31 dec 2021

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXXII No. 26

DIMAPUR, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021 Pages 12 ` 5.00

Omicron will soon replace Delta as dominant global variant: Experts

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INTERNATIONAL, PAGE 9

India win first test against South Africa SPORTS, PAGE 12

Centre extends AFSPA for 6 months throughout Nagaland

DIMAPUR, DEC 30 (NPN): In what was like a slap on the face of the all-party state government, which had unanimously resolved to demand repeal of the draconian Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, the extension of the AFSPA overall Nagaland, for another six months w.e.f.

December 30 was also adding insult to injury on the people of Oting village in Mon district in particular and people of Nagaland in general.

After the meeting held at the residence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah on December 23 with Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio, Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma including deputy chief minister Y. Patton and NPF legislature party leader T.R. Zeliang; the MHA instituted a 5-member committee on December 25 on repeal of the Act from Naga-

AFSPA

land. The committee was to submit its report to the home ministry within a period of 45 days.

Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India Vivek Joshi will head the fivemember committee and additional secretar y (NE) in the Home Ministry Piyush Goyal will be member-secretary.

The other members will include chief secretary and DGP Nagaland, IGAR (N) and representative from CRPF. The December 23 meeting also came close

Oting massacre: SIT interrogates Para SF personnel D I M A P U R / G U WA HATI, DEC 30 (NPN/ AGENCIES): The Special Investigation Team (SIT) constituted by the Nagaland government on Thursday started questioning officer(s) and jawans of the 21 Para (SF) commandos who were involved in the December 4 ambush at Oting, which claimed the lives of 13 innocent civilians.

According to DH reports, although the army refused to talk about it, sources said that a six-member team of the SIT questioned two officers and six jawans of the 21 Special Para Forces of the army at the Rainforest Research Institute in Jorhat in neighbouring Assam.

As reported, the SIT will cross-examine and record the statements of those involved in the Oting massacre till Friday.

The State government had initially constituted a five-member SIT on December 5, but later expanded the team by including at least 17 other members, taking its strength to around 22. The SIT has also been divided into seven teams.

According to the PTI report, Nagaland police Additional DGP (Law and Order) Sandeep M Tamgadge headed the interrogation which continued till late evening of Thursday and will resume again on Friday (Dec 31) morning.

This is it!

"Sir, if you blame covid or omicron for doing nothing in our area otherwise, we'll do nothing for you in election."

K Y M C

on the heels of the oneday session of the 13th NLA on December 20, which resolved to urge upon the Centre to repeal the Act from Nagaland.

The institution of the 5-member committee on repeal of AFSPA had given a huge boost towards hope that the draconian Act that has been in force since 1958, the longest ever in India, will come to an end. The repeal of AFSPA will also end the unbridled powers enjoyed by the armed forces wherever it is in force.

According to notification issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA): “the Central government is of the opinion that the area comprising the whole of the State of Nagaland is in such a disturbed and dangerous condition that the use of armed forces in aid of the civil power is necessary.”

Cong slams Centre: Slamming the Centre’s decision to extend AFSPA in Nagaland, Congress general secretary Randeep Surjewala, in a tweet accused the government of pushing “a hitherto peaceful North East into an abyss of lawlessness, insurgency and chaos”.

“The utter lack of understanding of the ethos of its people, its diversity, its concerns and attempt to annihilate democracy to usurp power has led us to the current state,” Surjewala tweeted.

Adding further insult to injury: NPF RPP holds UDA coalition responsible

Naga People’s Front (NPF) has expressed shock and dismay over the extension of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 in Nagaland for a further six more months with effect from December 30, 2021.

NPF press bureau opined that the extension of AFSPA at a time when the Centre had instituted a committee to examine the withdrawal of the in Nagaland was “a case of adding further insult to injury.”

The party also said that the extension was a manifestation of the utter disregard the central government had for the voices of small states, particularly North-East region and especially, after the Nagaland Legislative Assembly had at its one-day session on December 20, unanimously resolved to demand repeal of AFSPA. NPF asserted that the continued extension of AFSPA was an attempt to exploit the long suffering of the Naga people.

It pointed out that state chief minister Neiphiu Rio,

deputy chief minister Y Patton and the leader of the NPF Legislature TR Zeliang had recently expressed gratitude to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah for “taking the matter with utmost seriousness and positively responding to the voices of the people.”

In this regard, NPF questioned whether there was any modicum of co-ordination or even communication between the executive and legislative branches of the central government.

NPF maintained that the restraint and maturity must be reciprocated in a positive way by repealing undemocratic legislations and oppressive laws.

NPF affirmed that it was committed to the removal of Disturbed Area Act and AFSPA, 1958 from all the Naga area and would continue to pursue all democratic means to achieve the same.

NPF also asserted that it would not stay idle till the central government reconsidered its decision.

(More on p-3)

Rising People’s Par ty (RPP) has held the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) coalition-NDPP, BJP and NPFsolely responsible for extension of Disturbed Area Act (DDA) in Nagaland for another six months and continues to play with the lives of its citizens.

RPP president Joel Naga and general secretary Amai Chingkhu stated that the extension was an abject failure of the UDA coalition to convince the government of India that postOting massacre, it was capable of handling law and order situation in the state, with or without AFSPA. RPP said the UDA has lost the moral right to rule.

RPP also cited the recent press conference where Meghalaya chief minister asserted that the role of a state government was very crucial in the lifting of AFSPA. RPP said the statement was a severe indictment of UDA coalition. It said that the writ of the coalition government did not exist as far as upholding law and order was concerned. Further demanding clarification from

UDA coalition on the issue, RPP questioned whether or not UDA raised objection to the extension of the DAA? “Were any written assurances made to the MHA guaranteeing that since law and order is a state subject it would uphold such?” RPP asked.

RPP said suffering Naga public for a long time had been demanding that the state government control all the illegal activities being committed by various factions. However, it alleged that state leaders have for too long “purposefully kept looking the other way, instead blaming the unresolved Naga political issue for all the ills in the state.”

RPP claimed that successive state governments abdicating their responsibility to govern and uphold the rule of law gave Centre the necessary excuse to impose AFSPA in the state despite continued opposition by civil society groups. “Something had to give in, and very unfortunately the Oting massacre happened,” RPP said and alleged that state’s politicians have blood on their hands.

Konyak CSOs, NH slam AFSPA extension in Nagaland Oting Citizens denounce presence of DIMAPUR, DEC 30 (NPN): The decision of the government of India to extend the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958, and declare the whole of Nagaland as “disturbed area” for six more months has drawn widespread criticism from Konyak Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and the Naga Hoho.

Ko n ya k C S O s d e scribed the decision of the government of India to extend the AFSPA and declare the whole of Nagaland as “disturbed area” for six more months as “a total violation of human rights” and “adding salt to the wound”.

According to Konyak CSOs- Konyak Union (KU), Konyak Nyupuh Sheko Khong (KNSK) and Konyak

Students’ Union- the extension was “a calculated sign that undermines human dignity and value while the Konyaks are crying for justice.”

KU president S Howing Konyak, KNSK president Ponglem Konyak and KSU president Noklem Konyak also slammed the tagging of the region as disturbed when its people have totally denounced any forms violence and was yearning for peace. They asserted that integrity of the nation cannot be achieved without people’s support and confident.

Konyak CSOs said that extension of AFSPA was an act, which was directly aimed at creating confusing and hurt among the

Konyak Naga society at a time when emotions were running high. They said that the army inquiry team that arrived at the incident place, Tiru, on December 29, 2021 left a lot to be desired.

Stating that Konyaks were extremely disturbed and hurt to see the “army contingent accompanied by the killers, i.e, 21 Para of Jorhat”, the CSOs said “this shows total disregard of the Konyak customary practices/institutions upheld at the highest level.”

CSOs said they were ready to give their statement, but to their utter shock the inquiry team interviewed only two witnesses and did not want to speak to people who came to testify. The Konyak CSOs have, there-

fore, questioned what was the real motive?

They said that inquiry team’s “half hearted attempts to finish the inquiry at the earliest shows their insincerity and lack of empathy or remorse.”

CSOs said there can never be peace and harmony until and unless there was a serious effort and desire to reach out to the people, who have been hurt by their actions.

The signatories said that Konyak Nagas have yearned for peace and integration with the rest of India. However, they said it appears India was not interested in achieving peace or uniting the Konyaks and Nagas with the rest of the nation.

(Cont’d on p-3)

21 Para personnel in army inquiry team

DIMAPUR, DEC 30 (NPN): Oting Citizens’ Office (OCO) expressed resentment over the presence of three security personnel, involved in the December 4 killings, in the Army’s court of inquiry team led by a Major General that visited the area on Wednesday.

OCO said that despite the gruesome incident still fresh in their minds, they had cooperated and allowed the inquiry team to visit ground zero in good faith with the expectation that the inquiry team with clear conscious and impartial mindset would study the surroundings/ environment, understand the circumstances and deliver justice by punishing those

involved in the massacre of 13 innocent villagers.

However, OCO expressed surprise and claimed that the inquiry team, instead of sympathising and taking necessary precautionary measures to avoid hurting them further, brought three “blood thirsty” 21 Para commandos involved in murder and injuring of innocent Oting villagers on December 4 with the intent to hurt and aggravate the emotions of grieving families.

“Bringing those heartless murderers was like putting salt to the wounds inflicted by them,” the statement alleged. Pointing out that the Indian Army’s statement that the inquiry was

progressing expeditiously and all efforts were being made to conclude it at the earliest was meant to appease the common masses, OCO said the statement and action were contradictory.

“This is proven by the presence of those personnel in the inquiry team during their visit to ground zero.

What kind of law allows an accused to be an eyewitness to a crime committed by him?” it questioned. OCO said they could no longer rely and trust the words of Indian army until and unless all personnel involved in the incident were suspended till such time the inquiry was complete and justice delivered to the victims.

Centre must apologize for killing of civilians: NPP 19 states, including Nagaland asked to ramp up testing DIMAPUR, DEC 30 (NPN): National People’s Party (NPP), Nagaland state unit has demanded apology from the Central government for killing innocent civilians because of a botched-up army operation due to wrong intelligence inputs at Oting-Tiru village and Mon town on December 4 and 5.

Emphasising that it was the bounden responsibility of the Centre to tender a sincere apology to the families of deceased and injured victims, the party in a memorandum to Prime

Minister Narendra Modi asked Centre to come out clean and accept the grave blunder on the part of intelligence agencies and Indian Army by issuing a public apology in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha so that the faith of Naga people in the Central government was restored.

NPP also called for proper investigation by a national investigation agency and punitive action against the erring jawans. It urged the Centre to be unbiased and sincere in going into the truth and conduct a free

and fair investigation into the circumstances leading to the firing and killing of innocent civilians.

“We call upon your kind office to institute a proper and highest level enquiry by National Investigation Agency or Central Bureau of Investigation.

This will ensure that justice is ensured for the victims and their families and befitting punishment is meted to the wrong-doers without any bias or partiality whatsoever,” the NPP memorandum stated.

(Full text on p-6)

NEW DELHI, DEC 30 (PTI): Centre on Thursday urged 19 states and union territories to ramp up Covid testing “in a big way” to identify cases promptly and restrict its spread in view of the increased transmissibility of the Omicron variant, and the larger preponderance of asymptomatic cases.

A decline of over 50 per cent has been seen in testing in Arunachal Pradesh (68%), Assam (58%) and Nagaland (52%), it noted.

The other states and where testing is low includes poll-bound Punjab,

Goa, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh. Comprehensive, adequate and smart testing is an important step in controlling the transmission of the virus, Additional Secretary in the Health Ministry Arti Ahuja said in a letter to the states and UTs concerned.

“The need for enhanced testing is even greater today, keeping in mind the increased transmissibility of Omicron, and the larger preponderance of asymptomatic cases. Besides, ramping up testing in the initial days itself will help to ensure that

the infected individual does not spread the virus to others,” Ahuja said.

"However, it is observed that there has been a considerable decline in Covid-19 testing in some states, which is a cause of serious concern," she said.

The official advised the states to ensure focussed and comprehensive testing as per extant ICMR guidelines and to ramp up testing in a big way to identify Covidpositive case promptly and also to restrict transmission.

Omicron tally crosses 1,000: According to the lat-

est data available from the Centre and the states in the night, the total number of Omicron cases in the country was around 1,200.

Nagaland logs 3 fresh Covid cases: Nagaland on Thursday recorded three fresh Covid-19 positive cases while no deaths were reported during the day.

The three cases were reported from Dimapur, pushing the total caseload to 32191.

The death toll remained unchanged at 702 (including 16 non-Covid deaths but with positivity).

Covaxin found to be safe in 2-18 age group: Bharat Biotech Precaution dose to lessen NEW DELHI, DEC 30 (PTI): Bharat Biotech International Limited (BBIL), on Thursday, announced that BBV152 (Covaxin), its whole-virion inactivated COVID-19 vaccine candidate, has proven to be safe, well-tolerated, and immunogenic in paediatric subjects in phase II/III study.

The firm had conducted phase II/III, open-label, and multicenter studies to evaluate the safety, reactogenicity, and immunogenicity of Covaxin in healthy children and adolescents in the 2-18 age group, a press release from the vaccine

maker said.

Krishna Ella, chairman and managing director Bharat Biotech, said, “Covaxin’s clinical trial data

from the paediatric population is very encouraging.

Safety of the vaccine is critical for children and we are glad to share that

Covaxin has now proven data for safety and immunogenicity in children. We have now achieved our goal of developing a safe and efficacious COVID-19 vaccine for adults and children.”

The clinical trials conducted in the paediatric population between JuneSeptember 2021 have shown robust safety, reactogenicity, and immunogenicity. The data was submitted to the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) during October 2021 and received an emergency use nod for children aged 1218 from DCGI recently. In

the study, no serious adverse event was reported. A total of 374 subjects reported either mild or moderate severity symptoms, with 78.6 per cent getting resolved within a day. Pain at the injection site was the most commonly reported adverse event, the release said. For the trial, 976 subjects were screened for SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR and ELISA testing (enzymelinked immunoassay).

Out of these, 525 eligible participants were enrolled. Based on the age, participants were distinguished into three groups in an age de-escalatory manner.

Covid severity, says Centre

NEW DELHI, DEC 30 ( AG E N C I E S ) : I n d i a n Council of Medical Research (ICMR) director-general Dr Balram Bhargava said that precautionary dose was to mitigate severity of infection, hospitalisations and deaths.

He said a debate was still on about using a mixed vaccines for the third dose, and a decision will be made before January 10.

With the Omicron variant fuelling a rise in infections, Centre has decided to administer a ‘precaution’ dose to health and front-

line workers, along with co-morbid senior citizens from January 10. The health ministry said the Centre will send SMS reminders to eligible senior citizens for taking precautionary dose that begins from January 10.

Dr Bhargava said all Covid-19 vaccines, whether from India, Israel, US, Europe, UK or China, were primarily disease-modifying and did not prevent infection. The precautionary dose was to primarily mitigate severity of infection, hospitalisation and death, he added.

K Y M C

2

68th general session of TSU held at Thenyizu Correspondent KOHIMA, DEC 30 (NPN): Director of technical education, Mhaseto Nakro addressed the 68th general session of the Thenyizumi Students’ Union (TSU) as special guest at the multipurpose building, Thenyizu, here, on Thursday.

Exhorting the students, Mhaseto said that challenges should be regarded as stepping stones in order to move ahead in life.

The director spoke on the world of Information Technology (IT) which he said was bringing about a massive change in every sphere of life replacing all works that were done manually. In this regard, he advised the parents to encourage children to pursue their interests while also inculcating their experiences and guiding them with good moral values.

He briefly highlighted

Director of technical education, Mhaseto Nakro speaking at the general session on Thursday. (NP)

the prospect of the New Education Policy (NEP) and that it would be more practical based education with the benefits for learners to be more skilled. Earlier, village council chairman (VCC) Thenyizu Medothi Rhakho delivered the greetings.

While presidential address was delivered TSU president, Vekuto Kezo,

educational and statistical report was presented by Zuhvozolu Theyo, folk song was presented by women society, Thenyizu and a solo was also presented by Yotolu Swuro.

On the occasion, 17 students were awarded with the Lt Punuhu Dawhuo Memorial Award donated by former minister, Thenucho Tunyi for securing first class in HSLC examination.

Later in the evening session, Boduve Peter Resu, judicial magistrate, first class, Dimapur was the session speaker while village education committee (VEC) chairman, C Theyo exhorted the gathering.

Meanwhile a new team of TSU for 2022 was elected.

The team would be led by Nuzovo Dawhuo as president, Vezhodulu Swiho as vice president, Nusakholu Dawhuo as general secretary along with other executives.

STATE

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Lasumi Students’ Union holds 60th general session DIMAPUR: The Lasumi Students’ Union (LSU) observed its 60th general session on December 29.

In a press release, LSU informed that speaker of the programme, Er. Visakho Therie acknowledged the pioneers for their wisdom and farsighted vision to form the body in 1961 which he said had since guided and sustained education to the Lasumi public thus far.

He urged upon the village leaders and student bodies to ensure smooth functioning of the Government Middle School in the village He stressed on the necessity to allow only genuine teachers and that their performances be evaluated.

Visakho also advised LSU to oversee the attendance of students as the foundation of an education for children was the most important.

On the theme “ignite and revamp”, he said that it should represent a wake-

LSU members and others at the 6oth general session, which was held on December 29.

up call for the LSU and help them venture into the future more prepared and equipped.

Later, he proposed a three-point resolution to the student body which included: teachers and students’ regulation; to impart tuition to interested students funded by VDB funds and to form a com-

mittee to guide and pursue job vacancies or placements for employments in various departments or establishments.

The speaker also unveiled the LSU diamond jubilee monolith.

Delivering the presidential address, Tsütshowelhi Marhu called upon the students and village com-

munity to remember the pioneers for their wisdom and vision and the collective participation of every individual.

He stressed on the importance of the union as it had provided a platform to advocate unity, inculcate discipline, provide exposure, render social services and build leaders.

The session was chaired by Nyitso Therie, invocation was said

by Phek Town Baptist Church, associate pastor Ngutsolo Therie and jubilee souvenir magazine was released by VCC Kedulhipe Krome.

Meanwhile, Chakhesang Students’ Union vice president, Diekute Mero and first Lasumi Students’ Union president Nguchünyi Khupf delivered greetings.

A dedicatory prayer for the occasion was said

by LCRC pastor, Wetsope Krome.

New office bearers for the tenure 2022-2024 was also elected and blessed with prayer by Rev. Dingu Kenye.

The session ended with a benediction from LBC women pastor, Lhiwetsolo-ü Pradia.

Earlier, a two-minute silence was observed in honour of its departed pioneers, student leaders and the victims of the Oting massacre.

Dimapur Khensa Senso Telongjem celebrates golden jubilee LCTO organises cultural festival at Leshemi

Staff Reporter

DIMAPUR, DEC 30 (NPN): Dimapur Khensa Senso Telongjem (DKST) celebrated its golden jubilee at Cornerstone Higher Secondary School on the theme, “Renkettsüng” (roughly translated as preparation), here, on Thursday.

Delivering the jubilee message as speaker, Senso missionary, Rev. C Teyong Kichu focussed on how one should seek God and lean on Him. He also stressed on leading a prayerful life.

The programme was chaired by executive members, Dimapur Khensa Shisashir Telongjem,

Akangjungla Longchar and Aoneken Walling, and welcome address delivered

by DKST chairman, Chubaangshi.

Jubilee greeting was delivered by jubilee planning board convenor, Sentimeren while jubilee book released by souvenir committee golden jubilee convenor, Rev Wati Kichu and vote of thanks was proposed by Tongpangsucha. Highlights of the programme included opening act by Khensa Fellowship Chümoukedima, folk song by Khun Temen Zünga and special number

by Dimapur Khensa Sensotsür Telongjem and TemSenso Missionary, Rev. C Teyong Kichu speaking at the programme on Thursday. (NP) süchiba Jamir.

NNSU celebrates golden jubilee

Prosthetic camp to be conducted in Dimapur

DIMAPUR: SD Jain charitable clinic has informed that a free LN4 prosthetic hand camp in association with Rotary club of Downtown, Pune would be conducted at SD Jain charitable clinic, Jain temple road, Dimapur on March 27, 2022. One could send the picture through WhatsApp along with name, address and phone numbers to 9436002161 or 9436013482.

Village elders and others during the cultural festival at Leshemi.

DIMAPUR: The Leshemi Cultural & Traditional Organisation (LCTO) held its 9th general session by organising a cultural festival at Leshemi village under Phek district from December 28-29.

Dr. Vikeyie Losou, retired principal director, Health & Family Welfare spoke on the occasion as speaker while medical officer (dental) Chozuba Community Health Centre

(CHC), Dr. Neisatuo Mero inaugurated the historical monuments and released the 2nd edition of the Leshemi history book.

LCTO president Neisalie Losou delivered presidential address and Ngulo Lomi, the oldest male of Leshemi was attended as the festival father and invoked blessings. The two-day programme was marked by cultural exhibition, unveiling

of festival stone and treaty monolith.

Leshemi community from Leshemi village, Lewoza village, Dimapur unit, Phek unit, Pfutsero unit and Kohima unit also attended the celebration.

It may be mentioned that the cultural festival is celebrated once in every five years to promote and uphold the rich culture and tradition for the younger generation.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Members of the NNSU and others at the golden jubilee programme on December 29. (DIPR)

DIMAPUR: Natha New Students’ Union (NNSU) celebrated its golden jubilee at Natha New village on December 29 on the theme “Akiqheu kuchuqu küdau jukucho (vision towards a greater height)”, with director, IPR, Tokishe Kiba as chief guest, Shihokhe Sumi, Rtd. deputy director YRS as guest of honour, JDU Nagaland general secretary, Kitoho S. Rotokha and SBC Mokokchung, pastor Kughazhe Zhimomi as speakers.

According to a DIPR report, Tokishe drew parallels of pupa to butterfly metamorphosis to that of successful

person’s life.

He said that struggling was a phase of life which every person had to experience and opined that with knowledge, people learned the difference between good and bad.

Earlier, the programme was chaired by former NNSU president, Ikato V Zhimomi, welcome address was delivered by GB Natha old and Sumi Kukami Hoho general secretary, Hetoho S Zhimomi and special number was presented by Zhimokali K, followed by various cultural presentations and competitions.

Born on : 04/07/1997 – Died on : 17/12/2021

Through the column, we the family of Lt. Tiasenla would sincerely like to thank all relatives, friends, neighbours and well wishers for the many expressions of support, sympathy and kindness during her illness and at her said demise.

May the Almighty God continue to shower His love and blessings to each and everyone of you abundantly.

Loving family members DP-6183/21

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

1ST DEATH ANNIVERSARY

“The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away” Job 1:21

OF

LT. VEPHUTALÜ KHAMO

Late V. Shihovi Ayemi

dp-6187/21

K Y M C

k-2467/21

ON THIS DAY, WE REMEMBER OUR BEAUTIFUL MOTHER AND THE KINDEST GRANDPARENT. THOUGH A YEAR HAS GONE BY, YOUR MEMORY IS A TREASURE, YOU WILL ALWAYS BE LOVED BEYOND WORDS AND MISSED BEYOND MEASURE.

Born : 18/11/1946 – Died : 12/08/2021 We the bereaved family of Lt. V Shihovi Ayemi would like to express our sincere gratitude to each and everyone who stood by us through prayers, physically, financially and materially at the sudden demise of our beloved father on 12th August 2021.

We would also like to convey our special thanks to :1. Zunheboto Town Sumi Baptist Church (SBAK Aizuto / SBAK Nitomount) 2. Youth Department (ZTSBC) Colony.

3. North Point & Khuwaboto Prayer Fellowship (ZTSBC) 4. Surumi Comminity Zunheboto, Kohima, Dimapur.

5. Agri Forest Colony STKK, Kohima 6. Shri Tokugha Sukhalu, Hon’ble Advisor School/Edn, Nagaland 7. Shri Atomi K. Zhimomi Ex MLA- Dimapur 8. Smti K Atoli Sema Director S.S.W Kohima 9. Doctor & Nurses of Rochill Hospital/ Ambulance Service Zbto Though we are unable to thank each one of you individually, it is our earnest prayer that the Almighty God blesses you all abundantly.

Loving Wife, Children, Relatives, In-laws & Grand Children

LOVING CHILDREN, IN-LAWS AND GRANDCHILDREN dp-6181/21

K Y M C

nagalandpost.com Poll Q.: Is the Govt of India likely to repeal AFSPA from the north east?

100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0%

A B C

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

& light show at Ghokuto peak to Patton calls for forgiving Sound celebrate formation of Niuland district past misdeeds of one another

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

A

B

Yes. No. Can’t Say.

C

14% 78% 8%

NEXT POLL

Q: To prevent spread of

Omicron, will penalty for non-compliance of COVID protocols help?  Yes.  No.  Can’t Say.

WEATHER FORECAST DECEMBER 31

(Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala Hazy sunshine

26 13

Aizawl

Pleasant with sunshine

Guwahati Beautiful with plenty of sun Imphal

Pleasant with sunshine

Itanagar Mostly sunny and beautiful

22 9 25 9 23 7 21 10

Shillong

Sunny

16 4

Kohima

A shower in the afternoon

17 7

Dimapur Sunshine and pleasant Mkg

Sunny

Tuensang Mostly sunny and cooler Wokha

Sunshine

Zunheboto Sunny

23 10 20 8 13 4 18 9 17 16

3

STATE

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

State deputy chief minister Y Patton speaking at the programme on Thursday.

DIMAPUR: The threeday centennial jubilee celebration of the Nungying Baptist Church culminated on Thursday.

According to deputy CMO media cell, delivering the jubilee greetings, state deputy chief minister, Y Patton urged upon the youth to opt for competitive examinations.

He said that the primary focus of the youth should be on competing, in order to earn through merit.

Patton said that Nungying was the 12th village out of more than 140 villages in the Lotha region to reach the milestone of 100 years.

He however, lamented that the village lacked behind in all fronts including religious lines.

In this regard, he advised the congregation to forgive one another for past misdeeds and move ahead by seeking God’s blessing.

He further called

upon to be united for an all-round development of the village.

The deputy CM assured to sponsor two theologians from the village for till graduation, two UPSC/NPSC aspiring needy candidates to undergo coaching for a period of two years, a sum of Rs. 10 lakh to successful candidates of UPSC who cleared IAS and IPS and a sum of Rs. 5 lakh to those securing EAC and DSP through open competition

in the NPSC exams.

Meanwhile, theme speaker, Yikhum Baptist Church pastor, Zanben Kithan said that their forefathers were illiterate but were rich in God’s knowledge.

The pastor, however, lamented that today, the church leaders and Christians were blinded by materialism.

He therefore called upon the congregation to follow the footsteps and to thank the pioneers who had sacrificed and laid the foundation.

He also reminded them that jubilee was a celebration of what God had done for the people.

Earlier, Okotso Baptist Church pastor, Rev. O. Yibomo Ngullie said a prayer of blessing for the village while pastor Yimkha Baptist Church, Rev. Renbomo Ngullie said the jubilee offertory prayer.

Ts u n g i k i B a p t i s t Church pastor, T. Mhao Kikon said the invocation while special songs by jubilee choir, Tsungiki Baptist Church Choir and others were also presented.

DIMAPUR: Ghokuto Village Council in association with Ato Area Sports Association, Niuland Area Citizens’ Forum and Atoqa tea factory management Nikheku, Niuland would be celebrating the formation of Niuland district by organising a light and sound cracker extravaganza at Ghokuto village peak on the eve of New Year– at 7 pm on Friday.

A press release issued by the organising committee stated that Ghokuto village was selected to celebrate as the location was ideally located with immense tourism potential, which could be seen by all citizens in Dimapur, Chümoukedima and Niuland district.

Citing the example of Shillong Peak, which gives a majestic view of the city and has become a major tourist attraction in Meghalaya, the committee said Ghokuto village peak too had the potential of becoming a view point of all the three districts in the future along with its breath-taking scenic beauty. This would attract tour operators/entrepreneurs and could become an eco/ agro tourism hotspot, which would improve economy of the village and adjoining areas with increased footfall

of tourists, it added.

The committee said the sound and light extravaganza would begin at 7 pm so that all citizens could enjoy and celebrate the festive season.

Noting that the village was also famous for Raja King chilly cultivation, which was a major source of village economy, the committee recalled that the State government had awarded the head GB and village council certificate of commendation in recognition of their contribution to

organic farming and achieving self-sustainability on Independence Day this year.

It urged the authorities concerned to improve the road in the area as road communication was critical in development.

Being a new district and its plain topography being its inherent strength that would aid infrastructure development, which could become a game changer, the committee called for both private and public sector investment in Niuland to help create job opportunities.

62nd general session of ZSU concludes Phek Students’ Union 63rd general session concludes

Dr. Ruokuovinuo Rachel Krocha speaking at the general session.

DIMAPUR: Zhavame Students Union (ZSU) 62nd General conference was held at Public Ampitheatre, Pame Ts¬udü, Zhavame on December 29.

In a press release, ZSU informed that medical officer, department of health & family welfare (H&FW), Dr. Ruokuovinuo Rachel Krocha stressed on the importance of having an

inquisitive and curious mind.

Dr. Ruokuovinuo said that success could mean different things to different people, however, she pointed out that in order to be successful in life, one required the right education from an early age.

During the programme, invocation was said by St. Xavier’s Cath-

olic Church, Zhavame, women chairperson, Shone Pohena, special song by Zhavame Students Union, meritorious award and debate on the topic “gender disparity in the role of decision making”, words of gratitude by Dalü Pohena and closing prayer by Zhavame Baptist Church, women pastor, Savine Shupao.

DIMAPUR: The two-day long 63rd general sessioncum- cultural dance competition of Phek Students’ Union (PSU) concluded Thursday, at Phek village on the theme “cultural identity in modern context”.

Speaking at the cultural session, Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, MLA, said that there no doubt, preservation of culture occupied a prominent position, however, he said that a time had come “to identify the good and bad ones,”.

Azo lamented how a good tradition such as honesty and hospitality was eroding.

Further, he said that there was always room for improvement and that “we must perpetually endeavour and strive to do better.”

Acknowledging the pioneers of the union, PSU president Tuku Venuh recalled how the union underwent various changes, morally, socially, economically and politically over the last 63 years.

Po i n t i n g o u t h ow people lived in a bewildering world, constantly

Konyak CSOs, NH slam AFSPA extension in Nagaland (From p-1) Meanwhile, Konyak CSOs affirmed to stand by their fourpoint charter of demands.

CSOs said they have accordingly resolved to place entire faith and responsibilities upon the state government in bringing justice as demanded by the people.

CSOs cautioned that improvement or deterioration of the prevailing situation solely lie upon the seriousness of the state government.

They further warned that Konyaks alone would not be held responsible for any untoward situation that could arise in future.

AFSPA extension an act to dehumanise Nagas, says NH: Naga Hoho (NH) has asserted that extension of AFSPA in the midst

of the people protesting against the inhuman act of the Indian security forces was “nothing but an act to dehumanise the Naga people.”

In a press release, NH president HK Zhimomi expressed dismay at the attitude of the government of India for ignoring the voice of the Naga people as a whole.

NH said extension of AFSPA was a direct challenge and a message from the Government of India to keep on crushing the inalienable rights of the Nagas.

The hoho said that if India was truly a democratic country, then the voice of the people should have been heard.

However, on the contrary, NH said the dignity and rights

of the Naga people was neither respected nor considered as fellow human beings.

NH further maintained that even after slaughtering Naga brothers on December 4 and 5, 2021 in Mon, the government of India continues to ignore the pain and cry of the Naga people.

Meanwhile, the Naga Hoho has called upon every Naga across borders to “stand in united voice and be prepared for any eventuality in the days to come.”

The hoho said that identity of Nagas and their lives cannot be compromised in the hands of the Indian security forces, but stand up for their God given rights. “We will decide our destiny but not by the Government of India,” NH underlined.

Imkong Imchen slams extension of AFSPA (From p-1) NPF legislator Imkong L Imchen has termed the extension of Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in the State as a “direct signal” from the Centre to Naga people that their voice had no meaning whatsoever.

Imchen recalled that after the December 23 meeting between union home minister Amit Shah with Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio, deputy chief minister Y.Patton, NPF leader T.R. Zeliang in presence of Assam chief K Y M C

minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, since it was agreed to work out modalities to withdraw AFSPA, he (Imchen) proposed that AFSPA should be kept in abeyance till the committee report was submitted.

However now that AFSPA is being extended contrary to the outcome of the December 23 meeting, Imchen said the Centre’s double standard has reduced the outcome of the meeting (December 23) ‘false’.

He also urged upon Nagas to raise their voices against such

double standards despite the massive protest rallies against AFSPA and resolution of the NLA for repeal of AFSPA. Imchen also lauded the support given to the demand for repeal of AFSPA in Nagaland which was described as a blot on Indian democracy by many prominent public leaders and writers from mainland India. He said the sooner AFSPA was lifted, India would be seen as a nation that respects the rights of its citizens by the world.

Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu and others at the cultural session on Thursday.

confronted with various concepts, Tuku urged upon the students not to be carried away.

He congratulated the newly inducted PSU president Vepo Soho and other office bearers and appealed to the seniors, village leaders and organisations to take the union to greater heights.

At the programme, Phek village council chairman, Kuzhoniecho Keyho

NRPO organises joint meeting DIMAPUR: A joint meeting of Nyiro Range Public Organisation (NRPO), Nyiro Range Youth Organisation (NRYO), Nyiro Range Students’ Union (NRSU), Nyiro Range Village Council Union (NRVCU) and Nyiro Range Road construction Observer Committee (NRRCOC) was held on December 27 at Wokha town.

In a press release, NPRO president, Nyimbemo Ngullie informed that the meeting deliberated various issues and developmental activities within the range, specifically on issues of on-going road construction between Wokha-N to Longidang Road.

During the meeting, NRRCOC presented detailed accounts on performance of on-going road construction wherein, the house authorised road construction committee to supervise and ensure quality work.

It also asked the committee to contain any unwanted activities that might obstruct smooth functioning of the construction work till its completion.

After the meeting, NRPO visited worksite to ascertain workmanship of road construction and interacted with the engineers.

During their visit, NRPO team found that workmanship was “far below standard of execution” and suggested that the works be executed as per specifications.

The team also stated that there would be no compromises over quality of work.

paid tribute to Lt. Huvekhuyi Keyho and thanked the family members for donating cultural dance competition trophy and also extended gratitude to other sponsors.

Lamenting that culture was slowly disappearing, he challenged the young generation to work for revival of the rich culture and tradition.

Losami Students

Union president, Wehiwu Mekrisuh also sahred greetings.

Meanwhile during the cultural dance competition, Ketouzou Khel emerged as the winner and Old Town Khel as the runner-up.

Earlier, the cultural session was chaired by Venyi Soho while Phek Village Baptist Church pastor, Vesito Venuh said the invocation.

Statistical report was given by Hukuyi Venuh while in the valedictory session, Capital College of Higher Education Kohima, principal, Dr. Zhokho Venuh spoke on the topic “adapting to the new education system.”

The valedictory session was chaired by Tsipolii Vero and concluded with vote of thanks from PSU finance secretary Tsito Huire.

PACSU supports district demand for Shamator

DIMAPUR: Pungro Area College Students’ Union (PACSU) has supported the district headquarters demand for Shamator and expressed disappointment at the state government for “not upholding” its commitment and assurance.

In a press release, PACSU president Tokiu and assembly speaker Tsuyihba stated that the agreement “must be fulfilled at the earliest” and the state government should show its integrity.

Approving the inclusion of Pungro sub-division in Shamator district, the

student union pledged to stand firm in support of Yimkhiung Tribal Council (YTC).

PACSU expressed resentment towards the government over “disheartening Yimkhiung community” and said that the district demand was a desire of the Pungro sub- division.

It informed its federating units “to prepare mentally and physically for the peaceful protests” in the event of failing to fulfil the assurance from the state government.

LVSU holds 50th general session

DIMAPUR: Langzanger Village Students Union (LVSU) held its 50th general session on the theme “credible and advance education” from December 28-29.

A press release from LVSU informed that during the programme, teacher, Lichothri urged upon the students to preserve their traditional values hand-in-hand with education.

He said that parents should not only fulfil the needs of their children but also evaluate their performances at respective schools and colleges.

Lichothri stressed on the need to differentiate between value that the youth receive from grandparents and their smartphones.

The programme was chaired by Tsarola

Y Sangtam & Tsalise T Sangtam and welcome address was delivered by LVSU president, Theose Sangtam.

The event was followed by cultural presentations.

K Y M C

4

NORTHEAST

China gives ‘standardised’ Chinese names for 15 places in Arunachal

BEIJING, DEC 30 (PTI): China has announced Chinese characters, Tibetan and Roman alphabet names for 15 more places in India’s northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh, which it claims as South Tibet.

China’s Ministry of Civil Affairs announced on Wednesday that it had standardised in Chinese characters, Tibetan and Roman alphabet the names of 15 places in Zangnan, the Chinese name for Arunachal Pradesh, staterun Global Times reported on Thursday.

This is in accordance with regulations on geographical names issued by the State Council, China’s cabinet, the report added.

Among the official names of the 15 places, which were given exact longitude and latitude, eight are residential places, four are mountains, two are rivers and one is a mountain

Arunachal logs 2 new Covid cases ITANAGAR, DEC 30 (PTI): Two more persons tested positive for COVID-19 in Arunachal Pradesh, pushing the tally in the northeastern state to 55,336, a senior health department official said on Thursday. The state did not report any fresh case on the previous day.

The death toll remained at 280 as no new fatality due to the infection was reported in the last 24 hours, State Surveillance Officer Dr Lobsang Jampa said.

One more person recuperated from the disease during the period, taking the total number of recoveries to 55,037, he said. The recovery rate among coronavirus patients in the state stood at 99.46%.

Arunachal Pradesh now has 19 active cases.

The Capital Complex Region, comprising Itanagar, Naharlagun, Nirjuli and Banderdewa areas, has the highest number of active cases at 12, followed by Namsai district at three, Lohit at two, West Kameng and Tawang at one each.

The state has conducted 12,04,800 sample tests for COVID-19 so far, including 210 on Wednesday, and the positivity ratio stood at 0.95%.

File photo of a Chinese village inside Arunachal Pradesh pass, the report said.

This is the second batch of standardised names of places in Arunachal Pradesh given by China.

The first batch of the standardised names of six places was released in 2017.

China claims Ar unachal Pradesh as South Tibet which is firmly rejected by the External Affairs Ministry which says the state is an “inseparable part of India”.

Beijing routinely

protests visits of top Indian leaders and officials to Arunachal Pradesh to reaffirm its claim.

The India-China border dispute covers the 3,488 km long Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The eight residential places in the second batch are Sêngkezong and Daglungzong in Cona County of Shannan Prefecture, Mani’gang, Duding and Migpain in Medog County of Nyingchi,

AHRC orders probe into AASU’s complain of police atrocities GUWAHATI, DEC 30 (AGENCIES): The Assam Human Rights Commission ( A H RC ) d i r e c t e d t h e Dibrugarh district administration to examine allegations of police brutality involving activists of the All Assam Students’ Union, reports The Sentinel Assam. After taking suomotu cognizance of the particular instance in light of media stories of alleged police misconduct against students in Dibr ugarh, the Commission posted a notification to the local authority.

The AHRC has asked the Dibr ugarh district government to provide a comprehensive description within one month. The AHRC had already been petitioned by AASU to register a suo-motu case.

The AASU conducted a sit-in demonstration at Dibrugarh’s Sadar police station, condemning police violence towards AASU activists and the vandalism of the martyr’s column.

Dibrugarh SP Shwetank Mishra and his subordinates, according to AASU President Dipankar Kumar Nath, rushed on an AASU activist at the student body’s district office and

violated the martyr’s column by treading over it with shoes. As per the AHRC judgement, “it is further asserted that members of AASU were exposed to inhuman torture throughout custody after they were detained on December 25 in conjunction with a college election-related altercation.”

The AASU has been protesting since its members were detained

by Dibrugarh police for allegedly assaulting ABVP members during a campus brawl.

Following the announcement of election results, the college union election at Dibru College in Dibr ugarh devolved into a brawl between the AASU and the Assam Yuba Parishad, the youth wing of the AGP and AVBP, who reportedly battled with sharp weapons. By taking all of the injured to the Assam Medical College and Hospital, the police interfered and brought the situation under control.

When police entered Swahid Bhavan without notice, seizing 12 AASU activists, five of whom were eventually imprisoned, the situation grew considerably worse.

Goling, Damba in Zayu County of Nyingchi, and Mejag in Lhunze County of Shannan Prefecture, the Global Times report said.

The four mountains a r e Wa m o R i , D ê u Ri, Lhünzhub Ri and Kunmingxingzê Feng, it said.

The two rivers are Xenyogmo He and Dulain He, and the mountain pass is named Se La, in Cona County.

The re por t quoted Lian Xiangmin, stated to be an expert with the China Tibetology Research Centre in Beijing, claiming that the announcement is part of the national survey on place names that have existed for hundreds of years.

It is a legitimate move and China’s sovereignty to give them standardised names. More standardised place names in the region will be announced in the future, Lian said.

Omicron: 3 samples sent for genome sequencing in Mnp IMPHAL, DEC 30 (AGENCIES): After the detection of the first Omicron variant of COVID-19 in Manipur on Monday, no new cases have been reported so far, informed a health official, reports East Mojo.

In a press statement issued on Thursday, state health director Dr. K Rajo Singh said that all primary and secondary contacts of the person who was detected with Omicron variant with a travel history to Tanzania have been traced and testing is ongoing.

During contact tracing, three persons tested positive for COVID-19 and their samples have been sent for Whole Genome Sequencing to IBSD Takyelpat in Imphal, said Dr Rajo. “Tracing and testing of secondary contacts is continuing and till date, no further positive case is found,” Dr Rajo said.

As the Omicron variant is reported to be highly transmissible as compared to other variants of COVID-19, he has advised people in Manipur to adhere to COVID-19 appropriate behaviour and wear masks mandatorily.

AGP to fight local polls in Assam with BJP-UPPL GUWAHATI, DEC 30 (PTI): Asom Gana Parishad ( AG P ) p r e s i d e n t A t u l Bora on Thursday said it will continue to contest all forthcoming elections in Assam as part of the ruling BJP-led coalition government in the state.

The party will also seek to strengthen its membership base during the next year, he said.

Addressing a press conference here, Bora said, “The coalition of AGP with BJP and United People’s Party Liberal (UPPL) will be intact for all elections to local civic bodies.”

The state’s agriculture minister also said people were satisfied with the performance of the previous BJP-led government, of which AGP was a partner, and hence, had retained power in this year’s polls.

“People were fed up with Congress misrule of 15 years. Hence, they voted for our alliance in 2016,” Bora said.

IMPHAL, DEC 30: BJP r e m ove d ‘ i n s u r g e n c y, instability and inequality’ of the erstwhile Congress regime in Manipur and initiated “infrastructure, innovation, integration” in the state, BJP national president JP Nadda claimed, in a speech here on Thursday.

Nadda who arrived in Imphal on a visit for a hours in the afternoon, addressed a rally of youths (Yuva Rally) in Manipur’s Kakching d i s t r i c t h e a d q u a r t e r s, besides attending a meeting with leaders of the state unit of the saffron fold at Hotel Classic Grande in Imphal to discuss the election strategies of the party.

In the rally participated by hundreds of youths, he termed the Congress regime as a ‘dark period’ in the country as well as in the state.

“We need to remember the dark period of the Congress regime so as to take the taste of light of development,” he said.

Nadda said that during its long regime, Congress has not initiated any developmental activities.

The only gift of the then Congress rule in the state was lawlessness, insecurity and instability.

BJP president JP Nadda addressing a Yuva Rally in Manipur s Kakching district on Thursday.

He said there was no peace in the state and it was divided on communal lines under Congress rule.

He claimed that peace has now been restored in the state under the BJP-led government and people have seen the light of development.

“If you want to take the taste of the light of development initiated by the BJP government, you must always remember the dark days under the Congress regime,” he said while highlighting various developmental activities taken up under the BJP government.

He claimed that

road connectivity has improved remarkably in the state under the BJP-led coalition government and that it brought about rail connectivity in the state.

On infrastr uctures developed under the BJP rule, Nadda said sports stadiums were developed in every district of the state to acknowledge talents of the youths of the state in sports.

Along with innovation, the BJP has also initiated integration in the state, he added, claiming that deteriorated harmony among the different communities has been restored in the state.

While protecting the

integrity and culture, the BJP has introduced the inner line permit (ILP) system in the state so as to bring the people of Manipur closer to the mainstream, he claimed.

He further asked the gathering to remember frequent blockades on the national highways, bandhs and strikes in the state under the Congress regime while cautioning people that the party had kept the state under dark for a long time will come up with new promises during election time.

He asked the people not to forget that BJP worked hard to make the

Assam government issues guidelines for New Year’s Eve GUWAHATI, DEC 30 (AGENCIES): The Assam government has declared a night curfew from 11.30 p.m. to 6 a.m. citing an increase in Omicron viruses across the country. Assam has yet to disclose any Omicron variant instances that have been verified, reports The Sentinel Assam.

The new Assam State D i s a s t e r M a n a ge m e n t Authority (ASDMA) regulation came into effect on December 26 but will not apply on New Year’s Eve, December 31. All workplaces, commercial enter prises would be prohibited from remaining open after 10.30 p.m., according to the new decree.

“A l l wo r k p l a c e s, business/commercial establishments, dine-in restaurants, hotels, dhabas and other eateries, the takeaway of food items from restaurants/dhabas and other eateries, opening sale counters, showrooms, etc., of cold storages and

File photo of traffic police checking for drunken driving. warehouses, shops dealing with groceries, fruits and vegetables, dairy and milk booths, will remain open until 10.30 p.m.,” according to an ASDMA statement.

The state authorities have asked the District D i s a s t e r M a n a ge m e n t Authorities (DDMAs) to set limits on assembling in open areas in their districts based on the Covid-19 scenario.

Closed venues are authorised to operate at 50% of their seating capacity under the ASDMA. However, there be no tolerance for drunk and driving.

Also, organizations planning to host new year parties are requested to take prior permissions for the same.

The gover nment has also approved the operation of major religious organisations with 60 fully vaccinated individuals per hour, and smaller religious institutions with 40 fully vaccinated people per hour.

In the cinema hall, which will continue to operate at 50% capacity, only fully vaccinated viewers with Covid appropriate measures will be seated.

Wanted HNLC leader surrenders in Meghalaya Correspondent SHILLONG, DEC 30: A wanted militant of the outlawed militant outfit Hynñiewtre p National Liberation Council (HNLC) on Friday surrendered before Border Security Force (BSF) authorities in Meghalaya.

J u n e l To n g p e r alias June, who was the “East Jaintia Hills Area Commander” of the HNLC joined the mainstream in a surrender ceremony before Inderjit Singh Rana, the Inspector General of the BSF’s Meghalaya Frontier at Umkiang border outpost in East Jaintia Hills district.

Tongper is wanted

by Meghalaya police in connection with extortion and other criminal cases.

As per police records, Tongper was apprehended

by Meghalaya police in 2015, but was released on bail and then he went missing to rejoin the HNLC. He joined the HNLC in 2010 and after receiving ar ms training, he was actively involved with the unlawful activities of the outfit.

He was based at Panaipunjee under Kulaura police station of Moulvibazar district of

BJP initiated ‘infrastructure, innovation, integration’ in Mnp: Nadda Correspondent

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

state free from bandhs, blockades and strikes.

Nadda’s visit to the poll-bound state was the fourth in recent times. He had paid a brief visit in Imphal last Friday.

Earlier, a large number of BJP leaders and workers led by state unit president A Sarda Devi and chief minister N Biren Singh extended a warm welcome to the national BJP president on his arrival at Imphal airport.

A h i g h ly r e l i a b l e source said that the meeting also discussed the upcoming visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the state.

Modi is likely to visit the state on January 4 to address an election rally in Imphal. He is also proposed to inaugurate some completed developmental projects.

Concluding his visit, Nadda left Imphal by air around 7 pm on Thursday.

The elections to the 60-seat Manipur assembly are likely to be held in February-March next year along with Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Uttarakhand and Goa. The Election Commission of India (ECI) is likely to announce the election schedules in the last part of the first week or early part of the second week of next month, January.

Surrender ceremony of Junel Tongper.

Bangladesh.

Stating that he was “misled,” by the outfit, Tongper said he was an unemployed youth when he joined the outfit and was “misguided” like other youths like him.

Meanwhile, the BSF said it took quite some effort to counsel the militant to join the mainstream by leaving the outfit’s unlawful activities. The BSF’s intelligence wing was constantly in touch with Tongper for almost a year before being able to

convince him to leave the outfit.

“Due to the effort of the BSF for the past one year it was possible to motivate June Tongper to join the mainstream. More such misguided youths will join the mainstream in the near future,” BSF officials asserted.

The BSF also confirmed that several youths like Tongper have been exploited and lured into the outfit by the HNLC due to their economic hardship and their simplicity and

innocence. These youths were then engaged in the outfit’s unlawful activities.

The BSF further added that it would be providing such misguided youths like Tongper skill development and vocational training and also provide remuneration after their surrender.

Rana on the other hand said militancy in the state has prevailed in the state due to the economic hardship and also due to lack of employment opportunities.

He nonetheless urged the youths not to fall victim to such ploy and also urged the local population to work in tandem with the BSF in fighting militancy.

He said that the BSF is putting in all-out effort in encouraging the youth to join the paramilitary force, armed forces so that they can lead a respectable life and put an end to their economic hardship.

The HNLC, which runs hit-and-run operations from its hideout in Bangladesh, has been demanding a sovereign Hynniewtrep homeland in Meghalaya.

Meghalaya shares a 443 km-long border with Bangadesh, part of which is porous, hilly and unfenced and prone to frequent infiltrations.

Major push to hydro power development in Arunachal Pradesh

A hydel project constructed by NEEPCO in Arunachal.

DIMAPUR, DEC 30 (NPN): Nor th Easter n Electric Power Corporation Ltd. (NEEPCO) has notified that the Union Power Ministry on December 22, 2021 has allotted 29 hydro projects totalling 32,415 MW to the four hydro CPSUs, namely NEEPCO, NHPC, THDC and SJVN for execution in Arunachal Pradesh.

A press release by NEEPCO general manager corporate affairs & corporate communications stated that Arunachal Pradesh having the maximum hydro potential in the country has so far only 3 major hydro projects under operation and all them have been executed

by NEEPCO, totalling 1115

MW. To expedite the work on these 29 hydro projects, the deputy chief minister of Ar unachal Pradesh, SChowna Mein held a detailed meeting with V.K. Singh, CMD-NEEPCO, A.K. Singh, CMD-NHPC, R.K. Vishnoy, CMD-THDC and Nand Lal Sharma, CMD-SJVN at New Delhi recently.

The Deputy CM assured the CMDs that all around support shall be extended to them. R.D. Paliwal, advisor to govt. of Ar unachal Pradesh, P r a s h a n t L o k h a n d e, C o m m i s s i o n e r ( H yd r o Power) and R.K. Joshi, C.E. (Hydro Power Monitoring) were also present during the

meeting.

Out of 29 allotted hydro projects, NEEPCO will execute 17 of them and 2 more in JV with NHPC. V.K. Singh, CMDNEEPCO has appealed to the employees of NEEPCO to reaffirm the commitments and adopt a professional and productive culture to continue to deliver as a vibrant and responsive organization.

NEEPCO being the pioneer organization working in the northeast since 1976 have so far commissioned 2057 MW and has maintained that development of hydro power is imperative in the context of energy transition goals set for the country.

NATIONAL

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

C’garh Police arrest Hindu seer from MP; both states spar

RAIPUR, DEC 30 (PTI): Chhattisgarh Police arrested Hindu religious leader Kalicharan Maharaj from neighbouring Madhya Pradesh on Thursday over his alleged derogatory remarks against Mahatma Gandhi, an official said.

The action, however, led to a slugfest between the BJP-governed Madhya Pradesh and the Congress government in Chhattisgarh.

Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra claimed the action was a violation of the interstate protocol, a charge denied by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, who asked Mishra whether he was happy or sad with the arrest of the person who “abused” Mahatma Gandhi.

Baghel also said action will be taken against those using abusive language against the Father of the Nation, who gave the message of peace and nonviolence to the world.

Acting on a specific input, a team of Raipur police apprehended Kalicharan Maharaj alias Abhijeet Dhananjay Saraag at

Kalicharan Maharaj was picked up from Khajuraho in Madhya Pradesh. around 4 am from a rented room near Bageshwar Dham, located about 25 km from Khajuraho town in MP, Raipur Superintendent of Police Prashant Agrawal told PTI. “Three separate teams of Raipur police were sent to trace Kalicharan in Ma-

harashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Delhi. The seven-member team which was sent to MP got the success and arrested Kalicharan near Khajuraho, where he was staying in the rented room,” the official said.

He will be brought here via road route by Thursday

evening and will be produced in a court within 24 hours of custody, the official said.

However, MP Home Minister Mishra termed the Chhattisgarh Police’s action as “highly objectionable”.

“We have objections to the way Chhattisgarh acted in the matter. It is a violation of the inter-state protocol which the Chhattisgarh Congress government should not have done. The federal structure did not allow such an action,” Mishra told reporters in Bhopal when asked about the seer’s arrest.

“They should have informed us. If they wanted, they could have summoned him (Kalicharan) by sending a notice. I have asked Madhya Pradesh Director General of Police to immediately talk to Chhattisgarh’s DGP and register a strong protest on the way this arrest was effected and also seek an explanation on the issue,” the minister said.

Chhattisgarh CM Baghel, meanwhile, denied any violation of protocols in the seer’s arrest from the neighbouring state.

“Narottam Mishra ji

should first tell whether he is happy or sad with the arrest of the person who abused Mahatma Gandhi. No rules were violated and action was taken as per the legal provisions,” Baghel told reporters in Delhi, where he has to attend a meeting of finance ministers of states called by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman,. Baghel also shared a video clip on his Twitter handle in which he said action will be taken against those who use derogatory words against the Father of the Nation.

“Mahatma Gandhi gave the message of peace, brotherhood, love, truth, non-violence and equality to the world, and if anyone uses abusive language against such a legendary person, then action will be taken against him. The Chhattisgarh Police have taken action. His (Kalicharan) family members and lawyer have been informed and he will be produced in a court within 24 hours,” said Baghel, who also holds charge of the state finance department.

On Sunday, an FIR was registered against Ka-

licharan Maharaj in Chhattisgarh’s capital Raipur for allegedly using derogatory words against Mahatma Gandhi.

A case was also registered against him at Akola in Maharashtra on Monday in this connection. The seer is a resident of Shivajinagar in old city area of ??Akola.

Maharashtra minister Jitendra Awhad also filed a police case in Thane city against the seer on Wednesday over his alleged remarks.

During the conclusion of the two-day ‘dharma sansad’ (religious parliament) in Raipur on Sunday evening, the seer had allegedly used abusive words against the Father of the Nation, and asked people to elect a staunch Hindu leader as the head of the government in order to protect the religion.

The Pune police also recently registered a case against Kalicharan Maharaj, right-wing leader Milind Ekbote and four others for allegedly making inflammatory speeches during an event in the Maharashtra city on December 19 and hurting religious sentiments, officials earlier said.

5 Twin encounters in J-K; six militants, Army jawan killed

SRINAGAR, DEC 30 (PTI): Six Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militants, including two Pakistani nationals involved in the December 13 attack on a police bus on the outskirts of the city, were killed in twin encounters in south Kashmir that also left an Army jawan dead, officials said on Thursday.

While three militants were killed in an overnight encounter in Anantnag, three others were killed in the gunfight which took place in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday evening, the officials said. Two jawans and a police personnel were injured during the Anantnag operation, they said.

The encounters took place after the forces launched cordon and search operations in Nowgam Shahabad area in Anantnag district, and Mirhama area of Kulgam – both in south Kashmir – after specific inputs about the presence of militants in these areas on Wednesday evening.

“In the last about five days, security forces have carried out multiple opera-

tions across the valley resulting in 11 hardcore terrorists being neutralised, killed.

On Wednesday night, in two separate operations, six terrorists, including two Pakistani terrorists, of JeM cadre have been neutralised in Kulgam and Anantnag,” General officer Commanding of the Army’s 15 Corps, Lt Gen D P Pandey said.

He was addressing a joint press conference along with Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar, at Qazigund in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The GoC said during the operation, Sepoy Jasbir Singh lost his life.

“As the operation was being conducted in very heavily built up area, while evacuating civilians from harm’s way, we had two Army personnel and one JKP personnel suffering gunshot wounds. They are all stable as of now,” he said.

The IGP Kashmir said the JeM group was involved in the December 13 attack on a police bus in Zewan area on the outskirts of the city here in which three policemen were killed.

No bail for Narayan Rane’s MLA son All political parties want UP polls be held as per schedule: CEC one of his associates and co-accused was also rejected in the assault case against them. The court order came after a tough legal battle between the prosecution lawyers and the defence team before the judge since

Nitesh Rane SINDUDURG (MAHARASHTRA), DEC 30 (IANS): In a huge setback for BJP lawmaker and Union Minister Narayan Rane’s son, Nitesh Rane, a local court in Maharashtra’s Sindudurg on Thursday rejected his anticipatory bail application.

His lawyer Sangram Desai said that since the bail application has been declined, they would move the Bombay High Court soon after getting the copy of the court orders.

Along with Nitesh Rane - who is currently “missing”, the bail plea of

Tuesday.

However, advocate Desai said it was wrong to term Nitesh Rane as an “absconder” even as the Maharashtra Police are now likely to step up efforts to arrest him.

Cops flouting law by asking Narayan Rane to visit police station: Fadnavis

Senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Thursday alleged that the police in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district are violating law by asking Union minister Narayan Rane to visit a police station to record his statement in a case in which his son is named as an accused.

Fadnavis claimed that police cannot order a person above 65 years of age to visit a police station to record statement, and the investigators themselves have to visit such a person’s residence for that purpose.

BJP MLA Nitesh Rane, son of Narayan Rane, 69, has been named as an accused in connection with an alleged attack on one Santosh Parab. Nitesh Rane represents Kankavli constituency in Sindhudurg district.

Sindhudurg police on Wednesday issued a notice to Narayan Rane to present his MLA son before them in connection with the case. They also asked Narayan Rane to be present at Kankavli police station to record his statement in connection with the case, but he did not appear at the given time, following which police pasted the notice at his residence there, police sources had said.

LUCKNOW, DEC 30 (PTI): Chief Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra on Thursday said all political parties in Uttar Pradesh want the Assembly elections to be held according to schedule while ensuring Covid protocol.

The number of polling booths will be enhanced and the voting time will be increased by an hour, he said, adding polling officials will be vaccinated and those eligible will be given a booster dose.

On a three-day visit to Lucknow to review preparations for the elections slated to be held early next year, Chandra held a series of meetings with representatives of different political parties as well as state and district-level officials.

Elections are due in Uttar Pradesh by midMarch when the term of the Yogi Adityanath government ends.

“I have been told that 86 per cent of the people

K’taka local polls: Cong, BJP both claim victory BENGALURU, DEC 30 (IANS): The results of 58 Urban Local Bodies (ULB), 57 gram panchayats and bypolls of 9 wards (ULB) across Karnataka have thrown mixed results for the ruling BJP and the Opposition Congress party. Both claimed victory saying that they have the majority and confidence of the people.

The elections to ULBs which were delayed by 3 years were held on December 27. After counting of votes started, trends indicated a close fight between the BJP and the Congress.

Opposition leader Siddaramaiah claimed that this result shows that people are dejected with the BJP government. The results have shown that they can’t win elections with money power, he said.

“To elections held for 1,187 seats of local bodies across the state, the Congress has won more than 500 seats and BJP has managed to win 434 seats and JD(S) won 45 seats.

More than 100 local bodies have thrown up fractured mandate. There is a wave for Congress in the state,” Siddaramaiah explained.

Congress President D.K. Shivakumar went on to say that the results of local body elections reflected the mood of the people of Karnataka. “This is the victory of Congress and the people of the state. Not only have the rural people but people in urban areas

also shown their support to the party,” he stated.

“They have reposed faith in us and we will deliver their expectations in future,” he said.

Reacting to Siddaramaiah’s claims, Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai said that the Congress has managed to win a few city corporation seats where minorities are more in number. “Let them not rejoice with that. We have won more gram panchayat seats. The results are also favourable in city corporations. BJP is going to come back to power in 2023, let Siddaramaiah and Congress not worry about that,” he stated.

Minister for Panchayati Raj and Rural Development K.S. Eshwarappa ridiculed the claims of Siddaramaiah and stated that “he is rejoicing like a couple who get children 25 years after their marriage.

We will take up development works wherever BJP has won and strive towards bringing BJP to power in future elections,” he maintained.

However, CM Bommai suffered a setback as Congress managed to win the Bankapura Municipality which comes in the Shiggavi constituency of Haveri district which he represents. The Congress has won in 14 wards, BJP in 7 and 2 independent candidates have also won.

Similarly, Guttala City Municipal Corporation of

Haveri taluk has also gone the Congress way. In the Vijayapura district among the 6 City Municipal corporations, three have been won by the Congress. Vi-

CEC Sushil Chandra flanked by ECs Rajeev Kumar (L) and Anoop Chandra Pandey (R) addresses a press conference, at Yojna Bhawan in Lucknow, Thursday. (PTI) in the state have got the first dose and 49 per cent the second shot of Covid vaccine... We have been assured that in 15 to 20 days all eligible people will get their first dose,” the chief election commissioner said. “We have asked for increasing vaccination.”

The situation arising out of the spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus was also reviewed. It has been noted that “there

Govt to decide on vaccine for precautionary dose

jayapura district is considered the bastion of the BJP. In the Belagavi district also, NEW DELHI, DEC 30 the BJP has failed to sweep (PTI): There have been elections and Congress has extensive deliberations on gained upper hand. whether the precaution(third) dose of Covid K’taka waiting to oust BJP govt: Surjewala ary vaccine for healthcare and after Congress’s victory in local body polls frontline workers and citizens above 60 years with The Congress on comorbidities should be Thursday said its victory the same as the first two in the Karnataka local doses and a decision is body polls is a clear indiexpected soon, the governcation that issues such as ment said on Thursday. anti-conversion laws do not strike a chord with Addressing a press the people of the southern conference, ICMR Direcstate, who are “waiting to tor General Dr Balram throw out the BJP govern- Randeep Singh Surjewala Bhargava said the government”. ment will issue clear cut “It is evident from that the voters care the recommendations on this recent by-election results most about price rise, fall- before January 10, when that people are waiting to ing incomes, jobs, ram- administering of the prethrow out the illegitimate pant corruption and the cautionary dose to healthand corrupt BJP govern- BJP government’s apathy ment that has eclipsed towards public welfare. care and frontline workers progress and paralysed “Manufactured issues like and those above 60 years governance,” Congress anti-conversion laws and with comorbidities will general secretary Randeep management of temples begin.

“We are having an Singh Surjewala said in a are not what people are extensive debate (on which statement here. going to be taken in with.

He said the vote “Progressive Kanna- vaccine to be given as a share in the Karnataka digas realise that such is- precautionary dose). We’ve local body polls also in- sues are meant to serve no had a series of meetings in dicates a huge slide in the one but divisive forces. Ev- NTAGI (National TechniBharatiya Janata Party’s ery second that the spuri- cal Advisory Group on (BJP) popularity in the ous and corrupt Bommai Immunisation) yesterday, state. “The vote share government continues, it the day before and today. of Congress came up to is an anathema to devel“We are deciding what 42.06 per cent, where opment and progress,” is the population that will as for BJP and JD(S), it Surjewala said. require this vaccine which stood at 36.9 per cent and In the elections to includes frontline workers, 3.8 per cent respectively,” 58 urban local bodies, healthcare workers and 60 Surjewala, who is the in- Surjewala said Congress plus with comorbidities. charge of Congress affairs emerged victorious in 500 What are new vaccines in Karnataka, said. wards, against the 435 He said successive won by the ruling BJP. available and which vacelection results of late The JD(S) bagged only 45 cine can be given in terms of safety and in terms of have clearly established wards. efficacy,” Bhargava said.

was not much impact of the latest variant in the state where only four cases were reported and three of them have recovered”, Chandra said.

He said because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of polling booths in the state will be enhanced by 11,000 to maintain proper social distancing.

Polling time will also be increased by an hour, the CEC said.

“Earlier, a booth was made for 1,500 voters. But keeping in mind the Covid pandemic, the number of voters in each booth has been reduced to 1,250.

Because of this, the number of polling booths has increased by 11,000. So, a total of 1,74,351 polling booths will be set up (in Uttar Pradesh),” he said.

Polling officials will be vaccinated and those eligible will also be given

a booster dose. Thermal scanners, masks will be provided at all polling booths and special care will be on maintaining social distancing besides proper sanitisation of booths, he said.

To ensure free and fair elections and to ensure a level playing field, the election commission ordered the transfer of officials who have been posted at one place for over a year after various political parties cast their aspersions over this.

Around 5,000 policemen have been transferred and the remaining will be transferred soon, the CEC said.

There will be 4,030 model polling booths-- 10 at each constituency --.

Also, 800 all-women polling stations will be set up, he said.

For the first time, senior citizens and those differently-abled will have the option of casting their votes from their houses, Chandra added.

Modi wanted BJP, NCP to form govt in 2019, says Sharad Pawar PUNE, DEC 30 (PTI): Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar has claimed Prime Minister Narendra Modi wanted the BJP and the NCP to come together in Maharashtra to form government in 2019, but he told the PM that “it was not possible”.

Reacting to Pawar’s comments, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut, whose party shares power with the NCP and Congress in Maharashtra, on Thursday claimed that after the 2019 Assembly polls, the BJP was desperate for power and ready to hold anyone’s hand for it.

Raut also said they were aware who was talking to whom and therefore, the BJP did not succeed in its “attempt” to form government in the state.

After the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections, the Shiv Sena parted ways with long-term ally BJP over the issue of sharing the chief ministerial post.

The Uddhav Thackerayled party then forged an alliance with the NCP and Congress to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government in the state.

On Wednesday, during an event organised by Marathi daily ‘Loksatta’, Pawar was asked if during discussions after the 2019 state polls, he had told Modi and Union minister Amit Shah that the NCP and BJP could come to-

Sharad Pawar gether if the latter replaced Devendra Fadnavis as chief minister. To this, Pawar said it is true he and PM Modi had meetings.

“It was his wish that we (NCP and BJP) come together. However, I went to his (PM’s) office and told him it was not possible. I told him that we do not want to keep him in the dark. Our stand is different,” said Pawar.

Questioned about the PM’s reaction to his response, Pawar said Modi asked him to “think over it”. Pawar said after the Maharashtra Assembly elections, for almost 90 days, the government was not formed.

With this proposal, PM Modi might have thought that by doing this (aligning with the NCP ), a stable government could be formed in the state, he said.

When asked about his views that the BJP, which targeted the NCP over various alleged scams during elections campaigns had

sought help from the same party, Pawar said he would not say that the BJP sought help from the NCP. He also said that after the Maharashtra Assembly elections, during several meetings between the Congress and NCP, the bitterness between leaders of the two parties had increased.

“Perhaps, the BJP leadership thought that an advantage can be taken of this situation, and that is what they tried to explore,” he said.

Pawar also recalled his one statement after the 2019 state elections -- that if Fadnavis was short of some MLAs to form government, the NCP would think about it seriously -- “further widened the gap between the Shiv Sena and BJP”.

After this, the Shiv Sena was sure that BJP leader Fandavis will make a move.

Notably, before the MVA came to power, Fadnavis was sworn in as the CM in a hush hush early morning ceremony at the Raj Bhavan, with NCP’s Ajit Pawar as hit deputy.

However, Fadnavis quit as the CM four days later.

Meanwhile, reacting to Pawar’s comments, Shiv Sena’s spokesperson Sanjay Raut claimed that in 2019, the BJP was “desperate” for power and therefore, it was ready to “hold anyone’s hand”.

6

OPINION/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post

Post-mortem

VOL. XXXII NO. 26 DIMAPUR, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Foundation of hate

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rom what has been happening especially 2014, not in irregular frequencies nor in scattered parts of India, but a consistent fuelling of hatred, fear, insecurity, abuse of freedom of speech, browbeating the free and liberal media across the country, these are unmistakable but unhealthy signs of an emerging another India. What this another India is going to be is clear as the perpetrators are not fringe elements or right wing extremists but those belonging to the party in power at the Centre, espousing to stamp the authority of the majority religion. Among the hundreds such incidents is the recent assembly of so-called sadhus at Haridwar in Uttarakhand which has called for the mass murder of Muslims. The videos of the vitriolic, hate speeches have now been in circulation for a few days, and have been analysed by the media in some measure.

It is not only Muslims who have been consistently targeted by also Christians across India and the incidents are rising. And most tragically, the government at the Centre has not bothered to speak a word. A line has been crossed, and nothing short of employing the full force of the law of the land would suffice to uphold the Constitution, and all that the nation stands for. Where exemplary action was required, the reluctance shown by the Uttarakhand police is no less disturbing than the offensive and inflammatory themes that marked the proceedings of the gathering. Where outright condemnation was required from the highest levels of leadership(at the Centre), the silence sends out a message that doesn’t inspire confidence. As the police authorities at Uttarakhand had not taken cognisance of the offence, Dushyant Dave, a supreme court lawyer, along with the group of 76 lawyers has written to the Chief Justice of India asking the Supreme Court to take suo moto cognisance of the anti-Muslim hate speeches made in Haridwar and Delhi recently.

DGP of Uttarakhand Police to say that they have just booked people was shocking. This again confirms that even those supposed to uphold the law of the land have decided who should and who should not be penalised. Recently, a national print media commented that in such incidents , it was the bounden duty of every government of the day to take cognisance of the capacity of the fringe to manufacture extreme viewpoints. For the past several years, however, the patronage to the communal rabblerousers has not been hidden. A hate propaganda that feeds on imaginary fears has been encouraged to flourish, right under the nose of the law and order machinery. The outcome is the audacious and shocking videos from the controversial event, where the speakers advocated a call to arms against the minorities and outdid each other in spewing venom.

Allowing these offenders, with a track record of provocative speeches, to get away with open incitement to violence and hatred would amount to a tacit approval, and only embolden the likes of them. Nothing could be more despicable. Strictest action against those who incite violence is what the law calls for, and what is expected.

DailyDevotion “And Every Virtue We Possess” …All my springs are in you. —Psalm 87:7

Our Lord never “patches up” our natural virtues, that is, our natural traits, qualities, or characteristics. He completely remakes a person on the inside— “…put on the new man…” (Ephesians 4:24). In other words, see that your natural human life is putting on all that is in keeping with the new life. The life God places within us develops its own new virtues, not the virtues of the seed of Adam, but of Jesus Christ. Once God has begun the process of sanctification in your life, watch and see how God causes your confidence in your own natural virtues and power to wither away. He will continue until you learn to draw your life from the reservoir of the resurrection life of Jesus. Thank God if you are going through this drying-up experience!

The sign that God is at work in us is that He is destroying our confidence in the natural virtues, because they are not promises of what we are going to be, but only a wasted reminder of what God created man to be. We want to cling to our natural virtues, while all the time God is trying to get us in contact with the life of Jesus Christ— a life that can never be described in terms of natural virtues.

It is the saddest thing to see people who are trying to serve God depending on that which the grace of God never gave them. They are depending solely on what they have by virtue of heredity. God does not take our natural virtues and transform them, because our natural virtues could never even come close to what Jesus Christ wants. No natural love, no natural patience, no natural purity can ever come up to His demands. But as we bring every part of our natural bodily life into harmony with the new life God has placed within us, He will exhibit in us the virtues that were characteristic of the Lord Jesus.

And every virtue we possess is His alone.

Quotes

The limits of the possible can only be defined by going beyond them into the impossible. ~ Arthur C. Clarke

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

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NPP memorandum to Prime Minister

he National People’s Party (NPP), Nagaland State Unit warmly extends to you season’s greetings and we pray that the message of peace and hope be upon you as we prepare to welcome the year 2022. We would like to express our sincere appreciation for your Government’s concern for the North East of India wherein you have accorded the region utmost priority in the Government’s development agenda.

However, it is sad to note that old wounds were re-opened with the unfortunate and ghastly incident that took place at Oting-Tiru Village of Mon District, Nagaland on 4th December 2021 and subsequently on 5th December at Mon Town, which has led to 14 innocent and unarmed citizens being shot down without any provocation by the erring personnel of the 21st Para Special Force of the Indian Army and Assam Rifles. While condemning this dastardly act of the Indian Army, we would like to draw your kind attention towards the following legitimate requests on behalf of the people of Nagaland.

1. Sincere apology by the Government of India: Sir, as you are well aware the firing upon and killing of innocent civilians took place because of a botched up army operation due to wrong intelligence inputs of the Indian Intelligence Agencies. Hence, it becomes the bounden responsibility of the Government of India to tender a sincere apology to the families of the deceased and the injured victims.

Therefore, we request the Government of India to come out clean and accept the grave blunder on the part of the intelligence agencies and the Indian Army and thereby issue a public apology in the Lok Sabha as well as Rajya Sabha so that the faith of the Naga people in the Central Government is restored.

2. Proper investigation by National Investigation Agency/Central Bureau of Investigation and punitive action against the erring jawans: We request the Government of India to be unbiased and sincere in going into the truth of the incidents and to conduct a free and fair

investigation into the circumstances leading into the firing upon and killing of innocent civilians. We call upon your kind office to institute a proper and highest level enquiry by the National Investigation Agency or the Central Bureau of Investigation. This will ensure that justice is ensured for the victims and their families and befitting punishment is meted to the wrong-doers without any bias or partiality whatsoever.

3. Adequate compensation to the family members of the victims: We also request the Government of India to be fair enough to give adequate compensation to the families of the deceased as well as the injured through direct transfer of ex-gratia amounts and also by providing government jobs to at least one family member of the deceased. This may not be able to bring back their precious lives but this will ensure that their families get due compensation and a source of income as the ones who were killed were the sole bread-earners of their families. They were able to make ends meet by working under dire circumstances in the coal mines. They were not gun-wielding terrorists as the sources in the government and the military are trying to paint it.

4. Total repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act : We, as a people’s party believe that the present Government has been keen and serious in solving the vexed Naga Political Issue and we are grateful to you for taking due initiative in taking peace talks forward with almost all of the stakeholders. However, it is equally sad and pitiful to see that the same gover nment which has ruled out resolution of the issue through violence and enmity has also kept the priority of peaceful coexistence asunder by continuing with draconian laws like the AFPSA. Moreover, we feel that when you have already extended your hand for peace talks why should the Central Government have a disturbing agenda of derailing this peace process by imposing and continuing with such an arbitrary law like AFPSA. Instead of coming up with concrete and conclusive proposals towards a solution to the decades long

Indo-Naga political problem, we are dismayed by the fact that the Central Government has not fully assessed the present condition and ground realities of present day Nagaland in particular and the North Eastern region in general.

At present when almost all the Naga Political Groups have come to the talkstable and there are no such provocative threats on the Indian Security Agencies as it was before the cease-fire, we feel that the Central Government should give meaningful leverage to the peace talks by bringing to an end the draconian Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). On this particular aspect we are very resolute and determined because the AFSPA has done more harm to the people of the North East including Nagaland due to many issues which we have enumerated for your kind perusal: a) Under Section (4) (a) of the Act, a military personnel or even a noncommissioned officer of the force can fire, shoot to the extent of killing a person who has acted against the law to maintain public order. The provision clearly violates the Right to Life and personal liberty granted under Article 21 of the Constitution of India which states that “No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.” Due to AFSPA, the personal liberty of the people comes under great threat. Now, the provision also prohibits the assembly of five or more people in the area. But the kind of assembly has not been defined. What if the assembly is a lawful and a peaceful one?

Under Article 19(1)(b) of the Constitution of India, all citizens of India have a right to hold meetings and take out processions, provided the assembly is unarmed and peaceful. b) Under Section 4(c) the army can arrest anyone without a warrant, who has committed, is suspected of having committed or of being about to commit, a cognizable offense and use any amount of force “necessary to affect the arrest”.

It is to be noted that arrest without warrant, deciding the amount of force to be applied, reasoning the suspicion and all, is capable of being undertaken by

anyone in the army from a commissioned officer to even the Jawans though the act very categorically mentions that the special powers can only be used by commissioned officers.

This manifests nothing, but the arbitrariness of the law. c) Section 6 provides impunity to the military officers. It establishes that no legal proceedings can be brought against any member of the armed forces acting under the AFSPA, without the permission of the Central Government. This section leaves the victims of the armed forces abuses without a remedy, while assures safeguards for the military.

Moreover, even if any armed forces member is ever tried for any kind of abuse or wrong, then they are tried in the martial courts, whose judgments are usually not published or made public. That is the reason why several cases of human rights abuses have gone unheard. In fact, even the NHRC never got a chance to review any of such human rights violations. Section 19(b) of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993 exempts the armed forces from the purview of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), and even if human rights cases involving them are dealt with, they are done with after seeking a report from the central government. d) AFSPA has been challenged on several occasions by many human rights activists as it contravenes both Indian and International law standards.

This was exemplified when India presented its second periodic report to the United Nations Human Rights Committee in 1991.

Members of the UNHRC asked numerous questions about the validity of the AFSPA. The Attorney General of India relied on the sole argument that the AFSPA is a necessary measure to prevent the secession of the North Eastern states of India. e) AFPSA also violates the following provisions of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), such as; Free and Equal Dignity (Article 1), Non discrimination (Article 2), Life, Liberty, Security of person (Article 3), No torture (Article 5), Equality before the law (Article 7), Effective remedy (Article 8),

No Arbitrary arrest (Article 9), Right to property (Article 17). The greatest outrage of the AFSPA under both Indian and International law is the violation of the right to life.

This comes under Article 6 of the ICCPR, and it is a non-derogable right.

This means no situation, or state of emergency, or internal disturbance, can justify the suspension of this right.

In reiterating our demand for a total abrogation of the AFSPA, we would like to state that the people of Nagaland in particular and the citizens of the North East in general should not be treated as adversaries of the Indian nation but as peace loving people who have equal rights under the same Constitution of India. Therefore, we request the Government of India not to merely appease the people by suggesting partial repeal of the AFSPA or making some alternate and biased arrangement which is nothing but temporary solution to the problem.

If permanent peace is to prevail in this beautiful region of ours, then there should not be any place for such inhuman laws.

Therefore, we ardently request you to listen to our voice and totally repeal the AFSPA once and for all without giving it any political colour.

5. Early conclusion of the Indo-Naga peace talks and permanent settlement: Sir, as a political party representing the hopes and aspirations of the people of Nagaland and the North Eastern Region, it has been our top most priority to support the ongoing IndoNaga peace process and also to lend an active support to usher in a new era of peace and development in the region. It is therefore our humble request to the Government of India to expedite the peace talks and bring to an early conclusion the much awaited solution to this vexed issue once and for all. Here, we would like to reiterate that during this peace process and talks for early solution, when the people are eagerly looking forward to peace and progress in the state and region, it would be a magnanimous act on the part of the Government of India in not continuing with such repressive laws like the AFPSA so that the mutual trust and understanding

between the Indian Government and the Nagas is not hampered. If at all the peace process has to be fulfilled from all corners, the Government of India while making attempts to bring to a conclusion this decades old political issue must also take a leap forward by earning the trust of the Naga populace by bringing to an end the AFSPA first before anything else. We would therefore reiterate our request for an early and favourable settlement to this contiguous political issue which has led to untold misery and suffering of the common people.

We feel that a permanent solution to the vexed IndoNaga political issue would lead to all-round progress and development of not only Nagaland but also of the entire North Eastern region.

Lastly, we would like to assure the Central Government that peace and tranquility is rapidly revisiting the State and all the National Political Workers, Civil Society Organisations, Political Parties, etc. are eager and enthusiastic to solve the Indo-Naga Political problem which has been recognized not only by the Indian Government but also by International forums. In such a situation, unwarranted and unfortunate incidents like the one which took place at Oting-Tiru Village in Mon District will jeopardize the immense efforts made by both the parties to bring forth a permanent solution to one of the oldest political problems of India. Such incidents will also send a wrong message to the people about the intentions of the Indian Government.

We hope that the Central Government will therefore retrospect on their actions and we believe that you Sir, as the leader of the world’s largest democracy will ponder on our requests which we have genuinely laid before you with much concern and gravity. The decisions now lie before the Central Government, to take up the necessary review at the parliamentary level to repeal the AFSPA as soon as possible so that the mighty efforts of our predecessors to usher in an era of peace and good will do not go in vain.

Thank you Sir and Jai Hind!

National People’s Party Nagaland State.

Parliamentarians must act as a catalyst of social change

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he live telecast of proceedings of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha on national as well as international electronic media channels has brought new dimension in the history of Parliament. From a ‘Majdoor’ in a Jhhopary to a ‘Malik’ in a Mahal, all watch the scene inside the highest institution of Indian democracy. The behaviour of uneducated, uncivilized and some criminal history seater members presents the scene of nothing but ‘Machhali Bazar’. This is not only unfortunate, but shameful for the 70-year old Great Indian republic.

Parliamentarians should specialize in certain subjects so as to be able to truly serve as ‘watchdogs of public interest’.

They should not abuse their own privileges for personal benefit and at the same time ensure that the wastage and extravagance of public money is prevented. The only way parliamentarians could curb the tendency to abuse their privileges and prevent misuse of public money is by going in for specialization in the subjects of

their choice.

In fact, information will flow to the person who is known to have specialized in certain fields. Apart from this, such type of parliamentarians will gain the respect of the authorities as well as the society as a whole.

Given the changing nature of contemporary society, the parliamentarians’ role is multifaceted. They have to be active, vigilant, helpful and industrious if they wish to fulfill the role effectively. In this context, the members should actively promote both official and nonofficial efforts to ameliorate the social, economic and educational conditions of the people, they represent.

The country mourns at the leisurely scrutiny of bills becoming a thing of the past. The net result of hurriedly drafted and hastily adopted bills has a plethora of legal disputes and consequent uncertainty of law.

Legislatures play a critical role in the debate surrounding the development of the budget, as well as final budget approval.

They should advocate for a budget that adequately caters for the all-round development of the people and that the most pressing needs are given priority.

They should offer constructive suggestions while participating in debates and other activities in different spheres. They should actively engage themselves in the affairs concerning the State. They should treat politics as a serious profession and parliamentary career as a full-time job.

As representative of citizens, parliamentarians have to highlight the concerns of all sections of society in the media and in parliament to ensure that these concerns are reflected in national development strategies and budgets.

They create and enlighten public opinion as a pre-requisite for the success of democracy.

They are legislators and monitors of government policy at the national & State level, as well as the guardians of the will and conscience of the people as elected representatives of the population. A member of

parliament is thus placed in a unique position. He provides a link between the public and the government.

One of the worst features of the Parliamentary process is the committee on sub-ordinate legislation that goes into rulemaking, executive power, etc. It is in the work of this committee that the legislative role of the Parliament is meshed in with the administrative role of the executive which provides the essential linkage between law and daily life.

The parliamentarians, irrespective of whether they have a legal background or administrative experience, could bring to bear a fund of practical common sense based on their experience in public life in the field of subordinate legislation. They should bestow their attention to this important aspect of legislative activity.

The present-day members have apparently no care of their duties. They have given up the healthy practice of explaining to the public at the end of each ses-

sion of Parliament, the important issues discussed and the stands taken by each of the parties.

This is in the nature of rendering account to the masters and thereby deserving the privileges conferred by them.

Parliamentarians around the world should also play a crucial role in the efforts to counter terrorism. They scrutinize government’s behaviors to ensure that human’s rights as well as the rule of law is respected, in striking a balance between protecting citizens & promoting their liberty.

Parliamentarians should act as a catalyst of social change by being in constant touch with the people and representing the views & aspirations of the people. They should contribute immensely in promoting; advancing & implementing the Sustainable Development Goals set up by the government and should create ownership for these goals at national level and within their constituencies.

Er. Prabhat Kishore is a technocrat & academician.

Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

7

NATIONAL

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

govts spent money on burial Cong delayed projects, looted U’khand: Modi ‘Previous grounds, we develop religious spots’

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates & lays the foundation stone of various development projects in Haldwani, Thursday. (PTI)

“Generations of people in Uttarakhand villages were forced to leave their homes in the absence of roads and other facilities and migrate somewhere else,” he said.

Modi said the Lakhwar project if implemented earlier would have addressed electricity, irrigation and drinking water needs in Uttarakhand hills.He said there are two approaches-one to keep the hills deprived of development and the other to work day and night for their development.

The prime minister accused the previous gov-

ernment in Uttarakhand of being interested only in “looting” the state and said it did nothing for its development.

In a veiled attack on Congress leader Harish Rawat, Modi said one of those in power earlier said, “You may even loot the state but save my government.

Those who love Uttarakhand cannot even think of something like that.”

His reference was to a purported video in which Harish Rawat was allegedly heard negotiating a money deal to buy back the support

of rebel MLAs in the state in 2016.

Modi said the implementation of the projects whose foundation stone was laid today are his commitments.

“I am working with my heart and soul for the development of Uttarakhand,” he said.

Modi inaugurated six projects worth Rs 3,420 crore and laid the foundation stones of 17 others worth Rs 14,127 crore.

The inaugurated projects include three different stretches of the Char

Dham all-weather road, which have been widened, Nagina-Kashipur National Highway, Suring Gad hydel project and sewage works under the Namami Gange programme at Nainital.

An AIIMS satellite centre for Kumaon worth Rs 500 crore, MoradabadKashipur four-lane road, improved road connectivity with Nepal and an Aroma Park in Kashipur are among the key projects whose foundation was laid by the prime minister.

The Lakhwar multipurpose project will produce 300 MW of electricity.

The 330 million cubic metres water in its reservoir will supply irrigation and drinking water to six states of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Delhi.

This is Modi’s second visit to the state this month.

On his last visit to Uttarakhand on December 4, Modi had unveiled projects worth over Rs 18,000 crore in Dehradun, besides addressing an election rally.

I follow PM: Raut on not wearing mask Woman vaccinated 4 times

NASHIK, DEC 30 (PTI): Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut, who was seen without a mask at an event here on Thursday, claimed he was following the prime minister’s ‘example’.

On the sidelines of the event at Nashik in Maharashtra, some reporters asked the Rajya Sabha member why he was not wearing a mask, a norm to be followed to curb the spread of COVID-19.

To this, Raut said, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi tells people to wear mask, but he himself

Sanjay Raut

doesn’t wear one. Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray wears mask, but Modi is the leader of the nation. I follow the prime minister and therefore, I do not wear a

mask, and even people do not wear masks.”

“Prohibitory orders are on at present, but I wish there should be no such curbs during the day as it will stop the economic growth. (NCP MP) Supriya Sule, (her husband) Sadanand Sule, (NCP legislator) Prajakt Tanpure, (Maharashtra school education minister) Varsha Gaikwad have been detected corona positive.

Therefore, everyone should take care while attending public programmes,” Raut said.

Tests positive for COVID-19

INDORE, DEC 30 ( AGENCIES): A woman who had been vaccinated four times tested positive for COVID-19 at the Indore airport following which she was prevented from boarding a Dubaibound flight, officials said on Wednesday.

The 44-year-old Dubai resident had taken four doses of two different vaccines against COVID-19.

The woman had arrived in Mhow town near Indore in Madhya Pradesh 12 days

back to attend the marriage of a close relative.

“A woman of around 30 years of age, who has been already vaccinated four times in different countries, tested COVID-19 positive at the airport and was admitted to a hospital. She was asymptomatic and tested negative a day before,” Dr Bhure Singh Setia, Indore Chief Medical and Health Officer (CHMO) was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.

People damage DTC buses after being denied boarding NEW DELHI, DEC 30 (PTI): A group of people blocked the MB Road and damaged DTC buses on Thursday morning after not being allowed to board a vehicle which had exceeded the permissible passengercarrying capacity set when Delhi is in ‘yellow’ alert due to rising Covid cases.

Police used mild force to disperse the crowd and five people have been detained, officials said.

Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (south) M Harsha Vardhan said some people blocked the MB Road and broke

Police used mild force to disperse the crowd and five people have been detained.

the glass of a DTC bus on Thursday around 10:30 am.

“Police dispersed the crowd. A case under relevant sections of the Delhi Prevention of Defacement

of Property Act, the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act and IPC is being registered at Sangam Vihar police station and five people have been detained.

Can’t impose Covid restrictions everywhere, says Mamata

Covid-19: R-value exceeds 2 in Delhi, Mumbai

Mamata Banerjee

SAGAR ISLAND (WB), DEC 30 (PTI): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said coronavirus-related restrictions cannot be imposed everywhere as it may impact the economy as has been the case since the onset of the pandemic.

Speaking to reporters while visiting the Sagar Island in South 24 Parganas district where the annual Ganga Sagar Mela will begin next month, Banerjee said COVID-19 cases in Kolkata were rising as it was a transit point for people travelling on trains and flights.

“Most omicron cases are being detected among people coming on flights from the UK. It’s a fact that the omicron carriers are coming via international flights. The Centre must decide on imposing restric-

tions on flights from countries where omicron cases are high,” she said.

Banerjee said that her government was reviewing the emerging pandemic situation “seriously” and hinted that a decision will be taken regarding restriction, taking the economy into account.

“We have to look after the safety and security of the people. We will soon make a decision. We will target places where the cases are going up. We cannot impose restrictions everywhere because that may affect the economy as it has in the last two years,” she said.

We s t B e n g a l o n Wednesday recorded a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases, recording 1,089 infections. Kolkata itself reported 540 new cases.

“COVID-19 cases in Kolkata are rising because it’s the transit point for people travelling on trains and flights. I will request everyone to follow COVID guidelines and wear masks,” Banerjee said as she boarded a helicopter for Kolkata, ending her three-day tour of the island after reviewing the preparedness for the religious congregation.

MUMBAI, DEC 30 (PTI): As coronavirus cases spiral, the `R-value’, which indicates how rapidly the virus is spreading, has crossed two in Delhi and Mumbai, researchers said on Thursday.

Chennai, Pune, Bengaluru and Kolkata have R-value (or reproduction number) of over 1, as per the data study by the researchers of the Institute of Mathematical Sciences, Chennai.

Sitabhra Sinha, who led the study, said the Rvalue of Delhi stood at 2.54 between December 23-29, while for Mumbai it was 2.01 between December 23-28. Both these cities have seen an exponential rise in cases. Pune and Bengaluru recorded R-value of 1.11.

The R-value of Kolkata and Chennai was 1.13 and 1.26, respectively.

“Since mid-October, the R-value of all these cities was over 1. What is new was the sudden rise. The fact that Delhi and Mumbai crossed the R-value 2 is quite surprising,” Sinha told PTI. Delhi on Wednesday reported a massive jump in daily COVID-19 infections with 923 fresh cases, the highest since May 30 and 86 per cent up from a day earlier.

“The incident occurred due to non-availability of seats in the buses in view of Covid-related restrictions,” he said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (south) Benita Marry Jaiker said morning, several calls complaining about a traffic jam near Jamia Hamdard on the Mehrauli-Badarpur Road were received on Thursday.

“Police reached the spot and found that some commuters were instigating others to sit on the road as bus drivers and marshalls were not allowing more than 17 passengers to board fol-

lowing the latest guidelines of the Delhi government,” the DCP said.

Police tried to convince the people to let the traffic flow through the stretch.

Later, people broke windowpanes of four to five buses, she said. Police removed the protesters from the spot.

In the melee, one police personnel also sustained injury, the DCP said.

In videos of the incident that have emerged on social media, it was seen that a green and a red airconditioned bus have been damaged. Windshields and side mirrors were broken.

People without travel history Omicron infected: Jain NEW DELHI, DEC 30 (PTI): Omicron is gradually spreading in the community and the new, fastspreading variant of concern accounted for 46 per cent of the latest Covid samples analysed in the national capital so far, Delhi Health Minister Satyendar Jain said on Thursday.

H e s a i d s t r i n ge n t curbs have been put in place as part of the Graded Response Action Plan for COVID-19 to check the spread of the infection and the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) will decide on implementing more restrictions.

“The latest genome sequencing report showed 46 per cent of the samples have Omicron. These people include those who do not have any travel history.

It means Omicron is now in Delhi,” Jain said.

“Indeed, the variant is gradually spreading in the community,” the minister said.

He also said of the 200 coronavirus cases in Delhi hospitals, only 102 belong to the city.

Of the hospitalised Covid patients in Delhi, 115 do not have any symptoms and have been kept in

Satyendar Jain

hospitals as a precautionary measure, Jain said.

The Delhi health minister had on Wednesday said many international travellers who tested negative at the airport are found to be Covid positive after a few days. During this period, they are infecting their family members, he said.

The DDMA had on Wednesday decided that Covid-related restrictions imposed in Delhi under the ‘yellow alert’ will continue for the time being and authorities will monitor the situation for a while before deciding on fresh curbs.

On Wednesday, It had declared a ‘yellow alert’ under the Graded Response Action Plan in the city amid a spike in coronavirus cases following the emergence of the Omicron variant.

MAHARAJGANJ/GORAKHPUR (UP), DEC 30 (PTI): Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday claimed that while the previous state governments spent their money on burial grounds the BJP government works on developing religious spots, which boosts tourism and also generates employment.

Adityanath made the ‘kabristan’ (graveyards) jibe at the party’s Jan Vishwas Yatra in Maharjganj, where he inaugurated or laid the foundation stones for 77 development projects worth Rs 437 crore. The assembly polls are likely to be held before March-end in Uttar Pradesh.

“The previous governments spent money on `kabristans’, our government spends it on beautification of places associated with deities, which are places of faith,” he said.

This helps tourism, generates employment and boosts the economy, he said.

The BJP government

Kerala ranked 5th in India in Good Gov Index: CM

T H I RU VA NA N T H A PURAM, DEC 30 (PTI): Kerala was ranked fifth in the country and first among southern states in the Good Governance Index (GGI) published by the central government, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said on Thursday.

The CM initially took to Twitter to announce the state’s achievement and later put up a detailed post about it on his Facebook page. “ Ke r a l a h a s b e e n ranked 5th in the #GoodGovernanceIndex & made huge improvements in many areas including the ease of doing business and industrial growth, and also ranked 1st among southern states. This reflects the progress achieved during the last five years,” he tweeted.

Later, in his Facebook post, the CM said that Kerala, which recorded significant progress in the commercial and industrial sectors, increased its Ease of Doing Business Implementation score from 44.82 to 85.00.

Except Punjab, Kerala was the only state to improve its score in such a significant manner, he added.

Yogi Adityanath

will respect faith but run bulldozers on the mafia, he said, referring to people who “encroached on the land of the poor”.

Targeting the Samajwadi Party and the Bahujan Samaj Party, he said, “When we take action against the mafia, the SP and BSP feel the pain most.”

Adityanath also referred to the construction of the Ram temple begun in Ayodhya, and the abrogation of Article 370, which gave Jammu and Kashmir a special status.

In an apparent reference to police firing at kar sevaks in Ayodhya when the SP was in power in Uttar

Pradesh, Adityanath said those who open fire at “Ram bhakts” would have never constructed the temple.

He claimed that the mafias and the “rioters” feared government action now and did not dare to create trouble in the state. Before 2014, people in power amassed the money that belonged to the poor, he said.

In an apparent reference to the recent raids at the home of a Kanpur businessman Piyush Jain, he said the same money is now being unearthed with the help of JCB machines.

The governments earlier did not care for infrastructure, he claimed. He said little was done then to tackle encephalitis and thousands of children died year after year in the state.

Earlier in Gorakhpur, the chief minister offered prayers before inaugurating an “international level” water sports complex. He also laid the foundation stones and inaugurated 114 development projects.

Trouble for Punjab Cong: 2 MLAs, Amarinder’s aide quit

CHANDIGARH, DEC 30 (AGENCIES): Two sitting MLAs and a senior leader have quit Congress in quick succession, giving a big jolt to the party that is already facing infighting over multiple issues in Punjab.

On Tuesday, Qadian MLA Fatehjang Singh Bajwa and Sri Hargobindpur MLA Balwinder Singh Laddi announced joining the BJP; while today, state body Pungrain’s chief Sukhjinder Raj Singh Lali Majithia also left the party. Majithia has not announced his future plans yet. Speaking to Zee Media, Sukhjinder Raj Singh Lalli said that he quit as he was perturbed with the prevailing party infighting.

Lalli added that unhealthy atmosphere in Punjab Con-

gress will further damage the party in the forthcoming assembly elections. Fatehjang Singh Bajwa is the younger brother of senior Congress leader and MP Partap Singh Bajwa. This time, speculations were rife that Partap Singh Bajwa was keen to contest election from Qadian, while his brother was not willing to vacate the seat - a situation that could have led to a tussle. Fatehjang is the same leader who hogged headlines whose son was offered a job by the Punjab police, leading to a controversy.

Kashmir Singh Rajput, a local BJP leader, said “We are pleased with Bajwa joining the BJP and hope that as many as two dozen Congress leaders are likely to join BJP in near future”.

dc-1375/21

HALDWANI/DEHRADUN, DEC 30 (PTI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday accused successive Congress governments at the Centre and in Uttarakhand of dragging their feet for decades over development projects, forcing people to migrate from their villages in the state.

Addressing a rally in Haldwani, Modi accused the previous Uttarakhand government of being interested only in “looting” the state and doing nothing for its development.

He also inaugurated and laid foundation stones of projects worth over Rs 17,500 crore, including the Rs 5,747 crore Lakhwar hydropower project.

Modi said the Lakhwar project was thought of in 1974 and took nearly 46 years to see the light of day.

“Wasn’t it sinful on part of those who were in power before us to delay the project. Would you forget their sin?” he asked a cheering crowd during the rally at the MB Inter College ground in Haldwani.

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8

BUSINESS Goyal reviews medical oxygen preparedness

States demand extension of GST compensation for another 5 years

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in a meeting with leaders of various states.

Crossword

Su doku

KAKURO

V E L LO R E , D E C 2 8 : The state-of-the-art super specialty ‘Naruvi Hospitals’ in Vellore joined a choice group of medical institutions in the country on December 28 with the launch of a hightech robot for performing Neurosurgery and a brand new Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) at its complex here.

Inaugurating “ROSA”, the Neurosurgical Robot installed at ‘Naruvi Hospitals’, Tamil Nadu minister for water resources, Duraimurugan, said the new facility should be of great help for patients with precision surgeries to cure brain disorders in shorter time using the most advanced technology.

Lauding the courage, vision and self-confidence w i t h w h i c h D r. G. V. Sampath has established the ‘Naruvi Hospitals’ here, Duraimurugan said, it was

not easy to set up a hospital today. “You need guts for it,” he said, turning to the ‘Naruvi Hospitals’ Founder and Chairman, Dr. G.V. Sampath.

Emphasising that keeping pace with advancements in medicine and medical technology was necessary in this fast changing modern world, Duraimurugan hoped that ‘Naruvi Hospitals’ would scale greater heights in healthcare.

Inaugurating the EMU at the hospital, state minister for handlooms and textiles, R. Gandhi said, Dr. Sampath did with absolute dedication whatever tasks he took up. He congratulated the chairman for having set up this hospital in Vellore with “great faith”, adding, the EMU will be a boon to Epilepsy patients. He expressed confidence that the facility would be put

Tamil Nadu minister for water resources, Duraimurugan at the inauguration of ‘ROSA’.

to optimum use in curing Epilepsy patients.

Earlier, welcoming the dignitaries and participants at the inaugural function, ‘Naruvi Hospitals’ chairman, Dr. G.V. Sampath said, the 500-bed state-ofthe-art hospital, set up with technical tie-up with Henry Ford Health Systems, USA, and equipped with entire range of diaognostic and treatment facilities for various diseases including Covid-19, has in a short span of time, proved to be a hospital providing effective

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and quality healthcare at affordable cost for people from the State and other parts of the country.

Explaining the latest facilities installed now, Dr. Sampath said that ‘Naruvi Hospitals’ is only the third hospital in the country, after AIIMS hospital in Delhi and Amritha hospital in Kerala, to have installed this robot for doing Neurosurgeries.

He said Neurosurgeons usually took 12 hours to perform a brain surgery. Now aided by this Robot, brain surgeries could be done in

six hours with precision, and without loss of blood. The affected parts of the brain can be treated with a biopsy needle without having to cut open the patient’s head, he elaborated.

The new EMU, with help of latest technology, can fully cure Epilepsy, Dr. Sampath further explained.

Using techniques like MRI scan and HD-EEG, we can detect which part of the body has been affected and cure Epile psy, he said, adding, only ‘Naruvi Hospitals’ has this facility

after AIIMS, Delhi, till date. The EMU would be of great help to the Epilepsyaffected.

Ve l l o r e M P, M r.

D. M . K a t h i r A n a n d , d i s t r i c t M L A s , P. Karthikeyan (Vellore), A.P. Nandakumar (Anaicut), J.L. Easwarappan (Arcot) and Gummidipoondi MLA, Govindaraj, were among those who participated in the function.

Naruvi Hospitals ViceChairperson Ms. Anitha Sampath, Executive Director, Dr. Paul T. Henry, General Manager, Nithin Sampath, Neurologist D r. C h i t t r a m b a l a m , N e u r o s u r g e o n D r.

Bhoopesh Pugazhendhi, medical faculty, doctors and staff, were among those who graced the function. Dr. Aravindan Nair, Chief of Medical Services, ‘Naruvi Hospitals’ proposed the vote of thanks.

Garment traders in Delhi shut shops against proposed GST hike on textiles

NEW DELHI, DEC 30 (PTI): Several markets dealing with garment business in Delhi remained s h u t o n T h u r s d ay i n protest against the central gover nment’s proposed move to hike GST rates on textile from existing 5 per cent to 12 per cent from January 1.

Sixty-four small and medium markets of Chandni Chowk, Gandhi Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Karol Bagh, Okhla, Shanti Mohalla, P i t a m p u r a , Jo g i wa d a , Ro h i n i a m o n g o t h e r s, remained shut following the strike call.

Bhagwan Bansal, vice president, Delhi Hindustani Mercantile Association said the proposed hike in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates on textile and readymade garments will “finish the business” and also burn a big hole in common man’s pocket.

He said clothes have

already become expensive by about 30 per cent due to increased cost of raw materials and the hike in GST rates will further impact the business.

“The Centre’s proposal to hike GST from 5 per cent to 12 per cent on textile and readymade garments from January 1 will adversely affect the business. Small traders will literally be finished.

“We appeal the central government to take back the decision and establish a dialogue with traders on this.

We will call an indefinite strike if this demand is not met,” Bansal told PTI. Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia, who also holds the finance portfolio, supported the strike by traders and said he will put the demand of traders in Friday’s GST council meeting.

“Textile and garment traders are opposing the hike

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Brijesh Goyal, chairman, Chamber of Trader and I ndustries (CTI) said nearly one lakh shops related to textile and garment business in the city shut shops on Thursday in protest against the GST hike.

db-459/21

intervening and technical selling has been seen accelerated in USDINR on breaking of support 74.50,” said Dilip Parmar- Research Analyst, HDFC Securities.

On the domestic equity market front, the BSE Sensex ended 12.17 points or 0.02 per cent lower at 57,794.32, while the broader NSE Nifty declined 9.65 points or 0.06% to 17,203.95.

Meanwhile, the dollar index, which measures the greenback’s strength against the basket of six currencies, rose 0.26 per cent to 96.18.

Brent crude futures, the global oil benchmark, fell 0.68% to USD 78.69 p e r b a r r e l . Fo r e i g n institutional investors were net sellers in the capital market on Wednesday, as they offloaded shares worth Rs 975.23 crore, as per exchange data.

Naruvi Hospitals uses hi-tech robot for neurosurgery

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MUMBAI, DEC 30 (PTI): The rupee surged 29 paise to close at 74.42 (provisional) against the US dollar on Thursday following yearend dollar selling by banks and exporters amid muted domestic equities.

At the interbank forex market, the local unit opened strong at 74.56 against the greenback and witnessed an intra-day high of 74.38 and a low of 74.65.

It finally settled at 74.42, a rise of 29 paise.

In the previous session, the rupee had settled just one paisa lower at 74.71 against the US dollar.

“Rupee, after Wednesday’s pause, started heading north to monthly high on expectation of better inflows going ahead and dollar selling from exporters on year-end. Central bank’s remain aside from

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Rs 13,089 crore in the Union Budget of the last three years, Baghel demanded the share of central taxes should be given to the state completely in the coming year.

He also demanded that Rs 4,140 crore deposited with the Centre at the rate of Rs 294 per tonne on coal mining from coal block companies should be transferred to Chhattisgarh soon.

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NEW DELHI, DEC 30 (PTI): Over 7.50 lakh artisans, craftsmen and people working with them have been provided jobs a n d s e l f - e m p l oy m e n t opportunities through the “Hunar Haat” platform in the last six years, Union Minister for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said on Thursday.

More than 50 per cent of them are women artisans, he said while addressing a press conference at the 35th “Hunar Haat” organised here at the Jawaharlal Nehru (JLN) Stadium.

The Haat will conclude on Friday, the minister also announced, saying the decision has been taken in view of the emerging COVID-19 situation. The event was scheduled to conclude on January 5, 2022.

“Keeping in view that a large number of people are visiting the Haat at the JLN Stadium, it has been decided to conclude the 35th “Hunar Haat”

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“Many states have asked for this. We have also asked to extend GST compensation. If it is not extended, the finances of many states will be in a bad shape,” Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said after pre-Budget consultation of finance ministers of states with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman here.

Po i n t i n g o u t t h a t Chhattisgarh has received less share of central taxes by

Minister Subhash Garg said extension of compensation cess window till 2026-27 is a valid demand of states and the Centre should consider it.

He also demanded reduction in import duty on gold and silver from 10 per cent to 4 per cent.

“Our most significant demand is that the Centre’s share in centrally-sponsored s c h e m e h a s g r a d u a l ly reduced and states share has increased. Earlier share would be 90-10 and now it is 50-50 or 60-40, our request is that it should go back to 90-10,” Garg said.

Rajasthan also requested that all irrigation and water work projects should be brought under the Centre’s ambit and declared central schemes.

We s t B e n g a l a l s o pitched for extension of GST compensation for another five years citing two years of difficult time due to COVID-19.

‘Hunar Haat providing employment opportunities to lakhs of craftsmen’

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NEW DELHI, DEC 30 (PTI): Many states have demanded that the GST compensation cess regime be extended for another five years and the share of the Union government in the centrally-sponsored schemes be raised as the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted their revenues.

The GST compensation to states for revenue shortfall resulting from subsuming of local taxes such as VAT in the uniform national tax Goods and Services Tax (GST) will end in June next year.

There has been a loss of revenue to the states due to the GST tax system, the Centre has not made arrangements to compensate the loss of revenue of about Rs 5,000 crore to the state in the coming year, so the GST compensation grant should be continued for the next five years after June 2022, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel said.

NEW DELHI, DEC 30 (PTI): Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Thursday discussed with senior officials effective ways to ensure adequate medical oxygen availability in the country in the wake of increasing COVID-19 cases.

D u e t o a n unprecedented surge in demand for medical oxygen across the country during the second wave of COVID-19, the demand peaked at nearly 9,000 MT (metric tonnes) as compared to the peak requirement of 3,095 MT during the first wave.

The supply of oxygen for medical purposes was enhanced almost 10 times from 1,000 tonnes per day in December 2019 to 9,600 tonnes per day in May this year. “Held a review meeting on the medical oxygen preparedness in the country. Deliberated on effective ways to ensure adequate medical oxygen availability for strengthening the fight against COVID-19 pandemic,” Goyal tweeted.

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Omicron will soon replace Delta as dominant global variant: Experts

SINGAPORE, DEC 30 (PTI): Experts in Singapore, which is seeing a surge in Omicron cases, have warned that the new and supposedly more contagious variant is likely to replace Delta over the coming weeks as the dominant global variant, with the virus being fitter and having a reproductive advantage.

While Delta is still the most common variant in all continents except Africa, Omicron is spreading very quickly, said Dr Sebastian Maurer-Stroh, executive director of the state-owned Agency for Science, Technology and Research’s Bioinformatics Institute here.

Of the genome submissions sent to the Munichheadquartered Gisaid, a data science initiative that provides the shared genome platform for Covid, the Omicron strain has comprised between 7 per cent and 27 per cent of new submissions over the past month, up until Tuesday. The figures refer to all continents except Africa.

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INTERNATIONAL

NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

“From current data, it looks like Delta will go down over time relative to Omicron,” The Straits Times reported, quoting Dr Maurer-Stroh, who is part of the global team that maintains Gisaid.

The new variant was first detected in South Africa on November 11, and then in Botswana and Hong Kong, before it rippled across more than 110 countries, as at last weekend.

Omicron is already dominant in Australia, Russia, South Africa and the United Kingdom, noted Professor Dale Fisher, a senior consultant at the

National University Hospital’s Division of Infectious Diseases. “We are seeing a global transition from Delta to Omicron because with a greater transmissibility, the virus is fitter and has a reproductive advantage,” noted Prof Fisher.

But he added a caveat that the reports of Omicron rates may be biased as some countries do little gene sequencing, and those that do may be looking for a deletion in a specific spike gene to identify Omicron, instead of carrying out whole genome sequencing.

Singapore’s Ministry of Health (MOH) said on its

website that from December 24, Covid-19 cases that tested positive for the so-called S-gene target failure will be categorised as Omicron.

The S-gene encodes the virus’s spike protein.

Based on local experience, if a person tests positive for the S-gene target failure, the individual is very likely to have the Omicron variant, said MoH, noting that this practice aligns with those in other countries.

Singapore on Wednesday reported 170 new Omicron cases.

According to Johns Hopkins University data, Singapore has recorded 278,750 COVID-19 cases and 826 deaths.

Fisher said most experts in the field believe Omicron will replace Delta as the dominant strain.

While the Delta variant has 13 mutations with nine on the spike protein, Omicron has about 50 mutations not seen together before, and 32 of them are on the spike protein.

Moon to make final New Year’s address next week

Pak buys China-made J-10C fighter jets in response to India’s Rafale acquisition

SEOUL, DEC 30 (IANS): Moon Jae-in will deliver his last New Year’s address as the South Korean President early next week, a senior official said on Thursday.

The New Year’s address will be delivered at 10 a.m. on Monday and Moon is expected to emphasise on the importance of national unity, Yonhap News Agency quoted the official as saying.

After delivering the speech for some 20 minutes, Moon will have a virtual New Year greeting with heads of the government, the judiciary and the National Assembly as well as senior politicians and business leaders, the official said.

Moon, whose single, five-year term ends in May, has vowed to do everything possible for a complete return to normal life from the Covid-19 pandemic and an economic recovery.

The country’s presidential election will take place on March 9, 2022.

ISLAMABAD, DEC 30 (PTI): Pakistan has acquired a full squadron of 25 multirole J-10C fighter jets from its all-weather ally China in response to India’s purchase of Rafale aircraft, Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed has said.

Speaking to the media in his home city of Rawalpindi on Wednesday, Rashid said that a full squadron of 25 all-weather aircraft comprising J-10C will attend the Pakistan Day ceremony on March 23 next year.

Apparently, China has come to the rescue of its closest ally by providing J-10C, one of its highly reliable fighter jets.

The minister, who often characterises himself a ‘graduate of Urdu-medium institutions’ to poke fun at his elite English-medium colleagues, incorrectly pronounced the name of the aircraft as JS-10 instead of J-10C. “VIP guests are coming (to attend 23rd March ceremony) for the first time

J-10C fighter jets

in Pakistan, the fly-past ceremony of JS-10 (J-10C) is being held… Pakistan Air Force is going to perform the fly-past of China’s JS-10 (J-10C) aircraft in response to Rafale,” Rashid said.

The J-10C aircraft were part of the Pak-China joint exercise last year, where experts from Pakistan had the opportunity to have a close look at the fighter jets.

The joint exercises started on December 7 in Pakistan and lasted about 20 days, with China sending warplanes including J-10C, J-11B jets, KJ-500 early warning aircraft and

Y-8 electronic warfare aircraft, while Pakistan participated with the JF-17 and Mirage III fighter jets.

Pakistan had a fleet of US-made F-16s, which is considered a good match for Rafale, but it was looking for a new multirole all-weather jet to augment its defence after India purchased Rafale jets from France.

N e a r ly f ive ye a r s ago, India signed an intergovernmental agreement with France to purchase 36 Rafale jets under a Rs 59,000-crore deal to boost the Indian Air Force’s combat capabilities.

I have been made a scapegoat: Hong Kong police charge 2 from news outlet with sedition Ex-Af President Ashraf Ghani

ed Arab Emirates.

Three months on, Ghani says he is willing to take the blame for some things which led to the fall of Kabul - like trusting “in our international partnership”.

However, he added: “My life work has been destroyed. My values had been trampled on. And I have been made a scapegoat.”

As the day started, Ghani recalled, Taliban

3 Indo-Canadians honoured with Canada’s civilian award

TO RO N TO, D E C 3 0 (PTI): Three Indian-origin Canadians have been bestowed with the Order of Canada -- one of the country’s highest civilian honours -- for their outstanding achievement, dedication to the community, helping in building a better nation and promoting bilateral ties between Canada and India.

Inter nationally renowned scientist and innovator Dr Vaikuntam Iyer Lakshmanan; real estate mogul Bob Singh Dhillon, also known as Navjeet Singh Dhillon; and

Bob Singh Dhillon, Dr Pradeep Merchant and Dr Vaikuntam Iyer Lakshmanan.

renowned paediatrician Dr Pradeep Merchant were among the 135 individuals honoured with the presti-

‘US at risk of paying unbearable price over Taiwan’

Wang Yi

BEIJING, DEC 30 (AGENCIES): The United States is at risk of paying an “unbearable price” due to its actions over Taiwan, Wang Yi, state councillor and foreign minister, said in an interview with state media on Thursday.

China claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory and in the past two years has stepped up military and diplomatic pressure to assert its sovereignty claim, fuelling anger in Taipei and concern in Washington.

By “encouraging ‘Tai-

wan independence’ forces” the US “not only puts Taiwan into an extremely dangerous situation but also exposes the US to an unbearable price”, Wang said.

Taiwan has emerged as a key factor in strained relations between China and the US, the island’s most important international backer and arms supplier despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties.

Taiwan says it is an independent country and vows to defend its freedom and democracy. China regularly describes the island as the most sensitive issue in its ties with the US. “Taiwan has no other way forward other than reunification with the mainland,” said Wang. While the US recognises only one China, it is required by law to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself and has long followed a policy of “strategic ambiguity”.

gious award, according to a press note uploaded on the website of the Governor General of Canada on

Wednesday.

“Today, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, Governor General of Canada, announced 135 appointments to the Order of Canada,” it said, sharing the list of the recipients.

“Delighted to see the contributions of the dynamic Indian heritage community in Canada being recognized with Order of Canada. Congratulations to Dr Vaikuntam Iyer Lakshmanan, @BobDhillon_MEQ and @PradeepMerchant,” the High Com-

mission of India in Ottawa tweeted on Thursday.

According to the citation, Lakshmanan from Mississauga, Ontario was honoured “for his philanthropy and for his expertise in hydrometallurgy and business, which have greatly benefited his profession, community and CanadaIndia relations”.

Founded in 1997, Bob Dhillon’s Mainstreet Equity Corp is the first Sikhowned company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange, the Calgary Herald newspaper reported.

Pakistan, India inch closer towards deal on Afghan wheat transit: Report

ISLAMABAD, DEC 30 (PTI): India has provided a list of Afghan contractors and truck drivers to the Pakistan government who would transport the Indian consignment of 50,000 metric tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan as humanitarian assistance, as the two neighbours inch closer towards finalising the agreement, a media report said on Thursday.

Both countries have agreed to the modalities, and the shipment of wheat would commence once Pakistan approves the list of Afghan contractors and drivers, the Express Tribune newspaper said.

In October, India announced 50,000 metric tonnes of wheat for Afghanistan as humanitarian assistance and requested Pakistan to ship the food grains via the Wagah border.

Currently, Pakistan only allows Afghanistan to export goods to India, but doesn’t allow any other two-way trade through the border crossing.

However, the Imran Khan gover nment made an exception to this rule during the first Apex Committee meeting of the newly established Afghanistan Inter-ministerial Coordination Cell here last month, when he announced that Pakistan would allow India to send wheat to the war-tor n country through its territory.

Pakistan, however, said this decision was taken keeping in view the humanitarian situation in Afghanistan and must not serve as a precedent for future transhipment.

Pakistan had initially suggested for the transportation of wheat to be done

under the banner of the United Nations.

But the Indian government made a counter proposal, suggesting the shipment be done either in Afghan or Indian trucks, the report said.

Once Islamabad gave nod to this proposal, sources said that Pakistani authorities have begun the process of vetting the list of Afghan contractors and drivers sent by India, the report added.

The two countries have agreed to join hands at a time when Afghanistan is in desperate need for international aid ever since the Taliban regime took over in August this year.

According to the UN estimates, nearly 23 million Afghans are facing acute food shortage, with as many as 3.2 million children at the risk of malnutrition.

Police are seen outside the Stand News office building, after a raid in which seven people were arrested. (Reuters)

in prison and a fine of up to 5,000 Hong Kong dollars (USD 640).

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said at a news conference Thursday that the arrests were not targeted at the media.

“Journalism is not sedition, but seditious acts and activities and inciting other people through other acts and activities could

not be condoned under the guise of news reporting,” she said.

“It should be very clear what is reporting of news, and what is seditious acts or activities to undermine national security.”

Her comments came after US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken called on Hong Kong authorities to release the detainees.

“Freedom of expression, including media freedom, and access to information provided by an independent media are critical to prosperous and secure societies. These freedoms enabled Hong Kong to flourish as a global center for finance, trade, education, and culture,” Blinken said in a statement.

“By silencing independent media, (Chinese) and local authorities undermine Hong Kong’s credibility and viability.

A confident government that is unafraid of the truth embraces a free press.”

The United States has also sanctioned five Hong Kong-based Chinese officials following legislative council elections in the city earlier this month for reducing Hong Kong’s autonomy and freedoms.

4 killed, 3 Duterte signs 2022 budget to injured in fund recovery from pandemic A N I L A , D E C 3 0 tial palace in Manila.

Pakistan clash M(IANS): Philippine PresiThe 5.024 trillion pesos ISLAMABAD, DEC 30 (IANS): Four people were killed and three others injured in a clash in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, local reports said on Thursday.

The incident took place late Wednesday night in Landi Kotal area, where members of a group opened fire at a car, whose passengers fired back in retaliation, reports Xinhua news agency.

People from both sides were killed and injured in the attack.

The injured people were shifted to a hospital in provincial capital of Peshawar.

All the three injured are in critical condition, the reports said.

Police said that the incident is the outcome of personal enmity triggered off by land dispute.

dent Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday signed the nearly $100 billion national budget for 2022 to fund the country’s sustained recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic. “The budget is set to inspire actions that focus on building resilience amidst the pandemic, sustaining the momentum towards recovery, and continuing the legacy of infrastructure development,” Duterte said during the signing ceremony at the Malacanang presiden-

budget, 10 per cent higher than the 2021 budget, will prioritise the people’s health by ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare for all Filipinos, Xinhua news agency quoted Duterte as saying. To guarantee the streamlined operation of the current health system, the President said 88.9 billion pesos were allocated for the health facilities operations program and the procurement of drugs, medicines, and vaccines.

Office Of The

Shena OLd uniOn diMapur area feLiciTaTiOn The Shena Old Union Dimapur Area (SOUDA) would like to convey our heartiest Congratulations to MTSi n. hokito Sema DEF Kohima of Shena Old Village on being promoted to the post of ABI (MT) in 9th NAP (IR) Bn. (Saijang).

The union wishes and prays for his good health and success in all his endeavours.

Sd/(S. hosheto achumi) Chairman, SOUDA

(Vito Swu) Secretary, SOUDA

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Ashraf Ghani

fighters had agreed not to enter Kabul - “but two hours later, this was not the case”.

“Two different factions of the Taliban were closing in from two different directions”, Ghani explained.

“And the possibility of a massive conflict between them that would destroy the city of five million and bring havoc to the people was enormous.”

The “terrified” chief of the presidential security came to him to say that if Ghani took a stand, “they will all be killed”.

“He did not give me more than two minutes,” Ghani said. “My instructions had been to prepare for departure for [the city of] Khost. He told me that Khost had fallen and so had Jalalabad, the report said.

being taken to West Kowloon court on Thursday, police said in a statement.

The other arrestees have been detained for further questioning. Apart from Chung and Lam, four other former Stand News board members, including singer Denise Ho and former lawmaker Margaret Ng, were arrested on Wednesday. Ho was released from police custody on Thursday afternoon.

Chan Pui-man, a former editor at the prodemocracy Apple Daily newspaper and Chung’s wife, was also arrested.

The seven were arrested under a crime ordinance that dates from Hong Kong’s days as a British colony before 1997, when it was returned to China. Those convicted could face up to two years

Office Of The

Lakhuni SenSO Mungdang feLiciTaTiOn With immense pride and honour, the Lakhuni Senso Mungdang extend our heartiest congratulations to Ms. chubalemla d/o Lt. Saku aier on being promoted to Director under Treasure and Account, Kohima.

The union further wishes her the very best to carry out her esteem responsibilities.

S. Wati Langu President Lakhuni Senso Mungdang

S. Wati Longkumer Asstt. Secretary Lakhuni Senso Mungdang

DP-6189/21

NEW DELHI, DEC 30 (IANS): Afghanistan’s former president Ashraf Ghani has defended his decision to flee the country as the Taliban closed in earlier this year, saying he did it to prevent the destruction of Kabul, BBC reported.

The Taliban seized power in August after taking control of the capital.

Ashraf Ghani revealed that when he woke up on August 15 he had “no inkling” it would be his last day in Afghanistan.

It was only when his plane left Kabul that he realised he was going, Ghani said on BBC Radio 4’s programme.

He was heavily criticised and accused of abandoning the country at the time. He is now in the Unit-

HONG KONG, DEC 30 (AP): Hong Kong police on Thursday formally charged two people from an online pro-democracy news outlet with sedition, a day after the outlet said it would cease operations following a police raid on its office and seven arrests.

National security police said they charged two men, aged 34 and 52, with one count each of conspiracy to publish a seditious publication but did not identify them.

According to local media reports, the two are Chung Pui-kuen and Patrick Lam, who were editors at Stand News, an online pro-democracy news outlet.

Police also said they would prosecute the company for sedition.

Chung and Lam were

INFOTAINMENT

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NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Pema, Danube & Sanwaka crowned 18th Sunsilk Mega Miss NE 2021 1st Mega Music Festival held in Peren

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pellbinding an audience from all across the north-eastern region, Sanwaka Surong from Meghalaya, Pema Choden Bhutia from Sikkim, and Danube Kangjam from Manipur were crowned the title winners of 18th Sunsilk Mega Miss North East 2021 at the ITA cultural complex, Machkhowa on December 29.

Having completed 18 glorious years, Mega Miss North East is the biggest beauty pageant of northeast India, conceptualized by fashion entrepreneur Abhijit Singha, produced by Mega Entertainment and marketed

by Mega Activation.

Earlier, founder of Mega Entertainment, Abhijit Singha announced that there would be no runners-up titles in Sunsilk Mega Miss North East 2021, and all three winners would be crowned equally as winners of the pageant, with equal prize packages and benefits.

20-year-old Pema Choden Bhutia, who hails from Sivik Lingdok, Sikkim, is currently pursuing her B. Tech in Civil Engineering in Bengaluru. Pema has a vision to use her title and influence to advocate for education of the underprivileged. She also aims to represent her state in the Miss India pageant.

The youngest of 5 siblings, Sanwaka Surong from Shillong is currently pursuing her Masters degree in Tourism. 21-year-old Sanwaka has lost both her parents, but with the help of her loved ones, she still stands strong. She aims to use her own experience to help other orphans cope with the loss of their loved ones and help them understand that there will always be people to love them and support them. She believes that losing somebody you love should not weaken you, rather it should help you derive strength from the fact that they will always be beside you in spirit and guide you from above. Her vision is to help promote responsible tourist behaviour.

(L-R) Winners of Sunsilk Mega Miss North East 2021 Pema Choden Bhutia, Danube Kangjam and Sanwaka Surong.

21-year-old Danube Kangjam from Imphal, who is currently pursuing her law education, was inspired by Mega Miss North East 2015 Jessica Marbaniang, and since then it has been a dream for her to participate in this pageant. She has been

preparing for this day all along. She believed that this title will help her influence the youth and amplify her reach to a wider audience.

So, she aims to use her voice to speak out on a variety of social issues that concerns her like cybercrime, LGBT rights, body positivity and self-acceptance. She looks forward to participating in national pageants to take her vision forward.

The three winners were bestowed with gifts and vouchers worth approximately Rs. 1 lakh. Apart from that, they have also won a professional photoshoot by Prashant Brahma Photography, travel opportunities, professional representations and grooming

by Mega Entertainment, and opportunities to participate in different socio-cultural activities across northeast. Besides, the winners also get the opportunity to walk the ramp in various regional and national shows.

The Top-15 contestants participated in the evening gown presentation, where they showcased the creations by top fashion designers and brands like Jansai, Karan Thokchom, Arif Mukhim, and the official designer of Mega Entertainment Dipika Devi.

The judges who sealed the fate of this year’s winner included, Fashion & Lifestyle promoter Monika Devi, advocate Manish Kr. Das, Mega Miss North East 2012 Ibethoi Thokchom, fashion designer Arif Mukhim, and Mega Miss North East 2018 and Femina Miss India Assam Jyotismita Baruah.

The pageant organizers were also judged for a series of sub-awards. Nishigandha Gogoi won the Sohum Miss Trendy subtitle, Pema Choden Bhutia won Radisson Blu Miss Hospitality, Jyotika Boruah won Eyetex Dazller Miss Beautiful Face, Sanwaka Surong won the Shouthout NE India Miss Tourism North East subtitle, Moyuri Deori won the Pageant Times Miss Popular subtitle and Ringjoy Leivon was awarded the Sunsilk Hair Hacks Diva subtitle.

Dwayne Johnson turns down Vin Diesel’s TikTok emerges as most downloaded invitation to rejoin ‘Fast and Furious’ app globally on Christmas 2021: Report

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ollywood star Dwayne Johnson has publicly declined ‘Fast & Furious’ series actor Vin Diesel’s request to rejoin the action franchise for its upcoming 10th mainline entry.

In November, Diesel extended an invitation to Johnson on Instagram, imploring the latter to reprise his role as secret agent Lucas Hobbs for the next entry in the series, reports variety. com.

“The world awaits the finale of ‘Fast 10’,” Diesel

wrote. He added: “As you know, my children refer to you as Uncle Dwayne in my house. There is not a holiday that goes by that they and you don’t send well wishes but the time has come. Legacy awaits. I told you years ago that I was going to fulfill my promise to Pablo. I swore that we would reach and manifest the best Fast in the finale that is 10!”

In a new interview with CNN, Johnson responded to the request, criticising Diesel for voicing an invite on social media after the

two had already reached an agreement in private.

“I told (Diesel) directly that I would not be returning to the franchise. I was firm yet cordial with my words and said that I would always be supportive of the cast and always root for the franchise to be successful, but that there was no chance I would return,” Johnson explained.

“Vin’s recent public post was an example of his manipulation. I didn’t like that he brought up his children in the post, as well as Paul Walker’s death. Leave them out of it. We had spoken months ago about this and came to a clear understanding.”

However, Johnson went on to express his well wishes for the ‘Fast & Furious’ family ahead of their next, and ostensibly penultimate, outing.

“My goal all along was to end my amazing journey with this incredible franchise with gratitude and grace,” Johnson said.

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opular short videosharing platfor m Tiktok has topped the chart of downloads on Christmas Day this year.

According to mobile data and analytics company App Annie, the number of downloads on December 25 globally was estimated across both iOS and Google Play Stores.

TikTok led the chart of Christmas Day downloads ahead of Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp Messenger, and Snapchat.

As for mobile games, “Brain Story: Tricky Puzzle”, “Poppy Rope Game”, “Metro Parkour”, “Free Fire” and “ROBLOX” ranked the top five in downloads.

Recently, TikTok surpassed tech giant Google as the most popular website of the year, says a report.

According to a report

by IT security company Cloudflare, the viral video app gets more hits than the US-based search engine.

The rankings show

Breakfast : Is It the Most Important Meal?

B

reakfast kick-starts your metabolism, helping you bur n calories throughout the day.

It also gives you the energy you need to get things done and helps you focus at work or at school. Those are just a few reasons why it’s the most important meal of the day.

Many studies have linked eating breakfast to good health, including better memory and concentration, lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol, and lower chances of getting diabetes, heart disease, and being overweight. It’s hard to know, though, if breakfast causes these healthy habits or if people who eat it have healthier lifestyles.

But this much is clear: Skipping the morning meal can throw off your body’s rhythm of fasting and eating. When you wake up, the blood sugar your body needs to make your muscles and brain work their best is usually low. Breakfast helps replenish it. If your body doesn’t get that fuel from food, you may feel zapped of energy -- and you’ll be more likely to overeat later in the day. Breakfast also gives you a chance to get in some vitamins and nutrients K Y M C

from healthy foods like dairy, grains, and fruits. If you don’t eat it, you aren’t likely to get all of the nutrients your body needs.

Many people skip the a.m. meal because they’re rushing to get out the door.

That’s a mistake. You need food in your system long before lunchtime. If you don’t eat first thing, you may get so hungry later on that you snack on high-fat, high-sugar foods.

Breakfast and Your Weight Can a morning meal be good for your waistline?

Some studies say yes. Researchers have found that on average, people who eat breakfast are thinner than those who don’t. That could be because eating foods with protein and fiber in the morning keeps your appetite in check the rest of the day.

But it doesn’t guarantee you’ll fit into those skinny jeans. A recent study compared weight loss among people who ate breakfast

with those with didn’t. The meal didn’t make any difference. If you’re dieting, don’t think cutting calories by skipping the meal will help. Studies show that most people who lose weight and keep the weight off eat breakfast every day.

On the other hand, you need to pay attention to what, when, and how much you eat. One study showed that people who had large breakfasts ate more during the day.

Why Kids Need Breakfast Sometimes children don’t feel like eating in the morning, but it’s important that they do. Their growing bodies need the nutrients and fuel.

Kids who don’t eat in the a.m. have a harder time focusing, and they become more tired in school. They may also be cranky or restless. And it isn’t just their moods that can suffer. Their schoolwork can, too. One study showed that kids who ate breakfast had higher test scores than those who didn’t. Most children don’t get all the vitamins and minerals they need from just lunch and dinner. Kids who skip breakfast are more likely to eat junk food during the day and be overweight.

One study showed that teenagers who ate breakfast every day had a lower body mass index (BMI) -- a measure of body fat based on height and weight -- than teens who never ate the meal or who sometimes did.

If your youngster doesn’t want to eat in the morning at home, pack something they can have on the way to school or between classes.

Opt for fruit, nuts, or half a peanut butter and banana sandwich.

A Doughnut Won’t Do You don’t need to eat a big meal for breakfast, but it’s a good idea to have something small within an hour of waking up. Even last night’s leftovers zapped in the microwave will do.

Resist that pastry or doughnut, though. Your best bet is a mix of foods that have carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Carbs will give you energy right away, and the protein will give it to you later on. Fiber keeps you feeling full.

Try a whole-grain cereal, low-fat milk and fruit, or a breakfast smoothie made from low-fat yogurt, fruit, and a teaspoon of bran. Nuts or whole-grain granola bars are also easy options.

(By Lisa Hill)

t h a t T i k To k k n o c k e d Google off the top spot in February, March and June this year, and has held the number one position since August.

The social network, which is owned by Chinabased Bytedance, now has more than one billion active users across the world and that number continues to grow.

In June 2020, the Indian government banned the popular short-form video app TikTok amid border tensions with China.

(IANS)

Organisers, PDMS members and artistes during the first Mega Music Festival on December 29 at ASHHSS multi-utility stadium, Peren town.

T

he Essence of Music team held its first Mega Music Festival on December 29 at ASHHSS multi-utility stadium, Peren town. The event was powered by Peren District Music Society (PDMS).

It aimed at creating a platform to promote the young upcoming musicians, as well as to aid the unprivileged orphanage in Peren

district.

The guest speaker of the first Mega Music Festival was president of Peren District Music Society (PDMS), Namnahei Nza. Yamaha artiste, Nise Meruno also performed during the event, who also encouraged the young artistes.

The guest artiste was a renowned Youtuber and ar-

tiste (Rap) Jpollnd Putlang while various singers like Kizaiwi, Ig Michui, Keyipeisile Herie, Keyi Zeliang, Keyichitube Nza, Daudau Naga, Itingbamle also enthralled the audience with their performances.

The event was hosted

by Zanghei Elunglung, photographer of the event was Seudi and event coverage by The Zeliang Naga.

‘Squid Game’ maker teases Season 2; third may be coming soon

H

wang Dong-hyuk, the writer and director of popular Korean survival drama ‘Squid Game’, has discussed the future of his hit Netflix series.

During a new interview, Dong-hyuk teased that two more seasons of the thriller series are probably coming soon, reports aceshowbiz.com.

Speaking with KBS (Korean Broadcasting System), Dong-hyuk said that he is in talks with Netflix about Season 2 “as well as season 3.”

He went on to share: “We will come to a conclusion any time soon.”

Dong-hyuk added: “We know that many people are waiting, so everyone is working hard to prepare for the next season with a positive outlook.”

Netflix confirmed the claims on the same day.

“It’s true that we are discussing a wide variety of possibilities for ‘Squid Game’, including the production of a Season 3, but nothing has yet been set in stone,” the streaming giant said in a statement.

Back in November, Dong-hyuk shared that he had been working on a Season 2 storyline.

“I do have a basic storyline for Season 2 - it’s all in my head - and I am currently in the brainstorming stage,” the writer-director

said during a special screening and Q&A. “It will happen, someday, but as for when I cannot tell you the details.”

Dong-hyuk didn’t really say much about the potential plot in Season 2. However, he confirmed that the sophomore season would follow Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) and his investigation of those behind the deadly, titular tournament.

Debuting on September 27, ‘Squid Game’ tells “an imaginative, unorthodox story in which 456 contestants risk their lives in a mysterious survival

game -- involving multiple rounds of childhood games -- for a chance to win 45.6 billion won.”

The show quickly becomes a global phenomenon. It was officially named the biggest launch for a new show on Netflix, surpassing ‘Bridgerton’, after it reached 111 million viewers in less than a month.

Additionally, ‘Squid Game’ is among Netflix’s Top 10 list in around 94 countries. The dystopian show is also the platform’s first-ever Korean series to reach the No. 1 spot in the US. (IANS)

25th Wedding AnniversAry

Mr. A. Ato Yimkhiung & Mrs. K. Mary 27/12/1996 – 27/12/2021

"Another year to create precious memories together.

Another year to discover new things to enjoy about each other. Another year to strengthen a marriage that defines forever."

Happy 25th Anniversary Mom & Dad. dp-6184/21

With Love and prayers from Children and Family Members

Dr. Longrineken, Advisor (Right) Shri. Temjen Imna Along Hon'ble Minister, Tribal Affairs and Higher Education, Govt. of Nagaland, Guest of Honour speaking on the 2nd session of KKT Platinum Jubilee.

(Above) Dr. Longrineken Advisor, National Highways, Treasuries & Accounts, Govt. of Nagaland speaking on the closing ceremony of Khar Kaketshir Telongjem Platinum Jubilee The Khar Kaketshir Telongjem (Khar Students Union) celebrates the 75th Platinum Jubilee under the theme “Ningjang Tasenleni” (Towards New Horizons) on 28th & 29th Dec. Shri.

Asangba Chuba Ao IAS, Secretary, Education Department, Govt of Bihar, graced the opening of Jubilee.

Shri. Taliremba Officer on Special Duty (Finance) Govt. of Nagaland, the Speaker of the first session on the topic ‘Ongdang Latep’ (Bridging the Chasm). He stressed on the importance of mother tongue and preserving one’s culture and identity.

Minister Temjen Imna Along) Special guest of Honour Shri. Temjen Imna Along Hon'ble Minister, Tribal Affairs and Higher Education, Govt. of Nagaland challenged the congregation with his powerful lines of encouragement. He stated that one should understand one’s capacity and work towards its goal. He further urged that Nagas should be known to the world by its human resources.

Shri. C. T Jamir Senior Advocate, Gauhati High Court Kohima Bench: Kohima, Nagaland, the guest speaker of the second session delivered on the topic ‘Ningjang Tasenleni (Towards New Horizons).

Further Rev T Alemla Walling enlightened the students with her powerful message on the topic ‘Nuchiba Shisashir’ (Enlightened Scholar). The closing session was graced by Dr. Longrineken Advisor, National Highways, Treasuries & Accounts, Govt. of Nagaland. mkc-488/21 K Y M C

Man City open up 8-point lead at top; Chelsea held by Brighton in EPL

LO N D O N, D E C 3 0 (IANS): Manchester City moved eight points clear at the top of the Premier League following their 1-0 win away to Brentford even as Chelsea were held 1-1 by Brighton.

The win for Pep Guardiola’s side, coupled with Brighton’s 1-1 draw away to Chelsea and Liverpool’s surprise defeat away to Leicester on Tuesday, gives them a comfortable eightpoint cushion going into the New Year.

Phil Foden’s 16th-minute goal on his return to the team after apparently being dropped for a disciplinary issue was all that separated the two sides at Brentford’s Community Stadium.

Foden scored from close range after the VAR ruled he was onside as he finished Kevin de Bruyne’s cross from close range, although the VAR ruled out a second goal for Aymeric Laporte for a marginal offside three minutes from time, reports Xinhua. Chelsea looked to be on the way to a home win against Brigh-

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NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

Man City’s Phil Foden in action with Brentford’s Mads Roerslev and Shandon Baptiste.

ton when Romelu Lukaku confirmed his return to form with a 26th-minute goal, but that goal brought an impressive reaction from the Seagulls.

Chelsea looked to have weathered the storm when N’Golo Kante came off the bench midway through the second half, but Danny Welbeck’s late header from Marc Cucurella’s cross in

the first minute of injury time gave Brighton a deserved point while denying Chelsea two vital points in the title race.

Chelsea again lost two players to injury, this time Reece James and Andreas Christensen, and that didn’t help their cause as Brighton dominated proceedings either side of the interval.

However, Thomas Tuchel’s

side appeared to have ridden the storm with a relatively comfortable final 20 minutes following the introduction of N’Golo Kante and a change of shape to bolster their midfield.

Despite the result, Chelsea rose above Liverpool into second place having played a game more than them before the two teams meet in London on Sunday.

Crivellaro will not play this season: Chennaiyin FC

PANJI (GOA), DEC 30 (IANS): Indian Super League club Chennaiyin FC confirmed on Thursday that midfielder Rafael Crivellaro will not play further in this season due to injury concerns. The club and player have both decided to mutually part ways for the remainder of the season. >The former Chennaiyin FC captain will however be back with the team next season as per his two year contract. Despite missing most of last season, the Brazilian had extended his stay at Chennaiyin FC. However, after arriving in Goa for the 2021/22 pre-season, he suffered a Grade 2 muscle injury in training. >”It doesn’t feel good to leave the team like this.

But I have to work on myself. And we decided that it was best to do so at home, with my other family. I am only temporarily leaving and will be behind the boys every step of the way. I cannot wait to get back and play in Chennai next season. My love to the fans,” Crivellaro said.

U-19 Asia Cup: India thrash Bangladesh by 103 runs in semis, to face Sri Lanka in final

Indian Under-19 cricket team players celebrate after India beat Bangladesh by 103 runs in Under-19 Asia Cup semifinal match, at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in UAE.

DUBAI, DEC 30 (IANS): Riding on Shaik Rasheed fantastic knock (90 not out), India thrashed Bangladesh by 103 runs in the semifinal to set up a final clash with Sri Lanka in the Under-19 Asia Cup, here on Thursday.

Batting first, India posted a decent total of 243-8 in 50 overs courtesy a fine knock by Rasheed after being invited to bat.

Apart from him, Vicky Ostwal (28 not out ), captain Yash Dhull (26) and Raj Bawa (23) also made valuable contributions with the bat for India.

Rakibul Hasan was the most successful bowler for Bangladesh with his bowling figures of three for 41 from his 10 overs.

In reply, Bangladesh lost their wickets at regular intervals and were eventually bowled out for 140 runs in 38.2 overs.

Ariful Islam topscored for Bangladesh with his 42 runs knock, while opener Mahfijul Islam made 26.

For India, Ravi Kumar (2/22), Vicky Ostwal (2/25), Raj Bawa (2/26), and Rajvardhan Hangargekar (2/36) shared

eight wickets between them, while Kaushal Tambe (1/5) and Nishant Sindhu (1/25) picked one wicket each.

India will now face Sri Lanka in the summit clash in Dubai on Friday. Sri Lanka defeated Pakistan by 22 runs in another semi final clash.

Brief Scores: India U-19: 243 for 8 in 50 overs (Shaik Rasheed 90; Rakibul Hasan 3/41) beat Bangladesh U-19: 140 all out in 38.2 overs (Ariful Islam 42; Ravi Kumar 2/22, Vicky Ostwal 2/25, Raj Bawa 2/26) by 103 runs.

Veteran Ross Taylor to retire Mandhana in ICC Player of the Year nominees for Women’s T20I from international cricket

Ross Taylor

me.”

Taylor will retire as New Zealand’s top-scorer in test and one-day international matches. He has 7,584 test runs and 19 centuries, second only to current captain Kane Williamson, and 8,581 runs in ODIs, ahead of Stephen Fleming (8,007). His 21 ODI centuries also are a New Zealand record.

Taylor made his test debut against South Africa in 2008 and played the first of 233 ODIs against the West Indies in 2006.

He has also played 102 Twenty20 internationals, becoming the first player to play more than 100 matches for New Zealand in all three formats.

New Zealand coach Gary Stead said Taylor un-

questionably in one of the country’s greatest players.

“Ross has always been a hugely respected member of the side and we’re thankful for his contributions to the Black Caps over an incredible career,” Stead said.

“His skills and temperament as a batsman have been world-class and his ability to perform at such a high level for so long speaks volumes of his longevity and professionalism.”

Williamson also praised the achievements of his long-time batting partner.

“Ross has been at the core of the side for so long and can be extremely proud of having brought the game in this country to a better place,” Williamson said.

La Liga: Crisis worsens with more Covid-19 cases; 50% attendance cut in Basque Region

M A D R I D, D E C 3 0 (IANS): The ongoing wave of Covid-19 cases in Spain has been reflected by a sharp rise in the number of infections being reported in La Liga as teams return to training after the short holiday break.

According to Spanish sports paper ‘Diario AS’, the first two days back at training have seen 86 cases of the virus reported by Spanish top-flight clubs, although this number looks set to rise higher in the coming hours as some clubs, such as Atletico Madrid, only get back to work on Wednesday.

Barcelona on Wednesday reported that three more players -- Ousmane Dembele, Samuel Umtiti and Gavi -- have tested positive. The Spanish club have already been struggling with the cases in their camp as Clement Lenglet, Dani Alves, Jordi Alba and Alejandro Balde had also contracted virus earlier this week.

K Y M C

Barca have said all seven players feel fine and are in quarantine at home in line with the league’s protocol.

Taking into consideration the positive results, plus injuries and suspensions, Barca coach Xavi Hernandez will be without up to 16 first team players for their visit to Mallorca, who themselves are missing four first team players and three members of their coaching staff with Covid-19.

On Tuesday Elche reported 12 Covid cases ahead of their game at home to Granada, which is scheduled for Sunday, reports

Xinhua.

Rayo Vallecano had already detected 12 cases among players and coaching staff before the holidays and the confirmation of more cases on the return to work led the club on Tuesday to request the postponement of Sunday’s visit to play Atletico Madrid. La Liga has so far rejected that request.

Elsewhere, Real Betis have confirmed six cases, the same as Espanyol, while Cadiz and Levante have five each and Celta Vigo nine.

Real Sociedad have been hit with 10 cases in their first team squad and seven in their B-team, while

Osasuna have closed their Tajonar training ground to fans and the media after confirming positive test results for striker Chimy Avila and Inigo Perez on Tuesday.

The second division Liga SmartBank has been hit just as hard, with Mirandes confirming 17 cases on Wednesday morning.

At the moment anyone testing positive for Covid-19 in Spain has to isolate for 10 days, but this could change in the near future with the government preparing to discuss cutting this time to five days. The medical and economic benefits of this measure are certain to be debated, but there is no doubt it would be a huge help to Spain’s football clubs.

The Basque regional government on Tuesday introduced a measure that would temporarily cut attendance in grounds in the region to 50 percent of capacity, a measure that affects Athletic Club Bilbao, Real Sociedad, Alaves and second division Eibar.

in the powerplay.

Another England cricketer Nat Sciver played a prominent role in all three of her team’s series wins this year, finishing as their third-highest rungetter and wicket-taker in T20Is in 2021.

In the first T20I on the tour of New Zealand, Sciver landed two early blows by dismissing Sophie Devine and Amy Satterthwaite inside the Powerplay.

Later, walking in at No 3, she batted through and got England across the line while chasing a modest total of 97.

In the second game, she helped clean up the tail

Smriti Mandhana

second-highest run-scorer in T20Is this year. She scored 325 runs at 40.62 in 10 T20Is with a strike rate of 128.45, with one century and a half-century.

Twenty-year-old Lewis played a major role in Ireland’s two series wins, bagging the Player of the Match award twice in Ireland’s 3-1 series win over Scotland at home. She scripted history at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier in August, becoming the first female cricketer from Ireland to score a T20I hundred.

On the other hand, opener Tammy Beaumont was England’s highest rungetter in the year in T20Is and third-highest overall in the world. She scored 303 runs in nine matches at an average of 33.66 with three half-centuries.

In a low-scoring series against New Zealand away from home, Beaumont was the top scorer and was awarded the Player of the Series for 102 runs in three matches. Her 53-ball 63 in the second match put England in a winning position after they lost two wickets

First death anniversary of Late N. Tonishi Chishi

(Youngest daughter of Dr. Nihoto P Chishi, Born on 16th January,1976, Died on 31st December, 2020)

Dear Tonibo It's been a year since you departed. We still remember you and your life that you lived with us.

We may have said goodbye on this earth, but we will never say goodbye to everything you have left us with, while you were here with us.

Everyday we pray for your soul to rest in peace. May God keep you safe in His arms.

Missing you today and forever.

db-457/21

With all our love, Parents, Children, Sisters and family members who cherished you.

with two wickets to reduce New Zealand to 123. She finished the series with five wickets, the joint-highest with three other players.

She also produced a Player of the matchwinning performance in the first T20I when India came touring, scoring a half-century and picking up a wicket in England’s 18-run win. She also played a crucial knock of 42 in the decider to help her side clinch the series 2-1.

Overall, Sciver scored 153 runs in nine matches at an average of 19.12 with one fifty; 10 wickets at an average of 20.20 and an economy rate of 6.51.

aCKnOWLeDGeMent

DP-6179/21

WELLINGTON, DEC 30 (AP): Veteran New Zealand batsman Ross Taylor says he will retire from international cricket after the current domestic season.

The second test against Bangladesh next month, in which he likely will equal Daniel Vettori’s record of 112 tests for New Zealand, will be his last.

Taylor won’t play in the Black Caps test series against South Africa in February but will play oneday international series against Australia in Australia in February and against the Netherlands at home in late March and early April.

The fourth ODI against the Netherlands in Taylor’s home town of Hamilton on April 4 will be his last match for New Zealand.

“It’s been an amazing journey and I feel incredibly fortunate to have represented my country for as long as I have,” Taylor said in a statement Thursday.

“It’s been such a privilege to play with and against some of the greats of the game and to have created so many memories and friendships along the way. But all good things must come to an end and the timing feels right for

DUBAI, DEC 30 (IANS): The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday announced England cricketers Tammy Beaumont and Nat Sciver, Indian opener Smriti Mandhana and Ireland’s Gaby Lewis as the nominees for the ICC Women’s T20I Player of the Year.

In a year that saw India win only two of the nine T20Is, opening batter Smriti Mandhana was one of their few bright spots.

She played a major role in the first of the two wins, smashing 48 off just 28 balls against South Africa, chasing 113 in the final T20I. The win saved India the blushes, as they managed to avoid the sweep.

Mandhana was India’s top run-scorer in the T20I series against England with 119 runs but didn’t find enough support from the rest of the batters.

She was India’s top-scorer in both the matches that India lost, including a 51ball 70 that went in vain in the final T20I. Overall, Smriti scored 255 runs in nine matches at an average of 31.87 with two half-centuries.

Meanwhile, Ireland all-rounder Gaby Lewis also had a smashing 2021 in the shortest format of the game, finishing as the

Born: 1923 – Died : 17-12-2021 We, the bereaved family members of Late moakala ozükum (Waromung), would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to all our relatives, friends, neighbours, churches, Unions and well wishers who stood by us morally, physically, financially and supported us through prayers in our times of loss and grief.

May the Almighty God continue to shower His love and blessings to each and everyone of you abundantly.

Loving family members, grand children and great grand children

1st Death anniversary Of our beloved father LT. K. YemoNg RTD SuPeRviSoR

Died: 31. 12. 2020 “The memory of the righteous is a blessing” Proverbs 10:7 It’s been a year since you left us for heavenly Abode yet your memories are still fresh in our hearts. We miss you dearly.

Loving wife, children and relatives.

DP-6180/21 K Y M C

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NAGALAND POST, DIMAPUR FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31, 2021

India win first Test against South Africa ISL: Bengaluru beat Chennaiyin 4-2

CENTURION, DEC 30 (PTI): India’s once-in-ageneration pace unit destroyed a listless South Africa with its relentless attack to fashion an emphatic 113-run win in the first Test here on Thursday, setting the team on the path towards an elusive seriesvictory in the Rainbow nation.

The 2021 started with India breaching the Fortress Gabba Down Under and it couldn’t have been a better end as they have now brought down Supersport Park which has been a Proteas’ citadel for the longest time.

The target of 305 on a track with a lot of uneven bounce was always out of question for a South African unit that is low on quality and the script unfolded as per the narrative set.

The home team folded for 191 in 68 overs to give India a 1-0 lead in threematch series.

Such was the command of Indian pacers that they even took rain out of equation despite one full day being lost.

It was pity to see South Africa, that boasted of some great names of the yore, couldn’t even post 200 runs in the both the innings

India’s Jasprit Bumrah, left, has a word with bowler Mohammed Siraj as he prepares to bowl. (AP/PTI)

with skipper Dean Elgar’s 77 off 156 balls not exactly being a saving grace.

Quinton de Kock will be missing from the lineup from the next Test as he will be on paternity leave and it will certainly make it easier for India to claim their first series win in South Africa since they first toured here in 1992.

For India, the four pacers took 18 wickets between them and Ravichandran Ashwin wrapped up the South African tail just after the lunch session to complete formality.

The three men who won the match for India were, vice-captain KL Ra-

hul for that first innings hundred that gave the team platform, supremely talented Mohammed Shami (5/44 and 3/63) who had a match-haul of eight wickets and peerless Jasprit Bumrah.

Bumrah is perhaps Indian cricket’s biggest gift, a freaky fast bowler, who can provide moments of magic as he did on fourth evening to close the match for India.

Mohammed Siraj and Shardul Thakur were the perfect supporting cast in one of the better and comfortable overseas wins for Virat Kohli’s men.

“They bullied South

Africa in their backyard and it’s not often seen,” said former South Africa pacer and broadcaster Morne Morkel.

Bumrah (3/50) set the tone for the final morning by removing the dogged Proteas skipper Elgar (77 off 156 balls) while Siraj (2/47) and Shami also got into the act knowing that there is forecast for some rain in the late afternoon session.

Having gauged the variable bounce of the track, skipper Elgar knew that survival isn’t an option and he needed to counter attack right at the onset.

With the stodgy Bavuma for company, 36 runs were added in the first 45 minutes but the best part was that there was no let up in the intensity of the Indian attack as skipper Kohli and wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant were constantly heard cheering the bowlers on.

Shami dropped Elgar off his own bowling but it was Bumrah, who kept on asking probing questions to the Proteas skipper.

One such delivery was angled into the left-hander as he shuffled way too much and leg before was one of the easiest of decisions that umpire Adrian

Holdstock had to make in this match.

Hoping against hope, Elgar appealed for DRS but he already knew that he was gone for good.

Quinton de Kock (21) came in and hit couple of delicious shots off Bumrah, trying to knock off as many runs possible off the target.

The hardworking Siraj bowled one with the scrambled seam and just like first innings, tried to cut with very little room for execution with the ball coming into him.

Wiaan Mulder (1), who has had a forgettable match with no wickets to show for his efforts, got a delivery from Shami that was way above his skillset.

The ball pitched on length while landing on seam. Mulder shaped for one that would come back but it straightened enough to kiss the outside edge off his bat into Rishabh Pant’s gloves.

Brief scores: India 327 and 174 beat South Africa 197 and 191 all out in 68 overs (Dean Elgar 77, Temba Bavuma 35 not out, Jasprit Bumrah 3/50, Mohammed Shami 3/63) by 113 runs

VASCO, DEC 30 (AGENCIES): Bengalur u FC notched up a much-needed win, beating Chennaiyin FC 4-2 in an error-strewn but entertaining fare at the Tilak Maidan Stadium in Vasco on Thursday.

The result, which will feel like oxygen for coach Marco Pezzaiuoli, was sealed in the space of four second-half minutes. At 2-2 and 20 minutes go, BFC’s substitutes Sunil Chhetri and Danish Farooq combined, moving the ball from the left to the centre and into the path of Cleiton Silva.

The Brazilian’s dummy left Udanta with a clear view of the goal and the 25-year-old slotted it neatly into the bottom left corner.

Immediately after, a blunder from Chennaiyin goalie Vishal Kaith – his second of the night – put the result beyond doubt, when he fluffed an easy take off a corner and Pratik Chowdhary – another substitute – bundled it in.

It was only BFC’s second win of the season and it sent the side eighth in the table with nine points from as many matches. Chennaiyin is placed sixth with 11 points from eight games.

But at the start of the evening, it was all Chennaiyin. The sensational Mir-

Cleiton Silva (R) of Bengaluru FC celebrates with teammates Jayesh Rane and Suresh Singh Wangjam. (PTI)

lan Murzaev put his team ahead as early as the fourth minute with a fine solo goal. Germanpreet Singh set the Kyrgyzstan player free on the left flank and the attacker side-stepped a defender, moved to his right and fired past Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.

BFC defender Parag Shrivas missed a sitter, sending the ball over the bar from five yards out before Kaith kept out a glancing header from Prince Ibara.

But the equaliser soon ar-

rived, through a penalty, which Silva converted after Jerry Lalrinzuala was penalised for handling the ball. On the stroke of halftime, Kaith’s mistake gave BFC the lead. The goalie charged out to punch a corner to safety, but barely touched it and it went in off BFC defender Alan Costa’s shoulder.

Chennaiyin established an upper hand again and came close on multiple occasions, but it was BFC which had the last laugh.

China bans its national football Devin Booker hits milestone in Phoenix Suns’ win players from getting tattoos BEIJING, DEC 30 (AGENCIES): Footballers who play for China’s national team have been banned from getting tattoos - and advised to remove ones they have - under a new directive.

The country’s sports administration body said recruiting new players with tattoos at national level and to youth squads was “strictly prohibited”.

The administration said the move would help set a “good example for society”.

Some national stars, including defender Zhang Linpeng, have previously been told to cover their tattoos.

China has been increasingly stepping up regulation since mid-2018 to stop tattoos being shown on screens. Some professional footballers have since been covering their arms with long sleeves to hide their body art.

In a statement, the country’s General Administration of Sport (GAS) said national players with tattoos

China’s Zhang Linpeng in action.

were “advised to have them removed”. “In special circumstances, the tattoos must be covered during training and competition, with the consent of the rest of the team,” it said.

In Chinese culture a stigma has been attached to tattoos - in the past they were used to brand criminals and the tattoo still has links to organised crime groups in east Asia. Tattoos among ethnic groups were often seen as a mark of the uncivilised. They are disap-

proved of by China’s ruling Communist Party, but have become increasingly popular among young Chinese.

Earlier this year, China’s broadcasting regulator announced that it was tightening rules on what it described as “unhealthy content”. Television and internet appearances by sports personalities and celebrities have been restricted in cases involving tattoos and men’s ponytails - in some instances these have been blurred from screens.

PHOENIX, DEC 30 ( AG E N C I E S ) : D e v i n Booker matched his season high of 38 points while reaching a milestone as the Phoenix Suns earned a 11597 victory over the visiting Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night.

JaVale McGee contributed 16 points and eight rebounds and Cameron Payne added 16 points and seven assists for Phoenix, which snapped a two-game slide.

In the first quarter, Booker (25 years, 60 days) became the seventh youngest player in NBA history to reach 10,000 career points.

He finished the game with 10,034.

Ty Jerome established career bests of 24 points and eight rebounds for Oklahoma City, which dropped its second straight contest.

Aaron Wiggins added 22 points and eight boards

had a career-high 32 points and Hamidou Diallo supplied 31 points and 13 rebounds for the Pistons, who had 12 players listed as out, including eight in league protocols. They used six players who were signed to 10-day contracts in the past week.

Jazz 120, Trail Blazers 105

Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) dribbles the ball between Oklahoma City Thunder forward Luguentz Dort (5) and guard Aaron Wiggins (21) in the first half at Footprint Center.

Knicks 94, Pistons 85

Rudy Gobert scored 22 points and grabbed 14 rebounds and Rudy Gay netted 21 points to lead visiting Utah past Portland.

Six Jazz players scored 15 or more points and the team shot 52.9 percent from the field to win its fifth straight game overall and its eighth in a row on the road.

Damian Lillard and Norman Powell each fired in 32 points for the Trail Blazers, who have dropped three games in a row. Portland, which never led and trailed by as many as 22 points, was without two coaches, including head coach Chauncey Billups, and seven players who are all in the NBA’s health and safety protocols.

Chimezie Metu connected on a buzzer-beating 3-pointer on an inbounds play that began with 3.8 seconds remaining, giving

Sacramento a win over visiting Dallas.

De’Aaron Fox paced a balanced Sacramento attack with 16 points. Barnes and Davion Mitchell followed with 14 each, Tyrese Haliburton had 12 to go with a game-high 10 assists, and Metu and Marvin Bagley

III scored 11 apiece. Jalen Brunson had a game-high 25 points to go with a teamhigh six assists and Kristaps Porzingis chipped in with 24 points to complement a team-high seven rebounds for the Mavericks, who will stay in Sacramento and get a rematch Friday night.

In busy 2022, Neeraj Chopra to participate in CWG, Asian Games, World Championship

2021 will go down as one of the greatest yrs: Rahul

ATP Cup field provides glimpse into future

MUMBAI, DEC 30 (IANS): India’s Olympic gold medallist javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra wants to participate in the full season in 2022 including the Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, World Championships, and the Diamond League.

The World Athletics Championships, postponed from 2021, is scheduled to be held at Oregon (USA) from July 15-24, 2022 while the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham will start on July 28 and will continue till August 8. The Asian Games will be held at Hangzhou, China from September 10-25 while the Diamond League will comprise 14 events to be held from May 13-September 8, making it quite a busy schedule ahead for Chopra.

If he goes ahead with this plan, Chopra will participate in three major events in three months, which will leave him with very little time for preparations in between because of the travel restrictions because of the Covid-19 protocols.

Neeraj Chopra

Having just started training in the United States following a lengthy break after he became only the second Indian after Abhinav Bindra to win Olympic gold, Chopra said things are going well at the camp. He is currently at Chula Vista Elite Athlete Training Centre in California for a three-month camp with his German coach Klaus Bartonietz.

“My training is going well and I am getting back my fitness. Initially, it was very difficult and I experienced some pain and stiffness as I started my physical training, but now things are better,” Chopra told the media in a virtual interaction on Thursday,

Chopra had decided to end his season in August considering that everyone wanted to have a slice of the Tokyo Games gold winner.

He had spent the last few months soaking up the adulation, participating in events, and meeting people.

He had generally been enjoying his time with family and friends, ignoring diet restrictions and fitness regimen, gaining weight.

Now after a couple of weeks’ training, which had initially been hard according to him, the 24-year-old reigning Commonwealth and Asian Games gold medallist from Haryana feels he is getting back to peak fitness and will soon

Kings 95, Mavericks 94

sit down with his coach and support staff to plan his schedule in the season.

“I have shed some weight and will be losing some more in the next couple of weeks. I will soon sit down with my coach and support staff and decide my schedule for the season. As all these events are very important, I am planning to participate in all of them,” Chopra said on Thursday.

Chopra said he will try to accommodate as many of these important events as possible in his schedule. He said he will participate in all big events unless there is a very short gap between them.

For Chopra, crossing the 90-metre mark remains his aim for the upcoming season and Chopra said he wants to achieve the feat this season. It is a psychological barrier that Chopra wants to cross at the earliest but the bigger task will be to hurl the spear continuously beyond 90 in the next few years.

However, Chopra said he is not obsessed with crossing the 90-metre mark.

CENTURION, DEC 30 (PTI): From a near impossible win at the Gabba with a second-string side to walloping a hapless South Africa in their own backyard, 2021 can easily go down in the annals as “one of the greatest in Indian cricket”, opener KL Rahul asserted on Thursday after his side breached the Centurion fortress. Between the start and finish of the year, India also recorded creditable Test victories at the Lord’s and the Oval.

Rahul was an architect in all these milestone wins on more than one occasion.

He had scored a hundred in India’s win at the Lord’s.

Having set the tone with his first innings hundred, the stand-in vice-captain for the South Africa series summed up the year when the Indian team became the first Asian nation to win a Test at the Centurion. “It’s a super super special year for team India.

The kind of achievements that we have gotten this year has been truly special. I think it will go down as one of the greatest years in Indian cricket history,” Rahul said at the post match press conference.

MELBOURNE, DEC 30 (AGENCIES): The third edition of the team-based ATP Cup will kick off the new men’s tennis season on Saturday, its depleted field providing a taste of what the sport will look like without the ‘Big Three’ of Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.

For different reasons the trio, who are tied for a men’s record 20 major titles, will not be in action when the $10 million tournament, similar in format to the Davis Cup, is played in two venues at the Sydney Olympic Park.

Organisers did not cite any reason when they announced on Wednesday that top-ranked Djokovic has pulled out of the Serbia team, which won the inaugural edition in 2020.

While the 40-year-old Federer was ruled out after undergoing multiple knee surgeries, Spaniard Nadal has been recovering after testing positive for the novel coronavirus.

World number five Andrey Rublev, who was part of Russia’s title-winning side in this year’s edition, and 2020 U.S. Open winner Dominic Thiem are other top names missing.

Alec Burks poured in a season-high 34 points off the bench as visiting New York rallied in the fourth quarter to defeat depleted Detroit.

Immanuel Quickly had 18 points and RJ Barrett tossed in 15 for New York.

Detroit’s Saddiq Bey

The withdrawal of Thiem, who is planning his return next month from a long-term wrist injury, and Dennis Novak saw Austria fail the eligibility criteria and they have been replaced by France in the tournament.

The third edition of the ATP Cup will have 16 nations, up from this year’s 12team event but still behind the 24 sides that featured in its 2020 debut when Djokovic-led Serbia clinched the trophy.

“It’s never the same when you have No. 1 in your team and you don’t have him. It’s a big difference,” Dusan Lajovic, who will be Serbia’s top player in Djokovic’s absence, said on Thursday. “Obviously when Novak is in the team

the expectations get much higher. Right now maybe we are on the sideline a little bit, and it could be good for us, it could be bad, we’ll see. (But) Definitely different.”

In Djokovic’s absence, world number two Daniil Medvedev will be the top draw in Sydney and lead Russia’s title defence with runners-up Italy once again looking strong with two top-10 players in Matteo Berrettini and Jannik Sinner in their squad.

The tournament, which sees the 16 teams divided into four groups with the winners advancing to the semi-finals, will provide a form guide of the contenders for the Australian Open, which will begin at Melbourne Park from Jan. 17.

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