Curfew imposed in Kiphire after arson, firing

(L-R) A portion of the damaged residence of DC Kiphire. Damaged vehicles outisde the DC’s residence.

Kiphire remained tense Monday after violence broke out Sunday evening when over 500 people converged at police point and blocked roads.

The crowd then marched towards Assam Rifles (AR) camp protesting against the assault of three youths by AR personnel at the police point earlier.

Five persons including one jawan sustained injuries when AR resorted to firing in an attempt to disperse the irate crowd that began pelting stones towards the Assam Rifles camp and DC’s residence.

According to sources, the angry mob also set six vehicles (4 vehicle belonging to district administration, 1 to DEF and 1 belonging to AR) on fire and partially damaged a portion of the DC’s official residence. In the melee, the incensed mob caught hold of one AR jawan and thrashed him, said sources.

The other four injured in the aftermath of firing by AR personnel have been identified as Tsayangse from Kiphire village; Chumhose from Old Monger village; James from Hutanger village and Chungliba from Old Risethsi village. The injured AR personnel could not be identified till the filing of this report.

Sources said that the tension began around 6 p.m. when Assam Rifles personnel allegedly assaulted three youths who were carpenters at the Police Point junction.

As per eye-witness account, the three identified themselves but AR personnel did not pay heed to their plea and instead asked them to take them to bring some underground cadres to them.

In a separate incident on the same day, a class seven student of Eastern Christian School, Kiphire was also physically assaulted at Pungro Junction, Kiphire while he was returning from Zingki river.

Akhumse Sangtam, the victim said that Assam Rifles personnel ordered him to “do frog jump” and then beat him with a slash bamboo without any reason.

The local public alleged that since the last two months, it has become a routine exercise for AR to harass people while checking vehicles, mobile phones, personal dairy and cane- baskets belonging to people.

These led to public alert where more than thousands public gather at Police point Kiphire. The wild mob then blockaded the road with woods and boulder.

High level team to probe
A coordination meeting was held at AR camp Monday between power parliamentary secretary C. Kipili, DIG range W. Krome, Tingre, Commandant 7 AR, DC and tribal leaders to discuss the prevailing situation in Kiphire.

C. Kipili who chaired the meeting said a high level committee would be constituted to probe into the causes of the violence on Sunday.

He also appealed the elders of the area to find a solution so as to bring back normalcy in there. Others who spoke on the occasion expressed dismay over AR’s high handedness.

Torechu appeals for restraint
Parliamentary secretary for excise, economics & statistics and LM & CP, T. Torechu urged for restraint from all quarters to bring back normalcy in the district.

Dismayed over the ugly turn of events, Torechu who also represents 60 Kiphire-Pungro A/C, in a press release said AR personnel, “in the first place, should not have gone to the extreme of harassing innocent public, especially children, in the name of maintaining law and order”.

He said “in the interim period of cease-fire with all Naga political (underground) groups, it was expected that all parties involved in the peace process and the public at large should give their best on how to bring about an ‘honourable and lasting solution’ to the protracted Naga problem”.

Expressing reservation over the reported “excess” on the part of AR personnel, Torechu appealed to the public of Kiphire not to take law into their own hands but to repose their faith and confidence in the district administration to redress their grievances.

Given the present situation, Torechu called upon all responsible groups, parties and tribal hohos of Kiphire to try their best in bringing back normalcy in the district.

ENPO, ENSF remind NSCN (I-M) on assault

Eastern Nagaland People’s Organisation (ENPO) and Eastern Naga Students Federation (ENSF) Monday reminded NSCN (I-M) authority to initiate action against those involved in April 19 incident in which a former ENSF speaker was allegedly assaulted by NSCN (I-M) cadres.

In a press release, ENPO vice president Sashi Naga and general secretary Thamlong Phom said the organization has taken serious note of “defamatory” remarks made upon the public of Eastern Nagas in general and the leaders of Eastern Nagas in particular.

The organization said it was compelled to “pressurize” the NSCN (I-M) collective leadership to immediately take action without delay on the erring cadres.

ENPO said the action taken report on the issue should be intimated to the organization on or before May 4.

The organization reminded that three Eastern Naga organizations had submitted a joint representation to the NSCN (I-M) kilo-kilonser for further action.

The ENSF too in a press release, said if the responsible authority was serious about its goals and objectives, such “culprits” should not be sheltered under its umbrella.

The federation reminded that any differences would be been resolved within the purview of the context instead of uttering a defamatory or a condemnatory speech against the people and the organization of the Eastern Nagas.

“Such remark has deeply hurt the sentiments of all the people of the Eastern Nagland and further appeal for justice without delay,” said ENSF.

Stating that the federation was never against any “Naga national groups or tribes,” ENSF said it supported ENPO stand on the issue and further appealed to the collective leadership of NSCN (I-M) to comply.

ENSF also said “we Easterners shall/will never inflict any harm or even let you felt the pinch while striving for justice and equality.

We are the people simply demanding for our rights and our due shares through justice. Our demands are deeply rooted so that we are accepted on equal footing or to live as equals with our fellow Naga brethrens.”

It may be mentioned that in a statement, the victim Throngso Yimchunger (former ENSF speaker) had given a detailed sequence of the incident and subsequent telephonic/mobile conversation with Joseph Lotha, the additional secretary of the Cease-fire Monitoring Cell NSCN (I-M) published on April 29 in local dailies under the caption ‘April 19 victim issues statement’.

AR assault children leaving Kiphire tense

The assault of three minors by the Assam Rifles (AR) in Kiphire town has led to a “burn down” situation in Kiphire town.
Earlier in the evening, around 6pm Sunday, seven jawans from the 7 AR in a gypsy, on “routine daily frisking”, assaulted three children aged 9-13 years with sticks and boot kicks in main Kiphire town. The children were returning from a trip to the local river.

On hearing news of this, youngsters from all colonies of Kiphire town, around 7.30pm, numbering thousands, landed up at the main police point looking for the AR jawans who assaulted the children. By this time, according to reports received, the jawans had fled the town, having taken the Tuensang road.

When the DC of Kiphire, Kesonyu Yhome IAS, was reported of the incident, he informed that the incident will be discussed the next day and “necessary action” will be taken against the erring jawans. He invited all public tribal leaders and affected persons to his office on Monday.

Ignoring the message, the crowds reached the Assam Rifles camp in Kiphire, some 1.5kms away from the police point, which shares its boundary wall with the DC’s residence. Here, the crowd burnt down one gypsy, and started pelting stones at both the AR camp and the DC’s residence. In retaliation, the DC’s house guards opened fire, with some rounds of blank firing having occurred. Simultaneously, the Assam Rifles also opened fire on the crowd leading to the injury of four (4) youths, two of whom are in critical condition while two are out of danger. In the meantime, the crowd caught hold of one AR jawan who was beaten up badly and is in a serious condition. All five are in the Kiphire civil hospital.

By 10.30pm, information received suggested that angry crowds had burnt down five vehicles of the DC, pelted stones and then burnt the DC’s residence down. The DC is reported to have taken shelter elsewhere.

“For the past 2-3 months, the Assam Rifles has been heavily frisking people, aggressively checking phones, personal diaries, wallets etc. The public has been angry with the AR for a while for doing this every night during peace time—this evening’s anger is an outpour of this,” said a resident of Kiphire town.

ENSF demands changes in reservation, ‘roster policy’

The Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) has pointed to irregularities detected in the sampling and methodology system of the Reservation and Roster policy of the Nagaland government. In this regard, the ENSF in a press note demanded for restructuring the present system so that there is “Justice through equality” for the 6 (six) backward tribes of Eastern Nagaland. The press note was issued by Likhumse Sangtam, President and Honang M Jessuhu, General Secretary of ENSF.

The ENSF expressed regret that since the implementation of the reservation policy, the 25% reservation for the 6 (six) Eastern tribes of Nagaland had never been judiciously implemented nor benefited the beneficiaries as it intended to be. “Instead the policy has created wide generation gap through unequal distribution of opportunities within the tribes of Nagaland”, stated the ENSF.

It alleged that since the inception of the State in the year 1963, policy makers from the “so called elite & advance groups in the subsequent government had manipulated and neglected the poor by hoarding their pity shares in the name of Democracy & Government”.

Pointing to what it stated were “records of appointment and job shares” that was being allocated to the 6 (six) Eastern Tribes of Nagaland, the ENSF stated that “history cannot be rewritten nor it can be hidden either”. Basing on these points, the Federation appealed to the government to immediately attend to the demand on priority before further inequality occurs.

The ENSF informed that a representation had been submitted to the state government and the concern department on 18th April 2013 by the Federation. Among others, the ENSF has demanded that 25% Reservation Policy should be maintained in each category of Grade/Posts. The ENSF stated that only limited posts of vacancies are being advertised whereby the reservation policy for the six (6) backward tribes of the Eastern Nagaland could not be maintained. “In fact such practices have resulted in a negative impact on employment sector among the six backward tribes of the Eastern Nagaland”, it stated.

As such, in order to do away with all these incumbencies, the ENSF stated that the State Government should formulate a new policy whereby, Grade wise 25% Reservation Policy should be maintained in each category of posts/jobs so as to safeguard the rights and privileges of the backward tribes of Eastern Nagaland.

Further the ENSF demanded for NPSC Prelims Center at Tuensang & Mon while pointing out that the four Eastern districts of Nagaland are educationally & economically backward where every year the educated unemployed youths particularly the aspirant candidates had to undergo various hardships “in terms of accommodation, environmental adaptation on Studies/concentrations, financially etc”.

Therefore, the State Govt. should set up Examination centre at Tuensang and Mon so as to reduce the burden on the aspirant candidates of this region, the ENSF has stated.

It also demanded for a separate Roster system exclusively for the 6 (six) backward tribes of Eastern Nagaland while pointing out over the anomalies in the present roster system. As such the ENSF called for review and rectification at the earliest possible time by the government.

CM Chang advocates corruption-free Nagaland

CM Chang

Expressing concern over corruption across the country and the state, Lok Sabha MP and minister school education, CM Chang Thursday urged the student community to eradicate the “evils” of corruption and make Nagaland a clean society.

Addressing hundreds of students at the inaugural session of Naga Students’ Federation (NSF)’s 25th general conference Thursday here at Agri Expo, Diphupar village, CM Chang admitted that “corruption” has crept into Naga society and the practice of giving “bribes” to secure government jobs should be discouraged.

Highlighting the cash-for-job practice, Chang revealed, that after taking over his current portfolio,he was offered bribes by two persons- a man seeking job for his son and another woman also seeking a job for her son.

Disapproving of such practices among Nagas, the minister pointed out that the younger generation would only suffer if such a trend continued.

He also pointed out that corruption did not mean only “bribery” but also immorality and unethical approaches in dealings and asked students if they were free from these “evils”.

Advising Nagas to lead a true Christian life, Chang said “when people are expecting good things from us and if we start doing something wrong then people’s expectations will be in vain.”

Acknowledging NSF’s contribution, Chang reminded the students that their primary role was to represent and assist fellow students in addressing  issues and interests. He opined that the NSF provided a common platform to “steer” the Nagas in the right direction.

Earlier, special guest, Manipur MLA, L. Dikho lauded the contribution made by the pioneers of NSF in providing the only platform that could bring Nagas together. He urged upon the younger generation to uphold the same tradition.

He also advised youths not to be dependent only on government jobs or their parents for getting employment.

He also urged upon the public, especially the youth to extend support to the initiatives of the DAN government for improving  air, rail and road connectivity. s.

Also speaking on the occasion, chairman North-East Students’ Organization (NESO), Samuel B Jyrwa called upon the youth and the students to make positive contributions in society thereby bringing development into the region.

He said the North East Students Organisation(NESO) has  no political affiliations, as it was based on identity and ethnicity.

In his presidential address, NSF president Kelhouneizo Yhome asserted that the federation’s strive in “embracing common vision”,  for the Naga society would be an insurmountable task and that it would demand a “special strength in our character” to cash-in the benefits of sharing.

Yhome said that general conference was organized to “break the ice” amongst the people so that they could bond and appreciate each other.

Earlier, in the morning, MLA L Dikho also unveiled the monolith at Dimapur Government College. The gathering was enthralled with special presentation by Nagaland Chamber Choir and Patkai Guitar Ensemble and a dance performance by Chakhesang Students’ Union. The crowd was also mesmerized by Lanlan Huileng with a melodious song.

ENSF renews demand for fulfillment of 5-point charter of demands

Eastern Naga Students Federation (ENSF) has demanded the fulfillment of its five-point charter of demands related to educational sector in four Eastern Nagaland districts - Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire and Longleng.

The federation also warned that the state government and the education department would be held responsible if ENSF’s demands were not met “on or before” July 31, 2013.

In a statement, ENSF president Likhumse Sangtam and general secretary Honang M. Jessuhu said ENSF on April 22, 2013 had served a reminder to the government to fulfill and implement all the outcome of Niathu resort meeting on February 3, 2012.

ENSF said the state government had convened a joint consultative meeting with the chief minister along with along with other legislators and department representatives at Niathu resort. ENSF’s five-point charter of demands was thoroughly discussed and the state government had subsequently agreed to fulfill all the demands.

The first   related to the reprocessing of 497 new posts which were proposed for creation during 2011-12 but not approved by the government of India due to non-filling up of earlier sanction posts to be “earmarked exclusively” for the four districts of Eastern Nagaland.

The second  was filling up of 220 teachers posts being proposed for the 11 (eleven) model schools to be set up in Eastern Nagaland by the candidates from the six tribes of Eastern Nagaland.

The third was for 66 primary and graduate teachers’ posts under Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, to be earmarked for candidates from the six tribes of Eastern Nagaland.

The fourth was that 72 posts kept under doubtful category of teachers by school education numbering to be earmarked for Eastern Nagaland after a final decision of the state cabinet on this issue.

The fifth related to the state government’s assurance to carry out assessment across Eastern Nagaland. In the event of shortage of teachers, the government was to create all the required posts of teachers exclusively for Eastern Nagaland.

ENSF restated that almost all schools in Eastern Nagaland were functioning without sufficient teachers.

ENSF said that despite its efforts and appeal, not much has been initiated or resolved till now on account of “snail pace policy and attitude” of the government.

Beneficiaries informed to collect State Disaster Response Fund

Tuensang district has received the State Disaster Response Fund from 2010 till date from the Home Department for individual case. DC Tuensang T Mhabemo Yanthan in a press release has informed the beneficiaries to collect the amount from the DC’s office from May 1 onawrds. The beneficiaries are requested to come with one identity card along with authentication from a gazette officer of Tuensang. The list of beneficiaries is pasted on the notice board of the DC office.

CM inaugurates Lang Hydro Project

Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, on April 23 inaugurated a 1 Mega Watt (MW) Lang Hydro Electric Project, which was constructed on Lang River in Pangsha village (Lamdem) under Noklak sub-division, Tuensang district. The Chief Minister congratulated the public for cooperation in taking up the project successfully, undertaken by the government to benefit the public. He briefed on the necessity of electricity and encouraged the people to cooperate with the government for future development works in the area.

The Chief Minister also touched upon the vision of the Look East Policy, which he said is for “us to get in contact with our people in Myanmar so they can also get the benefit of modern development.” Engineer Benithung Yanthan, Executive Engineer, Power, project in-charge of Lang Hydro Electric Project, gave the project profile and said that “the mission of our dreams has been achieved”. He challenged the department to give full support for project maintenance and also asked the government for future support.

ENSF to bring reform in education system

The Eastern Naga students’ Federation (ENSF) is in the process of reforming the education system in the region, and in order to bring positive changes, the Federation resolved to issue directives to all concern authorities and its federating units so as to strictly adhere the same.

ENSF, Vice President, Shahsha L. Menhahu and General Secretary, Honang M. Jessuhu in a press release has issued various directives on this concern. Under its directives to the students’ organization, all federating units must verify and inspect the condition of the school and report the same to the Federation’s head office quarterly. At the village level students’ union president by designation must be included in the Village Education Committee (VEC).

Teachers and schools are directed that no proxy teacher and irregularity in duty if found will be penalized as per the guideline laid down under communitization norms. All teachers must be stationed in the place of posting. The VEC and the Village Council (VC) should help the outstation teacher in finding accommodation. All school must strictly abide by the government’s notification on School timing/duration. As per the Right to Education Act (RTE), no school must collect any form of fees/money from the student.

To the department concern, ENSF states that “shortage and delay of issuing textbook is not expected at any cause. The department concern is asked to oversee that such shortage or discrepancies do not arise and the concern schools authority must report the same (if so) to the higher authority without delay.” Mid-Day Meal Schemes (MDM) must be implemented efficiently as per the provision laid down by the Government of India (daily). The Federation will undertake special approach and stand with regard to MDM.

“The Eastern Naga Students’ Federation is compelled to issue such directives so as to bring drastic change in the system. Further, as the Government in its flagship programmes on education had invested sufficient funds in reforming and developing the system, the authority concern is requested to comply on the directives of the Federation in reforming the education system in the Eastern Nagaland in the larger interest of the student community,” the Federation stated.

Further, while acknowledging the sacrificial service rendered by various Naga political groups and individuals and also honouring the noble roles of the teaching community as the builders of the nation, the Federation appeals to all the National workers to exempt taxation on educational institutions (especially teaching community) as no Nation can be achieved or built without imparting good education and vision to the future generations.

While congratulating the successful candidates, who recently got appointed to the post of teacher, ENSF regrets the hardship and mental trauma faced due to non issuance of appointment order on time and added that “It is expected of the department concerned that it will not repeat such delay tactic in the near future.”


The ENSF has also issued the following directives to schools stating that every school must have basic school provision as programmed by the Government of India:
•    Good school infrastructure and sufficient classroom
•    School children’s library (not textbook)
•    Separate toilet and urinal for both girls and boys along with sufficient water supply
•    Clean drinking water facility for students and teachers
•    School boundary wall/fence with proper locking system
•    Good black board/white board
•    Sufficient and  good furniture
•    All school must be electrified
•  All government middle school (GMS) must have computer education as one of the subjects and the appointment of qualified computer teacher to be done in every GMS.
•    The office of DEO must conduct quarterly assessment on every child and the copy of the same report shall be endorsed to the respective federating units
•  The concern authority must verify and identify those schools which run with shortage of teachers and immediately intimate the matter to the higher authority prompt action.

ENSF directives to student bodies, teachers, deptt.

Eastern Naga students’ Federation (ENSF) has issued directives to student organizations, teachers and departments on reforming the education system.

The federation has also appealed to Naga political groups to exempt “taxation” on educational institutions.

In a statement, ENSF general secretary Honang M. Jessuhu and vice president Shahsha L. Menhahu said all federating units should verify and inspect the condition of schools and report the same to the federation’s head office quarterly.

It has directed that the village level student union president by designation should be included in Village Education Committee (VEC).

To all teachers and schools, ENSF had directed that there should be no proxy teachers and irregularity in duty.

If the same was detected, responsible persons would be penalized as per the guidelines laid down under communitization norms.

As per the Right to Education Act, no school should collect any form of fees/money from the students, said ENSF.

The federation also directed the education department that there should be no shortage and delay in issuing textbook besides strict implementation of the mid-day meal scheme.

It has demanded that there should be clean drinking water facility for students and teachers in the school premises besides providing required infrastructure.

ENSF stated the office of DEO should conduct quarterly assessment on every child and the copy of the same report should be endorsed to the respective federating units.

It also appealed to all Naga political groups to exempt taxation on educational institutions (especially teaching community).

Rio to inaugurate Lang Hydro Electric Project

The 1 MW Lang Hydro Electric Project, Tuensang would be inaugurated on April 23, at 11 a. m. by chief minister Neiphiu Rio in the presence of parliamentary secretary for power C. Kipili Sangtam. L. Kire commissioner & secreatry power will chair the inaugural function.

ENSF for revamp and restructuring of DUDA

The Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) has urged the Nagaland Government to revamp and restructure the Department of Under Developed Areas (DUDA) along with adequate allocation of funds in order to address and achieve the purpose of its creation. According to a press note from the ENSF, a representation to this effect has already been submitted on 18th April 2013 to the Chief Minister, who is also the Minister in-Charge of DUDA.

The ENSF has pointed out that though DUDA was established particularly for the erstwhile Tuensang & Mon districts, the “DUDA did not function and serve as desired by the people of Eastern Nagas”. In fact the ENSF stated that with the creation of DUDA, the fund allocation in all the departments under the State Government has sharply been cut down to a marginal share for the four district of Eastern Nagaland as per annual state budget.

It went on state that initially DUDA covered only Eastern Nagaland districts but in the later part few under-developed pockets of another 4 Districts were included under the department with no enhancement or additional fund allocation.

The Federation has expressed regret that in the last decade, “DUDA had become a handicapped department due to various anomalies & irregularities without proper mechanism in the functioning system and inadequate funding”. “If DUDA is to be function as in the present, the Department will not serve the purposed it was envisioned for”, stated the press note from the ENSF.

It was also pointed out that due to absence of DUDA offices at the district level, the programmes and projects “could not be verified & supervised by the department efficiently, which leads to unnecessary delays/pending of works,  ultimately resulting to inferior quality in the implementation of developmental activities in the region”.

The ENSF representation to the CM signed by its President Likhumse Sangtam and General Secretary Honang Jessuhu has noted seven points for consideration. Firstly, the ENSF wants DUDA to be a full-fledged Directorate with special focus for the 4 (four) Districts i.e. Mon, Tuensang, Kiphire and Longleng of the Eastern Nagaland with the establishment of district level office for smooth monitoring & implementation.

It also wants the administration & functioning system of DUDA should be revamped & restructured. Engineering wing should be headed by Chief Engineer. Also, under any circumstances, the DUDA funds should not be misused or diverted to any other departments or programmes.

The ENSF representation also pointed out that Eastern Nagaland being the most “unattended region in the state needs more and urgent attention of the state government in order to uplift the socio-economic and educational backwardness”. In this regard it stated that the present fund allocation for DUDA is “serving less to the neediest”.

“Therefore, the state government should sanction not less than Rs. 100 Cores under UDAP annually, if the state government is so serious to develop the Eastern Nagaland Areas”, the ENSF states. The State government should also approach to the Ministry concerned (GoI) for more funds under BADP, it points out.

With regard to the Backward Region Grant Fund (BRGF), it was pointed out that this is being implemented under the department of Rural Development (RD). DUDA being the nodal department for the backward areas, BRGF should be implemented by the DUDA, the ENSF stated.

Stating that the creation of DUDA has become a bane instead of boon, the ENSF pointed out that after the creation of DUDA (particularly for Eastern Nagaland), only nominal funds were allocated in all the other departments for the four districts of Eastern Nagaland in the past State Annual Budgets. “The four Eastern districts hold only 16.3% (i.e Rs. 60612 lakhs) of the total state shares of Rs. 371536 lakhs as per Govt. Works Programme 2012-13 (as per analyses done for 53 departments including DUDA).. Henceforth, equitable and proportionate allocation of fund should be maintained in all the departments for four district of Eastern Nagaland”, stated the ENSF.

Assault on former ENSF Speaker condemned

The Yimchungru Tribal Council (YTC) has condemned the assault on Throngso Yimchungru, former ENSF speaker, his wife and mother-in-law on April 19 in Dimapur. Terming it a “barbaric and malicious act”, a press note from the President and Press Secretary of the YTC informed that the former ENSF speaker had sought an “apology” and “offered to repair the damage done and both parties compromised over the unfortunate incident.”

The YTC in the press note stated that “despite the agreement, they were badly assaulted on reaching the garage/service where they went for repairing.” It added that this act “cannot be tolerated and needs outright condemnation by one and all.” The YTC has urged for the concerned authorities to book the culprits and award befitting punishment.

In a separate press note, the Confederation of Chang Students’ Union (CCSU), Khiamniungan Students’ Union (KSU), Konyak Students Union (KSU), Phom Students’ Conference (PSC) and Yimchungru Akheru Arihako (YAA), comprising the five federating units of the ENSF have also condemned the assault.

The note alleged that the assault was meted out by  "four NSCN (IM) led by one Pfuchio Lotha." It added that the student bodies are “deeply pained and regretted to know that a National Worker has remarked about the incognito of Eastern Nagaland or a leader from that area.”  The note stated that “such National Worker should be punished and expelled from the National Service whose duty actually should be on protection and security.” It added that no Naga solution can be settled “if a National Worker is obscured of the Eastern Naga people and areas.” The Federating Units have urged the authority concerned to book the culprits at the earliest and take necessary action.

Eastern Naga frontal orgs urge punishment, Condemn assault on former ENSF speaker

Frontal organizations of the Eastern Nagas, under the Eastern Naga Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO), Eastern Naga Women’s Organisation (ENWO) and Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF), have “vehemently condemned” the “barbaric act” committed on Throngso Yimchunger, former ENSF speaker, by four cadres of the NSCN (IM) on April 19 at V.K. Service Centre at Khermahal, Dimapur. In that, they have urged the authority concerned to punish as per their “heinous acts so as to usher peaceful co-existences in our larger Naga society”.

In a press statement, the ENPO, the ENWO and ENSF have termed the attack on Yimchunger and a threat to his mother-in-law “blatantly abusing, condemning and challenging the ENPO, ENSF and ENWO by four NSCN (IM) cadres”. The four cadres were said to have been led by one Pfuchio Lotha.

According to the statement, on April 19, Throngso Yimchunger had a minor accident at 5th Mile Dimapur, near the Labour Office with a Maruti 800 with number NL-04 0998. “After mutual understanding and in good intention, Mr. Throngso offered to repair the car and accordingly reached V. K. Service Centre at Khermahal. Then a Gypsy vehicle with Regd. No. DL-6418 joined the former, i.e. occupants of the Maruti car and surprisingly they severely assaulted Mr. Throngso with iron rods, verbally abused and even threatening to be killed by one Pfuchio Lotha along with three other accomplices who claimed to be NSCN (IM) cadres,” explained the note.

When Yimchunger’s wife and mother-in-law intervened to pacify the situation, they were “abused and threatened” as well. When Throngso Yimchunger identified himself as the former speaker of the ENSF and “a responsible citizen of Eastern Naga”, he was further abused and challenged “for being the leader of the Eastern Naga, condemning and challenging the Frontal Organisations of the Eastern Nagas in general and warning them saying that they too have their top leaders and we will talk at Hebron camp.”
The press release, signed by presidents of the ENPO, ENWO and ENSF, stated “this kind of barbarism has deeply hurt the sentiments of the Eastern Nagas and the three innocent victims in particular.”

Alleging that in many such instances, Eastern Nagas are being “targeted, mistreated and harassed” in and around Dimapur, the statement said that many such cases remain “unreported and silent” due to “ignorance and fear psychosis”.  With regards the “inhuman and animalistic treatment” meted out to Throngso Yimchunger by the cadres, the three organizations seek clarification as to “whether they were authorized by any higher authority/ies to assault, condemn and challenge the Frontal Organisation of Eastern Nagas in general”.

Lang Hydro Project scheduled to be commissioned soon

Parliamentary Secretary for Power, Kipili Sangtam with officials of the Power department at the Hydro Electric Project near Phangsa Village under Tuensang district

The 1 Mega Watt Lang Hydro Electric Project near Phangsa Village in Noklak sub division of Tuensang District that started in 2002-03 has been completed successfully and is scheduled to be commissioned shortly.

According to the Power Department, a team comprising of the Parliamentary Secretary for Power, Kipili Sangtam, Additional Chief Engineer and senior officials of the Power Department carried out a preliminary inspection of the Project site on April 16 to ascertain the preparedness of the project. The team is reported to have found during the inspection that all civil and electrical installations were fully completed as per specifications.

After the inspection, the Parliamentary Secretary had a brief interaction with the officials and village council members of Old Phangsa at the project site. During the interaction Sangtam assured the staff of the Project and village council members that he would arrange to open a fair priced shop immediately at the project site to meet the basic needs of the staff and the villagers.  He further assured to initiate the setting up of one PHC and a primary school on need basis.

On the other hand the Parliamentary Secretary appealed to the Village Council to extend their fullest support and cooperation especially in regard to law and order problems and security related issues. In conclusion he congratulated the concerned engineers, both civil and electrical, and other staff for successful completion of the hydro project.

NSF and ENSF on taxation of educational institutions

The Naga Students’ Federation and the Eastern Naga Students’ Federation in a joint meeting deliberated on “matters with regard to taxation upon the teaching community,” on April 17 at the NSF office, Kohima. The joint meeting resolved to convene a “Joint Presidential meeting of all the federating units under NSF and ENSF on May 1, 2013 at the DUDA Guest House, Kohima to deliberate, discuss and resolve matters on “taxation upon educational institution” in the larger interest of the students’ community on education.

In a joint statement issued by the presidents of the NSF and ENSF, they have appealed to the teaching community and concerned authority “to restrain from paying tax to any Naga political groups, organizations or individuals until such time the matter is amicably resolved.” While acknowledging that education is the backbone in building the future of the Nagas, they have made an appeal to all sections of Naga civil society to extend their support towards it.

It further expressed that, “it is also expected from all the Naga political groups, organization or individuals to honor and respect the stand of the federations in reforming the educational institution and system in all the Naga inhabited areas.

Eastern Naga leaders stress on unity

Eastern Nagaland leaders at the ‘Get-together Programme’ for ENLU and ENGOA members held on April 16 in Kohima. 

The need for better coordination and a sense of oneness were stressed at the get- together programme of the Eastern Nagaland Legislature’s Union (ENLU) and the Eastern Nagaland Gazetted Officers Association (ENGOA) held here this evening at Hotel Japfu.

There are 20 legislators from eastern Nagaland in the 60 member house of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, of which four are Cabinet Minister, and another a DUDA advisor, equivalent to a cabinet status. Speaking on the occasion, PHED minister Noke Wangnao who is also the chairman of ENLU stressed on the need to have unity so as to collectively work for the welfare of the people and to fight for the common cause.

He asserted that everything would be possible through unity, adding that a sense of unity would take the people forward in every sphere of life. He further sought the cooperation of the public in order to enable them to pursue the affairs of the community.  Minister for School Education, C.M Chang also stressed on the need to set a common approach for the welfare and betterment of the society.

Earlier, T.C. Sangtam, Commissioner and Secretary for DUDA highlighted the various issues concerning eastern Nagaland in the form of appointment of Science and Mathematics teachers, creation of language teacher posts and posting of medical officers. The programme was chaired by ENGOA president B. Tingshem while a vote of thanks was proposed by M. Sangtam, director, employment, craftsmen & training.

End to water woes in Kiphire hospital

Deep bore well ready for use in District Hospital Kiphire

A deep bore well has been constructed and been ready for use in District Hospital Kiphire since April 5. The District Medical Officer of Kiphire Pezaguno Celine Secü said this in a press note.

“Scarcity of water has always been a problem in the hospital especially during the dry season,” Pezaguno said while adding that constructing the well has benefitted the public in general and is a “major boost” in the overall infrastructure of the hospital. The well has been constructed and funded by National Rural Health Mission under the Department of Health and Family Welfare.

The District hospital committee Kiphire and the public in general expressed their gratitude to the department, it said.

NSCN (K) marks a year of peace with Myanmar

A Naga man and his family from Khamoi, a Naga village in Myanmar, the first one after Longwa in Mon (Nagaland). After decades of political conflict the Nagas in Myanmar continue to remain underdeveloped. The April 9, 2012, ceasefire between NSCN (K) and the Government of Myanmar has provided an opportunity for some development initiatives to be undertaken in the Naga Self-Administered Zone.

Myanmar (Burma) freed itself from the British in 1948 but the political standing of the Nagas received formal recognition from the Government of Myanmar only in April 9 last year. In sync, limited markers of state machinery existed in the Naga areas. There were no post offices, jails, roads or courts. If justice was desired, either the customary courts catered to it, or the NSCN. After April 9, 2012, much of this began to change. The National Socialist Council of Nagaland, under the Chairmanship of S.S. Khaplang, signed a five point agreement for ceasefire with regional delegates of the Government of Myanmar at Khamti town in Sagaing Division (northwest of Myanmar). For the first time, state development activities were allowed in the Naga areas of Myanmar.

“After the 1980s, we took control of the Naga areas in Myanmar. We shot elephants and horses that were sent with building material,” reveals Y. Wangtin Naga, Kilonser of Ministry for Information and Publicity, NGOs and Public Relations, NSCN (K), to The Morung Express. “But development is essential for human progress, which the state is in a position to deliver. So we signed a ceasefire with them last year with peace and development in mind,” he iterates. Following the ceasefire, cadres of the NSCN (K) are allowed to move unarmed throughout the country, and have a liaison office in Khamti. Thousands of citizens greeted the Naga delegation at Khamti harbor after this, led by the Naga Baptist Convention and Naga Yuya (apex body of Nagas in Myanmar).

At stake is development of, and for, the people. In the 2008 constitution of Myanmar, the Leshi, Lahe and Namyun Townships in Sagaing Division were recognized as the Naga Self-Administered Zone (NSAZ), making it one among five other self-administered zones owing to their cultural distinctness, geographical territory and population ratio. The NSCN (K) has, in addition, called for “self administration” in the Naga areas of Mawlaik, Phongpyn and Homlin in Sagaing Division, and Tanai (Teniang) and Shingbwiyang areas in Kachin state. In 2009, there was one doctor and one middle school for the 96 villages in Lahe—this might now be in a position to transform.

Over the past year, news of investment in the region has come pouring in. Leaders from the Nagaland (India) Legislative Assembly have spearheaded talks with leaders of the NSAZ, as they have initiatives like the recently inaugurated international trade road at Longwa, Mon. A total of USD 7.048837 has been directly invested through the Government of India (2 million) and the Government of Myanmar (5.048837 million) into the Naga areas in Myanmar.

The ground reality, however, is different for the people. Not much of these funds have been seen translated to real work. The military presence in the Naga areas has increased in order to monitor the ceasefire, and Buddhist set-ups have cropped up in the name of education. There are limited ways for people to monitor funds, though the Eastern Naga Students Association and Naga People Development Foundation have volunteered. But problems are larger.  Unlike in Nagaland, Naga people in Myanmar do not have the first right assured to the land. This makes the Nagas in Myanmar wonder if a five point agreement for ceasefire that resembles those signed with other ethnic groups of Myanmar will suffice. Fear remains that the ceasefire could go the Kachin way, disadvantaging the local populace.  “After the British left India, successive Indian governments have made more liberal policies for the Nagas in India than have been made in Burma,” reflects Wangtin.

“Nagas in Burma could not give the intellectual push needed for policy initiatives as compared to those in India due to the region’s steep underdevelopment.” This became one the reasons the NSCN (K) opted for a ceasefire and made peace and development its buzz words.

With more capacity will come better security and ideas is the expectation, but some things, according to Wangtin, will never change. “We were not a part of the Myanmar government, we are not and will never be. Therefore, Naga political history must be recognized.” As for the people, there can be no peace unless talks begin between the NSCN (K) and the Union of Myanmar that discusses the political rights of the Nagas.

Meanwhile, referring to the Naga peace talks with India, Wangtin says that a “surrender solution” as a result of “factional talks” will not be accepted by many sections of the movement and society. “Without bringing the NSCN (K) into full confidence, there can be no peace in the North East (of India),” he adds. The NSCN (K) is currently in ceasefires with both the Government of India as well as Myanmar, making it the first Naga group to be in a bilateral peace arrangement.  

19 cataract patients operated in Kiphire

Cataract patients who were operated along with the Medical officials at District Hospital Kiphire

A free cataract surgery camp conducted at the District Hospital, Kiphire from April 2 to 6 saw a positive response from the people. Altogether 175 OPD patients were treated, 19 cataract blind patients were operated “restoring their sight”, and six minor operations were done. This was stated in a press release issued by the District Medical Officer of Kiphire, Pezanguno Celine Secü

At the camp Dr. W. Punsokiu, Medical Superintendent Kiphire stated that the District Hospital though upcoming, has all the basic requisite facilities like any other district hospitals to provide service to the public. “In fact performance wise, it is no less than other districts. It is functioning and providing 24 x 7 services with all the resources it has to the public,” Dr. Punsokiu said. “For public consumption, it may also be mentioned that with upgradation of the hospital coming up, people can expect better quality of services for which public support and co-operation is essential.”

He further added that one should be grateful to the department for “having concern for this remote district” and not always give pessimistic opinion.
The program was organized by the District Health Society for Control of Blindness (NPCB) and was led by team leader Dr. Imnapokim (Eye Surgeon), Sentimongla GNM, Ayula ANM, Lelhou Iralu Opth. Asst, Temsuwapang (Driver).

The Medical Superintendent and staff of District Hospital Kiphire extended their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Imnapokim (Eye Surgeon) and his team and the Department of Health and Family Welfare for conducting the camp.

Nagaland Adhoc teachers threatens to resume stir

Ad-hoc teachers today threatened the Nagaland government with resuming agitations if the state Cabinet fails to review its decision to amend the effective date of regularization of the said teachers.

The All Nagaland Ad-hoc Teachers’ Union (ANATU) informed today that it has “tightened its demand” for a review of the Cabinet’s decision to amend the effective date of regularization from September 7, 2011 to May 14, 2007. The ANATU said in a press release that it would resume its temporarily called-off agitations, in August 2011, if the School Education department fails to review at the decision.

The union said that the department ‘has not even pursued the matter’ during the two previous Cabinet meetings held in December 2011 while “some similar case” was reviewed by government.

“In this regard, the union has reminded the department to submit its cabinet memorandum for review to the Cabinet cell without further delay,” the union said in its press release. The ad-hoc teachers are unhappy at the delay which purportedly has caused a gap of more than one year “in comparison to their vis-à-vis contemporary ministerial staff whose services were regularized on November 1st, 2010 with effective date given from the date of joining their posts.”

Teachers and other employees under the same department should be equally treated, the union said. “The union could no longer tolerate for passion when the department had repeatedly turned deaf ear to their cry and grievances. Hence, ANATU, on behalf of 1,728 members from 11 districts, has appealed the state Cabinet to intervene and redress their grievances at an early date.”

A Konyak Naga is seen performing a dance

A Konyak Naga is seen performing a dance during the Aoleang Festival cum Silver Jubilee celebration of the Eastern Naga People Union Dimapur at Dhiphupar on Thursday (Yesterday) i.e. April 4, 2013

ENPUD celebrates Aoleang fest cum silver jubilee

(L-R) N Hushili Sema. Cultural troupe performing at ENPUD Aoleang cum Silver Jubilee celebration

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dimapur N. Hushili Sema, Thursday urged the youth to preserve their age-old culture and traditions so as to safeguard their identity. 

Hushili was addressing the Eastern Nagaland People’s Union Diphupar (ENPUD)’s Aoleang festival cum silver jubilee here at ENPUD’s union treasurer, DSP (Retd), Shokum Yim’s residence.

Hushili while stressing on the importance of preserving the rich culture and traditions of the Nagas said the youth should not be ashamed of their roots as it defined their identities. 

Stating that it was not “old fashioned” to wear traditional attires, Hushili said the youth should be proud to exhibit them and hold it dear to their hearts. 

She urged the youth to learn the traditional folk songs and tales so that the same could also be preserved for the next generation.

The DC then asked the youth from Eastern Nagaland not to have the “mentality” of being a “backward tribe” and not to depend on quotas, adding, they were at par with the “so called advance tribes”. 

“You people can outsmart the so called advance tribes...you have the potential, talent so give your best in everything you do”, added Hushili.

Appreciating ENPUD for celebrating the festival of the six tribes together, Hushili said the Eastern Nagas has the “unity” which was not easily found in other tribes and says the remaining tribes should emulate them. 

“Eastern Nagas should be the bridge for the other Naga tribes… you need to spread unity and concern amongst the Nagas” said Hushili. 

Earlier, the guest of honour, president Eastern Nagaland People’s Union Dimapur, A Neangba Konyak said that ENPUD could celebrate the silver jubilee celebration because of the unity amongst the members. 

Deliberating on the importance of unity amongst the Nagas, Konyak asserted that there was a need for unity amongst Naga national workers. He said it was time for the Eastern Nagas to eradicate the “backward tag”, and pointed out that they were “backward” only in terms of development and economy and not in terms of intelligence. 

Konyak was of the view that the government officials from Eastern Nagaland were not “sincere” and therefore urged the Eastern Nagas to be sincere in whatever they do.

Highlighting the significance of Aoleang festival, Engchai Konyak said Aoleang Monyu festival was the biggest traditional festival of the Konyak Nagas which is celebrated for six days - each day having a separate name and different significance. 

The first day is called ‘Hoi lai yah nyih’, the second day ‘Yin mok pho nyih’, third ‘Yin mok shek nyih’, fourth ‘Lingyu nyih’, fifth  ‘Lingha nyih’ and finally the sixth day ‘Lingshan nyih’.

He said Aoleang was observed after completing the sowing of seeds in the new fields, and also to mark the end of the old year and to welcome the New Year which begins with the onset of spring. 

Aoleang was also the time for seeking Almighty God’s blessing for bountiful harvest for the year.

Silver jubilee souvenir was dedicated by the speaker Reverend S Takam Chang who also gave a short message. A special number was presented by youth from Phom community. The festival and silver jubilee celebration was marked with cultural show, felicitation of oldest man, Chingei Phom (92) and woman Shiola Thongtsar (62) amongst the union followed by a scrumptious feast. 

It may be mentioned that ENPUD celebrates the major festival of all the six tribes of the union after every two years. The union informed that ENPUD has celebrated the major festivals of all the six tribes and culminated with the celebration of Aoleang festival of the Konyak tribe. Continuation of such celebration would be made known to the members only after the union convenes a meeting during the later part of the year, added the member.