September 28, 2016

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Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Centre working on Ntl Education Policy: Naidu

(7) DIMAPUR wednesday, september 28, 2016

Vol XXVI No. 292

Disband private tribal armies, appeals Patton

‘Civilian aircraft can use IAF airfields in NE’

Correspondent

Kohima, Sep 27 (NPN): Taking serious note on the purported existence of “tribal armed groups” among some tribes especially in eastern Nagaland, the state home minister, Y. Patton has appealed to all tribal bodies to disband such armed groups at the earliest, so that peace and harmony could prevail in the society. Patton made the appeal while addressing the gathering at the inauguration of 12th NAP (IR) battalion headquarters at Chingtok, Longleng district on Tuesday. He said, as per intelligent report, those armed groups were actively working under the sponsorship of various tribes. Patton further disclosed that some weapons that used during tribal conflicts have been seized by the police from different tribes. The minister also called upon various Naga national workers, tribes and communities to shed the differences and unite for early settlement of the Naga political issue. Parliamentary secretary land resource development and excise B. S. Nganlang, who also addressed the programme as guest of honour urged the land donors and the neighboring villagers not to hamper the developmental activities initiated by the government.

ENCSU expresses dismay over DoTE notification DIMAPUR, SEP 27 (NPN): Eastern Nagaland College Students’ Union (ENCSU) has expressed dismay over the notification issued by the department of technical education (DoTE) director calling for spot counselling on September 28, 2016. In a press release, ENCSU chairman Longre Chang and joint secretary Nokchem Angth said when the “underprivileged people” were appealing time and again in good faith, the department calling for counselling, violating the assurance given to the ENCSU by the state government on September 6, 2016, was uncalled for. ENCSU also questioned the department’s attitude towards the backward tribes of the state. Further, the union expressed surprise over the change of the department’s stand on the matter after receiving additional MBBS and BDS seats. ENCSU said when it first requested the department to use 2014 method of filling the vacant seats by the BT candidates, the department had stated that they could not do anything as the selection for the seats was done by the Common Selection Board (CSB). However, ENCSU said now the department violating its own stand was trying to allot the additional seats by the NEET qualified candidates. The union described department’s move as (Cont’d on p-7)

This is it!

“I confess my only crime is that I try to meet people’s needs by smuggling.” K Y M C

(3rd from L) Patton flanked by Nganlang, Doungel and others. (NP)

He said that the setting up of the police headquarters was to ensure peace and law and order situation in the state. In his project report, project engineer (PE) Alichen Er. I. Hutoshe Gushepu informed that the construction began in 2011 with a total cost of Rs. 366.39 crores which covered an area of 248 acres. He said out of the total cost only Rs. 31.51 crores was released. In this regard, he urged the government to release the remaining amount. According to PE, the group A residential buildings have 521 units, group B has non residential buildings (26 units) and group C & D consists of construction of roads, water supply and site development etc. He further informed that due to limited in the annual

Aleppo evacuation corridors needed ( 9 )

state budget provision during the last three years, the department could not earmarked any budget provision for the completed infrastructures of the IR battalions i.e. including 11th NAP (IR) Bn at Aboi , Mon, 12th NAP (IR) Bn at Chingtok Longleng, 13th NAP (IR) Bn at Yajang, Mokokochung, 14th NAP (IR) Bn at Okkezong Kiphire and 15th NAP (IR) Mahila Bn at Meptsa Dimapur. In this regard, he urged the home minister to initiate the matter to the higher authority so that all liabilities could be cleared. Earlier, the programme was chaired by IGP (NAP) L. Bendang Lemtur, while welcome address delivered by DGP Nagaland L.L. Doungel and commandant 12thNAP BN (IR) K.K. Chishi proposed the vote of thanks.

A G A R T A L A , S EP 2 7 (IANS): In a bid to boost connectivity in the northeastern region, the airstrips, airfields and Advance Landing Grounds (ALGs) of the Indian Air Force (IAF) can now used by civilians commercial aircraft, an officer said on Tuesday. “The airstrips, airfields and ALGs of the IAF in northeastern region can be used by the civil and commercial aircraft to facilitate connectivity in the mountainous region,” Shillong based Defence Ministry Spokesperson Group Captain Amit Mahajan told IANS on the phone. “In the northeastern region, IAF airfields at Bagdogra (West Bengal), Tezpur, Jorhat and Kumbhirgram (all in Assam) are already supporting commercial connectivity. At Kumbhirgram, facilities like runway, airfield lighting and all critical navigation aids such as ILS, VOR and DME, are controlled by Airport Authority of India (AAI),” he added. “The IAF is always willing to accommodate civil operations, even beyond its routine watch hours,” Mahajan said. He said that many ALGs are either being revived or extended by the IAF in Arunachal Pradesh, which shares a 1,080 km border with China. “ALGs at Zero, Pasighat, Along and Mechuka in Arunachal Pradesh are ready for operations by IAF and civilian operators.”

CPO on Naga solution and Rongmei issue Dimapur, Sep 27 (NPN): Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO) reiterated and resolved its earlier stand and commitment on standing by the principle of the Naga National Council (NNC) in Naga politics on the premise of the 1951 plebiscite. This was decided at the CPO meeting on September 26, held at Mini Tourist Lodge Pfutsero stated CPO president Kekhwengulo Lea and general secretary Mutsivoyi Kotso. They said CPO maintained that any negotiated settlement that differed with this principle would render the outcome futile and so consent of all stakeholders must be taken for the talks to be inclusive so as that the outcome was honourable and acceptable to all people. They also recalled that the state government notification on August 4,2012 was in pursuance of the cabinet decision on July 23,2012 to recognise Rongmei as one of the Naga tribes. Chakhesang Public Organisation said such a status did not befit the community since they are already recognised as a tribe in Manipur besides not having any ancestral land in Nagaland. They however said the CPO was not inimical to accord indigenous inhabitant to the Rongmeis in line with the notification dated April

NSF appeals 3 tribal bodies Rongmei issue in state govt’s court, says ZPO Nagaland

D IMAP U R , S EP 2 7 (NPN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has “fervently” appealed the Ao Senden, Lotha Hoho and Sumi Hoho to reconsider their decision to disassociate from the Naga Hoho. In an appeal, the NSF president Subenthung Kithan and general secretary Boveio Poukai Duo said the division within Naga community could become a stumbling block at this crucial hour, when the Nagas were anticipating for a

solution from the Indo-Naga peace talk. The Naga Students’ Federation also appealed the state government to study the Rongmei tribe recognition case diligently keeping in mind the larger Naga unity. Furtehr, the federation appealed to all section of the Naga society to “unceasingly work” for unity among the Nagas and also to strengthen the frontal organisation in the larger interest of the Naga society.

Not party to Ao Senden’s decision: TSM Following the dissociation of Ao Senden from the Naga Hoho in connection with Rongmei tribe recognition issue, the Tsurangkong Senso Mungdang (TSM) has resolved “not to be a party to the decision of Ao Senden”. A joint statement signed by TSM president, I. Moa Aier and general secretary Imti said the mungdang during its executive meeting held on September 19, 2016, adopted a resolution expressing its desire that the Senden “remain associated with Naga Hoho in the best interest of the Nagas”. However, TSM said the Ao Senden went ahead by withdrawing itself from the Naga Hoho through a resolution adopted on September 23, 2016. In this regard, TSM said it resolved not to be a party to the decision of Ao Senden to withdraw from Naga Hoho.

Lauds Lotha, Sumi and Ao tribal bodies DIMAPUR, SEP 27 (NPN): Z eliang Public Organisation (ZPO) Nagaland, through its media cell, has expressed appreciation to three tribal apex bodies- Lotha Hoho, Sumi Hoho and Ao Senden- (constituents of Central Nagaland Tribes Council) for their bold step in “openly opposing the recognition of the Rongmei tribe as one of the indigenous tribes of Nagaland.” ZPO also recalled, that Angami Public Organisation (APO) had on June 27,2013, in a letter addressed to the chief minister, appealed to the state government for “de-recognition of the Rongmei tribe” as an indigenous Naga tribe of Nagaland effected by a notification issued by the home department on August 8,2012. ZPO said these were “unacceptable blunder” of the state government which had compelled it to file a litigation in

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the Gauhati High Court in 2012 and which was being heard upon transfer to the Kohima Bench. Media Cell said ZPO opined that it was high time for the state government to be sensitive to the sentiments of the people and act prudently in resolving the “predicament” rather than portray its motive and inconvincible excuse and prolong the issue by terming it as “sub judice”. Even if the matter was sub judice, it was still no unsolvable provided the state government was sincerely committed to fulfilling the wishes of the people. ZPO said it was as simple as making a decision to derecognise Rongmei tribe as a Naga indigenous tribe of Nagaland by nullifying the August 4,2012 notification. Media Cell said ZPO Nagaland would be more than happy if the term “sub judice” due to litigation, no longer be the limelight of discussion or contention adding, that the ball was now in the court of the government of the day.

28,1977 issued by the government of Nagaland. The CPO also resolved to request the state government to review its decision on July 23,2012 “in the greater interest of Nagas for peaceful coexistence”. CPO also maintained that the cabinet decision to enforce the Nagaland Municipal Act 2003 and subsequently amending it to provide 33% reservation to women, was against the interest voices by various civil societies. They urged upon the government to review the anomalies and loopholes in the Act in the greater interest of all Nagas. As one of the founding members of the Naga Hoho, they said Chakhesang Public Organisation reiterated its resolve to uphold the organisation and that whatever shortcomings that the Naga Hoho has should not deter CPO’s active participation and involvement. Rather remedial measures to fulfil any shortcomings of the Naga Hoho should be appropriated to make it strong and vibrant, they said. CPO also expressed concern over differences that have cropped up among constituents of Naga Hoho and called upon all members for shared understanding and dialogue to make the common Naga platform strong and vibrant.

ANSWFSEA suspends stir Correspondent

KOHIMA, SEP 27 (NPN): All Nagaland Social Welfare Field Staff Employees Association (ANSWFSEA) Tuesday has suspended its agitation as state chief minister has reportedly assured to approve their demand in the next cabinet sitting. ANSWFSEA president Benjamin Sema informed the agitating members that the assurance was conveyed to them through the director social welfare, on behalf of the social welfare minister. Earlier, the members gathered at the directorate of the social welfare and expressed anguish on the state government of failing to keep its commitment after the association pointed out the “inherent defects” in the existing service rules (Nagaland Social Security and Welfare Service (Revised) Rules 1997). According to ANSWFSEA president, more than 70% of CDPOs and above (officers) in the directorate were either contract or deputation.

Nagaland observes World Tourism Day

Tourism can provide huge employment: Merentoshi Correspondent

KOHIMA, SEP 27 (NPN): Advisor to chief minister, Merentoshi Jamir, MLA, while acknowledging tourism was the biggest industry for economic uplift said that it (tourism) was one sector that could provide huge employment for educated unemployed youths. Addressing the World Tourism Day programme at the directorate tourism here, the advisor pointed out that Nagaland endowed with rich biodiversity has huge potential of eco-tourism. Merentoshi said that low cost eco-friendly structures, resorts with basic needed in the state would boost tourism activities and urged officials to rethink their priorities. He said it was encouraging to see numerous constructions of tourist amenities and structures, but, at the same time, expressed disappointment that more than half of those amenities and structures were in pathetic condition.

(2nd from L) Merentoshi with others presenting the wheel chairs. (NP)

Merentoshi stated that for many tourists, clean environment, a hygienic place, homely atmosphere, proper food and toilets were necessity. He advocated that the department should capitalize on the biggest biodiversity and allow tourism to grow in a much bigger way and enhance the economy of the state. Further, asserting that every village has a history behind, Merentoshi called for maintaining the villages and

making them tourist villages. Stressing on the theme “Tourism for all: Promotion Universal Accessibilities”, the advisor said everyone must work to make tourism inclusive as tourists include people with disabilities, senior citizens and families travelling with children. On the occasion of the World Tourism Day, the department also presented wheel chairs to various hotels in the state capital.

Tourism best way to promote emotional, natl integration: Gov

DIMAPUR, SEP 27 (NPN): Nagaland Gover nor, P.B. Acharya on Tuesday said tourism was the best way “to promote emotional and national integration and also to boost economy”. Nagaland, with rich natural and cultural heritage, can be exploited to promote tourism and create avenues for generating revenue and employment for the youths and the state, he said. In his message on the occasion of ‘World Tourism Day’ (WTD), observed on September 27, Acharya said the objective of WTD was to foster awareness among the international community on the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic value. September 27 has been set aside to highlight tourism potential and contribute to reaching the Sustainable Development Goals, he said. Acharya was optimistic that tourism in Nagaland could

be promoted by making use of available infrastructure, amenities etc. He also stressed on the need to have people-to-people interaction between Nagaland and other parts of India. He said the role of media was important to attract more people from within and outside the country by way of promoting “our tourism potential in a big way, by dissemination of natural beauty of the state, flora and fauna and cultural richness of Nagaland”. Acharya also noted that people coming from outside the state should be encouraged to avail home stay. It was also important to have travel planners, whose contact details should be made available online so that people can contact and plan their tour, he added. Acharya appealed “to all the stakeholders, NGOs, civil society, etc. to promote tourism in our State and make Nagaland the first preferred State for tourism”.

Governor greets Konyak community

DIMAPUR, SEP 27 (NPN): Nagaland governor, P.B.Acharya, has conveyed warm greetings to all the people of Konyak community on the joyous occasion of “Lao-ong Mo” festival. In his message, Acharya said he was glad that the government of Nagaland has officially recognized the Konyak Lao-ong Mo, a post harvest festival of the Konyak tribe, and making it in the official festival list of the state government. As the Konyaks celebrate Lao-ong Mo, which marks the end of all activities, rituals and norms that were in progress/process since the completion of “Aoleang Monyu” celebration, the governor prayed that the Lao-ong Mo festival be celebrated in a jubilant and successful manner. “Festivals symbolise the bounty bestowed to us by Almighty. This is giving thanks to God for his mercy. Festivals bring all our people together & herald that all are equal,” he said. The governor expressed his hope that the festival brings peace, unity and harmony to the Konyak people and the state. On the occasion, he also appealed to the Konyak tribe to strengthen relationship with friends and fellow citizens and to usher into a new era of peaceful Nagaland.

24-hour KA shutdown on Sept 29

Diphu, Sep 27: Karbi Peoples Liberation Tiger (KPLT) has called for 24 hours Karbi Anglong (East and West) shutdown from 5 a.m., September 29. KPLT has called the strike to protest against the killing of six of its cadres by combined forces of Assam police and Indian Army on September 23. The outfit claimed that four of the slain persons were not militants but innocent villagers. In view of the strike, police of both the districts have tightened security. All the police stations and forces engaged in counter insurgency operation have also been put on alert. (Correspondent)

Ganja worth Rs. 22.5 lakhs seized

DIMAPUR, SEP 27 (NPN): In another major haul, Kohima Police manning Phesama check gate on Tuesday seized 450 kgs of contraband ganja, worth Rs. 22,50,000 in the national market. SDPO & PRO Kohima police, Atu Zumvu said that the ganja was seized from a truck (NL 01L 0476). It was neatly packed in 40 packets and were found concealed between the tarpaulin canopy of the vehicle, PRO said. Three persons were arrested, identified as-- Lole Rapei son of Lole, Kapao village, Senapati district, Manipur; Ashok Sonar son of Kumarfrom Senapati, Manipur and Daniel Poumai, son of late Weiru from Koide village, Senapati district. A case has been registered at South PS and investigations initiated, PRO added.

DESDE clarifies to news report

DIMAPUR, SEP 27 (NPN): Apropos a news item “State Govt. sanctions Rs. 3 Crore for YoCW, Skill Development”, carried in this newspaper on September 27, 2016, the department of employment, skill development and entrepreneurship (DESDE) has clarified that the fund amounting to Rs. 1.5 crore for YoCW was placed under the planning and coordination department (P&CD) and not the DESDE. A rejoinder issued by DESDE director Muthingnyuba Sangtam stated that the state government declared the year 2016-17 as the “Year of Construction Workers” (YoCW) and in pursuance to the decision of Cabinet, a state level committee (SLC) for implementation of the YoCW, 2016-17 was constituted, under the chairmanship of parliamentary secretary of labour & employment, skill development & entrepreneurship and border affairs, Mmhonlumo Kikon. On the approval of the SLC for implementation of the YoCW, the director said the department submitted proposal to the PCD to make the fund available for implementation of the YoCW. Till date, the director said no fund has been received by the DESDE. Secondly, he clarified that an amount of Rs. 1.5 crore under normal state plan has been allocated to the DESDE for skill development & entrepreneurship activities during the current FY. He said the DESDE has submitted proposal to the PCD and approval was still awaited.

Wakching area withdraw non-cooperation

DIMAPUR, SEP 27 (NPN): Public of Wakching area - WTSU, WRP, WVSU and WASU- have decided to withdraw the noncooperation movement against the NSCN (I-M). This decision was taken at the joint meeting between Wakching area public and NSCN (I-M) leaders at Tanhai village on August 12, 2016, informed KU unit Wakching area executive member, Yongmeth Konyak in a press statement. At the meeting, it also resolved to “forgive and forget each other on humanitarian ground”, the release stated. Earlier, Wakching area public resolved not to cooperate with the NSCN (I-M) after some of its functionaries reportedly assaulted Wakching town vice chairman, W. Taiching in connection with tax related issue on May 5, 2016.

Corrigendum

Apropos the news item ‘Ao, Sumi, Lotha legislators appeal 3 tribal hohos’ published on September 27, it may be noted that amongst 25 legislators, advisor to CM, Merentoshi R. Jamir, MLA was also one of the signatories, who had renewed the appeal on the three apex tribal bodies, to reconsider [their decision to disassociate from Naga Hoho] and resolve all misunderstandings “for the unity and future of the Nagas”.

ACAUT, DDCF oppose MAD order DIMAPUR, SEP 27 (NPN): ACAUT Nagaland and Dimapur District Citizens Forum (DDCF) have joined the eight Dimapur-based civil society organisations (CSOs) in opposing the notification of the Municipal Affairs Department (MAD), which seeks to re-enforce the lease system for tax, tolls and fees from October 2016 in the Dimapur municipality. In a press release, media cell, ACAUT Nagaland, said it “totally” condemned the move and maintained that notification defied good governance. It said how could one justify the logic behind “this outrageous decision to hand over DMC toll tax collection to private individuals?” Terming the notification as “anti people”, ACAUT said the lease system would cause undue harassment to the general public. Further, ACAUT said it was constrained “to conclude that this order is pure corruption where vested interest higher ups in the department may have been promised hefty

amounts by unscrupulous flyby-night businessmen to issue the nonsensical and tainted directive.” ACAUT also claimed that even in the past, the portfolio-incharge of MAD was actively involved in “giving out lease in toll tax collection to his cronies.” It further claimed there were allegations that crores of rupees had changed hands for the favour of awarding leases, mostly to non-locals. ACAUT said not only was the tendering process “thrown into the dustbin”, but those leasees also managed to avoid paying income tax. “Thus, on the one hand, the portfolio-in charge made huge sums of illicit money and on the other hand the government lost out on revenue,” ACAUT alleged. It said that if the lease system was allowed to come back, not only would development of link roads, culverts, etc., in Dimapur municipal area stop but the 300 plus employees of DMC would also stop getting salaries. (Cont’d on p-7) K Y M C


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