May 5, 2020

Nagaland Post

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Vol XXX No. 148

DIMAPUR, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020 Pages 8 ` 4.00

Trump pushes for economic reopening

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international, Page 6

DoHFW under RTI scanner

Staff Reporter

D I M A P U R , M AY 4 (NPN): Not satisfied with the reply given by the Department of Health & Family Welfare (DoHFW) to their RTI application filed on April 25, the four applicants have reportedly moved for specific replies to their queries. The four applicants—Niketu Iralu, Robert N Solo, Kuolachalie Seyie and Visedel Kin— sought information from the DoHFW on how much money was received by the department for COVID19 preparedness and how much was spent.

Most sur prisingly, it was disclosed that the DoHFW had provided information about purchases etc pertaining only to the period after March 20, 2020. The applicant further added that purchases and expenditure pertaining to the period prior to March 20, 2020 was not made available by the DoHFW. In the first application, the four had sought information on how much money was received for COVID-19 preparedness and how much was spent

for every specific item etc.

According to the reply given by the DoHFW, a total of Rs.41,43,88,000 was received till April 25,2020 and of which, Rs.12,27,24,000 was the expenditure to contain COVID-19 pandemic. The DoHFW further stated that the balance remaining was Rs.29,16,64,000. However, the DoHFW added that an amount of Rs.30,50,26,000 crore “payment due” and the projected deficit was Rs.1,33,62,000.

As per the figure above, (A) Money received - (B)Purchases =(C) balance(Rs.29,27,24,000).

According to the DoHFW, it still needs Rs.1,33,62,000 (deficit) to make a total payment due Rs.30,50,26,000.

The question is, why can’t Rs.29,27,24,000 crore be released against Rs.30,50,26,000 crore payment due, instead of keeping it pending just for a deficit of Rs.1,33,62,000?

The RTI also sought to know whether a Procuring Board (PB) was in place to decide on terms and conditions for indent of PPE, ventilators, masks, surgi-

cal gloves, drugs, name(s) of registered suppliers/ manufacturers and whether a Quality Control Committee (QCC) was also in place to specify the desired quality, to inspect the items supplied and receive them?

One of the applicants told Nagaland Post that the replies appeared vague and at times quite confusing which led to suspicion that it was an attempt at cover up.

It was also disclosed that the quality of PPE was not of desired standard and which also bore testimony to the hue and cry raised earlier by COVID-19 medical team. It may also be noted that some of the private hospitals have opted to use PPE of their choice as the PPE provided by the government were found to be “very ordinary” and not of good quality.

Another shocking revelation was that drugs/ medicines supplied were purchased with hardly a month before expiry. The RTI applicant said it was left to anyone’s conclusion as to the compelling reasons for purchase of large quantities of nearly-

expired medicines.

Another revelation from the applicant was that the Dead Body Bags (DBBs), which were meant to place bodies of COVID19 victims for disposal, were of very inferior quality. It was disclosed that the DBBs looked like ordinary cement bags. The stitches were also very loose and porous and would prove highly risky when body fluids escape through them.

It was also believed that all the decisions and purchases etc were done without following proper procedures through table tenders from pre-selected firms. The applicant said it would be another matter if purchases were indented at approved rates and quality from genuine manufacturers.

Further, it was also disclosed that as the replies to the RTI were totally unsatisfactory, the applicants will submit representations to the Governor and the Lokayukta.

It was also revealed that another party has already decided to take up the matter in the form of PIL in the high court.

nagalandpostofficial nagalandpostofficial

Migrant workers return to Assam from Nagaland DIMAPUR, MAY 4 (PTI): Over 100 migrant workers from Assam who were stranded in Nagaland due to lockdown have returned to their home state on Sunday, officials said.

A district health official in the surveillance team deployed at New Field Check gate border of Nagaland and Assam said that around 100 people mostly daily wage earners hailing from neighbouring Assam crossed over to the other side on Sunday, while the number is likely to increase. He said that more than 500 fitness certificates have already been issued to migrants workers from Assam and also those hailing from north Indian states.

Meanwhile, SDPO Bokajan sub-division under Karbi Anglong of Assam, John Das who was present at the gate monitoring the movement of people, informed that those returning from Nagaland will be kept in quarantine for 14 days before they are allowed to travel to their respective homes. He, however, said that those hailing from other North Indian states will not be allowed to enter Assam.

Cong will bear cost of migrant rail travel: Sonia national, Page 5

COVID-19 deaths rise to 1,389 in India NEW DELHI, MAY 4 (PTI): The death toll due to COVID-19 rose to 1,389 and the total number of cases climbed to 42,836 in the country on Monday, registering an increase of 83 deaths and a record jump of 2,573 cases in the last 24 hours, the Union Health Ministry said.

The number of active COVID-19 cases stood at 29,685, while 11,761 people have recovered and one patient has migrated, it said.

“Thus, around 27.45 per cent people have recovered so far from the disease,” a senior health ministry official said. The total number of COVID19 cases also include 111 foreign nationals.

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DIMAPUR, MAY 4 (NPN): State chief minister, Neiphiu Rio, Monday launched Nagaland COVID19 Helpline to address challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic in the state.

According to an official bulletin, the chief minister said that the dedicated helpline 1800 345 0019 would provide medical assistance to potential COVID-19 cases and other health concerns.

Any citizen suffering from COV1D-I9 symptoms or any other health conditions could call this helpline. The service is completely free of cost. For COVID-l9 specific telemedicine, Rio said the state has partnered with Project Step One. He said that through this facility citizens

UPSC defers exam

NEW DELHI, MAY 4 (PTI): Civil services preliminary exam, scheduled to be held on May 31, has been deferred due to nationwide lockdown and the new date will be decided later this month, Union Public Service Commission has said.

This is it!

“Let me be frank. Other groups have also added CORONA Tax and I can’t help.”

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can stay at home and consult a doctor on the phone and take advice.

The same service is available for any other health concern including general counselling etc. which would be handled by state health professionals. Rio also said that the state government was grateful to all the medical professionals, both private and government sector, who have come forward voluntarily to offer their services free of cost.

He called upon doctors willing to provide their services voluntarily in the fight against COVID-19 to register themselves on: https://www.projectstepone.org/volunteer OR email credentials to the Department of H&FW Nagaland at pddhf@gmail.com.

last 21 days.

In an order, the deputy commissioner (DC) Dimapur, Anoop Khinchi, has allowed opening of all shops including shops in residential complex and market complexes except shops at multi-brand and single brand malls outside the limits of municipalities and town councils.

DC also allowed opening of all shops including neighbourhood shops and standalone shops, shops in residential complexes within the limits of municipalities and town councils except shops in market complex and multi-brand and single brand malls. The order stated that shops would function with 50% strength of workers wearing masks and maintaining social distancing. The shops would remain open only from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

However, all shops at New Market, Hong Kong Market, Hazi Park, Mil-

Nagaland COVID status: Results of 29 awaited D I M A P U R , M AY 4 (NPN): Nagaland has so far sent 708 COVID suspected samples for testing, out of which 679 samples have tested negative.

The results for the remaining 29 samples are awaited, state government spokesperson and minister Planning & Coordination, Land Revenue, Parl Affairs Neiba Kronu informed.

lennium market, Railway bazaar and vegetable market at Purana Bazar would remain closed. All weekly bazaars would also continue to remain closed.

Shops at Nyamo Lotha Road and MP Road have been allowed remain open from 9am to 2pm as per the guidelines issued by the chief secretary.

Wholesale market of essential commodities would continue to operate from designated godowns while wholesale vegetable market would continue to operate from Supermarket area. All public transportation including autorickshaw, cab services would remain prohibited.

It reiterated that salons, dine-in restaurants, eateries and departmental stores would continue to remain closed. However, home deliveries from dinein restaurants food outlets and delivery of online order of essential commodities

Lockdown 3.0: State govt issues revised guidelines Correspondent

KOHIMA, MAY 4 (NPN): Even as the third phase of nationwide lockdown came into effect on Monday and with Nagaland being categorised under “green zone”, the State government issued a new set of lockdown guidelines.

Announcing this before the media at civil secretariat’s conference hall here on Monday, chief secretary Temjen Toy said inter-district movement of migrants and stranded persons in distress would be allowed in a regulated manner under the new norms. However, inter-district movement of commercial passenger vehicles would continue to remain prohibited, barring goods carriage, he added. (Complete details on www.nagalandpost.com & E-paper in PDF) Also, under the new guidelines, taxis and auto

rickshaws will be allowed to ply, but on the conditions that they would carry not more than two and one passengers respectively.

However relaxation on movement of taxis and autos will not be applicable in 14 border administrative subdivisions of Dimapur sadar, Nuiland, Dhansaripar, Siethiekema circle, Jalukie, Bhandari, Mangkolemba, Tuli, Tamlu, Naginimora, Tizit, Pfutsero, Meluri and Jakhama.

Toy said deputy commissioners (DCs) had cautioned taxi drivers and various associations that limiting the numbers of passengers in taxis and autos should not lead to increase in fares. He clarified that the new rules would be applicable only for local taxis as the State government was yet to take a call on zonal taxis.

All schools, colleges, educational, training, coach-

ing institutions, hospitality services, cinema halls, shopping malls, gymnasiums, sports complexes, assembly halls will remain closed. All social, political, sports, cultural, religious functions and other gatherings continue to remain prohibited.

He mentioned that during his video conference with the DCs he had instructed them to ensure that people travelling within the State to their respective villages were not disturbed as Nagaland was in green zone and warned of action, if people were not allowed.

Mentioning that sealing of borders (inter-state and international border) would continue, the chief secretary however said people wishing to leave the State would be allowed, but they would not be allowed to re-enter. He added that the DCs had been instructed to ensure that until and unless

certain relaxations were made, such entries should not be allowed. For the time being, he said districts would be using NST buses by following the standard operating procedures (SOPs) that were being worked out, adding those who did not own vehicles could travel in NST buses and the cost would be borne by the State government, whose details would be released by end of this week.

Toy said civil secretariat and directorates at Kohima and Dimapur and all State government offices across all the districts too would start functioning with attendance of officers in the ranks of deputy secretary and above in the secretariat, deputy director and above in the directorates and heads of departments (HoDs) and immediate juniors in district offices being mandatory.

(Cont’d on p-5)

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status REPORT AS ON may 5, 2020 North East Nagaland Assam Manipur Meghalaya Mizoram Arunachal Pradesh Tripura

Nagaland COVID-19 helpline launched Sec 144 CrPC relaxed in Dmu; containment scaled down D I M A P U R , M AY 4 (NPN): District magistrate and commissioner of police (CP) Dimapur, Rothihu Tetseo, has relaxed the earlier promulgation order under Section 144 CrPC in Dimapur district. In an order, CP Dimapur stated promulgation of 144 CrPC would continue and would be enforced from 5pm to 6am till May 17, 2020 during which assembly/movement of five and more persons would be strictly prohibited.

CP stated that exempted list would remain the same as issued in the earlier orders. CP warned that violation of the order would tantamount to punitive punishment Under Section 188 of the Indian Penal Code.

Containment zone scaled down: Dimapur district administration has scaled down the containment zone at Dimapur town and restricted to only Thakurbari area in absence of any positive cases for the

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would be permitted.

The proprietors of the shops and establishments allowed to open would make arrangements for keeping hand sanitizer or providing facilities for hand washing with soap and water for the public as well as for their own staff workers.

They should also get the door handles, surfaces and other objects frequently touched by people to be regularly cleaned and disinfected.

However, as specified in the lock down measures, national COV1D-19 directive and standard operating procedure protocol for social distancing must be ensured.

Any person violating the order would be liable to be proceeded against as per the provisions of Section 51 to 60 of the Disaster Management Act 2005 besides legal action under Section 188 of the IPC. The order comes into with effect from May 5, 2020.

Ao bodies relax restrictions in Mkg MOKOKCHUNG, MAY 4 (NPN): Three apex bodies of the Aos – Ao Senden, Watsu Mungdang and Ao Kaketshir Mungdang – have in a joint statement announced relaxation of certain restrictions in Mokokchung district. This followed the State government issuing new lockdown guidelines and Nagaland being categorised under green zone vis-à-vis COVID-19 pandemic.

Extending appreciation to villages in border areas for being sincere in sealing the borders, the three apex Ao bodies also appealed to them to continue their efforts for completely sealing the borders.

The organisations further urged villages and wards in urban areas to relax the lockdown by opening their village gates.

Confirmed Recovered Nil 43 2 12 1 1 16

Nil 32 2 10 Nil 1 2

Death Nil 1 Nil 1 Nil Nil Nil

NCPA, ANGCTA, ANCSU not in favour of reopening colleges DIMAPUR, MAY 4 (NPN): Nagaland College Principals Association (NCPA), All Nagaland Government College Teachers’ Association (ANGCTA) and All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) have affirmed that it was not advisable to reopen the colleges until such time the state government ensured the safety of the students, teachers and other stakeholders.

In a joint statement, the three associations said this was decided at a joint meeting of its executive members held at Kohima Science College, Jotsoma on May 4, 2020. The decision arrived after taking into consideration the current critical situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they said.

Further, they affirmed that the Nagaland University Academic Calendar vis-à-vis the respective Academic Calendars of the Autonomous Colleges, be followed to facilitate continuous academic activities towards students’ progression.

Meanwhile, the three associations stated that the students, teachers and colleges affiliated to Nagaland University were anticipating further directive from the University.

CNTC urges govt to monitor distribution of relief items

DIMAPUR, MAY 4 (NPN): Central Nagaland Tribes Council (CNTC) has urged the State government to look into reports of malpractices and misappropriation of relief materials meant for daily wage earners and those living below poverty line during the lockdown period.

Stating that it was disheartened to learn about all this, the council termed the conduct as disgrace to Christian principles and morality.

According to CNTC, there were reports from various quarters that rice allotments and relief package of essential items of State disaster management agencies, NGOs and various groups distributed for the poor were being misappropriated by many village and colony councils. Many affluent people, including families of (Cont’d on p-5) government officials, were

availing these benefits meant for the underprivileged section, due to which shortages were also being witnessed during distribution of these materials, it alleged.

CNTC called for discarding such “shameful and repugnant habits, if we consider ourselves as true Christians and set examples to others”. Mentioning that “our” Christian principles had been compromised and greatly tarnished for just some morsel of rice grains or some few essential items by those who are doing these practices, CNTC asked the Naga people to desist from such corrupt ways.

It also appealed to churches to preach against these fraudulent practices, while encouraging the people to be honest and uphold the Christian principles during these challenging times.

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Phisami HWC functioning without nurses, says PVSU

View of H&WC building at Phisami.

KIPHIRE: Phisami Village Students’ Union (PVSU) has appealed the Health and Family Welfare (H&FW) department to revoke the transfer order of an ANM nurse or appoint another one at Phisami Health and Wellness Centre (HWC) under Kiphire district at the earliest on priority basis.

In a representation to principal director of H&FW Nagaland on May 1, the PVSU president Tonika Aye and gen-

eral secretary Jepikali Yeptho stated that Phisami HWC has two female nurses with one CHO. While stating that one nurse was transferred to Yingshikiur village under District Health Society (DHS) Kiphire on February 7, 2020 without a reliever and the other nurse being under maternity leave since December 1, 2019, the PVSU claimed that the Phisami HWC was running with only one

CHO at present.

Noting that Phisami HWC covers six villages namely Shotumi A, Shotumi B, Phisami, Longbeakru (UR), Sangtsuwing (UR) and Lukhami villages, all falling under Seyochung area of Kiphire district, the PVSU pointed out that health of the people in the area cannot be put at risk especially as Kiphire was an aspirational district and the lone CHO cannot perform/ cover these six villages.

NH reaches out to stranded students and workers Correspondent KOHIMA, MAY 4 (NPN): With the nationwide lockdown due to COVID19 pandemic since March 23, many Nagas living outside Nagaland were left stranded, some even losing their jobs and rental accommodations.

However, for these unfortunate people the state houses like Nagaland House in Kolkata and Delhi have been helping out to the best of their capacities.

Speaking to Nagaland Post, Nagaland House Delhi DRC Kethosituo Sekhose stated that they had been reaching out to all stranded students and workers in Delhi and also distributed essential commodities to more than 500 people. With the help of student unions, churches and elders they have been extending help to the needy.

He also said that the officials do not have exact data of how many Nagas reside in Delhi because forty percent of the people do not register themselves.

He added that they could maintain the numbers during this critical time as people call and give their details.

Sekhose conveyed due to distances within Delhi and with many residing in neighbouring states like Noida and Gurgaon, movement to reach out becomes difficult due to the lockdown.

He said that they had been ensuring the safety and comfort of the people there and further advised not to panic but pray for people stranded outside.

DRC Kolkota Renbeni Ngullie stated that they had reached out to more than 400 stranded Nagas and had been giving shelter to few at Nagaland House Kolkota. They had been able to give some cash relief, daily commodities and food. She added that most of them were working people who had lost their jobs or have not been paid.

GYCD assists in packaging dry ration

GYCD members along with officials from RCS, NCD and DCCI.

DIMAPUR: Gorkha Youth C lub Dim apur (GYCD) with the initiative of Red Cross Society (RCS) has been assisting the district administration in packaging of dry ration

at Holy Cross School auditorium, Dimapur.

A press release from GYCD stated that, Ghoketo Chopy from Naga Council Dimapur (NCD) and Tino Jamir joint secretary, Di-

mapur Chamber of Commerce & Industry (DCCI) along with other leaders were supervising the process of packaging of relief materials. More than 50-60 youth from Gorkha, Ben-

gali and other communities are engaged on daily basis, under Red Cross Society in sorting out and packing of essential materials since last week. Patron of Red Cross Society, Bishnu Bhattacharjee also visited the site and encouraged members of Gorkha youth Club and all the frontline member of Redcross Society. He appreciated the Selfless activities and generous contribution rendered by youth from different communities. More than 11000 daily wage earners will be benefitted directly under this relief work programme under the supervision of district administration and relief committee.

news in Brief DC Mon informs students: Deputy commissioner, Mon Thavaseelan K informed that in view of the imposition of national lockdown and closure of schools, the district administration, Mon with due concern for the academic session of secondary school students will be uploading videos with weekly assignments for the secondary students in its You Tube channel (DC Mon) from May 4 onwards. Students are recommended to submit the assignment reports upon resumption of their academic

session to their respective schools. Parents and students are requested to make use of this opportunity.

DC Peren informs: DC Peren, Sentiwapang Aier has informed all the heads of departments (HoDs) under Peren district to be physically present in the district and attend to their duties with minimum required staff and also to be available on call whenever required. Disciplinary action shall be initiated against erring officer as per the Government Service Conduct Rules.

Distribution of preventive, essential items DIMAPUR: Legislators, Assam Rifles and social organisations have been reaching out to the needy people during the lockdown period. Essential preventive materials continue to be distributed to various frontline workers in the fight against the dreaded virus.

Tovihoto reaches out: Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM), Nagaland gave away liquid disinfectant chemical, fogging machines, manual sprayers, face shields, face masks, rubber gloves and lunch packets to the staff of Dimapur Municipal Council.

Advisor of Power, Tovihoto Ayemi, graced the occasion and on behalf of the BJYM Nagaland handed over the materials to the DMC at DDSC Stadium on Monday.

Face shields were also distributed to police personnel, which was received on behalf of police personnel by DCP Aotula T. Imchen. Speaking on the occasion, Tovihoto called K Y M C

Tovihoto Ayemi handing over the items at DDSC stadium. (NP)

the frontline workers in fight against COVID-19 as the warriors defending mankind from the deadly virus.

He said it was not known for how long fight against the virus will go on but the government was working ceaselessly and shall continue to strife forward.

He also lauded the ef-

forts of BJYM Nagaland for extending outstanding service during the need of the day. Speaking on behalf of the DMC, Albert Ezung, administrator, DMC said DMC has been giving its best service not only doing its normal sanitation but covering 96 colonies and also sanitising all designated quarantine places.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020

He said DMC staff are vulnerable but shall not compromise when performing its duties and shall continue to give its best.

Stating that it was a continued effort of the BJYM, Arvind Damani, co-incharge, BJYM Northeast said BJYM was committed to serve humanity and shall do everything possible to help in the fight against COVID-19.

DGU & GSUD: Dimapur Gorkha Union (DGU) in collaboration with Gorkha Students Union Dimapur (GSUD) visited COVID19 Hospital Dimapur on April 30 and distributed traditional sailroti with the frontline health workers.

Jalukie Battalion: Jalukie Battalion of Assam Rifles facilitated residents of Tening village with 200 improvised face masks and essential commodities on May 3.

According to PRO HQ IGAR (N), residents were also informed to remain cautious despite the relaxation in lockdown.

A group of people are seen rushing to buy sweetmeats defying social distancing rules laid out by the state government at Dimapur on Monday. (NP)

With some relaxation in various places the citizens of Kohima seem to have forgotten the government guidelines for maintaining social distancing especially in market areas as seen on Monday. (NP)

Teacher tutors students during lockdown in Mkg

Lolenmayang. (NP)

Correspondent MOKOKCHUNG, MAY 4 (NPN): In the midst of the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic outbreak and the total lockdown of the nation putting every aspect of life on hold, a teacher in Mokokchung district has been reaching out to students online since April 17. He has been offering daily math tutorial to class X students so they can still continue to learn at home.

Speaking to Nagaland

Post, Lolenmayang stated that since the unprecedented lockdown, and the indefinite protocol closure of academic institutions, he was worried about thousands of students missing out on their regular classes and wanted to assist them.

Lolen said that sleepless nights pondering over a solution was solved by his smart phone, a white board and a marker pen, that he possessed. Lolenmayang, is the vice-principal of N.I. Jamir Government Higher Secondary School (NIJGHSS), Ongpangkong, Yimyu Ward, Mokokchung. He is presently preparing to start the class tutorial for Class XII, as well. Lolen hopes to continue till the lockdown is over and even beyond, if it would prove beneficial for the student community.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die.” John 11:25 We, the family members and relatives of LT. KEKHRUNEINÜ (KENEI) VITSU of Urra Village, would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who stood by us and supported us physically, financially, morally, spiritually and also upholding us through prayers during her prolonged illness and sad demise.

We regret our inability to thank each and every individual in person, Churches and organization, but it is our sincere prayer that our Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

Our special thanks to: 1. URRA Village Council 4th February, 1994 – 2nd May, 2020 2. URRA C.Y.E. Krotho 3. URRA Youth Organization 4. URRA Women Society 5. Upper A.G. Colony C.Y.E. CRC, Kohima 6. VISWEMA C.R.C., Fellowship Kohima 7. CHAKHRO VISWEMA KUDA Union 8. KEZEVI (S.H.G. Group) URRA Village 9. NOUZIE (S.H.G. Group) URRA Village 10. NISPOL (BENGALI COMMUNITY G.B.) URRA Village 11. SPIRIT OF FAITH BIBLE SCHOOL 2013 Batchmates 12. C.R.C. URRA Village 13. DOCTORS & NURSES (ZION HOSPITAL, Dimapur) 14. Dr. KROSAKHOL PUCHO, C.I.H.S.R., Dimapur 15. DOCTORS and all the staff C.I.H.S.R., Dimapur 16. PRAYER HEALING CENTER (SOVIMA) Loving Dad, Brothers, Sisters & Relatives K-870

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

PCCI appeals govt on COVID cess decision

DIMAPUR, MAY 4 (NPN): Asserting that COVID-19 cess on fuel could increase government funds to fight the pandemic, but would “minimise the benefits of the consumers”, the Phek Chamber of Commerce & Industries (PCCI) has maintained that if decision was not rolled back immediately, food prices were expected to increase.

In a press release, PCCI president Kuvethisa Hoshi and general secretary Chetezo Akami have, therefore, urged the state government “to take this as an opportunity to show humanity, and positively utilise God-gifted quality in leading our people, our state in this hour of pandemic crisis.” When the entire world is fighting a pandemic, PCCI said the state government cannot “pause to collect cess/tax from its populous” as petrol and diesel cess was directly hitting the cost of transportation, essential commodities and other goods. Meanwhile, the PCCI has extended support to the representation submitted by Confederation of Nagaland Chamber of Commerce & Industry (CNCCI) that sought certain relief measures for the business community in distress.

A Maruti Eeco, bearing registration number NL 01P 0808, belonging to Eden Enterprises and Ministry, was hit by a truck at around 3 PM, on Monday, near Pantaloons, Tajen Ao Road. According to witnesses, it was learnt that the truck hit the Eeco from behind and fled away. (NP)

31.12.1958 – 23.04.2020 We, the bereaved family of Lt. Kevirhükho (Akho) Kehie, wishes to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and kindness shown to our family during this difficult time. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to each individual, friends and family who supported us spiritually, physically, emotionally and materially from the first day of his illness till his last breath.

We express our special thanks to: 1. Mr. Miathou Krose, Chairman NHHDC 2. Mr. Zhaleo Rio, Advisor Sericulture, Excise, Minority Affairs.

3. Mr. Rokolhou Angami, Proprietor Naagaamii Tech.

4. Mr. Lelhu Krose 5. Mr. Gohu Vüprü 6. Mr. Rialie Siria 7. Mr. Saphrü Meyase 8. GNRC Dispur, Doctors and Staff 9. CIHSR Dimapur, Doctors and Staff 10. Medziphema Town CRC 11. Rüzaphema Village CRC 12. Chathe Prayer Center 13. Sepruoliezie Baptist Church Medziphema Town 14. Sepruoliezie Youth Organisation 15. Keviu Kromia Society Rüzaphema 16. NDPP 5th Gaspani II A/c Though we are unable to mention every individual for their deeds of kindness and contributions, it is our humble and sincere prayer that our Almighty God bless you all richly and His grace always shine upon you.

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From loving Wife, Children, In-laws and Relatives.

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State

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020

COVID-19: Preparedness level continues during extended lockdown

DIMAPUR: With the ongoing nationwide lockdown, Nagaland government has relaxed some activities for operation in the state. Government continues to assess and prepare for any eventuality by reinforcing the guidelines to be followed by the public for safety. Meetings are being held to take stock of essential food grains in the state and also for promoting horticultural produces. Mock drills are being conducted in various districts as part of preparedness level, while sanitation drive plays a vital role for ensuring that COVID-19 pandemic does not break out in the state. Awareness programmes are continuously being held for various stakeholders, always keeping the welfare of the public as top priority. So far, the state has been declared as green zone and the government agencies are fighting to maintain this status. Since public mobility is limited during the lockdown, the district administrations in collaboration with banks are providing mobile ATM booths.

Kohima District

Dimapur District

MP Rajya Sabha, K. G. Kenye (2nd from Right) as NDRF team sanitising conference hall at the secretariat DC Dimapur Anoop Khinchi along with GM, NStCB Handling of COVID patient by doctors and nurses during member of NSC at the meeting on May 4. (DIPR) Kohima.

Ningsangwaba inspecting the mobile ATM on May 4. (DIPR) the mock drill held on May 4. (DIPR)

Kenye holds meeting with district administration: Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha), Nagaland, K. G. Kenye held a meeting with deputy commissioner Kohima Gregory Thejawelie along with Sr. SP Kohima, CMO Kohima, administrator KMC, ADS Kohima and KCCI at DC’s office chamber Kohima on May 4.

According to DIPR report, the MP informed that the meeting was convened as member of the National Standing Committee (NSC), GoI to take stock of food grains and other essential commodities in the state starting with Kohima district.

He said he has been appointed as a member for the whole North Eastern states, whereby he would be visiting other districts of the state as well as the other NE states.

In the meeting, the district administration, KMC, ADS and KCCI gave reports on the relief distribution activities and arrangement for availability of food grains and other essential commodities being carried out during lockdown period in the district.

MP was of the view that the district administration and KCCI play the lead role to ensure that

every common man gets their share of all essential commodities, whereby he requested the district to streamline the demand of the consumers upto the consume points. MP asked KCCI to extend more coordination at the ground level and cooperate with the district administration as KCCI represents the public. He further asked ADS to update the demand of the grassroot level and also give monthly report on the stock position to the district administration.

Kenye further lauded the district administration, Medical, Police, KMC, KCCI and all other frontline workers for executing their duties by risking their lives and encouraged them to be more responsible and to be safe. DC also said that the district has faced many challenges on daily basis but expressed that those challenges has been a learning and upgrading preparedness with coordination of all concerned departments, civil societies, villages, wards and other organisations in the district.

COVID-19 Horticulture Special Drive launched: COVID-19 Horticulture Special Drive district tour launching programme was held on May 4 at the con-

ference hall, directorate of Horticulture with advisor Horticulture, Mhathung Yanthan as the special guest. According to DIPR report, Yanthan said that as COVID-19 was affecting crop cultivation and food supply chain, the COVID19 Horticulture Special Drive has been set up as a mission to work and make the state self sufficient in horticulture crops for nutritional and economic benefits.

He called on all the officers to carry the message to the farmers about the standard operating procedure and guide lines on COVID-19 issued by the government. He informed that the touring programme will cover all the district headquarters and all villages would be covered by respective district horticulture officer to collect necessary information and database for improvement of the horticulture sector in the state. Touring team will start from May 5 and is divided into four groups.

Yanthan will be leading one group, commissioner and secretary Horticulture will be leading another and other groups by the director and senior officers of the department.

Director Horticulture

Dr. R. Elithung Lotha said that COVID-19 touring team aims to impart training to farmers and providing necessary inputs to farmers on time and establishing strong network of market linkages for the surplus produces of farmers for efficient and timely distribution and better price. Frontline staff of the department is a part of the COVID-19 frontline team to reach out and help farmers.

12th Bn NDRF sanitisation drive: One sub team of 12th Bn NDRF Doimukh carried out sanitisation drive COVID-19 at Kohima secretariat as precautionary measure to stop the spread of coronavirus.

A press release from 12th Bn NDRF Doimukh stated that, the drive was carried out under supervision of Sh. Arun Deogam comdt NDRF Doimukh. Rescuers of 12th Bn NDRF sprayed the disinfectant mixture of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and water at the office of CM, deputy CM, conference hall, home secretary chamber, SBI office, NSDMA office and account section by jet spray machine.

Sub inspector K. P. Singh (team leader) informed that NDRF will continue to do the same.

KMC informs on street vendors locations: Administrator Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) Kovi Meyase has informed that with effect from May 6, the following locations are designated for SEWA-nominated street vendors in Kohima till May 17. According to DIPR report, the designated areas are: Hotel Japfü Entrance (BOC area); Box cutting near War Cemetery; APMC Market (TCPGate area); Super Market Area (near Northern Gate); Pezielietsie (Tin- Patti); Peraciezie (High School-Secretariat Jn.).

This shall be subject to the following Terms & Conditions: Only bonafide SEWA members having valid pass issued by the KMC shall be allowed to sell local products andvegetables at the designated areas; The SEWA nominated vendors shall compulsorily use masks and hand gloves; All products shall be sold in kgs and not in bundles; Use of banned plastic is strictly prohibited; Strict social distancing shall be maintained; Sale of any prohibited item(s) is restricted; Violation of any of the above terms and conditions shall lead to immediate cancellation of the permit with fines.

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A

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Yes. No. Can’t Say.

33% 67%

Zunheboto District

Next poll

Q: Ha s t h e s t a t e g ov t

followed its own austerity drives?

 Yes.  No.  Can’t say

WEATHER FORECAST May 5

Max Min

Agartala Cloudy with a thunderstorm

33 24

Aizawl

Clouds and sun with a t-storm 28 18

Guwahati Partly sunny with a t-storm Imphal

32 21

Clouds and sun with a t-storm 29 18

Itanagar Variable clouds, a t-storm

28 20

Shillong

Some sun with a thunderstorm 23 15

Kohima

Partly sunny with a t-storm

23 15

Dimapur Periods of sun with a t-storm 31 20 Mkg

Some sun with a thunderstorm 24 16

Tuensang Partly sunny with a t-storm Wokha

18 12

Clouds and sun with a t-storm 24 19

Zunheboto Clouds and sun with a t-storm 22 14

Participants after the training-cum-awareness programme at Suruhoto block.

Second phase training on COVID-19: Second phase awareness and training on COVID-19 for stakeholders were held at Pughoboto and Suruhoto blocks under Zunheboto district on May 4.

A press release from CMO office, district media

officer Shekho Sophie stated that, Dr. J. Hokugha Sema, SMO Pughoboto CHC highlighted about contact tracing, active surveillance, passive surveillance, field surveillance team, logistics and sample collection test advisory at community level. Dr. Visavotuo Sanchu

shared preventive measures, home quarantine tips and use of disinfectant at common places and office. Dr. Alvis spoke on containment zone and dead body management. Scientific session was followed by discussion about preparedness status review which was moder-

cash for buying essential commodities from their respective colony markets.

Apart from that, specifically the villagers in the Assam boundary who were using services from Dimapur were unable to come towards Nagaland after the borders were sealed.

Therefore the mobile ATM was taken to the border areas to ease the burden of the people staying there, Kinchi maintained.

G e n e r a l m a n a ge r NStCB Dimapur, Ningsangwaba who was also present at the site pointed out that although there

were many ATM booths in the city, rural and border areas lacked the presence of ATM booths. In this regard and in order to cover up the uncovered areas, he said that the mobile ATM was introduced on November 10, 2017 during NStCB golden jubilee celebration.

Mock drill conducted at COVID-19 Hospital Dimapur: Mock drill simulating treatment and subsequent death of COVID patient in the ward and the protocols to be followed in such scenario was conducted at District Hospital Dimapur

on May 4.

According to DIPR report, during the mock drill, the doctors, nurses and health workers strictly followed the guidelines for PPE donning serially (hand hygiene, shoes, hairnet, gloves, gown, mask, goggle, cap, gloves) and doffing. Doctors from Dimapur District Hospital informed that that were 4 teams divided with a team leader for each group.

Mock drills and PPE donning and doffing practice are conducted daily team wise, as per COVID duty roster, doctors informed.

Mokokchung District

DC Mokokchung, Limawabang Jamir, handing over the facemasks to chairman, Kilentoshi at Khensa community hall on May 4.

societies and the churches for their continuous support in the days ahead.

Programme was chaired

by EAC Ongpangkong (South), Sangpangchang Longkumer, welcome address was delivered by chairman Village Council Khensa, Kilentoshi while dedicatory prayer was pronounced by pastor, Khensa Baptish Church, Rev. K. Temjen. Earlier, EAC & nodal officer for the face mask campaign, Sentilong

Ozukum expressed appreciation to all the donors and volunteers who came forward to help Mokokchung. Campaign has created a website where all the latest information about the face mask project will be available including the detail of the work progress.

Various SHGs and volunteers also use an integrated dashboard platform online where one can track the progress of work. Volunteers can simply request

for more material or pickup of readymade masks at the click of a button from their mobile phone. Nodal officer also expressed appreciation to Dr. Vivek Choudhory, currently working at INSEAD, Singapore and volunteering in creating, designing and operating websites and apps for the Face Mask Project. He also monitors the entire online dashboard from Singapore using the hashtag # iamwithmokokchung.

Longleng District

HCMC and CHC Meluri sensitisation programme: Health Centre Management Committee (HCMC) of Community Health Centre (CHC) Meluri conducted a sensitisation programme for the highly susceptible group of people in the society i.e senior citizens and pregnant women on May 3 from increased health risk during the COVID-19 pandemic.

A press release NHM Phek district media officer, Kutolu Nakro stated that, the Do’s and Dont’s for protection during COVID-19 pandemic such as proper technique of hand hygiene/personal hygiene was highlighted to them.

Health care services were also provided through checking of blood pressure and diabetes, nutritional Medical personnel with elderly citizens during the health food supplement was also given to all the pregnant women and elderly. care services conducted on May 4.

0%

(Temperature in ºC)

MDTF on COVID- 19 launch face mask distribution: Launching programme of face mask distribution by Mokokchung District Task Force (DTF) on COVID-19 was held at the community hall, Khensa village on May 4.

According to DIPR report, deputy commissioner & convenor DTF on COVID19, Mokokchung, Limawabang Jamir, said the citizen funded project to stitch two lakhs washable masks was to ensure that every single person in the district has a mask to wear compulsory to contain the spread of COVID- 19 pandemic should the situation arise.

While stating that battle against COVID-19 pandemic would continue until a vaccine was found, the DC asked the citizens to be self disciplined, maintain personal hygiene and strictly follow the directions being given by the authorities.

He also appealed the civil

Phek District

nagalandpost.com Poll Q . : I s t h e s t a t e g ov t justified in imposing COVID-19 cess during the lockdown?

DC Dimapur inspects mobile ATM: Deputy commissioner Dimapur, Anoop Kinchi inspected the Nagaland State Cooperative Bank (NStCB) mobile ATM on Monday, which continues to facilitate customers in the rural and border areas and is an initiative of NStCB in collaboration with district administration Dimapur.

According to DIPR report, Khinchi said that during lockdown when people were unable to come out into the town, the mobile ATM went to the doorsteps to enable them to draw

ated by Dr. J. Hokugha Sema.

In Suruhoto block Dr. Renchamo, MO I/c took over the session. The house also decided that students coming from other districts will be allowed to enter the town after obtaining necessary formalities from the block administration and will be shifted to quarantine centre arranged by the Medical department.

It was also resolved to deploy more Police personnel and volunteers in the two check gates to man the gate 24X7 and strict social distancing to be maintained.

Programme was attended by administration, Police, SMO, medical officers, GBs, DBs, STH, student leaders, church leaders, AWW and ASHA.

Longleng DTF mock drill on COVID-19: Longleng District Task Force (DTF) on COVID-19 comprising of Medical department, administration, Police, Fire and Emergency Services conducted a mock drill at COVID-19 Hospital on May 4. A press release from CMO office, district media officer Roseline stated that, the drill was to test the preparedness of the DTF in handling emergency situation in the event of COVID-19 outbreak in the district. It aims to review the COVID19 response plan and containment strategy, enhance co-ordination with various government resources, manpower, logistics and communication.

The mock drill started with a patient showing symptoms associated with COVID-19, swab sample collection, sending of sample to the testing centres, handling of COVID-19 patient and quarantine of relatives and handling of deceased patient. Mock drill exercises witnessed development of the actual resource personnel like medical workers, trained volunteers, security personnel, machineries and equipments like trucks, ambulance, protective gears/ PPEs etc. Mock drill was followed by briefing from medical superintendent Dr

Medical attendant collecting swab sample from a patient during the mock drill.

Lhouvizotuo Belho at the hospital where certain gaps and suggestions noted by the observers were deliberated upon.

LTC imposes total ban on single-use plastics: ADC & administrator of Longleng Town Council (LTC) D. Robin in a notification has banned all single-use plastics in Longleng town with immediate effect. According to DIPR report, the following single-use plastics will be totally banned: All plastic carry bags with or without handles irrespective of thickness and sizes; Plastic cutlery including plates, plastic cups, straws, stirrers, etc; Cutlery and any other decorative

plastics made of styrofoam (thermocol); Polythene; Nylon; Poly-vinyl-chloride (PVC); Poly-propylene and poly-styrene. LTC also informed to all concerned that in the distribution of COVID-19 relief materials, no single-use plastic should be used in packing of relief materials. Any other alternative reusable bags like paper bags/jute and locally made non-plastic bags may be used. Public are also encouraged to carry/ bring their own carry bags during distribution of relief items and for marketing purposes. Necessary action will be initiated against the defaulters as per the provisions of the law.

4

OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXx NO. 148 Dimapur, TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020

I

China’s virus wall

nstead of rejecting accusations that is was solely responsible for the outbreak and spread of the Wuhan virus, renamed as COVID-19 by a pliant World Health Organisation(WHO), it is time that China, which aims to exploit the present global pandemic lockdown which has utterly destroyed the economies of free democracies, come up with a better explanation. Earlier US president Donald Trump had taken up the issue by accusing China of culpability and even calling the virus, Chinese virus. He was slammed by the liberal media in the west for adding a racist color to the pandemic. Trump’s charges against China that it was responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic was drowned by the din and noise created by the liberal American media. Instead of trying to pursue the matter in a logical manner such as weighing in the broader information about the issue, the media was more intent on ‘probing’ Trump to conclude that he was actually shooting from the hip. Perhaps the US liberal media and in particular a channel, was more interested in gunning for Trump so that he did not appear to be doing a good job in containing the rampaging virus. By criticizing the president’s rhetoric as racist, the liberal media and the Democrats are falling into a trap set by Chinese propagandists, who are hoping to characterize any criticism of Beijing’s role in the outbreak as racism. Be that as it may, the issue of Chinese culpability was again echoed by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo who told media that there was “enormous evidence” which showed that the coronavirus originated in a laboratory in China.

The US secretary or state’s comments came as Europe and parts of the United States prepared to cautiously lift virus lockdowns as signs emerge that the deadly pandemic is ebbing and governments look to restart their battered economies. However, Pompeo went further than Trump’s earlier allegations, citing that there were significant and enormous evidence to confirm that the virus originated at the Wuhan Laboratory. Pompeo said early Chinese efforts to downplay the coronavirus amounted to “a classic Communist disinformation effort. That created enormous risk.”

Pompeo further slammed the Chinese as having a history of infecting the world and running substandard laboratories. What Pompeo had said was not merely focussing blame but seeking answers from the Chinese. Globally, more than 2,50,097 people have been killed and 36,09,958 infected worldwide by the virus as on May 4, which has left half of humanity under some form of lockdown and pushed the global economy towards its worst downturn since the Great Depression.

In order to hide facts, China has imposed restrictions on the publication of academic research on the origins of the novel coronavirus. Since late January, Chinese researchers have published a series of Covid-19 studies in influential international medical journals about early coronavirus cases - such as when human-tohuman transition first appeared. These have raised questions over the official government account of the outbreak and sparked controversy on Chinese social media. Now, Chinese authorities have tightened their grip on the publication of Covid-19 research. China must share all information on the virus, so that the world can have vaccines early and save countless lives and not to insist that the virus originated from nowhere land.

DailyDevotion Vicarious Intercession

…having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus… —Hebrews 10:19

Beware of thinking that intercession means bringing our own personal sympathies and concerns into the presence of God, and then demanding that He do whatever we ask. Our ability to approach God is due entirely to the vicarious, or substitutionary, identification of our Lord with sin. We have “boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus.”

Spiritual stubbornness is the most effective hindrance to intercession, because it is based on a sympathetic “understanding” of things we see in ourselves and others that we think needs no atonement. We have the idea that there are certain good and virtuous things in each of us that do not need to be based on the atonement by the Cross of Christ. Just the sluggishness and lack of interest produced by this kind of thinking makes us unable to intercede. We do not identify ourselves with God’s interests and concerns for others, and we get irritated with Him. Yet we are always ready with our own ideas, and our intercession becomes only the glorification of our own natural sympathies.

We have to realize that the identification of Jesus with sin means a radical change of all of our sympathies and interests. Vicarious intercession means that we deliberately substitute God’s interests in others for our natural sympathy with them.

Am I stubborn or substituted? Am I spoiled or complete in my relationship to God? Am I irritable or spiritual? Am I determined to have my own way or determined to be identified with Him?

Quotes

Your own mind is a sacred enclosure into which nothing harmful can enter except by your permission. ~ Arnold Bennett

S

Post-mortem

avitri Devi, born Maximiani Portas in 1905 of Greek-English parents, wrote a very thought provoking and profound book called “Impeachment of Man” in 1945 on different religions and their “compassion factor”. She spent 30 years in India undertaking a systematic study of the world’s great religions. She spoke seven languages and supported herself by teaching and translation work.

She died in 1982, in poverty, sustained somewhat by her admirers round the world.

Why am I fascinated by her writings? Because she has brought a new insight into something that I believe in – reincarnation – and holds this belief responsible for all the viciousness that “devout” Hindus show.

This lockdown has been an eye opener for me, and I have never been so shaken. I have never seen so many Indians being so cruel to their fellow beings – especially to women – and to animals. Poisoning and beating to death of animals has become a norm and the harassment of single women has become a blood sport. Where does all this animosity come from?

This is what Savitri Devi has to say – “Hinduism can be summarized in one sentence: it consists of seeing, in all forms of life, manifestations of the selfsame divine power at play on various levels of consciousness. It is centred around the fundamental idea of the everlastingness of the individual soul and of its life in millions and millions of bodies, through millions of successive births.

It proclaims the continuity of life in time and space and denies the breach between man and the rest of the animal world. Such a

C

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020

breach, according to it, is artificial.

A believer in the doctrine of reincarnation can never be quite sure that the mangy dog that he sees lying in the slush is not one of his deceased relative or friends. Maybe the man’s human enemy is none but the hungry dog that lay at his door some thirty years before, and whom he did not care to feed. It may be that a woman’s son, source of joy to her, is none but the abandoned kitten that she once picked up in the street.

No one can tell and as soon as one admits the possibility for the same everlasting individual soul to pass from one body to another according to its deeds - one can be expected to feel the majestic unity of life which underlies the endless diversity of the visible world, and to look upon animals (and plants) as potential men and supermen, and treat them with loving kindness.

The Hindu teaching stresses the fundamental identity of all the individual souls, be they incarnated in many or any stratum of the living world. Not only is every soul now embodied in an earth-worm “on its way” to earn superior consciousness after millions of births and to become, in course of time, an all-knowing, liberated sage, a “tirthankara” as the Jains say, but the soul of every individual earth worm, of every individual snail or toad, ass or pig, man or monkey - of every living creature - is by nature, substantially, identical to that of the godlike sage. It only differs in broadness and clearness of consciousness, that is to say, in the degree of knowledge.

And the sage himself has lived through untold millenniums of ignorance and

Live and let live unrest. King Bharat is said to have been reborn as a deer; and good king Asoka, the most powerful patron of Buddhism--was reborn as a boa-constrictor, in punishment for a temporary lack of equanimity according to Buddhist tradition” So far so good. This is my deepest, most genetically ingrained belief, and this is what propels my actions on a day to day basis. But she does not stop there. “It would seem, at first sight, that nothing can prepare a man to love all living nature better than that Grand vision of universal evolution, physical and spiritual, provided by Hindu Pantheism.”

But it has not happened. Why? “The answer appears to be that a profound pessimism, and undervaluation of finite life as such, pervades the whole of Hindu thought.

To the Hindu, to the Jain, to the Buddhist, individual life itself is sorrow, with, at the most, few flashes of passing joy. To break the iron cycle of birth and rebirth, and never again to enter a womb, is the goal of every true Hindu. The obsession of the transience of earthly joy, the burdensome realization that “all personality is a prison” and the consequent craving for “liberation” from the necessity of successive finite existences, are traits inseparable from Hindu thought.

Those traits are not congenial to action. It may be that the selfless, emotionless, detached action urged in the Bhagwad-Gita is the ideal. But in ordinary everyday life, it is not the type of action which men generally do. In fact, without the impulse of personal love, fear or hate - they generally do nothing. And the deeprooted belief that individual life has little value, that the sooner it is overcome the better, and that creatures’ suffering in this world is nothing but the unavoidable result of their own bad deeds in past lives, that belief, is the least capable of rousing in average people any personal feeling for the welfare of men or beasts.

Hinduism is the least capable of prompting them to do something positive, whether it be to make human society more comfortable for the majority of its members, or to make the world at large a better place for all living beings, including animals and plants.

A Western vegetarian abstains from flesh solely out of a feeling of sympathy for animals, the Hindu vegetarian dose so mainly on account of the concept he has of his own spiritual interest. He believes that, by avoiding meat, fish and eggs, and all food considered to be “exciting” he secures himself an easier progress along the path that leads to “liberation” i.e. to the

final stage after which one is not compelled to be reborn.

But the idea of suffering of animals does not seem to be, to the average Hindu, as important as that of his own bodily purity, regarded as an indispensable help to spiritual progress. A Hindu vegetarian may or may not also be a lover of animals.

His diet is regulated mainly by the interest of the eater, not of the eaten. It is still his own interest that he primarily seeks. The fundamental consciousness is that individual life, human or animal, is of little value, leading to a widespread callousness, an indifference to suffering. It is as though life, when known to be everlasting, loses its value, and as though suffering, when thought to be a punishment, ceases to move the casual witness of it to pity.

The Hindus are impartial in their good or bad treatment of living creatures. That indifference is applied to the sick beggar child lying in the filth no less than to the famishing street dog. It is applied to the overworked “coolie” no less than to the overloaded ass, or to the tired, thirsty buffalo drawing a heavy cart under the merciless whip. A hungry human “untouchable” would be turned out of an orthodox Hindu kitchen no less ruthlessly than a hungry animal considered unclean. And among the true Hindus who believe in the efficacy of animal sacrifices and would not shrink, on principle, before the idea of human sacrifices, were such to be sanctioned by religious authority.

A life centred doctrine like that of reincarnation is used to justify entirely different practical attitudes towards living things. The millions of Hindus who

would never interfere to prevent a child from kicking a sleeping dog, or from knocking down a birds nest, the thousands who beat their overloaded bullocks and buffaloes, horses and donkeys; who mercilessly twist their tails to make them walk faster; who carry unwanted newly born kittens away from their houses and leave them on the roadside to “fend for themselves”, who have never protested against the torture of animals in the name of science, or the killing of cattle in municipal slaughterhouses in the most barbaric manner; if asked why they show such callousness merely reply that it was so planned that every living individual should suffer the fate determined by the sum of its deeds, and that animals who undergo tortures doubtless deserved it by sinning in their previous lives. This is the consequence of the general belief in a mathematical Justice.

The philosophy may, at the most, urge people to avoid becoming the direct cause of any creature’s suffering or death; to be “harmless”- in order not to lengthen the record of bad deeds for which they are bound to pay the penalty in this life or in another. It does not, however, in general, urge them to go out of their way in order to help creatures actively.”

Live and let live, in my opinion, has always meant to me live and let die. Which is why the motto of People For Animals is Live and Help Live. Is that what this glorious religion/ philosophy has done to us Hindus ? To join the animal welfare movement contact gandhim@nic.in, www.peopleforanimalsindia.org

Health is a justice issue: Lessons from COVID-19

OVID-19 is a wake- The maintenance of the Many poor villagers lack the COVID-19 should be a les- in the State is long overdue. to safe drinking water, adup call to healthcare government run hospitals necessary means or cannot son to transform health care Fair distribution system for equate sanitation facilities systems all over the and dispensaries in most afford to travel to Dimapur systems in Nagaland. the welfare of the commu- and good transport and world because no country of the districts in Nagaland and Kohima for treatment.

Better healthcare sys- nity should be promoted. communication.

These are the pressing was medically equipped to are very poor. Apart from For medical treatment, the tem demands not just effi- Medicines for rural primary face this pandemic. Nations a lack of hygiene, there are rich and elites can go to big cient planning, implemen- health centres do not reach needs for the good health of spend more money on de- problems of infrastructure, metro hospitals in India or tation and monitoring by the target people and even a community. Unfortunatefence, military procurements shortage of equipments and even abroad. This shows the government but also if they do, it is often of sub- ly, we are failing in almost all these primary public of arms and ammunitions, medical supply. that there is a sharp division political will. Allocation standard quality! warships and jet planes and In the midst of this in healthcare systems in our of sufficient budget is necThe well-being of a healthcare areas. COVIDon nuclear weapons but far reality, who is at fault? It society between the rich and essary. A sufficient amount person in community can be 19 should be a wake-up call too less on health care and is the collective negligence the poor and between the should be earmarked for measured by life-span expec- for us to restructure and life-saving facilities. As per and failures of the succes- urban and the rural. Health public healthcare facilities tancy, low infant mortality, rejuvenate our healthcare the latest report, India is sive ruling governments in disparities affect the physi- for both rural and urban ar- good maternal and child system.

3rd on the list of countries the State. There is a sharp cal illness, the psycho-social eas. The establishment of a health care, clean environ- Dr. Limatula Longkumer Serampore with the highest defence ex- disparity between rural and and emotional well-being of medical college and hospital ment, food security, access penditure in the world, next urban areas concerning the persons in the community. only to the USA and China. healthcare system. The dis- We also need to acknowlThis current year (2020) In- tribution of healthcare re- edge that socio-economic dia’s defence budget is INR sources in the rural villages structures, political and en4,71,378 Crores – which is is very pathetic. Along with vironment systems have also 15.49% of the total budget a lack of proper infrastruc- caused us to incur serious he Naga Hoho is filled with im- for “exceptional service to society with (USD 65.86 billion). In ture, absence of medical health issues, which may not mense joy to learn the recognition a global impact”. It is noteworthy that comparison, our healthcare staff is another problem all be physical, but this area and the honour accorded to Dr. his leadership and immense contribubudget is only INR 67,484 because many healthcare has never been addressed Michael Van Walt Van Praag, founding tion towards Naga cause has led to the crores for the entire nation. workers do not want to go to as a health care problem in member of Unrepresented Nations and admission of Naga Nation to UNPO in According to the report, the rural places which are often the past. There may not be Peoples Organization (UNPO) by the 1993; and active involvement in political government of India spent referred to as “outposts” or positive COVID-19 cases negotiations between Government of about 1.3% of the total GDP “remote areas”! In this day in Nagaland thus far, but it government of Netherlands on the 24th of India and the Naga people particularly April 2020.

Dr. Michael has been honored on healthcare in 2018 and and age, many people with has created “phobia” or fear for this year’s budget, health- treatable diseases die piti- psychosis among the people with a Knighthood in recognition of his during the initial period is notable which care forms 1.6% of the total fully in the villages due to and many are suffering emo- “Life-long dedication and commendable will be remembered in all days to come.

The Naga people with pride and GDP which is one of the lack of healthcare facilities tionally and psychologically. achievements in support of the Unreprehonor congratulate Dr. Michael for his sented and oppressed Nations and peoples lowest in the world. More and even first-aid medicines. This fear psychosis is equally money is spent on security Poor healthcare system is in- dangerous for the well being of the world; his tireless mediating activi- achievement which comes through his and defence – for killing, dicative of acute corruption of persons in the commu- ties to resolve intrastate conflicts through humble contribution and commitment but for saving lives a paltry and state-mismanagement nity. Hence, healthcare and the non-profit organization Kreddha; as for the cause of the struggling nations amount is allocated each by the politicians and the its systems should have a well as his academic pursuits”. He is also and peoples across the world. year which is unjustifiable. government bureaucrats. holistic approach and focus honored with Royal Distinction of ComK. Elu Ndang, General Secretary, How much does the The COVID-19 crisis and for the upliftment and well mander in the order of Orange - Nasseu Naga Hoho government of Nagaland the utter helplessness of being of all persons in our allocate as healthcare bud- governments and healthcare society. get each year? It may be systems should give rise to The Constitution of too negligible an amount critical questioning on the India states that right to for an essential sector like slackness of public health- health is a “Fundamental public healthcare. COVID- care system in our State.

Right” of all citizens. It is 19 should be a turning point An aspect of healthcare about equal distribution of to invest seriously on health- is that it is highly commerci- healthcare facilities, made care facilities and policies. alised and urban-centric and accessible and affordable It is evident that the therefore, it is not accessible for all. Nevertheless, the Sir, In Dimapur, domestic workers are reduced to helpless dependence on the goodpreparedness and mobili- to and affordable for rural public health care and sanization of resources in our people. Decent hospitals are tation systems are poorly will of their employers, some who might pay salaries for work not done and some state, Nagaland, to combat located in Dimapur and Ko- implemented, and health who might refuse due to their absence to work during the lockdown period. Many COVID-19 is not satisfac- hima that are government care is inaccessible to the domestic workers in Dimapur are just abandoned by their employers in the hour of tory. Negligence on the run as well as private hos- vast majority of the popu- crisis, asking them not to come to their houses for work resulting in loss of work part of the government to pitals, including Christian lation in Nagaland. The and income, denied full payment for March and not even bothering to pay them for procure, on time, testing hospitals. There is a mush- most affected are the eco- the month of April. Most of the domestic workers in Dimapur are laid off by their tools and other medical kits, rooming of private hospitals nomically poor rural people. employers due to covid-19, thereby they are left with no means to earn their livelihood setting up labs and equip- and nursing homes, largely Health disparities are due as many of them don’t even know where to go. One domestic worker said, ‘No one ments necessary for deal- in Dimapur and Kohima, to human-made, unjust so- has asked me to come back for work. I am without any work for over 40 days now. ing with the corona virus which is a good sign but cial systems and structures I did call the employer to check whether we can resume our work after 3rd May, but are all salient issues which we should also be aware pervaded with corruption most denied citing ‘quarantine’, resulting in loss of work and income.’ These experidemands serious and im- that healthcare is one of the and mismanagement. This ences during lockdown indicate aggravated forms of injustices and disregard towards mediate attention. Nagaland fastest growing industries in can also be prevented or does not have a single medi- the world. It is not patient- eliminated through human domestic workers in Nagaland. A systemic denial to recognise domestic workers as cal college whereas other friendly but money-oriented intervention, by developing ‘workers’ in the Schedule of Employment of the Minimum Wages Act by the Govt. neighbouring states like As- that the value of a human honesty, sincerity, transpar- of Nagaland has always left them at the mercy of the employer.

Adv. Limanochet, Legal Advidor ANDWU sam have 7 medical colleges. life is no longer important. ency and good governance.

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.

NH congratulates UNPO founder

T

Reader’s Post

Plight of domestic workers in Dimapur

national/state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020

Cong will bear cost of migrant rail travel: Sonia

NEW DELHI, MAY 4 (PTI): The Congress on Monday said its state units will bear the cost of rail travel of needy home-bound migrants stranded at various places across the country due to the coronavirusinduced lockdown.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi in a statement announced the party’s decision and said this would be the Congress’ humble contribution in standing shoulder to shoulder with these workers, who are the backbone of the country’s economy and have contributed to the nation’s development.

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also tweeted in Hindi, “On one hand, the railways is charging ticket fares from labourers stranded in other states while on the other hand, the Railway Ministry is donating Rs 151 crore to the PM-Cares Fund.

Just resolve this puzzle.”

Terming the decision as historic, AICC general secretary K C Venugopal and chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the Congress state units will pay to the state chief secretaries the cost of train travel of the migrants and there will be no registration of workers as it will lead to further confusion.

The two leaders also urged Prime Minister Na-

Sonia Gandhi (File) rendra Modi to shed his “false prestige” and come forward in paying for travel of migrants seeking to return home.

They alleged that the Congress had taken the decision after many such workers and labourers did not have the money to pay for their tickets.

Meanwhile, the BJP accused the Congress of doing politics on the issue and claimed that the central and the state governments were bearing the cost of such train travels and no tickets were being charged from the migrants.

Venugopal, however, read out a circular stating state governments will pay the railways after collecting fares from migrant workers.

Surjewala also termed the central government’s remark as negative and said

DRDO develops UV disinfection tower

Kohima, May 4: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed an Ultra Violet (UV) Disinfection Tower for rapid and chemical free disinfection of high infection prone areas.

A press release by PRO ( Defence) stated that theequipment named UV blaster is a UV based area sanitiser designed and developed by Laser Science & Technology Centre (LASTEC), the Delhi

based premier laboratory of DRDO with the help of M/s New Age Instruments and Materials Private Limited, Gurugram.

The UV Blaster is useful for high tech surfaces like electronic equipment, computers and other gadgets in laboratories and offices that are not suitable for disinfection with chemical methods. The product is also effective for areas with large flow of people such as airports, shopping malls, metros, hotels, factories, offices, etc.

The UV based area sanitiser may be used by remote operation through laptop/mobile phone using wifi link. The equipment has six lamps each with 43 watts of UV-C power at 254 nm wavelength for 360 degree illumination.

For a room of about 12 x 12 feet dimension, the disinfection time is about 10 minutes and 30 minutes for 400 square feet area by positioning the equipment at different places within the room.

This sanitiser switches off on accidental opening of room or human intervention. One more salient safety feature of the product is the key to arm operation.

it is not the time to play politics.

Sonia Gandhi accused the central government and the Indian Railways of completely ignoring the demands made by the Congress for ensuring the safe and free travel of migrant workers and labourers to their homes.

“There needs to be provisions for the safe and free rail travel of migrant workers and labourers to their home towns. However, despite our repeated demands, the central government and the Railway Ministry have chosen to completely ignore the same.

“The Indian National Congress (INC) has, therefore, taken a decision that every Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) shall bear the cost for the rail travel of every needy worker and migrant labourer and

take necessary steps in this regard,” she said in the statement.

She said this will be the Congress’ humble contribution in service of the compatriots and to stand shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with them.

Congress treasurer Ahmed Patel tweeted, “As directed by Congress president, in my capacity as treasurer (AICC), I request Pradesh Congress Committees to mobilise all possible local resources to help migrants purchase tickets to get back home.

“Let us make this into a people’s movement, please contact AICC if you require assistance,” he added.

Congress leader P Chidambaram said the party’s decision puts the government to shame.

“The Congress president’s decision to direct PCCs to bear the cost of rail transport for migrant workers is a historic decision.

Puts the government of India to shame,” he said.

Sonia Gandhi criticised the central government for not recognising its responsibility and said if it can bring back free of cost citizens stranded abroad by air, why can’t the same responsibility be shown towards the poor migrants who are considered the ambassadors of the nation’s

growth.

“But what is the responsibility of our government? Even today, lakhs of workers and migrant labourers are languishing in different parts of the country and wish to return to their homes and families but there is neither adequate money nor provision for free transport.

“What is particularly disturbing is that the central government and the Railway Ministry are charging them for train tickets in this hour of crisis,” she said.

The Congress president said workers and labourers form the backbone of India’s economy and their hard work and sacrifice are the foundation of the nation.

She said this is the first time post-partition of 1947 that India witnessed a tragedy as thousands of migrants were forced to walk home.

Venugopal said he has already talked to state Congress chiefs and they are working out the modalities to ensure that migrants stranded reach home safely.

“We have already given direction to state PCCs to have coordination with state chief secretaries and the Railways to arrange for this fare. We are not going to have registration of migrant labours as it will add to the confusion,” he said.

5 Lockdown 3.0: State govt issues revised guidelines (From p-1) He added that for other categories of officers and staff, a roster system should be worked out whereby 50% staff would attend office every alternate week.

And though no dates had been announced as to when air and rail services would begin, nonetheless he claimed that the State government was in touch with airline and railway authorities to ensure that the State was adequately prepared beforehand. The chief secretary claimed that the State government had prepared new lockdown guidelines incorporating points that were relevant to Nagaland. He asserted that the government was taking all measures, including making its own guidelines, to make things easier for the people, adding facilitating return of people stranded and distressed in various districts was part of this He warned that even though Nagaland was in the green zone, there was still the danger of the virus spreading in the State through import of people coming in from outside. He informed the media that the Nagaland government is in touch with various States, organisations, railways and airlines on how best to bring the stranded people of the State back home.

Justifying the COVID-19 cess imposed on diesel and petrol by the State government, Toy reiterated that the amount collect by the cess would be used only for the purpose of addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. He asserted that the cess was being levied for a good cause, claiming that the government had intentionally christened it

as COVID-19 cess to bring about transparency in its utilisation. On allegation of the cess adversely affecting the economy, Toy explained that Nagaland was a salaried economy and without resources it became extremely difficult for the government to run the State’s affairs, claiming that many austerity measures had already taken. He added that levying of cess on petroleum products was another way to augment the State’s coffers.

On reports of drug users not being able to avail treatment because of the closure of antiretroviral therapy (ART) centres, he said he had asked for report from the authorities concerned and details would be shared at a later stage. Referring to reports of constables being caught with drugs at Merapani, Toy said such incidents take place in other check gates as well and therefore instruction was passed that those caught indulging in such activities should be penalised and that those at the check gate must be replaced.

Rs 1.18 lakh realised Principal secretary (home) Abhijit Sinha, who too was present, said Rs 1,18,700 was realised as penalties, 959 incidents of violations, 1,254 arrests made, 466 vehicles seized and 812 FIRs registered during the past 40 days of lockdown in the State.

Earlier, during the day the state Cabinet also held a meeting and discussed on the COVID-19 situation in the State. Health department briefed the cabinet about the status and also made recommendations that needed to be followed for management of movement of stranded people coming into the State from outside.

Ao bodies relax restrictions in Mkg

(From p-1) Mentioning that movement of farmers and farm produce was being allowed without any restriction, the three bodies asserted Nagaland was included in green zone because of the participation and cooperation of the public with the authorities concerned.

The joint statement was issued by Ao Senden president Chubawati, Watsu Mungdang president Maonginla and Ao Kaketshir Mungdang president Nungdokyanger.

Lockdown: Migrant Plasma therapy ‘no magic bullet’ against COVID-19: Experts workers clash with on a limited number of then we can make it a standard of therapy.” police in Gujarat Says need large- COVID-19 patients.

SURAT, MAY 4 (PTI): Hundreds of migrant workers seeking to return home clashed with police and pelted stones at them near a village in Gujarat’s Surat district on Monday, following which the security personnel lobbed teargas shells and baton-charged the agitated workers, an official said.

Besides, several labourers also came out on a road in Rajkot demanding that they be sent back to their hometowns, while some migrant workers got their heads tonsured in an area of Surat after being unable to go back home.

Hundreds of migrant workers clashed with police near Vareli village on the outskirts of Surat while demanding that arrangements be made to send them back to their native places in the wake of the coronavirusenforced lockdown, a police official said.

They threw stones at the police, following which the security personnel retaliated and lobbed teargas shells and lathi-charged the agitated workers, he said.

The labourers also damaged some vehicles parked on Surat-Kadodara road, he said.

scale trials to prove efficacy

NEW DELHI, MAY 4 (PTI): The convalescent plasma therapy is no “magic bullet” to deal with coronavirus, and only large-scale controlled trials can ascertain its efficacy as part of the treatment strategy, top medical experts said on Monday, even as several states are considering the use of the therapy to treat critically-ill COVID-19 patients.

The therapy involves taking antibodies from the blood of a person who has recovered from COVID19 and transfusing those antibodies into an active coronavirus patient to help kickstart the immune system to fight the infection.

The Health Ministry last week warned against its use, saying that the plasma therapy for treatment of coronavirus patients is at an experimental stage and has the potential to cause lifethreatening complications.

However, some state governments, including Rajasthan, Punjab, Maharashtra and Delhi have shown keenness for plasma therapy treatment, and the Centre has permitted few states to perform plasma therapy

Top medical experts feel it should not be looked upon as something that could make a “huge difference” in the treatment of COVID-19 and only randomised controlled trials can prove its efficacy as an important treatment strategy.

Director of AIIMS, Delhi, Randeep Guleria said there have been very few convalescent plasma therapy trials as far as COVID-19 is concerned, and only in very few patients it has shown some benefit.

“It is just one part of the treatment strategy. It helps improve the person’s own immunity by giving what we call passive immunity because the antibodies in the plasma enter the blood and try to help fight the virus in the afflicted individual. It is not something which will dramatically make a difference,” Guleria told PTI. There is no study to suggest that “it is a magic bullet” or it will make a dramatic difference, but it is part of the armamentarium of treatment that physicians have along with other drugs, the senior pulmonologist said. ICMR has already called for a proposal and a large number of institutes have enrolled for the con-

valescent plasma therapy trials, he said.

“Important issue to remember is that not everyone’s plasma can be given, you also have to test the blood ----whether it is safe and also has enough antibodies. So, you have to have an antibody testing mechanism which is being done

by NIV (National Institute of Virology), Pune, to show that the plasma you are giving has enough antibodies” Guleria said.

Research should be done on a multi-pronged treatment strategy and should not be focused on only one strategy, the AIIMS Director said.

“You will need to give it to a large number of individuals, more than 200 or 300 people and then analyse the data...We should go ahead in research mode giving it to more people and

do a proper well conducted study so as to know one way or the other,” Guleria said.

Dr Vivek Nangia, Director Pulmonology, MICU and Sleep Disorders, Fortis Hospital, Vasant Kunj, said the therapy is only in the experimental stage, but it is promising as there is a clinical knowledge involved, and also some experiments and past experience behind it having been used for SARS and H1N1 epidemics in a limited manner.

“Dire circumstances require desperate measures, you need to have an out of the box thinking and this is one of those measures, when nothing else is working you want to try this, there is no harm. It has its pros and cons,” he told PTI. Backing Guleria, Nangia also said, “larger randomized placebo-controlled trials are very essential only

These expert views come amid lack of definitive evidence in favour of or against the use of the convalescent plasma therapy.

As per reports, a patient who was administered plasma therapy for the first time at a private hospital here was discharged last week after being cured, while the first person to undergo plasma therapy in Maharashtra had died in Mumbai’s Lilavati Hospital.

Chief minister Arvind Kejriwal had said last week that the Delhi government will not stop clinical trials of plasma therapy to treat severally-ill COVID-19 patients as its initial results are good.

Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot on Sunday said that with the ICMR nod, SMS hospital in Jaipur will start convalescent plasma therapy on COVID-19 patients from Monday, while Maharashtra, which had started the trials last month after a nod from the ICMR, is considering to continue with it despite the Union health ministry warning.

Professor Rajesh Malhotra, Chief Trauma Centre AIIMS, said as of now, there is no concrete evidence of convalescent plasma therapy’s usefulness.

2 floors of BSF HQ closed, NH urges UN secy general to stop rights violation of Nagas Assam Rifles apprehend I M A P U R , M AY 4 rity as no social distancing The letter informed country. It claimed that staff found corona positive D(NPN): Naga Hoho (NH) could be maintained in the secretary general that this had resulted in some NSCN(K) cadre in Kiphire NEW DELHI, MAY 4 (IANS): Two floors of the Border Security Force (BSF) Headquarters were closed on Monday after a Head Constable working there was found COVID-19 positive on Sunday.

The BSF Headquarters is a few hundred metres far from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) Headquarters, which was sealed on Sunday after a bus driver deputed there was found COVID-19 positive.

The offices on the first and second floors of the BSF Headquarter situated at Block 10 of the CGO Complex in south Delhi’s Lodhi Road area were closed as a precaution, BSF Spokesperson Subhendu Bhardwaj told IANS. The step was taken after the Head Constable was found COVID19 positive late night on Sunday, he said, adding the Head Constable attended office on May 1. “As the Head Constable was working in

an office on 2nd floor of the BSF force Headquarter, all persons came in his contact have been identified and quarantined. They will also be tested for COVID-19,” Bhardwaj said.

Prior to the detection of the case, the BSF Headquarter was closed early by 4 p.m. on May 1 as a special precautionary measure.

“All attending staff vacated offices and the entire office complex was thoroughly sanitized with prescribed solutions of disinfectants. The Headquarter was closed on May 2 and May 3.”

No staff other than the security personnel and the control room members in limited numbers worked in the Headquarter, he clarified. The official said that the disinfection of the complete Headquarter will be done again in the afternoon on Monday in the backdrop of the latest COVID-19 positive case.

has accused Indian armed forces of indulging in most provocative, wilful, premeditated and systematic operations against NSCMIM and other Naga armed groups in the Northeast and Myanmar amidst the COVID019 pandemic in utter disregard to ceasefire ground rules being enforced.

In a letter to UN secretary general António Guterres, the body alleged that defying the nationwide lockdown, the Unified Command of Manipur comprising Assam Rifles, Manipur Police and Indian Reserve Battalions was moving in full combat gears to raid camps and hideouts of Naga armies in border villages.

It claimed that women COVID-19 vigilantes had intercepted and stopped many of these combined forces braving cold weather, incessant rain at the risk of their own lives and secu-

such confrontations.

The letter alleged that massive deployment of armed forces, often camping at jhum fields, had denied indigenous Naga people living in border areas the right to livelihood.

Innocent Naga villagers were now going through the most harrowing time, it added.

NH urged the UN secretary general to intervene and stop the violation of human rights in Naga areas amidst the global COVID-19 pandemic, recognise Nagas as indigenous people under the United Nations’ Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous People and direct the Government of India to stop its military operations and settle the Naga political issue by honouring the hard-earned Framework Agreement of August 3, 2015 for an honourable and acceptable political solution.

the political conflict of indigenous Nagas was one of Asia’s longest running conflicts, alleging that when the Nagas refused to join the Indian Union and boycotted the general elections in 1952, the Government of India had sent its security forces to crush them in 1953.

The hoho stated that then UN secretary general Boutros Boutros Ghali had acknowledged the violence, destruction, pain and suffering of the Nagas by observing that “there is human rights situation in Nagaland”.

The letter recalled that NSCN-IM had entered into a formal ceasefire agreement with the Government of India on August 1, 1997 for political talks as two entities based on the following three conditions – (i) without any conditions; (ii) at the Prime Minister’s Level; and (iii) in a third

positive outcomes like the Framework Agreement and recognition of the “uniqueness” of Naga history and situation by New Delhi on June 11, 2002 in Amsterdam.

However, the hoho rued that the Government of India unfortunately seemed to be taking the current global extraordinary crisis as the best opportunity to trample on the human rights of the Nagas, cut all supply lines of NSCN-IM and conduct military operations to crush the Nagas’ aspiration for self-determination, so as to finish their inherent political rights through the use of its military might.

It regretted that several peace agreements like the 9-Point Agreement, the 16-Point Agreement and the infamous Shillong Accord of 1975 had not yielded the desired result for peace.

DIMAPUR: Assam Rifles apprehended an active cadre of NSCN (K) near Kiphire town on May 3, based on specific input regarding extortion and contraband smuggling. According to PRO (Defence), troops of Assam Rifles along with police representative launched an operation and apprehended ‘SS lieutenant’ Yangseo Sangtam, age 46 years, r/o Kiphire. Team also recovered one magazine of point 22 mm pistol, 1455 alparolzolam tablets, extortion slips and other incriminating documents. The apprehended person along with recovered items has been handed over to Kiphire police station for further investigations.

Indian Rlys not selling train tickets to migrants: Report

NEW DELHI, MAY 4 (AGENCIES): The Indian Railways has said that it is charging only standard fare in Shramik special trains from State Governments, which is just 15 per cent of the total cost incurred by Railways.

“Railways is charging only standard fare for this class from State Governments which is just 15 per cent of the total cost incurred by Railways. The Railways is not selling any

tickets to migrants and is only boarding passengers based on lists provided by States,” said sources from the Ministry of Railways.

The Railways is running Shramik special trains keeping berths empty in each coach to maintain social distancing, said sources adding the trains are returning empty from destinations under lock and key. Free food and bottled water is also being provided to the migrants by railways.

6

International

Trump pushes for economic reopening

Washington, May 4 (AP): Anxious for an economic recovery, President Donald Trump fielded Americans’ questions about decisions by some states to allow nonessential businesses to reopen while other states are on virtual lockdown due to the coronavirus.

After more than a month of being cooped up at the White House, Trump returned from a weekend at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland and participated in a “virtual” town hall, hosted Sunday night by Fox News Channel, from inside the Lincoln Memorial.

He pushed for an economic reopening, one his advisers believe will be essential for his reelection chances this November.

“We have to get it back open safely but as quickly as possible,” Trump said.

The president acknowledged fear on both sides of the issue, some Americans worried about getting sick while others are concerned about losing jobs.

Though the administration’s handling of the pandemic, particularly its abil-

President Donald Trump speaks with Bret Baier and Martha MacCallum inside of the Lincoln Memorial on May 3.

ity to conduct widespread testing, has come under fierce scrutiny, the president defended the response and said the nation was ready to begin reopening.

“I’ll tell you one thing.

We did the right thing and I really believe we saved a million and a half lives,” the president said.

But he also broke with the assessment of his senior adviser and son-in-law, Jared Kushner, saying it was “too soon to say” if the federal government was overseeing a “success story.”

Chinese health official warns of COVID-19 rebound

Beijing, May 4 (PTI): China still faced the risk of a rebound in COVID-19 cases as 10 provincial-level regions have reported new locally-transmitted coronavirus cases over the last two weeks, a top health official warned on Monday.

The National Health Commission (NHC) said that three new confirmed COVID-19 cases were reported on Sunday. All three were Chinese arriving from abroad. Also, 13 new asymptomatic cases, including two imported ones, were reported. As of Sunday, 962 asymptomatic cases, including 98 from abroad, were still under medical observation, the NHC said.

Asymptomatic cases

refer to people who are tested COVID-19 positive but develop no symptoms such as fever, cough or sore throat. However, they pose a risk of spreading the disease to others.

NHC spokesperson Mi Feng said that 10 provinciallevel regions have reported new locally-transmitted cases or asymptomatic cases over the last 14 days, which highlighted that risks of a resurgence and even spread of the epidemic still exist.

Though many offices, businesses and tourist sites were re-opened in Beijing, some public venues such as cinemas, theatres and arcades remained closed for prevention and control, the report added.

Crossword

Trump’s impatience also flashed. While noting that states would go at their own pace in returning to normal, with ones harder hit by the coronavirus going slower, he said that “some states frankly I think aren’t going fast enough” and singled out Virginia, which has a Democratic governor and legislature.

And he urged the nation’s schools and universities to return to classes this fall. But many public health experts believe that cannot be done safely until a vaccine is developed.

Japan extends state of emergency TOKYO, May 4 (Agencies): Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Monday he had decided to extend the country’s national state of emergency to May 31. Abe will consider lifting the emergency without waiting for its May 31 expiration if expert advisors decide that is possible based on detailed analysis of regional infection trends, he said.

“Based on that view, I will extend the emergency that was announced on April 7 until May 31,” Abe said, adding that it would remain nationwide. Japan will move gradually to a framework that will combine prevention of the spread of infections, he added.

Trump declared Sunday that he believed one could be available by year’s end although his own pandemic task force has predicated it could be another 18 months.

Federal guidelines that encouraged people to stay at home and practice social distancing expired late last week.

Debate continued over moves by governors to start reopening state economies that tanked after shopping malls, salons and other nonessential businesses were ordered closed in at-

tempt to slow a virus that has killed more than 66,000 Americans, according to a tally of reported deaths by Johns Hopkins University.

The U.S. economy has suffered, shrinking at a 4.8 per cent annual rate from January through March, the government estimated last week. It was the sharpest quarterly drop since the 2008 financial crisis.

Roughly 30.3 million people have filed for unemployment aid in the six weeks since the outbreak forced employers to shut down and slash their workforces. It was the worst string of layoffs on record.

L a r r y K u d l o w, Trump’s top economic adviser, on Sunday predicted a “spectacular 2021” - with “the right set of policies” on top of a rebound from July through December of this year.

He said on CNN’s “State of the Union” that the administration would “pause” to review the effectiveness of trillions in economic relief spending before making any decision on whether additional aid is needed.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020

Al Qaeda urges Indian Muslims to wage jihad Sanaa, May 4 (IANS): Almost a year after its chief Ayman al-Zawahiri asked militants in Kashmir to step up terror attacks against India, Al Qaeda on Monday urged Indian Muslims to join the Islamist jihad.

Yemen’s Al Qaeda in Arab Peninsula (AQAP) issued a statement accusing India of being part of a global war on Muslims.

The Al Qaeda statement comes days after the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), the Kuwait government and many Arab activists called India Islamophobic. The anti-India statements in the Arab countries were a result of Pakistani propaganda against India over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and Kashmir.

Denouncing India’s CAA, the AQAP, which perpetrated the September 11 terror attacks in the US, alleged that the Indian government had taken several steps against Muslims.

The terror outfit urged Indian Muslims to “unite ranks, gather arms and wage jihad.”

Pompeo reaffirms US mission to denuke N.Korea

Washington, May 4 (IANS): US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has renewed Washington’s goal of denuclearizing North Korea and creating a “bright future” for its people after North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s return to the public eye following his 20-day absence.

“Our mission has remained the same, to convince the North Koreans to give up their nuclear weapons, to verify the same, and to then create a brighter future for the North Korean people,” the Seoul-based Yonhap News Agency quoted Pompeo as saying.

“That’s been something President (Donald) Trump’s been focused on since the beginning of his time in office and something we’ll continue to work on,” he added.

O n S a t u r d ay, t h e North’s official Korean Central News Agency reported on Kim’s visit to a fertilizer factory completion ceremony in Sunchon, north of Pyongyang, on Friday, ending rumours of his failing health.

Kim had disappeared from the public view since

Mike Pompeo he presided over a premier ruling party meeting on April 11.

Asked about Kim’s weeks-long absence, Pompeo refused to comment in detail, said. “There’s not much that I can share with you about what we knew about Chairman Kim’s activities during that time. We don’t know why he chose to miss that moment,” he said, referring to his absence from an event marking the April 15 birth anniversary of his late grandfather and national founder, Kim Ilsung.

“We know there have been other extended periods of time where Chairman Kim’s been out of public view as well, so it’s not unprecedented,” he added.

It’s humanity against the virus: British PM Johnson London, May 4 (PTI): British Prime Minister Boris Johnson opened a virtual global conference on COVID-19 on Monday by calling on all countries to step up their efforts and work together on fighting the coronavirus pandemic, the “most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes”.

T h e C o r o n av i r u s Global Response International Pledging Conference was co-hosted by the UK and eight other countries and organisations including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Saudi Arabia, and the European Commission.

At the conference, Johnson confirmed the UK’s pledge of 388 million pounds aid funding

for research into vaccines, tests and treatments – part of a larger 744 million pounds existing UK aid commitment to help end the pandemic and support the global economy.

This includes 250 million pounds for the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations to develop vaccines against coronavirus – the biggest such donation to the fund by any country.

“To win this battle, we must work together to build an impregnable shield around all our people, and that can only be achieved by developing and mass producing a vaccine,” said Johnson.

“The more we pull together and share our expertise, the faster our

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KAKURO

No. 3197 Yesterday’s solution No. 3196

Across 1. Detest vehemently (5) 6. Panatella, say (5) 9. Uproar (7) 10. Allege (5) 11. Small ponds (5) 12. Killed (5) 13. A coming (7) 15. Droop (3) 17. Benefit (4) 18. C hange in form (6) 19. Picture puzzle (5) 20. In agreement (6) 22. Manufactured (4) 24. Metallic element (3) 25. Makes up one’s mind (7) 26. Boy’s name (5) 27. Nozzle (5) 28. Heals (5) 29. Edgy (7) 30. Gluttony (5) 31. Tries out (5) Down 2. Spanish dance (6) 3. Primary source (6) 4. Spirit (3) 5. Circular coral reef (5) 6. Abundant (7) 7. Privy to (2,2) 8. At sea (6) 12. Rescued (5) 13. Concerning (5) 14. Songbird (5) 15. Cold dish (5) 16. Hereditary units (5) 18. Backless shoes (5) 19. Connected (7) 21. Small child, informally (6) 22. Treat badly (6) 23. Beat (6) 25. Rummage (5) 26. Month (4) 28. Incision (3)

Boris Johnson scientists will succeed. The race to discover the vaccine to defeat this virus is not a competition between countries, but the most urgent shared endeavour of our lifetimes. It’s humanity against the virus – we are in this together, and together we will prevail,” he said.

The conference was

updated on the progress at pace on vaccine development, with the University of Oxford and pharmaceutical major AstraZeneca announcing a partnership to support large-scale manufacture and potential distribution of a vaccine currently being trialled by the university.

The UK highlighted that tackling coronavirus globally is crucial to preventing a second wave of the virus re-emerging in Britain, which would put even further pressure on the state-funded National Health Service (NHS). It will also ensure that life-saving vaccines, treatments and diagnostic tests are available as soon as possible.

UK International De-

velopment Secretary AnneMarie Trevelyan, said: “It is only by working together that we will prevent future waves of infection and end this pandemic as quickly as possible.

“By strengthening developing countries’ health systems and working to find a vaccine, the UK is playing its part in stopping the global spread of coronavirus to save lives everywhere and protect our NHS.” The conference this week will be followed up by the UK hosting the Global Vaccine Summit on June 4, bringing together countries and organisations to follow the UK’s lead in investing in the work of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.

Global coronavirus cases surpass 3.5 mn

An operation of the Spanish Red Cross transfers COVID-19 patients to a nursing home where patients who have tested positive remain in Huesca, Spain.

SYDNEY, May 4 (Agencies): Global coronavirus cases surpassed 3.5 million on Monday and deaths neared a quarter of a million, according to a Reuters tally, concerning experts who fear substantial underreporting even as the rate of fatalities and new cases slows.

North America and European countries, where growth rates are easing, still accounted for most of the new infections reported in recent days.

But case numbers were rising from smaller bases in Latin America, Africa and Russia, and experts expressed concern that the overall data falls well short of the true impact of the pandemic.

Globally, there were 74,779 new cases over the past 24 hours, according to the Reuters tally that is based on official government data, taking total cases to around 3.52 million.

That compares with around 3 million to 5 million cases of severe illness caused annually by seasonal influenza, according to the World Health Organization

(WHO), but falls far short of the Spanish flu, which began in 1918 and infected an estimated 500 million people.

Cases may cause only mild symptoms and not everyone with symptoms is tested, while most countries only record hospital deaths, meaning many deaths in private homes and nursing homes have not yet been included.

Deaths related to COVID-19, the disease caused by the new virus, stood at 246,920. The first death was reported on Jan. 10 in Wuhan, China.

The daily rate of new cases worldwide has been sitting in a 2%-3% range over the past week, versus a peak of around 13% in midMarch, prompting many countries to begin easing lockdown measures that have upended businesses and crippled the global economy.

“We could easily have a second or a third wave because a lot of places aren’t immune,” said Peter Collignon, an infectious diseases physician and microbiolo-

gist, noting the world was well short of herd immunity, which requires around 60% of the population to have recovered from the disease.

Health officials have also expressed concer n about the rising case numbers in countries where there is a shortage of testing and a lack of medical facilities.

While the number of new cases has come off a peak of 104,495 reported in a single day last week, it is still at around 75,000 to 90,000 cases per day globally.

In the United States, around half the country’s state governors partially reopened their economies over the weekend, while others, including New York Governor Andrew Cuomo, declared the move was premature.

E ve n i n c o u n t r i e s where the suppression of the disease has been considered successful, such as Australia and New Zealand which have recorded daily rates of new infections in the low single digits for weeks, officials have been cautious.

northeast

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020

Northeastern states begin phased relaxation of lockdown

More shops open in Assam after govt relaxes lockdown

Guwahati, Itanagar, Gangtok, Imphal May 4 (PTI/Correspondent ): After 40 days of strict restrictions, the Assam government on Monday relaxed coronavirus-triggered lockdown norms allowing more shops to open in the state.However, most of the outlets in the high-street areas kept their shutters down due to the numbering system that allows only one-third of the shops in a row to open on a particular day. A night curfew from 6 pm to 6 am has been clamped across Assam till May 17 to prevent gathering of people in the evening.

The government has allowed standalone shops -- only one-third in a row -- to open in both urban and rural areas and the deputy commissioners held meetings with the market associations and commerce chambers in this regard on Monday morning.

As per the guidelines announced by health minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Sunday evening, if the first shop in a row is open on Monday, then the second and third will remain shut.

On Tuesday, the first, third and fourth shops will be closed, and likewise.

As per the guidelines, all the shops barring pharmacies have to down their

SITA to report on impact of COVID-19 Guwahati, May 4 (PTI): The State Innovation and Transformation Aayog (SITA), Assam has prepared an assessment and strategy report on the socio-economic impact of COVID-19 on the state for an effective time-bound strategy to take forward the development agenda, an official said.

SITA under the initiative of its Vice-Chairman Dipok Kumar Barthakur has initiated an urgent action plan to take forward the development agenda of the state following COVID-19 outbreak and aftermath, the official said.

Accordingly, SITA CEO Nitin Khade has been coordinating with senior officials, experts and professionals in the respective fields of study to assess the socio-economic impact from the current global health crisis, a state government release said on Monday. All these studies were taken up during the lockdown period in April and all the processes relating to data sharing, correspondence, direction and decision-making, were initiated through IT enabled platforms.

shutters at 5 pm, an hour before the curfew comes into effect.

Markets across the state where numbering system is complete have started functioning while elsewhere, where the process is still on, the shops will open accordingly, officials said.

“The shops are being numbered now. By the end of the day, this numbering will be over and they (owners) can open the shops from tomorrow (Tuesday),” Jorhat deputy commissioner Roshni Aparanji Korati told PTI. Nalbari deputy commissioner Bharat Bhushan Devchoudhury said they have allowed only those shops to open where numbering has been completed.

“We are also restricting the movement of e-rickshaws. We have numbered them and implemented the odd-even scheme for that.

This is done to dissuade the public to come out without a reason,” he added.

In some areas of the state capital, long traffic jams were witnessed during morning office hours with people coming out in after more than a month in their own vehicles.

City buses, intra-district and inter-district buses started operating with 50 per cent capacity, but they will not be allowed to ply in red and orange zones.

Standalone liquor shops have already opened from Saturday and long queues were seen at almost

Vehicles ply on GS road after authorities eased restrictions, during the ongoing nationwide lockdown to curb the spread of coronavirus, in Guwahati, Monday. (PTI)

all outlets in the state.

To avail all the relaxations, wearing a mask is mandatory, failing which police will take action, Sarma had said.

Arunachal: A number of shops apart from those selling essentital commodities opened along with offices in Arunachal Pradesh on Monday, as the country entered the third phase of the lockdown with more relaxations.

Liquor shops, pan and cigarette stalls and a few garment shops opened shutters in the state for the first time since the coronavirusinduced lockdown came into force in March, officials said.

People made a beeline in front of wine shops here from the early hours but many were left disappointed

as outlets ran out of stock.

“We are not in a position to meet the requirement of every customer due to limited stock,” said Rinku Bora, owner of a wine shop at O Point Tinali here.

He, however, said things should normalise in the next few days.

Shops selling stationery items, cigarettes and betel leaves also witnessed queues since morning.

Officials said people adhered to all safety precautions, including social distancing and wearing of masks while visiting the shops.

Some government and private offices also started functioning with around 50 per cent staff.

Long queues were seen outside several bank branches at Itanagar, Naharlagun

and Nirjuli, too.

“The state capital witnessed heavy traffic in the morning hours, especially in the Ganga area as people ventured out of their houses,” Capital SP Tumme Amo said.

The state cabinet has convened a meeting on Monday to discuss about the modalities during the third phase of the lockdown till May 17.

Sikkim: Shops and business establishments reopened on Monday in Sikkim as the authorities relaxed lockdown regulations in the state which is yet to report any positive coronavirus cases so far.

All shops, including those of liquor, did a brisk business as people rushed to various market places in the state capital and elsewhere

in the Himalayan state.

The Sikkim government allowed shops to remain open till 4 PM from Monday, officials said.

In a circular issued on Sunday, the authorities directed shopkeepers and consumers to strictly follow the social distancing norm and use masks in public places.

There was, however, little movement of vehicles as the public and private vehicles have been barred from plying till mtotal lifting of the lockdown, officials said.

Sikkim is one of the few states to have reported no Covid-19 cases till date and all of its four districts are ‘green zones’.

Manipur: Manipur began returning to normalcy on Monday after the government eased some lockdown restrictions, subsequent upon categorisation of the state as a green zone.

People are now allowed to return to work and moved out of their places after 40 days long strict lockdown to check spread of COVID-19 in the state.

Except the iconic allwomen market and its adjoining market complexes in Imphal, all other market places in the capital city and its outskirts were opened from Monday.

An order of the state home department allowed opening of shops and business establishment across the state from 6am till 4 pm every day, excluding

the markets at three Ima Keithels (all-women run markets), Nagamapal and Ngari Galli in Imphal.

The iconic all-women markets remained close since March 21 last, five days ahead of the COVID19 induced nationwide lockdown began from March 25.

Similarly, major market places in other districts of the state, particularly at the district headquarters were kept outside the purview of the relaxation.

As such, these markets remained closed.

No relaxation was given for public transport including buses, taxis and auto rickshaws by the latest revised lockdown norms.

A shocking scene was witnessed today when many elderly turned up at State Bank of India (SBI) at MG Avenue standing in front of the bank without maintaining physical distancing.

They were waiting permission to enter the bank and withdraw their pension.

According to the pensioners, they were restricted from entering the bank for reasons best known to the bank authority only.

The elderly turned up as banks were also relaxed from the lockdown.

As per the new guideline, inter-state buses for public transport and movement of individuals will continue to banned except as permitted by state home department.

There will be relaxation

7

in the inter-state movement of individuals for medical reasons or for essential activities with the permission of the state home department. (Correspondent) Meghalaya: Amid the COVID-19 lockdown, all government offices in Meghalaya have resumed functioning from Monday with 100 percent strength for group A and B officers.

However, in case any employee’s family members has severe acute respiratory infection and influenza-like illness symptoms or have recent travel history, he/ she has been advised not to attend to office but to work from home, “Employee having symptoms of cough, fever and sore throat, or who have had any contact primary contacts recently should go for testing immediately,” he said.

Additional Chief Secretary for Personnel A.R. (A) Department, Rebecca Vanessa Suchiang said that all government offices in the state shall function at 100 percent strength for group A and B officers and 33 percent strength for group C and D staff with effect from Monday.

In her order, Suchiang also directed the head of departments concerned to notify the roster of duty for group C and D staff.

Lunch time has also been staggered in government offices. The employees have also been directed to download the Aryogya Setu app. (Correspondent)

Pressure groups opposes reopening of Mizoram enacts ordinance to curb lockdown breach educational institutions in Meghalaya Correspondent

Shillong, May 4: Three prominent pressure groups in Meghalaya have opposed the idea of reopening up of educational institutions in the State asserting that such move will be counterproductive to the national and State exercises to regulate and eliminate COVID 19 pandemic.

In a letter to Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Sunday, Khasi Student’s Union, Federation of Khasi, Jaintia and Garo

People’s and Hynniewtrep National Youth Front said that educational institutions will not be in a position to abide by social distancing norms.

“Many students of the state might have moved to their state of origin in the pre lockdown period, opening up of educational institutions at this juncture will also necessitate the interstate movement of such students who might hail from the COVID-19 red, orange or other such volatile zone,” they said.

Furthermore, they also asked the ruling Meghalaya Democratic Alliance government to understand the psyche of the parents who are still apprehensive about sending their wards to schools “The whole world, including India, right now must be prepared for the possible second wave of the pandemic, opening of educational institutions at this juncture is not wise in view of the global opinion on the second wave of this pandemic,” the letter stated.

M’laya woman tests positive on re-test Correspondent

Shillong, May 4: A 42-year-old woman, who had tested negative for COVID-19, tested positive again for the deadly virus in Meghalaya, a health official said on Sunday.

“The swab sample of the patient was found positive for Novel coronavirus on Sunday in the second re-test which was conducted 24 hours after the woman tested negative on Friday,” Director of Health Services, Dr. Aman Warr said.

He said the patient will be tested every three days till the result yields negative.

“We will have to test the swab samples

of the woman every 24 hours as per protocol to declare if the patient has completely recovered,” Warr said.

The senior medical informed that the patient is stable at the COVID-19 hospital The woman, who is a family friend of Meghalaya’s first COVID-19 patient Dr. John L Sailo Rynthathing who had succumbed to the virus, tested positive for the virus on April 15. The woman had visited Dr. Sailo’s residence on April 13. All the eight immediate family members and two domestic helpers of Sailo, who were earlier yielded positive for COVID-19 have tested negative in the first and second test.

Aizawl, May 4 (IANS): After Rajasthan, Mizoram has promulgated an ordinance to tackle violations of personal and public safety, public hygiene, lockdown measures with stringent punishment. It gives broader powers to officials in a bid to curb the Covid-19 pandemic, according to a top official, here on Monday.

Mizoram is the first state in the northeastern region to promulgate the Mizoram (Containment and Prevention of COVID19) Ordinance, 2020 on Sunday, stipulating imprisonment up to three months and a fine of Rs 5,000 for violations of personal and public safety norms.

Law and Judicial Department Secretary Marli Vankung said the provisions would be in addition to provisions of any other law in force.

“According to the provisions of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 and the IPC (Indian Penal Code), the authorities have to follow certain procedures and legal formalities and these takes some time. The ordinance would give wider power to the authorities to

take quick and immediate action against violators,” she told IANS over phone.

The ordinance comes a week after eight teenagers were beaten by some people for violating the lockdown.

The ordinance, approved by the cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Zoramthanga on Saturday, said, “no suit, prosecution or other legal proceedings shall lie against any person authorised under this ordinance for anything, which is done or intended to be done in good faith under this ordinance.”

According to the ordinance, the offences include, entering or staying at any public place without mask, failing to maintain social distancing protocols in public places, spitting in public, organising any social or religious event without permission from the competent authority, crossing borders by exiting or entering the state without permission, avoiding or attempting to evade quarantine and or isolation at designated quarantine facility.

The ordinance also barred the exposure and display of the identity of

Covid-19 patients and suspected persons by sharing their biodata and or photo in the print, electronic and social media without permission from the competent authority. “The offences shall be non-cognizable, non-compoundable and bailable, triable by any judicial magistrate,” the ordinance said.

For violations of the provisions of ordinance, the minimum punishment will be Rs 100 fine and the upper limit will be imprisonment up to three months and a Rs 5,000 fine or both.

Mizoram, which shares an unfenced 404 km international border with Myanmar and 318 km with Bangladesh, has only one Covid-19 patient. A 50year-old Christian pastor from Mizoram had tested positive for coronavirus on

March 24 after he returned to Aizawl from Amsterdam, the Netharland, via Delhi and Guwahati on March 16.

He is undergoing treatment at the Zoram Medical College and Hospital in Aizawl while his wife and two children’s swab samples tested negative and they are staying at home.

Health officials said four people, including two women, from Mizoram tested positive for Covid19 in Maharashtra in the third week of April. All the four people, three of them cancer patients, along with their relatives had been living at Mizoram House in Mumbai.

A doctor from Mizoram, who worked at a in a Meghalaya hospital, also tested positive for coronavirus in Shillong on April 14.

Dear Tiya (Bristi), May your life be brighter as each birthday comes and goes with new happiness unfolding like the petal of a rose. Have a wonderful birthday!

Family members & relatives.

Forest officials seize deer meat, carcass of civet cat in Meghalaya Correspondent

Shillong, May 4: Foresters have seized a large haul of Sambar deer meat , carcass of a freshly-killed civet cat and two weapons from Nongkhyllem Reserve Forest in Meghalaya’s RiBhoi district, a forest official said on Monday.

Divisional Forest Officer, East Khasi Hills, Anu P James informed that the seizure was made on Saturday when a patrol team of the audit point beat of the Nongpoh Range under Khasi Hills Wildlife Division led by R Ch Pdang, Forester-I, encountered four poachers camping inside the forest.

“The poachers the fled away leaving behind freshly chopped body parts including head, limbs and K Y M C

raw meat of an almost fullgrown male Sambar deer and carcass of a freshlykilled civet cat,” She said, adding that two unlicensed country-made single barrel muzzle loading guns, a bottle full of gun powder, two khukuris and four torch lights besides, personal belongings of the poachers including few clothes, cooking utensils and rice among others were recovered.

Inspite of a long chase by the patrol party, James said the poachers fled taking advantage of the terrain and thick vegetation.

James said the seized materials have been produced before the Court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate of Ri Bhoi district.

The court ordered the disposal of the carcass.

Meanwhile, an FIR

under relevant sections of the Arms Act, 1959 has been lodged against the unidentified poachers for possession of illegal arms with Nongpoh Police Station.

“The Sambar deer is the largest among the four species of deer found in Meghalaya,” James said, adding that hunting of the animal is prohibited under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 and attracts punishment of up to 3 years in jail and fine up to Rs 25,000.

James said the civet cat which plays an important ecological role as a seed disperser and is part of several folklores.

Therefore, she said hunting of the civet cat attracts even higher punishment of up to seven years in jail and fine of Rs 10,000.

Tamenglong and Noney Battalions of Assam Rifles provided basic essential to the families of veterans in their respective areas for their sustenance during the ongoing crisis.

K Y M C

8

sports

Makes sense to postpone T20 WC: Roy

New Delhi, May 4 (PTI): Feeling like a kid again, England batsman Jason Roy can’t wait to get back on the cricket field but says it would make sense to postpone the T20 World Cup in OctoberNovember if teams don’t get enough time to prepare for the mega event.

All cricketing activities have come to a halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the future of T20 World Cup in Australia is also in doubt.

“If players aren’t able to prepare in the right way and are not able to get over to Australia, then it makes sense to postpone it,” Roy was quoted as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

“But if it goes ahead, it’s our job to play cricket - and if we’re told we have three weeks to prepare to go and play in the World T20, all the boys will be putting the yards in to make sure we’re ready for that.

“I think all the boys are on edge, waiting for the call saying, ‘Right, we have a month turnaround

Jason Roy

or a six-week turnaround.

Get in the nets and go hit some balls.’ I think the boys will be as ready as they can be,” said the 29year-old opener.

The England and Wa l e s C r i c k e t B o a r d (ECB) too has suspended

activities until July 1.

While Roy is eager to be playing again, he said safety is paramount. “ I ’ ve g o t a h u g e amount of trust in the England and Wales Cricket Board. I think they will look into every single av-

Neymar ready to take 50% pay cut for Barca return

Neymar

Barcelona, May 4 (IANS): Brazilian footballer Neymar is reportedly ready to take a 50 per cent pay cut on his existing Paris St. Germain deal to force through a move back to former club Barcelona.

After spending four trophy-laden years in

Spain, Neymar joined PSG in 2017 for an eye-watering sum of 198 million pounds.

Reports have time and again surfaced that the star forward is unsettled in France and wants a Barca return in order to once again link-up with close

friend Lionel Messi.

According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Neymar is ready to sacrifice half of his 600,000 pounds per week salary at PSG in order to make a sensational return to Barcelona.

Barcelona was Neymar’s first club in Europe and he won two LaLiga titles, three Copa del Reys and the Champions League once with the Catalan giants.

Barcelona stars have also spoken about their admiration for Neymar and aren’t against his return despite his unceremonious exit from the club few years ago.

“Everybody knows ‘Ney’, we all know the affection we have for him in the dressing room,” Suarez was quoted as saying

by Mundo Deportivo last month.

“His ability is indisputable and he still has so much to show. He will always be welcome in the changing room, we appreciate him a lot.”

enue of all the positives, all the negatives. So, I guess I would trust in what they say, probably have a chat with Morgs (Morgan) and see where his head’s at and go with that.

“I don’t think I’ll have too many questions, especially when it got to the stage of ‘Right, we’re going to play’, because there’ll be a lot of people in those meetings discussing whether it’s the right thing to do or not.”

Roy also has no issues in playing in front of empty stadiums.

“I just want to play some cricket to be honest.

I think for us to be able to go out there and play some cricket would be an incredible feeling. I feel like a kid again.”

“I guess we’re governed by the government here, we don’t really know what is going on or what the safety measures are.

There’s way bigger things out there. I’m more than happy to play behind closed doors, it would just be nice to get out there,” he added.

River Plate open to Higuain return Buenos Aires, May 4 (IANS): River Plate could make a bid to sign Juventus forward Gonzalo Higuain, according to the Argentinian club’s sporting director, Enzo Francescoli. Higuain is tied to Juventus until 2021, however, River have not ruled out an attempt to repatriate their former player in the coming weeks, reports Xinhua news agency.

“Obviously he has to have a desire to return,” the Ole news portal quoted Francescoli as saying.

“It will depend on him and his plans. He is very important to River. He grew up here and his father also played for the club.”

Higuain began his professional career at River and scored 15 goals in 41 matches for the Buenos Aires side before moving to Real Madrid in January 2007. The 32-year-old, who has been capped 75 times for Argentina, retired from international football in March last year, citing a desire to spend more time with his family.

Du Plessis commits to play all 3 formats for SA

Faf du Plessis

CAPE TOWN, May 4 (Agencies): Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has committed to playing for his country in all three formats of the game in the 2020/21 season, a boost for a test side that lacks experience and depth in the batting lineup.

The 35-year-old relinquished the captaincy in the limited overs formats

to Quinton de Kock, and the team will also have a new test skipper for their tour of West Indies, which is still scheduled to start in late July.

Du Plessis says the lack of cricket due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has seen the Indian Premier League postponed, has reignited his desire to stay in the international arena.

He will make himself available for future OneDay International series having not featured in the 50-over format since the 2019 World Cup in England.

“I still love playing for the Proteas. I still see myself adding huge value,” he said in an interview released by Cricket South Africa on Monday.

“I am extremely mo-

tivated and keen to play in all three formats. This time away from the game has made sure that the hunger is still there for me and that is a big thing for players, to really still love what you do.”

Du Plessis says he will miss the captaincy but is relishing a role as mentor for the new generation of leaders.

“I love captaincy, it is a part of who I am. I have captained since the age of 13. I still look at myself as a leader before a player, so I enjoy that more than anything else. I will always miss it, but I do think that the time has come for me to move on to a position of growing other leaders, something that I feel is lacking in our system.”

“I want to make sure I can create some sort of value towards that, helping guys with someone who is there to guide them and, if they want to, to have someone they can talk to within the team. It is a great opportunity for five or six guys to come together and create a leadership group in the Proteas that will drive the culture for the next four or five years.”

Du Plessis won 18 of his 36 tests as captain since taking over the role from AB de Villiers in 2016.

La Liga ready to begin testing players M a d r i d, M a y 4 (Agencies): Professional soccer players in Spain will be tested this week so they can start training again for the first time in nearly two months.

Basic training has been allowed to resume in Spain on Monday after the government eased some of the lockdown measures that had been in place since mid-March because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Spanish league players are expected to get back on the field later in the week after they are tested for COVID-19 and after the clubs’ training facilities are properly prepared and disinfected. The facilities will have to be inspected to make sure they comply to the cleaning protocols established by local authorities.

All players, coaches and club employees who are going to be involved in the initial training phase will have to be tested two days before the individual practices can begin.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur TUESDAY, MAY 5, 2020

Kohli no.1 at the moment: Yousuf

Lahore, May 4 (IANS): Former Pakistan batsman Mohammad Yousuf has termed current India captain Virat Kohli as a “great player” and the number one batter at the moment in the world.

During a live interaction with fans on Twitter, Yousuf was asled to describe Kohli by a fan and the former Pakistan batsman said: “No 1 at the moment. Great player.”

Kohli has so far played 86 Tests, 248 ODIs and 82 T20Is for India in which he has scored 7240, 11867 and 2794 runs respectively. In fact, his highest ODI score of 183 also came against Pakistan in 2012.

Yousuf, a veteran of 90 Tests, 288 ODIs and 3 T20Is, was also asked to name who is a better captain in white-ball cricket at the moment and the Pakistan legend picked New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson.

Yousuf - who is the fourth highest run-getter for Pakistan in Tests - was recently asked to pick the number one between Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara,

Virat Kohli

Ricky Ponting, Jacques Kallis and Kumar Sangakkara.

And the 45-year-old had picked Tendulkar as No.1 followed by Lara, Ponting, Kallis and Sangakkara.

Earlier, the former Pakistan batsman had said that current crop of cricketers cannot be compared to Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and other stars from the past.

“In the past, teams such as India, Australia and South Africa had three-four quality play-

ers in the side. India, for example, had players like (Rahul) Dravid, Sachin (Tendulkar), (Virender) Sehwag, (Sourav) Ganguly, (VVS) Laxman and Yuvraj Singh. These six batsmen were playing in a single team,” Yousuf said during a TV show as quoted by Cricket Pakistan.

“The current Indian team does not have such batsmen. You can’t compare the current players with the class of Sachin and Dravid,” he said.

Lloris wants PL title settled on the pitch Paris, May 4 (Agencies): Hugo Lloris believes that ending the English Premier League season without declaring Liverpool champions would be “cruel”, but the Tottenham captain wants the final table decided on the field.

The goalkeeper is following the English social isolation rules at home with his family in London, helping his two oldest daughters with their homework while trying to stay fit in case the reason restarts.

“We’re in a situation where everyone wants to finish and get the verdict from the pitch,” Lloris told French sports daily L’Equipe. “It would be terrible if it all ended like that with nine or 10 games to go in the Premier League.”

“We’re coming into the most exciting, beautiful time of the season. Nobody wants it to end like this.”

Liverpool lead the table by 25 points.

“It would be cruel for Liverpool with the lead they have. They’re practically champions. There would be a taste of the

‘Liverpool deserve Premier League title’ Rio de Janeiro, May 4 (IANS): Former Liverpool defender Fabio Aurelio has said that the Reds should be declared Premier League champions if the current season cannot be finished.

English football has been suspended since March 13 due to the coronavirus pandemic and it is unclear when or if the current campaign will resume. Aurelio, who played for the Merseyside club from 2006 to 2012, fears the Premier League season could be declared null and void, like the Dutch Eredivisie.

“Even if the title is not officially recognised, everyone knows that the title belongs to Liverpool,” the 40-year-old said in an interview.

Aurelio, who is now a player agent after retiring from football in 2013, praised the work of manager Jurgen Klopp, who has overseen a steady improvement in Liverpool’s fortunes since his appointment in October 2015.

Liverpool are currently 25 points clear of secondplaced Manchester City at the Premier League summit and need only six points from their nine remaining matches to secure their first top-flight title since 1990.

Hugo Lloris

unfinished business.”

The France captain says that resuming the Premier League without fans will be strange.

“It’ll be weird wherever it happens. Football is not a closed-door sport,” he said. “Without spectators, it’s not the same sport.

That’s not how I see football. We’re here to bond, to share our emotions. We all want full stadiums, with atmosphere, fans, colour and song.”

“But you have to take the context into consider-

ation.”

“Everyone has to find the right compromise between health, which is above all else, and the need to finish this season,” he added. The British government still has not given any indication when football will be able to resume.

“We have to be ready.

Just in case,” said Lloris, who was among the players to return to Tottenham’s training centre last week for individual sessions.

The World Cup winner contributed the gloves

he wore when Tottenham lost the 2019 Champions League final to Liverpool in France for one charity auction. They raised 4,800 euros ($5,250).

He also organised a France team auction with Blaise Matuidi, the Juventus midfielder, and Raphael Varane, the Real Madrid defender, and raised more than 300,000 euros for Paris hospitals.

“This gesture does not represent much compared to the investment made by caregivers,” he said.

Willian open to Arsenal or Spurs move L o nd o n , M a y 4 (Agencies): Chelsea midfielder Willian has opened the door to a summer move to Arsenal or Tottenham, expressing his belief that “it would be fine to move to a rival club”.

Willian’s seven-year stay at Stamford Bridge could draw to a close when his current contract expires at the end of June. The Blues have offered the 31-year-old the chance to extend his stay in west London, but a disagreement over the length of contract could see him move on to pastures new.

Willian has openly admitted that he is holding out for a fresh three-year deal with Chelsea, but also refused to rule out negotiating with any potential suitors during in an interview with Fox Sports in April.

Arsenal and Spurs are both reportedly considering signing the Brazil international on a free transfer, while Liverpool and Newcastle have also been credited with an interest in his services. Quizzed on the ongoing speculation surrounding his future by Youtube channel Desimpedidos, Willian responded, “It really is a hard decision.

I identified myself a lot at Chelsea, I have a lot of love for everyone at the club, and the fans.”

“However, it is like I

Willian

said before, if I leave Chelsea with no trouble and leaving the doors open, it would be fine to move to a rival club.”

Pressed on whether a move abroad could also be an option, Willian added, “I don’t know. I like London and so does my family. However, this is a question that I still don’t know the answer to, if I will stay at Chelsea, move to another team from London, or leave England.”

Willian went on to deny that ex-Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho has been in contact over a possible reunion Tottenham, but did describe the Portuguese tac-

tician as the “best coach” he has ever played under.

“No, no. I did not get anything from Mourinho even though I have a good relationship with him,” said the experienced playmaker.

“He is not only a great coach but also a great friend of mine. Sometimes we talk but regarding this situation, he totally respects it.”

“I learnt a bit from each of them [my other managers] but I identified myself more with Mourinho for sure. He trusted in my potential, liked my football, gave me full confidence to play. He is the best coach I have worked with.”

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