 27, President Mukherjee made a break with protocol to drive down to Vajpayee's Krishna Menon Marg residence to confer the highest honour on the nonagenarian Bharatiya Janata Party leader who has been keeping ill health. Ansari, Modi as well as former prime minister Manmohan Singh and Advani were among those who attended the presentation on that day. Modi expressed his gratitude to Mukherjee for going to Vajpayee's home to personally hand over the award. A photograph of the president presenting the medallion to Vajpayee was released later. Vajpayee, 90, was the first non-Congress leader to serve India for a full fiveyear term (1999-2004). His earlier two stints in office lasted 13 days and 13 months, respectively.
for peace and security in the region, an official statement by the Ministry here said. Parrikar, who is on a four-day visit to Japan, also held talks with his Japanese counterpart Gen Nakatani and both chaired the Defence Ministerial Meeting. The two Ministers briefed each other on the security environment surrounding each country and their respective defence policies. They reviewed strategic developments relating to international security situation with emphasis on the inter-connected Asia-Pacific and Indian Ocean regions. "They were of the view that in the inter-connected Indo-Pacific region, India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership has a key role in maintaining peace and stability in the region," the statement said.
EC for stringent law to deal with political funding
New Delhi, March 30 (PTi): Batting for a "strong law" regarding political funding, Election Commission on Monday said use of black money during elections has to be checked as it creates imbalance in a democratic system. Chief Election Commissioner H S Brahma said here that India needs a "strong law" to deal with the issue of political funding and to usher in "good accountability". He said black money and money power, followed by muscle power create imbalances in electoral process and are not good for a healthy democracy. "Black money impinges democracy. Black money and muscle power disturb level playing field...Though money cannot guarantee votes, the one who can spend more has an upper hand," he said inaugurating a daylong consultations on 'political, finance and Law Commission recommendations'on electoral reforms. Giving an example, he said there had been reports that candidates spend up to Rs 15 crore in assembly elections in Andhra Pradesh. "From where does the money come and where does it go," he wondered. Referring to the response of political parties on the issue of money power, Brahma said they also agree that its use should be curbed. He said privately most political leaders have agreed that money power is bad. "Political parties and EC have to live happily like husband and wife," he said adding that there could be differences but the aim should be to cleanse the electoral system. Speaking on the occasion, Law Commission Chairman Justice (Retd) A P Shah said money comes in truck loads during elections. He said in Tamil Nadu, candidates have been known to give Rs 5000 per person to electors to vote in their favour.
InternatIonal
the Morung express
Tuesday 31 March 2015
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Mahathir is last of SE Asia’s old guards Eileen NG Associated Press
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wo of Asia’s bestknown strongmen, Singapore’s Lee Kuan Yew and Malaysia’s Mahathir Mohamad, had much in common — a streak of authoritarianism, little tolerance for dissent and vision that changed the face of their countries. But friends they were not, and the two rarely saw eye to eye. In fact one of their only agreements was to move their countries’ time — which was 7 ½ hours ahead of GMT — forward by half an hour to be in line with world time zones. ‘’I am afraid on most other issues we could not agree....I cannot say I was a close friend of Kuan Yew, but still I feel sad at his demise,” Mahathir wrote on his blog on Friday. With Lee’s death at age 91, Mahathir remains the last of a generation of old guards in Southeast Asia, which boomed economically under their authoritarian leadership and came to be known as the “tiger economies.” Indonesia’s Suharto, spoken in the same breath as these two, died in 2008.
Both Lee and Mahathir were English-educated leaders, who successfully delivered economic prosperity — to varying degrees — and gave international prominence to their countries. They were respected, but ruled with iron fists, curbing civil liberties and using harsh laws against political opponents. Yet Lee and Mahathir leave starkly different legacies from their time in power. During his 31 years as prime minister, Lee transformed Singapore, a marshy island trading post
with no natural resources, into Asia’s richest nation as measured by GDP per capita, five times higher than Malaysia. He crushed corruption at all levels, built a top-notch, efficient bureaucracy, set up an excellent education system and focused on creating worldclass service industries that would be competitive in a global market. Mahathir, meanwhile, fostered a patronage system by giving out contracts to his cronies, and his policies increased bureaucratic red tape. Despite having far more resources and a
much bigger workforce, he promoted and protected inefficient industries such as steel and cars with tariff protection. “Both men are equally Machiavellian in their methods. They are both alike in the kind of politics they employ but Lee Kuan Yew achieved much, much more than Mahathir despite having a lot less resources and capital,” said Malaysian political analyst Ibrahim Suffian. Although the two were contemporaries — Mahathir is only two years younger — Lee shot to
prominence much earlier. He was already the prime minister of Singapore when it became independent of British colonial rule in 1963. The same year the small island-nation joined neighboring Malaya to form the Federation of Malaysia, believing it needed to be part of a bigger country to survive. Mahathir became a Parliament member in 1964, and that was the first time the two met. “We crossed swords many time during the debates. But there was no enmity, only differences in our views of what was good for the newborn nation,” Mahathir wrote. But the federation was a marriage that was doomed to fail. For one, the ethnic Malay leaders of Malaysia were suspicious of Lee, an ethnic Chinese. Soon ideological and political differences surfaced, and Singapore was expelled from the federation in 1965, leaving Lee to set his own course with a vision that until today defines Singapore. He ensured that the country ran on meritocracy. He demanded the best prices and most efficient companies handle government projects. Government-linked companies
compete for projects with private companies. Although ethnic Chinese are a majority in Singapore, and Malays and Indians form large minorities, nobody gets special preference. “Despite his autocracy, Lee Kuan Yew was driven with building meritocracy that saw Singapore grow by leaps and bounds, but Malaysia is hobbled by its racial politics and insecurities,” Ibrahim said. Mahathir, who became prime minister in 1981, championed an affirmative action program for the country’s Malay majority, which to this day is the root cause of deep disenchantment among the minority Chinese and Indians. Mahathir saw the Malays — with good reason — as downtrodden and gave them privileges in business, education and housing. He promoted racebased politics to ensure that his Malay party dominated politics. That legacy continues. Lee faced criticism for the strict limits on free speech and public protest, which he insisted were necessary to maintain stability and order and to promote economic growth in his multiethnic,
multi-religious country. Although his electoral politics to quash the opposition nwere questionable, his People’s Action Party, or PAP, has members from all races. “Lee was an unshakeable bulwark against majoritarian tendencies that could have easily overwhelmed Singapore,” said Cherian George, a Singapore author, academic and commentator. “Lee went to the extent of amending the republic’s Constitution to stop any party from sweeping into power without minority support,” he wrote on his blog on Sunday. Mahathir, a doctorturned-politician and Malaysia’s fourth prime minister, helped turn the country from an agricultural backwater into a key trading nation during his 22-year rule before stepping down in 2003. With the help of massive petroleum and palm oil revenues, he oversaw grand infrastructure projects such as the Petronas Twin Towers, which once were the world’s tallest; he also built a technology hub, a new capital city and an F1 race track. He also used a security law allowing indefinite detention without trial
against political opponents and critics. And unlike Lee, he was no friend of the West. In fact, he lost no opportunity to criticize it, especially the U.S. war in Iraq. Singapore’s higher wages, standard of living and merit-based system have drawn tens of thousands of Malaysians, mainly ethnic Chinese, to the city-state. A 2011 World Bank report said more than 1 million Malaysians live abroad and warned the outflow of skilled workers could hurt Malaysia’s economy. Lee stepped down as prime minister in 1990, but remained a commanding presence in Singapore politics and the region for decades. He also successfully groomed his son Lee Hsien Loong, who became Singapore’s prime minister in 2004. Mahathir, however, failed to retain much clout after he resigned. Today he is seen by many as a former leader who rails against his successors and bemoans in his blogs the weak governance of a country he once dominated. A recent blog comment captured his ever-critical outlook: There’s “something rotten in the state of Malaysia.”
Another blogger hacked to Former Israeli PM Olmert found guilty in bribery case death in Bangladesh: Police DHAKA, MArcH 30 (AFP): A blogger was hacked to death in the Bangladesh capital on Monday, in the latest brutal attack on the country’s independent writers, a senior officer said. Police have arrested two men over the murder which comes just weeks after an American aethist blogger was also hacked to death in Dhaka, a crime that triggered international outrage, the officer said. “He was brutally hacked to death this morning with big knives just 500 yards (460 metres) from his home at Dhaka’s Begunbari area,” local police chief Wahidul Islam told AFP.
Islam said the men were arrested immediately after the attack trying to flee the scene. Police said they were unsure whether the victim, Washiqur Rahman, 27, was also an atheist blogger but another social media writer said that he was known to write “against religious fundamentalism”. “It appeared Rahman used to write using a penname Kutshit Hasher Chhana (Ugly Duckling),” Imran Sarker, head of Blogger and Online Activists Network in Bangladesh, told AFP. “He was a progressive free thinker and was against religious funda-
mentalism,” he said. Police have also arrested a suspect over the killing in February of American atheist writer and blogger Avijit Roy. Roy was the second atheist blogger to have been murdered in the Muslim-majority country in the last two years and the fourth writer to have been attacked since 2004. His killing sparked an uproar at home and abroad with hundreds of secular activists holding protests for days to demand justice. They also slammed the country’s secular government for not doing enough to protect humanist writers.
‘Vanuatu risks long-term food insecurity after monster cyclone’
A woman smiles after receiving aid on the island of Efate, Vanuatu on March 21. (AP Photo)
BANGKOK, MArcH 30 (THOMSON rEUTErS FOUNDATION): The monster cyclone that hit Vanuatu earlier this month wiped out more than 90 percent of the archipelago’s crops, putting its people at risk of a secondary emergency and longterm food insecurity, the United Nations warned on Monday. Tropical Cyclone Pam destroyed homes, electricity infrastructure and crops when it swept across the South Pacific island nation on March 13, leaving at least 11 dead. The United Nations issued an appeal last week for $29.9 million to provide an estimated 166,000 affected people with safe drinking water and shelter, but said only $6.4 million had been pledged. “While we can already see the positive impact of the government-led emergency relief operation, we still need to scale up efforts to ensure all islands are provided with food, water, shelter and medical care,” Osnat Lubrani, the U.N. humanitarian coordinator for Vanuatu, said in a statement. “The emergency is not over yet,” she said after visiting Tafea, one of the most severely affected provinces, on Saturday. Separately, the World Bank announced on Monday that Vanuatu had received $1.9 million from the Pacific Catastrophe Risk Insurance Pilot, an initiative to reduce countries’ financial vulnerability to natural disasters. “The insurance payout will support Vanuatu in financing urgent relief and recovery efforts, as we continue to work with the govern-
ment to identify priorities and offer assistance through various financial mechanisms,” Franz Drees-Gross, the bank’s director for the Pacific Islands, said in a statement. Around 250,000 people live in Vanuatu, spread across 60 or so inhabited islands. Aid groups and survivors said early warnings and traditional coping mechanisms may have helped prevent a much larger disaster. The U.N. said humanitarian teams have reached all 22 storm-affected islands despite logistical challenges due to the archipelago’s spread across a wide area. Lubrani said people had begun to rebuild with help from local authorities and the international community, but warned that much of the population, which relies heavily on subsistence farming, is now short of food and without a source of income. “One of the women I met told me that they are in urgent need of income, having nothing to sell on the local market and no money to even buy soap,” she said. The U.N. and partner NGOs have started to provide families with seed kits to ensure long-term food security, and will support the government in restoring infrastructure and reviving economic activities. A World Bank technical team will arrive in Vanuatu’s capital Port Vila on Tuesday to negotiate up to $59.5 million in credit for an aviation investment project as part of efforts to help restore the tourism sector.
JErUSALEM, MArcH 30 (AP): Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert was found guilty Monday of accepting bribes in a retrial of corruption charges, the latest chapter in the downfall of a man who only years earlier hoped to lead the country to a historic peace agreement with the Palestinians. Olmert’s lawyers said they would likely appeal the ruling by the Jerusalem District Court. A sentencing hearing is slated to take place in May. Olmert has claimed he was on the brink of a historic agreement with the Palestinians when he was forced to resign in early 2009 amid corruption allegations. His departure cleared the way for hardliner Benjamin Netanyahu’s election, and subsequent peace efforts have not succeeded. Olmert was acquitted in 2012 of a series of charges that included accepting cash-stuffed envelopes from U.S. businessman Morris Talansky when Olmert was mayor of Jerusalem and a Cabinet minister. Olmert was found to have received about $600,000 from Talansky during his term as mayor, and additional amounts in cash during his term as a Cabi-
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, center, waits in a courtroom before a verdict in Jerusalem’s District Court on Monday, March 30. The court later found Olmert guilty of accepting bribes in a retrial of corruption charges. (AP Photo)
net minister, but a court did not find evidence the money had been used for unlawful personal reasons. The acquittal on the most serious charges at the time was seen as a major victory for Olmert, who denied being corrupt. He was convicted only on a lesser charge of breach of trust for steering job appointments and contracts to clients of a business partner, and it raised hopes for his political comeback. But Olmert’s former office manager and confidant Shula Zaken later became a state’s witness, offering diary entries and tape re-
Australia mandates at least two people stay in cockpits cANBErrA, MArcH 30 (AP): Australia on Monday responded to the Germanwings air disaster by mandating that at least two crew members be present at all times in cockpits of larger domestic and international airliners. Deputy Prime Minister Warren Truss said airlines including Qantas and Virgin Australia would implement the changed security protocols from Monday afternoon. It would apply to all commercial flights with a least two flight attendants or more than 50 passengers. A flight attendant would enter the flight deck if one of the two pilots left it for any reason. Previously, most Australian airlines have allowed their pilots to be alone on the flight deck. French prosecutors blame co-pilot Andreas Lubitz, 27, for the crash of Flight 9525 that claimed 150 lives in southern France last week. The cockpit voice recorder has revealed that the pilot had been shut out of the cockpit when the Airbus A320 crashed. Truss said there were already mental illnesses that stopped sufferers from being pilots in Australia, and that pilots’ health was regularly assessed. “There is a need to balance the fact that people with proper treatment can recover from mental illness and be able to undertake normal careers with the critical priority of ensuring that aircraft are always safe,” he told reporters.
cordings of conversations with Olmert about illicitly receiving cash, leading to a retrial. In the recordings, Olmert is heard telling Zaken not to testify in the first trial so she would not incriminate him. On Monday, a panel of judges at the Jerusalem District Court ruled that Olmert had accepted $153,950 from Talansky when he was a Cabinet minister, with the money kept hidden by an Olmert aide in a safe. The judges concluded that Olmert gave Zaken part of that money in exchange for her loyalty, and
used the money for his own personal use without reporting it according to law and in exchange for favors to Talansky, calling it a “serious conflict of interest.” They convicted him on charges of fraud and breach of trust. Olmert’s lawyer, Eyal Rozovsky, said Olmert’s legal team was “of course very disappointed from the ruling” and said his lawyers would review it and likely appeal. The conviction again stoked anger in Israel. “I want to Ehud Olmert to apologize to the people of Israel,” said columnist
and former Olmert confidant Dan Margalit on Israel Radio Monday. Separately, Olmert was convicted in another bribery trial in March 2014, and sentenced to six years in jail. He appealed and has been allowed to stay out of prison until a verdict is delivered. At the time Olmert resigned as prime minister, Israel and the Palestinians had been engaged in more than a year of intense negotiations over the terms of Palestinian independence. The Palestinians seek all of the West Bank and east Jerusalem, in addition to the Gaza Strip, for an independent state. Israel occupied all three areas in the 1967 Mideast war, though it withdrew from Gaza in 2005. Since leaving office, Olmert has said he presented the Palestinians the most generous Israeli proposal in history, offering roughly 95 percent of the West Bank, along with a land swap covering the remaining 5 percent of territory. In addition, he proposed international administration in east Jerusalem, home to the city’s most sensitive religious sites. Palestinian officials have said that while progress was made, Olmert’s assessment was overly optimistic.
Republicans see Obama as more imminent threat than Putin: Poll WASHINGTON, MArcH 30 (rEUTErS): A third of Republicans believe President Barack Obama poses an imminent threat to the United States, outranking concerns about Russian President Vladimir Putin and Syrian President Bashar alAssad. A Reuters/Ipsos online poll this month asked 2,809 Americans to rate how much of a threat a list of countries, organizations and individuals posed to the United States on a scale of 1 to 5, with one being no threat and 5 being an imminent threat. The poll showed 34 percent of Republicans ranked Obama as an imminent threat, ahead of Putin (25 percent), who has been accused of aggression in the Ukraine, and Assad (23 percent). Western governments have alleged that Assad used chlorine gas and barrel bombs on his own citizens. Given the level of polarization in American politics the results are not that surprising, said Barry Glassner, a sociologist and author of “The Culture of Fear: Why Americans are afraid of the wrong things.” “There tends to be a lot of
President Barack Obama salutes as he steps from Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House on March 29, in Washington, as he returns from Florida. (AP Photo)
demonizing of the person who is in the office,” Glassner said, adding that “fear mongering” by the Republican and Democratic parties would be a mainstay of the US 2016 presidential campaign. The Ipsos survey, done between March 16 and March 24, included 1,083 Democrats and 1,059 Republicans. Twenty-seven percent of Republicans saw the Democratic Party as an imminent threat to the United States, and 22 percent
of Democrats deemed Republicans to be an imminent threat. Islamic State militants were rated an imminent threat by 58 percent of respondents, and al Qaeda by 43 percent. North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un was viewed as a threat by 34 percent, and Iran’s Ayatollah Ali Khamenei by 27 percent. Cyber attacks were viewed as an imminent threat by 39 percent, and drug trafficking was seen as an imminent threat by a third of the respondents.
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Dimapur
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Tuesday 31 March 2015
The Morung Express
public discourse Thunder fight back to Corruption is the other name for ‘Land of Festivals’ strike down Phoenix L
PHOENIX, MarcH 30 (aP): Phoenix coach Jeff Hornacek said it was a must-win, and the Oklahoma City Thunder struggled with the Suns' intensity early in Sunday night's game. ''Once they went up 20, we had to make a decision: Defend or go home,'' guard Russell Westbrook said. The Thunder chose the latter. Westbrook had 33 points, nine rebounds and seven assists, and the Thunder rallied from 20 points down to beat the Suns 10997 in the largest comeback since the franchise moved to Oklahoma. ''It was a huge game, and we played with a playoff mindset,'' said Westbrook, who was 10 of 29 from the field and 12 of 14 from the foul line in 38 minutes. D.J. Augustin scored 13 of his 19 points in the fourth quarter for the Thunder, who snapped a four-game road skid. Steven Adams had 13 points and 16 rebounds, and Dion Waiters scored 18 points. Oklahoma City stayed 2 1/2 games ahead of New Orleans for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference. The Suns fell four games behind with eight games left. ''I told the guys, this is mathematically not over,'' Hornacek said. But Hornacek made it clear before the game that it was ''really a do or die moment for us to have any hope, any chance'' of reaching the playoffs. As if it wasn't clear what he meant, he added: ''We have to win tonight. It's as simple as that.'' Markieff Morris scored 24 points for the Suns, and rookie reserve T.J. Warren had 18 points. Eric Bledsoe and Marcus Morris scored 15 apiece. ''This is a tough blow,'' Markieff Morris said. Westbrook shook off an early technical foul and a 2-for-9 shooting start to bring Oklahoma City back in its second game since learning star Kevin Durant needs season-ending foot surgery. Augustin, Waiters and Anthony Morrow (11 points) all had big buckets that turned a 79-76 deficit after three quarters into a rout. ''What changed was we went out there and played a scrappy brand of basketball,'' Oklahoma City coach Scott Brooks said. Markieff Morris set the tone early on for the Suns. He outscored the Thunder 16-12 in the first 8 minutes. And with Phoenix shooting 62 percent from the field
eaving aside the shortfalls and ills on the part of the Church, I am reacting to a news article which I read in shame and anger. “CAG finds major anomalies in Nagaland Govt depts” appeared prominently in The Assam Tribune on March 30, 2015. Living outside the state, we feel deeply pained whenever newspapers outside Nagaland carry bad news about our land. Reaction can cover many areas of concern, but I am
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Oklahoma City Thunder center Steven Adams (12) shoots over Phoenix Suns forward Marcus Morris in the second quarter during an NBA basketball game, Sunday, March 29, in Phoenix. (AP Photo)
and Westbrook struggling, the Suns built a 54-34 lead midway through the second quarter. Then Westbrook took over, scoring Oklahoma City's final 15 points of the half on a variety of moves, including an acrobatic alley-oop dunk to help the Thunder close to 62-54 at half-
time. The Thunder tied it midway through the third quarter. Westbrook was on the bench for a key spurt early in the fourth fueled by Augustin and Morrow. ''Then Russell came back in and finished the game off,'' Brooks said. ''That's what we have to do.''
header just before the interval and the visitors had a couple of chances denied by France keeper Stephane Ruffier in the second half. "We did better during the first half, but it's logical with all the changes we made," said France coach Didier Deschamps. France enjoyed most of the possession in a lively first half, with Dimitri Payet adding pace and creativity in midfield. After earning his sixth cap, Lacazette and his Lyon teammate Christophe Jallet were jeered by sections of Saint-Etienne fans, whose club is involved in a fierce local rivalry with Lyon. But Lacazette's goal silenced them and the whistles stopped. The bulky forward had another chance 10 minutes later but the French league's leading scorer saw his 20-meter shot pushed out for a corner by Schmeichel. The Danish keeper looked well beaten in the next minute
when Payet's angled shot ended just a few inches wide of the top corner. Giroud made it 2-0 in the 38th minute following a devastating run from Kondogbia, who beat the Danish defense before releasing the Arsenal striker. The Danes could not find the momentum that helped them to a 3-2 win over the United States midweek and their only chance of the half came when Michael Krohn-Dehli sent in a cross for Bendtner, whose header hit the base of post. The French were less dominant in the second half and their penalty claims were waived away after Lacazette took a tumble in the area between two Danish players. Saint-Etienne keeper Stephane Ruffier enjoyed a quiet evening but made two decisive saves after the hour-mark, denying Christian Eriksen's shot and another effort from Bendtner when the visitors enjoyed a spell of dominance.
NorTHerN ANGAMi -1 T20 bAsH 2015 North Block Warriors, Lower L. Khel Vikings, Middle Bayavü Lions win Our Correspondent Kohima | March 30
North Block Warriors, Lower L. Khel Vikings and Middle Bayavü Lions registered wins in their respective matches of the ongoing 2nd 10th Northern Angami- 1 T20 Bash 2015 played at the Kohima Village Ground, Ziekiezou. In the first match of the day,
make our people corrupt. And it is very sad to read corruption in bold type in Nagaland dictionary. We are just adding problem and crisis one after another. I am not saying that our state has become bad because of the ‘land of festival’ slogan. It has been bad from before. But cannot our leaders think of creating a more positive note that instills a sense of responsibility in the mind of the people? Political leaders and bureaucrats must strive to take
their people to a higher plane of moral and ethical standard, discipline, knowledge, industry and prosperity. They must lead in that endeavour. How is it if we list the names of our leaders who work sincerely for the people without selfish gain? Sickness in the public establishments is a projection of festival spirit and attitude in the people. I for one, am not proud to call Nagaland a land of festival. Zhabu Terhüja
FREE TO SPEAK, SC HITS 66A FOR A SIX
France beats Denmark in friendly
SaINT-ETIENNE, MarcH 30 (aP): Alexandre Lacazette scored his first international goal as France beat Denmark 2-0 in a friendly match on Sunday. Three days after slumping to its first defeat since last year's World Cup in a 3-1 loss to Brazil, the 2016 European Championship host recovered with a convincing display of attacking football. Although the hosts were less fluid in the second half and allowed Denmark more ball possession, the French were never seriously troubled. Lacazette scored from a rebound in the 14th minute with a powerful shot after Denmark goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel parried Antoine Griezmann's effort. Arsenal forward Olivier Giroud then doubled the hosts' lead with a shot under Schmeichel from Geoffrey Kondogbia's through ball. Denmark striker Nicklas Bendtner hit the post with a
mentioning one only. ‘Land of Festivals’ sounds good to the ear, but not to a rational mind be it a Naga or an outsider. The Government might have a reason to coin this slogan, but it does not paint a good picture. The reason does not require a high exposition. What is observed during a Festival are merry-making, laxity, spending of money, laziness, free from work, non-productivity, and even drunkenness. Such traits
FIXTURE FOR MARCH 31 (STARTS 7:00 AM) 1st Match– Upper L. Khel Riders vs T. Khel Knights 2nd Match– Chedema Strikers vs Mission Compound Dukes 3rd Match– High School Daredevils vs D. Khel United North Block Warriors won by 82 runs against the rival Zienuobadze High Flyers. Man of the match: Abijit Saha 101 (52). Lower L. Khel Vikings won the 2nd match by 25 runs against
opponent D. Khel United. Man of the match Visanyii. Middle Bayavü Lions overpowered Peraciezie Royals by 8 wickets in the third match. Man of the match- Kongba
2ND 10TH NORTHERN ANGAMI -1 T20 BASH 2015 Kohima Village Ground Ziekiezou
Fixture for March 31 (Starts 7:00 am) 1st Match– Upper L. Khel Riders vs T. Khel Knights 2nd Match– Chedema Strikers vs Mission Compound Dukes 3rd Match– High School Daredevils vs D. Khel United
he landmark judgment that the Apex Court of India passed in recent times is timely, totally radical breakthrough and assuring for the citizens of India. The Supreme Court by its verdict has once again upheld freedom of speech as essential and basic for every citizen of India. While upholding freedom of speech, the Supreme Court of India dumped 66A as unconstitutional and undemocratic. The Supreme Court of India few weeks ago declared 66A Section of the IT Act as unconstitutional and without substance because it aided and thus provided sufficient materials for the arrest of those posting objectionable comments on the internet and social media. The Apex Court once again reiterated and staunchly defended the liberty of thought and expression as cardinal for a free democratic India. A bench comprised of Justices J. Chelameswar and Robhinton Nariman upheld the provision empowering the government to block access to information in websites only if their contents had the potential to create communal disturbances, social disorder or affect India’s friendly relations with other countries. The Supreme Court had to pass this landmark judgment in the wake of Rinu Srinivasan, who was arrested in Palghar in Thane district for writing a comment made by Shaheen Bahda against the shutdown in Mumbai following Shiv Sena leader Bal Takckery’s death, expressed happiness and social justice has prevailed. “Victims” who were the victims of the controversial Section 66A of IT Act for posting allegedly “offensive” content online heaved a sigh of relief as the Supreme Court in its verdict scrapped the provision dubbing it “unconstitutional”. “I am very happy with the verdict. It’s a victory of the people who want to raise their voice against the wrong doings. I have got justice today. The post I liked as not wrong or offensive for us to get arrested. It was misunderstood. But my family supported me through the tough phase,” Rinu said. Sharing similar views, Shaheen’s father Farooq Dhada too welcomed the decision saying “It’s a big relief”. “We welcome the judgment as the section was being misused. We have faced a lot of trouble. My daughter’s intention was never to hurt any religious sentiments. There was tension and pressure from political parties,” he said. Following Shaheen’s post on social media, her uncle’s clinic was vandalized for which no compensation has been give to them yet. Mr. Dhada claimed. For cartoonist Assem Trivedi, who was arrested in 2012 by the Mumbai police for displaying cartoons on his website and face book page that mocked Parliament and corruption in high places, it was a “big day”. “It’s a big day said it is the victory of citizens’ rights to freedom of speech and expression,” he said. It was timely and much awaited. The governments and law-enforcing authorities all along abused 66A left and right to put anybody behind the bars. Across the country many had to face the brunt of 66A. For instance, the following are some of the supreme quotes why quashing section 66A was essential: Discussion or advocacy of particular cause however unpopular at heart of right to freedom of speech and expression. Section 66A has no proximate relationship to public order. Section 66A cast so widely that virtually any opinion on any subject would be covered by it. It is clear that expressions in 66A are openminded and undefined. Governments may come and governments may go but section 66A goes on forever. An assurance from the present government even if carried out faithfully would not bind any successor government. It creates an offence which is vague and overloaded, and therefore, unconstitutional. Complete violence to language of Section 66A to read into it something never intended to be read into it. The verdict may have quashed the charges against all the victims such as Class 12 student, who spent two days in jail after being recently arrested for posting content about Samajwadi Party, leader Azam Khan, the “mental damage” was huge and it will take him some time to recover. His father, though relieved with the scrapping of the provision, said his son has suffered. “All this has affected his studies, his mental stability and the family too,” he said. Jadavpur University professor Ambikesh Mahapatra, who was arrested in 2012 for forwarding a cartoon lampooning West Bengal chief minister Mamta Banerjee welcomed the SC ruling. Describing it as a victory for the common man, he said the ruling would protect the fundamental freedom of citizens. “The top court verdict will protect the freedom of speech of the people, democratic rights and human rights of the people,” he said. In Kanpur, cartoonist Trivedi said, “This is a historic verdict by the Supreme Court. I welcome the decision and thank
the top court and it has kept the freedom of speech intact.” In striking down the draconian Section 66A of the Information Technology Act, the Supreme Court has sent clear signal not only to freedom of speech and expression on the Internet, but also towards rescuing the commoners from misuse of the law in brazen authoritarianism on part of politicians, the state machinery and heads of institutions. The manner in which the wording of the law was used to stifle even the most innocent kind of criticism—as in questioning the authorities for shutting down a city for a leader’s funeral or forwarding cartoons lampooning a leader—invited such action by the court, which has once again discharged its functions as an active sentinel of democracy. Two noted Jurists responded brilliantly on the historic judgment: Harish Salve echoed: “It is a superb judgment. If Section 66A had passed the test of constitutionality then we could well have buried Article 19 (1)(a) guaranteeing free speech. Section 66A manifested in growing arrogance of the government. The government cannot decide what is offending.” Similarly, Soli J Sorabee commented that “It is a well researched, well reasoned and erudite in expression. It is a glorious vindication of right to freedom of expression.” The political parties and its establishments in connivance with law enforcing authorities used 66A to their advantage and arrested those who expressed their ideas in different forms. In most cases those who were arrested because they have posted offensive views on social media. Police invariably invoked Sections 153 and 505A (IPC) with Section 66A of I-T Act, which is bailable. It is the invoking of additional IPC sections that allowed law enforcers to arrest people for offensive posts. Section 66A was not part of the original I-T Act enacted during the NDA government in 2000. The UPA amended it in 2009 and brought Section 66A into force on October 27, 2009. Veerapan Molly was law minister then and A.Raja was IT minister and then Kapil Sibal succeeded Raja as IT minister. When asked about the SC verdict on 66A, Molly said: “I welcome the SC judgment. It empowers people to have freedom of expression.” But refused to comment the role he played in promulgating the law. Sibal too welcomed the judgment, but with caution that “Section 66A is not the culprit as it is bailable. Police used to invoke IPC provisions to arrest. So, one should be well advised to exercise restraint while exercising the speech on social network sites.” Nonetheless, free-speech won and in the process exposed the hypocrisy of the political class as well others who want the people to remain quiet. It is also a big victory for digital freedom. With the revocation of 66A one of the important aspects of democracy—freedom of expression has been guaranteed as the most vital principle of functioning democracy. Indian citizens have to express freely without fear. This has been firmly reinforced by the Justices Chelameswar and Nariman who made their reasons and intentions clear. We should celebrate as we got back our right to free expression (Article 19 of the Constitution), but we are also conscious of our obligations as citizens. This what our judges have delineated in their judgment. In this judgment, a reminder goes to the state and the government that they errand could go to any extent to throttle people’s democratic expression. The politicians and their clout; petty dictators and their cronies who run the institutions are the losers. The judgment has conveyed a clear message to those who suppress freedom of expressions that “Government may come and go, but the freedom of expressions shall stay”. 66A was used by the political establishments by conniving with the enforcement agencies to suppress dissent. Freedom of speech won because for healthier democracy and participatory democracy freedom of speech is important. Both the UPA and NDA are known for their tendencies to suppress freedom of expressions. The present BJP government may say so many things in favor of freedom of speech, but do not want their regime to be exposed. BJP wanted a deterrent in the form of 66A and it was necessary to keep their opponents and freespeech lovers under their ambit. Indian democracy is maturing and as citizens we know our responsibilities and how much and how far we could use of freedom. We are not kids. The political establishments and other petty dictators used it as medicine and keep adding sugar. Now we can speak without fear and dissent can never be suppressed. Bureaucracy too enjoyed and wanted to defend 66A. People won against the government of India. Young women and her mother Sherea and Manili respectively won the case. We have the right to offer our opin-
ions about the politicians and those in leadership. The tussle was between the State and the People. People were restrained of freely expressing their views on tweeter or face book or any medium. A Dalit activist whose offered rational explanation on durga sakthi was arrested by UP police. This draconian act 66A was used in such ways that “If you try to do this we will crush you. 66A is another avatar of emergency. It is nothing but a continuation of the past. The political parties particularly the Congress and the BJP should understand that they cannot and shall not suppress the freedom that the Constitution of India has reposed to them. Who are you to regulate? Do not give some bizarre reasons. Congress and BJP colluded on 66A because of their common interest. Several governments governed by national and regional parties both in the past and of now have abused and keep invoking 66A against those who voice their dissent and those who question their integrity and accountability. These nefarious forces may not keep quiet and shall try their best to crush peoples’ spirit. However, terror tactics shall not work and old methods too will fail. They should change along with the changing times. We should be cautions because at time they show their hypocrisy and ignorance, but certainly not realization. The secular world has gone far ahead and Young India expresses their dissent against the politicians and bureaucrats through electronic media. Without fear and favor people at large point to the power abuses and style of life they live and lead. Despite the fast changes in peoples’ perception and perspective, Indian Church and theological institutions continue to remain feudal and kept their flocks and learners at bay. The congregation members and the students show their servitude to the socalled “bishops” and “clerics” and in fact serve them with great reverence for which they are not worthy. Except a few most of the theological faculty are being silenced and never allowed to voice their dissent or opinion. In a free democracy people ought to express and the freedom is not given or extended by any authority or the leadership. The Apex Court has totally removed 66A so that people without fear could air their views. The saddest part is those (the so-called “bishops” and their cronies) with tainted records and criminal cases act as “custodians” and “leaders” of the church and institutions. The adherents and the faculty including the student body know them well and yet they remain silent and behave as mute spectators. How could two so-called bishops of CSI caught in the land scandals being booked under FIR remain as members and one as the chief of so-called “reputed” college? Their game plan is out. In all the “bishopric consecrations” top bureaucrats such as IGP and Commissioners and ministers are invited. They have the “consecration services” on odd hours before the court opens and people are not informed much earlier. They are supposed to serve the people but their elections and consecrations are carried out in dubious manners. Everything is done is secrecy. Similarly some theological institutions keep those in power especially bureaucrats and police officials on their executive committees and invite ministers (Christians) to their functions in order wield influence and silence the congregation members, faculty and students. Why should theological institutions have those in the government services? Instead they should have more academicians from varied disciplines, but not those who have hardly to do with academics. Freedom of speech and expressions are essential ingredients of democracy. The socalled pedagogues who are supposed to teach their disciplines with prophetic tinge have been thoroughly silenced. Their resolve and credibility are wilted. The sycophants and power-brokers with poor academic credentials run the institutions. Except one or two who openly challenge these feudal and casteist mind-sets, while the majority tow the dictates of these cronies. When will they come out? 66A is revoked and thrown in the dust-bin. Christian world should come out from the shackles of the feudal landlords. Christians quote a verse often that “The Truth Has Set Us Free”. Further, Christians claims that Jesus means freedom. If these are the biblical and theological affirmations, why should they be afraid of and for what? When Jesus is with them why should they be afraid? Do not preach/teach one thing and do the other. Let your preaching and practice go together. Let your teaching and way of life integrate. Be pragmatic Christians and organic teachers. Christian existence and meaning of that existence should have authenticity and relevancy. DR. JOHN MOAHN RAZU, Former Professor of CTC, Mokokchung
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.
Entertainment
The Morung Express C M Y K
son to make documentary on him
“S Moba Inggang & Wannyen Bezo releases new single music video “I'll be there” on YouTube and indihut.com. The artists can be reached at http://indihut.com/moba-inggang/ or https://youtu.be/d1n4X1YX8zA
tar Trek” actor Leonard Nimoy's son Adam will produce and direct a documentary about his father titled "For the Love of Spock". Nimoy died last month of complications of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. He was 83. The project is aimed at celebrating the 50th anniversary of TV series "Star Trek", which aired for the first time on September 8, 1966. Zachary Quinto, who portrayed the Spock character in last two "Star Trek" films, will narrate the documentary. David Zappone, the owner and president of Paramount-based 455 Films, will produce. He said that he and his father began discussing the project several months ago and agreed that it should focus on the enduring nature of Spock and Nimoy's portrayal of the relentlessly logical human-alien first officer of the Starship Enterprise. The filmmaker said, "My father wrote two books 'I Am Not Spock' and 'I Am Spock' and we've got lots of recordings so there's plenty for us to work with."
Actress Kate Beckinsale has found renewed respect for journalists in society and says people would be living in a "police state" without the media.
Harrison Ford released from hospital after plane crash
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tar Wars" actor Harrison Ford has been discharged from the hospital a month after suffering injuries from a plane crash. Ford, 72, was spotted driving in Los Angeles on Saturday, reported People magazine. He was rushed to UCLA Medical Center on March 5 after crashing his vintage World War II plane on a southern California golf course, leaving him with a large laceration in his scalp and, according to KTLA, broken bones in his pelvis and ankle. Ford's wife, Calista Flockhart, 50, has been his biggest support and has been by his bedside while he recovered at UCLA. "She (would) drop Liam off in the morning and then spend hours with Harrison. She (brought) him food and reading material," a source said. While he may be resting now in the comfort of his own home, the actor is most likely still undergoing therapy to treat his reportedly
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he 41-year-old actress plays journalist Simone Ford in new psychological thriller "The Face of an Angel", which is inspired by the real life story of Amanda Knox who was accused of the murder of Meredith Kercher in 2007. And from portraying a reporter, she now has a new found respect of the profession and its importance, reports femalefirst.co.uk. "It was weird for me
Harry Potter’s Tonks is coming to Bengaluru
Jennifer
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atalia Tena, who currently appears in the series Game of Thrones as the wildling Osha, will be attending the Bangalore Comic Con 2015on April 3 and 4. After her acting debut as Ellie in About A Boy in 2002, and a short appearance in Mrs Henderson Presents alongside Judi Dench, she joined the cast of Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix, playing Nymphadora Tonks. She reprised the role in the other Harry Potter films. In an earlier announcement, Comic Con India had shared that Daniel Portman, who plays Podrick Payne, the loyal squire to Tyrion Lannister in Game of Thrones, will also be attending the Comic Con in Bengaluru this year. Daniel and Natalia will be attending and taking part in special sessions, signing posters and speaking to fans.
Lopez faked split?
31 March 2015
Dimapur
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angana Ranau
The Manipur Baptist Convention’s Quinquennial Congress held from March 26-29 in Ukhrul saw an array of events. Seen here are young people displaying their cultural attire during the Congress, which was held under the theme ‘Called to Holiness’.
L eonard Nimoy's
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I was ill-treated and considered untouchable
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angana Ranaut recently won the National Award for her performance in Queen and certainly she has earned her position. While, Kangana Ranaut is one of the most sought after actresses in Bollywood now, there was a time when the actress was apparently ill-treated. Kangana Ranaut who made her debut in Bollywood with the film Gangster said that she used to be misbehaved and mocked
by her peers but now she has earned the respect she desired. "At one point, I was ill-treated, considered untouchable and rude things were said to me, despite no provocation from my side. I was mocked for my accent and then they made fun of my dressing sense. And most of all I was crucified for being an outsider in an island full of people with lineage. It was scary," said Kangana Ranaut. Kangana Ranaut played
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the role of a simple girl in Queen who sets off for her honeymoon alone after the bridegroom refuses to marry her. Kangana Ranaut celebrated her birthday just a day before receiving the National Award and this is how she feels about it. "It has still not sunk in. My father called and said that this was the best birthday present I could have hoped for. I was teary-eyed as I had just turned 28 the day before." Kangna Ranaut
I dRove the caR, says Salman Khan's driver Salman Khan had recently alleged that neither was he in the driver's seat nor drunk.
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or the first time since an FIR was registered against actor Salman Khan in 2002 for a hit-and-run case, his driver Ashok Singh appeared before the court on Monday and owned up to driving the vehicle on the night of the accident. Till now, at no point in the investigation or trial, was it ever claimed by the prosecution or the defence that the car was being driven by Ashok Singh. "In all these years of the case, there is only one
minor reference to Ashok Singh as the driver who used to drive Salman's car in the day time. At no point was it claimed that he drove the car on that night," special public prosecutor Pradeep Gharat told The Hindu later. During his cross-examination, Ashok Singh refused the prosecution's suggestion that he was paid money to own up the crime. He pleaded ignorance about the court procedures, and said that was the
reason he did not come forth earlier. He said he came to court on Monday after Salim Khan, Salman's father, asked him to present himself before the court and tell the truth. He said he was on the accident spot for nearly five to eight minutes after the accident. Salman was not present for the proceedings on Monday. The court will hear the matter next on April 1.
Society needs journalists, says ate Beckinsale
to be playing the journalist but I realised quickly how important it was for my character that people were giving her information. It isn't just salacious, it isn't just what she wore in court. And if we don't have journalists we live in a police state," she said in an interview with The Guardian newspaper. Beckinsale believes the way both actors and journalists observe situations and have the ability to disengage emotionally from events can lead people to mistakenly have a negative view of what they do. She added: "I think it's also true that journalists and actors share some
qualities. Say you're having a terrible argument with your boyfriend and you're breaking up. For an actor there's this still slight distance where you're observing the event, thinking, 'This is what it looks and feels like to be breaking up with someone.' "I think that journalists have that same ability to step back and see things from a different perspective. That doesn't necessarily make the journalist an a**hole, any more than it does the actor." Beckinsale stars in the film, directed by Michael Winterbottom, with Daniel Bruhl, Cara Delevingne and Genevieve Gaunt.
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Jennifer Lopez allegedly faked her split from Casper Smart last June to create hype ahead of the release of her last movie 'The Boy Next Door'.
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he 'Booty' hitmaker, who announced she and the 27-year-old choreographer had ended their relationship in June after three years of dating, was photographed kissing him in West Hollywood, Los Angeles on Wednesday (25.03.15), sparking rumours they orchestrated their break-up to create hype ahead of the release of her last movie, 'The Boy Next Door'. The on-again, off-again couple were spotted locking lips while Jennifer was on a break from filming 'American Idol'. A source close to the 45-year-old singer, who has seven-year-old twins Max and Emme with her ex-husband Marc Anthony, told gossip website TMZ.com that she only stopped seeing Casper for a couple of weeks last summer in a bid to ignite rumours she was dating her co-star Ryan Guzman, 27. The insider claims Casper believed he would also benefit from appearing to be single ahead of the release of his UFC fighter film 'Street'. The duo have frequently been he makers of the superhero film have spotted together since they announced their split, teamed up with creators of the popular but Casper recently insisted they were just ''good comic character for a special edition ahead of the friends.'' He said: ''We got a lot of ties. We're very film’s release In an era where filmmakers are ready close. We're friends. We're very good friends.'' to venture new avenues to market their films, Vishesh Films has teamed up with a famous comic character who has ruled the hearts of millions over the years. We are talking about none other than Chacha Chaudhary, who has been kids’ favourite over the years. We hear that Mr X Emraan Hashmi will feature in a special edition of Chacha Chaudhary comics to solve an unsolved mystery. Shikha Kapur, Chief Marketing Officer of Fox Star Studios says, ” The character of Mr X is an intriguing one – cloaked in his invisibility powers, he dares to use the law in his own way to correct the wrongs that have been unleashed in the system. We found a relevant and engaging connect with one of the most endearing icons in Indian popular culture -Chacha Chaudhary – the tireless crusader of justice and beloved of children for so many years. We are really happy to have Diamond Toons to partner with us in this unique association: to come up with an exciting comic book featuring Chacha Chaudhary and Mr X – two characters separated by age, but united in their intentions to fight crime rampant in our society.” Mr X directed by Vikram Bhatt starring Emraan Hashmi and Amyra Dastur is all set to release onApril 17 and we hope that the film manages to strike a chord with viewers, just like the way Chacha Chaudhary connects with his readers in an endearing way.
Emraan Hashmi’s Mr X to feature in Chacha Chaudhary comics!
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‘Broken Horses' screening on April 1
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idhu Vinod Chopra's maiden Hollywood venture 'Broken Horses' will be screened here on April 1. The film has caught the imagination of Hollywood directors - James Cameron and 'Gravity" helmer Alfonso Cuaron, who have lavished praise on Chopra, calling 'Broken Horses' an "artistic triumph driven by love". Chopra has previously directed and produced films like 'Parinda', '1942: A Love Story', 'Parineeta', 'Mission Kashmir', '3 idiots' and the 'Munnabhai' series. The story of 'Broken Horses' is set in the shadows of the US-Mexico border gang wars. The thriller is about the bonds of brotherhood, the laws of loyalty, and the futility of violence. 'Lage Raho Munnabhai' writer Abhijat Joshi has penned the script of 'Broken Horses' with Chopra. The film has an international star cast in 'Full Metal Jacket' star Vincent D'Onofrio, 'Star Trek' actor Anton Yelchin, Chris Marquette and Maria Valverde.
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endall Jenner is the newest face of Calvin Klein Jeans’ Denim Series, the model announced on Twitter Thursday. The starlet, 19, posted that she was proud to be the face of the limited-edition athleisure spinoff, ending weeks-long speculation that she had been signed to the designer. Bei ng a Cal vin Kle in model is something that I've always dreamed of and it's incredible to follow such major models like Kate Moss, Christy Tur ling ton and Lar a Stone, Jenner told WWD. It's just an awe som e brand to be a part of and I'm super excited. Jenner — who just walked New York, London, Par is and Milan Fashion Week — tweeted a photo of herself in a crop-top with part of the word Calvin visible at the bottom. She keeps things
cozy on the bottom with drawstring sweatpants. The capsule collection — ranging from $58 to $348 — will hit Opening Ceremony in New York and Los Angeles on April 15 before its May 15 debut on calvinklein.com. Kendall's powerful fan base and global reach will further amplify the current cultural conversation surrounding the Calvin Klein Jeans brand and highlight this exciting limited edition, Melisa Goldie, chief marketing officer of Calvin Klein, told WWD. The rea lity -sta r-tu rne d model follows a long line of den im- clad del egates. Mo st recently, Justin Bieber stripped to his skivvies, inviting critiques that the bulge in his pants was from his jeans, not his genes.
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Best phase of my life, says Saina Serena defeats 15 year old
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NEW DElHI, MARCH 30 (TNN): The difference is for all to see as Saina Nehwal keeps making defining statements one after another. As if to celebrate her historic coronation to the world No. 1 throne, Saina on Sunday gifted herself the India Open title that had eluded her for four years. "Finally, I have been able to win the India Open. A huge burden is off my head. The last four times I struggled badly in this tournament, losing in the pre-quarters or quarters." As they say, when it rains, it pours. And it seems Saina is now trying coming to terms with it. "There are far too many surprises in this tournament. First the world No. 1 happened and the India Open title followed hot on its heels. I'm very proud of myself. I never thought this day would come. It is definitely the best phase of my life." No one knows if the past defeats were subconsciously playing on her mind when Saina went into the final. So much adulation is not easy to handle but Saina had a proper grip on herself. "I was only thinking about the final. I consciously did not let the world No. 1 thoughts create unnecessary pressure before the match." Saina spared a thought for her Thai opponent Ratchanok Intanon. "She had played an epic match yesterday. That she was completely exhausted was understandable. But whenever I play her, she fights very hard. Last time in the Asian Games, I won a very close match which dragged very long." It was celebration time but Saina had a flight to catch in exactly three hours. Her mom was waiting to catch a glimpse of her. Laughing out loud at the slim prospect of a party, Saina replied: "I have a flight at 11 o' clock to Malaysia. Ice cream, milkshakes, chocolates, I will have everything today. I will rest tomorrow. Day after tomorrow I will train and the tournament starts on Wednesday." Then, rubbing her heavily-taped shoulder, Saina picked up her kit India's Saina Nehwal reacts as she wins against Thailand's Ratchaand started to walk. She has a long and hard jour- nok Intanon in the women's singles final of Yonex Sunrise India Open ney ahead - to stay at the top. Badminton in New Delhi, India, Sunday, March 29. (AP Photo)
Ecclestone floats idea of female world motorsport championship
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KuAlA luMPuR, MARCH 30 (IANS): Formula 1 commercial supremo Bernie Ecclestone has put forward the idea of creating a women's world championship to run alongside the existing event on race weekends. Ecclestone made several suggestions on Sunday during the Malaysia Grand Prix about how the sport's "show" could be improved, including the return of double points but for the final three rounds of the series. Ferari's Sebastian Vettel won the Malaysian GP. Ecclestone said his idea of a women's world championship is a plausible way of enhancing the presence of women drivers in motorsport. Only two females have ever started a Grand Prix with the most recent,
Italy's Lella Lombardi, making the last of her 12 appearances in 1976. Susie Wolff serves as Williams' team's test driver. "I thought it would be a good idea to give them a showcase. For some reason, women are not coming
through - and not because we don't want them. Of course we do, because they would attract a lot of attention and publicity and probably a lot of sponsors," Ecclestone was quoted as saying by skysports.com on Monday. "We have to start somewhere so I suggested to the teams that we have a separate championship and maybe that way, we will be able to bring someone through to F1." However, Ecclestone said his idea was only a concept and no concrete decision has been taken regarding it. "They could race before the main event, or perhaps on the Saturday qualifying day so that they had their own interest. It is only a thought at the moment but I think it would be super for F1 and the whole grand prix weekend."
at Miami Open; Nadal loses
KEY B I S C AY N E , MARCH 30 (AP): When the ball whizzed past Serena Williams for an ace late in Sunday's match, the subdued crowd suddenly erupted with a roar. Williams said she was tempted to join the applause. Everyone wanted to see her underage, underdog opponent do better. Fifteen-year-old Californian CiCi Bellis lasted only 41 minutes against Williams, losing 6-1, 6-1 in the third round at the Miami Open. "It wasn't like, 'Oh, I'm so happy to win this match,'" said Williams, 33. "It was tough. She's young and her being an American, you want to see people like her do well." While Williams moved a step closer to her eighth Key Biscayne title, Rafael Nadal again came up short. He was eliminated by fellow Spaniard Fernando Verdasco, 6-4, 2-6, 6-3. Nadal, who was seeded second, has never won the tournament in 11 appearances. It's the only event he hasn't won in so many tries. The precocious Bellis made headlines by winning a match at last year's U.S. Open, but she couldn't stay with the world's No. 1 player. Williams won 51 of the 65 points and lost only two points in seven service games. Bellis managed to smile afterward despite the drubbing. "I was pretty nervous," she said. "I didn't know how my game would hold up against her, because I have never played her before. Never really seen her in person, just on TV. "I mean, she's my idol; she's from America; she's No. 1 in the world; she's the best of all time. It's pretty scary playing her." Williams advanced to Monday's round of 16 against 2006 champion Svetlana Kuznetsova, seeded No. 24. She eliminated No. 13 Angelique Kerber 6-3, 3-6, 6-3. Nadal beat Verdasco the first 13 times they played but has now lost to him twice in a row. Nadal
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Serena Williams returns the ball to CiCi Bellis during their match at the Miami Open tennis tournament in Key Biscayne, Fla., Sunday, March 29. Williams 6-1, 6-1. (AP Photo)
dealt with several health issues in 2014 and said that while he's fully recovered, he hasn't regained his confidence. "It's a question of being relaxed enough to play well," the 14-time Grand Slam champion said. "I'm still playing with too much nerves for a lot of moments, in important moments, still playing a little bit anxious in those moments. "But I'm going to fix it — I don't know if in one week, in six months, or in one year, but I'm going to do it." The Key Biscayne draw was already without Roger Federer, who skipped the tournament. Four-time champion Novak Djokovic and two-time champion Andy Murray are now heavy favorites to make the final. Murray, seeded No. 3, reached the fourth round by beating Santiago Giraldo 6-3, 6-4.
In other women's play, two-time champion Victoria Azarenka lost to No. 15 Flavia Pennetta 7-6 (5), 7-6 (6). Azarenka, mounting a comeback from injuries, was playing at Key Biscayne for the first time since 2012. No. 3 Simona Halep, who won Indian Wells a week ago, reached the women's fourth round by beating No. 30 Camila Giorgi 6-4, 7-5. Williams withdrew before the semifinals at Indian Wells, citing an ailing right knee, but hardly had to run against Bellis. The teenager, who had never played in such a large arena, appeared to be overwhelmed and overpowered from the start. But then at 5-6, she was smaller — and perhaps younger — than some of the ballkids. Williams shared the crowd's subdued mood,
forgoing her customary fist pumps and other demonstrative gestures as she blasted winners. She hit 13 to only one by Bellis, who is the world's top-ranked junior and still an amateur. Their postmatch handshake was brief. "I just said, 'Good job,' and that's it," Williams said. "She's really nice," Bellis reported. "I mean, there's not much that you can say, but, you know, whatever." Williams was already ranked in the top 20 when Bellis was born in 1999, and she drew a blank when asked to recall her first match against a top player, saying it was too long ago. "I don't remember," Williams said. "I have been playing a little over 10 decades. "I never played that well at 15 to play professional. I wasn't good enough. So, I mean, CiCi's doing really great."
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Bleary-eyed Aussies celebrate World Cup win Steve McMorran
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AP Sports Writer
ustralian players sheltered behind dark glasses Monday at a public reception the day after their victory over New Zealand in the Cricket World Cup final. Captain Michael Clarke carried the World Cup trophy and, as the players mounted the stage in front of thousands of fans at openair Federation Square, they smiled wanly and waved to the crowd. Clarke was asked what the over-riding emotion was on the day after Australia had achieved its fifth World Cup and he grinned and said: "We're all a bit hung over to be honest." It had been a late night, and an even earlier morning. Australian newspapers and websites ran photographs Monday of coach Darren Lehmann and players, still in their team uniforms, holding the trophy on a hotel balcony as the sun rose over Melbourne. After speeches from the Australian deputy prime minister and other government dignitaries on Monday, Clarke told fans how vital their support had been in the team's victory. He said the Australian side had embraced the pressure and expectation of playing at home and had executed their game plan calmly and efficiently throughout the tournament, culminating in its seven-wicket win Sunday night at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The players then left the stage to mingle with the crowd, signing autographs and posing for photographs. New Zealand will have its own, more muted celebration on Tuesday with a welcome home pa-
Clarke celebrates with his wife Kyly and the trophy in the Australian dressing room.
rade in downtown Auckland. The parade was planned before the outcome of the final was known but with the understanding it would go ahead whatever of the outcome of the final. Organizers believed the New Zealand team had done enough, in winning all eight games leading into the final and in qualifying for the final itself, to make a celebration of its achievements a necessity. That decision reflected the mixture of mild disappointment and pride with which New Zealanders viewed Sunday's loss. They weren't able to enjoy a fairytale finish to the New Zealand campaign but could still celebrate the quality of the team's performances and behavior leading into and after the final.
New Zealand Prime Minister John Key visited the team in its locker room after the final to express his pride in its performance. "Win, lose, or draw I was always going to go and have a drink with them and congratulate them," Key said. While New Zealand couldn't win the World Cup on Sunday, it may have helped to save the tournament. Traditional 50-overs cricket has lost some of its popularity in recent years with the rise of the shorter, Twenty20 format and with a proliferation of test matches between the world's strongest teams. But the manner in which Australia and New Zealand, especially, but all 14 teams at the World Cup played the one-day game won back fans whose interest in the for-
mat might have dwindled. More than one million fans passed through the turnstiles at 49 World Cup matches in Australia and New Zealand over the six weeks of the tournament, including 93,013 at the final — the largest crowd for a single day of cricket in Australia's history. "It was a wonderful event with many thrilling highs and magic moments which will live long in the memory," International Cricket Council chairman Narayanaswami Srinivasan said Monday. "Australia has set a new benchmark for limited-overs cricket." New Zealand's adventurous style of play, allied to its essential modesty, also captured the imagination of cricket fans throughout the world. Australia carried the hopes of its nation into Sunday's final but New Zealand carried the support of fans from other teams which had failed to make it to the championship match. Australia wicketkeeper Brad Haddin was accused after the match of "sledging" or verbally abusing New Zealand players. He later admitted he had done so, saying it was because the New Zealanders are "too nice." "You know what? They deserved it," Haddin said. "They were that nice to us (when the teams met in a pool match) in New Zealand and we were that uncomfortable. I said in the team meeting 'I can't stand for this anymore. We're going at them as hard as we can'." New Zealand coach Mike Hesson refused to apologize for New Zealand's niceness. "Different teams play the game different ways," Hesson said. "We are pretty proud of the way we go about things."
No Indian in ICC's 2015 cricket World Cup team
MElBouRNE, MARCH 30 (IANS): No Indian features in the 2015 International Cricket Council's (ICC) World Cup team, according to a release by the sport's governing body on Monday. India were defeated by eventual champions Australia in the semi-finals of the competition. India remained unbeaten till the tournament's last-four stage, bowling out opponents in seven consecutive matches alongwith some strong performances by a powerful batting order. According to the release, the names of Indian bowlers Umesh Yadav (18 wickets), Mohammad Shami (17 wickets) and spinner Ravichandran Ashwin (13 wickets) were discussed as possible selections in the team but ultimately they didn't make it due to superior individual performances by others. Pacer Umesh Yadav finished as the third-highest wicket taker in the tournament with 18 wickets behind Manof-the-Tournament Australia's Mitchell Starc (22 wickets) and New Zealand's Trent Boult (22 wickets). "There were a number of other players that were discussed as possible selections in the team. These included batsmen Mahmudullah Riyad (Bangladesh) and Shaiman Anwar (the United Arab Emirates), Umesh Yadav, Mohammad Shami (India), Wahab Riaz (Pakistan) and spinners Imran Tahir (South Africa) and Ravichandran Ashwin (India)," Geoff Allardice, ICC general manager of cricket and chairman of the selection panel, said on Monday. "But there were so many brilliant individual performances during the tournament that it was not possible to fit them into the team. The panel eventual-
ly came up with this side, which, in their view, was the most balanced outfit that is capable of beating any side on any given day," Allardice said. Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan who scored 412 runs in the tournament with two centuries also couldn't find a place in the team. New Zealand skipper Brendon McCullum was chosen as the captain following his aggressive leadership during the tournament that was the cornerstone of his team's progression to the final where it lost to Australia by seven wickets. In addition to McCullum, the side includes four New Zealanders -- all-rounder Corey Anderson, pacer Trent Boult, opener Martin Guptill and spinner Daniel Vettori. Australia has three players in the squad, all-rounder Glenn Maxwell, batsman Steven Smith and pacer Starc. Two South Africans, skipper AB de Villiers and seamer Morne Morkel, with Sri Lanka's Kumar Sangakkara as wicketkeeper-batsman have been selected. Zimbabwe batsman Brendan Taylor, who finished with 433 runs in six matches, was named as the 12th man. The Team: Brendon McCullum (New Zealand, captain), Martin Guptill (New Zealand), Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka, wicketkeeper), Steve Smith (Australia), AB de Villiers (South Africa), Glenn Maxwell (Australia), Corey Anderson (New Zealand), Daniel Vettori (New Zealand), Mitchell Starc (Australia), Trent Boult (New Zealand), Morne Morkel (South Africa), Brendan Taylor (Zimbabwe) (12th man).
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