DEAD LINES

DEAD LINES


Dictionary meaning of the word ‘Deadline’ is the latest time by which an action or performance has to be completed. The other form of deadline pertains to action with implied time frame of immediateness. It could be either set by an individual for himself / an organization/ government for betterment of masses or vested interests as a deterrent. It could be either lively (positive) or deathly (negative) deadline. Print media is replete with the deadlines of latter type issued by various UG out fits operating in the region.

These deadlines include: a diktat for Mr. X to appear before the outfit by certain time/date for an offence viewed by it; a diktat for claiming ransom; a diktat against non deposition of so called revolutionary tax by the people; a diktat for a particular person or tribe/sub tribe to leave a particular area/village etc. There are en numbers of such references to make e.g. Quit Notices by NSCN (K) to Tangkhuls and Hmars to Kukis, KRA claiming ransom of Rs.10 million from kins of kidnapped employees of PHED Manipur, illegal tax collections on national highways NH 39 & 53 and reprisals for not conceding to the diktat etc. These act as a pressure point on the commoner to continue in nonstop trepidation of the outfit operating in that area.

Obverse side of the same is deadlines issued by public towards atrocities of the outfits i.e. public rose against NSCN cadres with what ever they had warning them to stay away from their lives in Phek district of Nagaland. In Hurbert and Martin murder case, a deadline was issued to NSCN (IM) to justify the reason of taking away innocent lives. Recent case of village Zulukie Jangdi and Intagaki Inavi evictions by NSCN (IM) and deadlines set by the public for a just solution. Sit in dharna by education staff, teachers and refusal to ply trucks by truckers against the excesses of UGs in Manipur etc. are some of the topical incidences to quote. This is also a pressure point by the masses to check the wrong doings but is effective to a lesser degree.

Similarly deadlines are also being issued by Government for various projects that are rarely met. These decision makers are elected through ballot by the people and for the people. Albert Camus had said, “By definition, a government has no conscience, sometimes it has a policy, but nothing more”. Probably this is the reason of under utilization of central Government development funds allotted to Assam Government. Blame goes to inefficiency of bureaucrats. Little is realized about the significance of comprehensible and well-timed directions by leaders.

As per Imphal Free Press datelined 16 Oct 07 PREPAK has set deadline of 2015 for it self. The offer needs to be lauded at one score and analyzed at other. It is laudable in calling an end to coercive taxing, brokering of capital punishment and ending of so called unsuccessful revolution by a particular timeframe. Now the second part voluntary taxation may be renamed as ‘Feared Volunteerism’ and capital punishment may continue even after brokering as a symbol of power wielding.

Similarly ending of revolution by 2015 has two aspects too. One; if successful, what will this land be called; either PREPAK land, UNLF land, KCP land etc. or NO Man’s land? If unsuccessful, what is the guarantee that violent path will be given up and easy money and easy life sacrificed for harder days. Whatever the case is, the resources of today (human and material) are being shattered, contributing to difficult and complicated future.

Methinks we all (Government, Society and UG outfits) need to put down deadlines to adhere. Government; set deadlines keeping in mind that politics is not about big money and power games; it’s about improvement of people’s lives. Society; set deadlines not to support the miscreants lest it is called a ‘failed society’. UG outfits; set deadlines to abandon extortion, killing, ransom, kidnapping, gun culture and start a new life of progress, contribution and success from today. Everyone will support you. Remember ‘Deadlines are promises made either with you or the masses that need to be adhered for trust building’.

“And life is what we make it, always has been, always will be”
‘Grandma Moses’

Geoffery
( Readers can reach out to the writer via
email: jaey_geoffery@yahoo.co.in
jaey-geoffery.blogspot.com

PEOPLE'S VERDICT

PEOPLE’S VERDICT


Show of strength is in collectiveness. It is collectiveness of thought, collectiveness of will and collectiveness of action. Recent case of people chasing away the armed cadres of NSCN and NNC factions in Phek is a glaring example of this. These cadres were involved in unauthorized collection of money, living off the people and disturbing the tranquility in daily life of Phek town.

Like good citizens, people warned the cadres not to disrupt peace in the area but when the warnings were unheeded they had to resort to chasing the cadres with whatever they had and later destroyed their hideouts, bunkers etc.

Sophisticated weapons wielded by the cadres did not deter the unarmed locals. Similarly recent public survey conducted by APW (Assam People’s Work) in nine insurgency affected districts of Assam has disregarded the three decades old sovereignty demand of ULFA. This is clear judgment of the people favoring an environment of tranquility: where children can study, progress, strive for excellence, elders can pursue their daily business freely and economy grows.

During recent elections in Manipur people came out and voted in large numbers despite the threat of violence by various outfits and other elements. They also braved the bad weather to give their verdict. Kidnapping and release of independent candidate of Tamenglong A/C Mr, Khangthuang Panamei is well known to all.

The role of security forces is laudable who provided prophylactic and environmental security to the people. Ideally speaking, should we have a security cover during activities like this in our democracy? Answer is NO! But circumstances demanded this.

North eastern region of our country has been conflict scarred for almost six decades. We have large number of outfits claiming to protect and safeguard the interests of a smaller section of people of a particular area. It is basically an urge for easy money: easy life and desire to retain control over small part of the territory which is also a cause of interfactional clashes.

Most of the leaders of these outfits are staying abroad and enjoying a plush life on the money collected, extorted by cadres and sent for their usage. It will be loud and clear from the reports of strategic forces Inc (STRATFOR) that ULFA C in C Paresh Barua is 110 million dollars rich and supporting the election candidates in Bangladesh.

A number of fake outfits and existing outfits are engaged to get easy money by extorting from their own kith and kin in the name of so called voluntary tax. Do these activities conform to cause claimed by the outfits or belie their claims is left to the imagination and decision of readers?

We the people have the power of trinity i.e. Thought, Will and Action. Why not use this trinity collectively and have a society: where our children can study and appear for exams unhindered; citizens can move around freely without the fear of being extorted at gun point or being served a note of extortion in the name of voluntary tax: young people can use their enterprise for better future: NH 39 and NH53 is free of bastions of extortionists for visitors to come and appreciate our beautiful land and we do not have internally displaced persons as a result of violence in our society.

Methinks, we can and we should all unite and route out the forces of violence from our society so that this part of the country becomes the destination of happiness, prosperity, peace and progress and belie the present image of Insurgent North East India for rest of the country.

It is clear that people have power i.e. power of unity, power of collectiveness, power of thought, power of with but they need to decide & verdict what they want?

Let us all decide to root out violence & anti socials from the society for a better, healthy & prosperous society.

“And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly” (Romans 16: 20)

DIFFERENT SIMILARS

DIFFERENT SIMILARS

On 31 Jul 07, famous character of Munna Bhai (Sanjay Dutt) has been sentenced for six years rigorous imprisonment for possessing illegal arms around fourteen years ago. His request for release under Probation of Offender’s Act (POA) has been denied. But at the same time there are number of offenders who are caught with illegal weapons, should they also not meet the same treatment? This is no way an advocacy for the celebrity.

North East region of our country, Jharkhand and Andhra Pradesh are wreathing under the wrath of insurgency with spillover to neighbouring states. There are large number of proscribed outfits operating in various parts of our country with different names and aims. These are self claimed revolutionaries fighting a battle for a self centered and self defined cause. Very often the cadres of these outfits are apprehended with illegal arms. Do these cadres meet the same treatment under TADA and possession of illegal arms act? Of course, these cadres are put behind bars to be released soon after, either under NGO sponsored pressure or arm twisting tactics of these outfits or with intervention of someone at the helm of affairs. Are these offender’s beyond law or it is more than what meets the eye? Let us see the difference.

Munna Bhai has been called, “in corrigible offender, doing an act that is eminently dangerous, having elements of criminality etc” where as no such strictures are passed for frequent offenders of proscribed outfits. One proclaimed offender has contributed positively to the society while other offenders do the opposite. The film Munna Bhai MBBS is the only Indian film being remade by Hollywood, an only example of reverse film trade. This film spreads a message that positive state of mind has a constructive and complementary effect on the recovery of patients; sometime medicine can not have alone. Lage Raho Munna Bhai is also being made in Tamil. There is a strong message of Non Violence conveyed to the public through this film. This film generated nation wide discussions on lessons of Non Violence spread by the father of nation, Mahatma Gandhi. The lessons it gave to the younger generations are to be realized to believe. His father’s films have also contributed positively to the society. This family has also contributed to the cause of cancer patients.

Now the contribution of cadres to the society is; killing, extortion, intimidation, violence etc. That leaves behind orphaned children, makes widows of happily married women, deprives parents of the only child they have, deprives families of the only bread earner in the family etc. What kind of name should be given to these offenders; Incorrigible offenders, non repentant offenders or parasitic offenders who live on other’s hard earned money that deprives the families of better nutrition and children of better education? Not to forget the violence related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that affects people of all ages in different proportions with far reaching consequences. Terror has no affiliations to ethnicity, caste, creed, religion and region.

Act is the same but treatment meted out is different. Home Minister RG Lyngdoh of Meghalaya came very heavily on extorters and those who quietly succumbed to their threats. The philosophy was simple that these are anti state activities. The result was phenomenal; the proscribed outfit ANVC entered into ceasefire agreement and HNLC became cash starved resulting in large scale surrenders. Both State and Centre government is spending enormous amount of money to check supply of illegal arms and resulting insurgency. Should the simple philosophy of Shri RG Lyngdoh be emulated and deal with all anti state elements accordingly? Films are a mirror of happenings in the society. They depict a deep collusion between authorities (Legislative, Executive and Judiciary) and the under world elements.

Now the precedence has already been set by Justice Khode for sentencing an offender to minimum six years rigorous imprisonment for simple possession of illegal arms. The case is different for offenders in NE states and other states of India. They possess as well as use illegal weapons with impunity. Judiciary of NE states and rest of India need to take lead from the landmark judgment and dispense rightful justice to the offenders to avoid zeroes becoming heroes. Home departments of affected states also need to draw actionable lesson from actions of Meghalaya Home Minister. This will send a right message of security to the innocent and hapless sufferers and pave the way to much wanted peace, progress and prosperity.

“It is the spirit and not the form of Law that keeps justice alive”
‘Earl Warren’

Geoffery
( Readers can reach out to the writer on email:
jaey_geoffery@yahoo.co.in)

LCS MOREH

LCS MOREH

‘Where you come from is not nearly as important where you are going’ Anon



Under the Look East Policy (LeP) of GoI, Moreh will be developed as one of the Land Custom Station (LCS), in North East region of our country, besides other three (Dawki, Sutrakandi & Agartala). Wow!A dream to come true. Manipur has various forces & counter forces playing with the aim of their own that is miles away from the over all aim to develop the state, region and the nation. There are a number of outfits both in the valley & hills. UNLF is the oldest outfit in Manipur that was founded in 1965. Thereafter, a large number of splinter groups and sub splinter groups have come up that are trying to control some part of territory to claim as their own. Moreh is a border town where trade ( both legal and illegal) worth millions of rupees is undertaken every day. Recent incidents and a build up of the same for past two months is natural as this will give a bigger share of the pie to the outfit that controls this border town.
Before a conclusion is arrived at by the readers, there is a need to go over the chronology of events. It started on 13 March 07 with controversial abduction of approx 500 Kukis from Laijang village (Chandel district) to Myanmar by members of another outfit. The abductees escaped back to India to become refugees in their own land. There are two versions of this episode. One- that the news of abduction is false and villagers had moved out on their own accord. But this is countered by saying that some villagers were made to give misleading statements under coercion. Two-conspiracy of vested interests to create communal divide in this lucrative town, a hen that lays golden eggs.

Killing of one Roshan by UGs on 03 Jun 07, & later claimed by KNA, resulted in demand for deployment of more IRB personnel (already done) and removal of Assam Rifles from Moreh. Little do they realize that all SFs irrespective of the status (state or central) are apolitical and secular in their conduct & outlook? To add fuel to the fire was dastardly killing of 11 humans (not to talk of community) on 09 June 07 immediately on return of normalcy after the chaos of 03 Jun 07. DGP Joy Kumar had said “Though cooperation from the Assam Rifles was not there earlier, now the situation has changed and full cooperation is being received, and added that conducting joint operations have been agreed upon.” On 09 June 07, a joint patrol of IRB and Assam Rifles had chased the miscreants before they escaped into thick jungles. However, spread of communal tension and carnage by miscreants at Tegnoupal was prevented due to intervention of security forces

Role of Women in the history of Manipur is laudable. Women Movement (Nupilan) in 1904 against corrupt administration and in 1940 against black marketer marwaris is very well documented. However, their role in correcting social evil of alcoholism amongst men folk in the seventies earned them the title of Meira Paibis (torch bearer) who dispel darkness. These women used to be awake, wait on the streets/ roads with a lantern in their hand and punish any man seen drunk or drugged. Their movement resulted in closure of liquor shops and Manipur was declared a dry state. So far so good! Feelings of a mother, sister and a daughter for their menfolk are understandable. But these feelings have also forced them to shield the erring young men who have taken to gun culture. May be the demand for removal of AFSPA is a corollary of the same. A Delhi based security analyst (Anil Bhat) writes that a study team to survey the effect of AFSPA was sent to Manipur. During interaction with the team, people confessed, ‘though AFSPA should be removed but Army should stay back‘.

Speaking as a chief guest on the golden jubilee celebrations of Bunglong village in Churachandpur district the state Agriculture Minister Parijat said “violence perpetrated by armed groups are aimed at fulfilling their own selfish ends rather for the common good of the people.” As per status paper of MHA for the period 01Jan to 31 Mar 07 there had been 166 incidents of violence in Manipur. If these groups have their way, they would fragment our beautiful Manipur (a jeweled state) into mini lands like UNLF land, Prepak land, KCP land Kuki land (with further subdivisions of splinter groups) PULF land etc. Do we want this? Certainly not!

There is an old saying “there is always darkness beneath the Lamp”. Now is the time to dispel that darkness. Affinities, insecurities and social needs of different communities and tribes are understandable. But we need to see beyond what meets the eye. Affiliations/Disaffiliations, Associations/Disassociations of various political parties and UG outfits and the nexus therein can not be ruled out. Whenever there is such violence in public places it is always said that it was done by unidentified men. Why is it that they are always unidentified, when it is a public place and day light hours? May be those who know want to shun their responsibility?

There is a need to understand that security is cooperative, contributory and cumulative phenomenon. No single man or securityforce can ensure fool proof security unless supported by the people. We the population of approx 22 lakhs can always correct the erring youth which is not even half percent of total population so that parents don’t lose their sons, sisters don’t lose their brothers, children don’t lose their parent etc. Not to forget the avoidable losses due to bandhs in terms of mandays, study days , productivity, revenue, daily wages etc.

‘It is not that they can’t see the solution; it is that they can’t see the problem’
GK Chesterton


Geoffery
(Readers are requested to send their comments/feedback via e:mail
jaey_geoffery@yahoo.co.in)

GROWTH MARCH( F& F)

GROWTH MARCH(F&F)


“NE region is like California of 1848. Just as California’s economy boomed with the start of Gold rush in 1849, a similar economic boom is just going to happen in this region”. These are the words of Union Minister for DONeR, Shri Mani Shankar Aiyer. There are both Fillip and Flop (F&F) sides of this statement.

On the Fillip side we have certain factors. Power; there are plans to explore Hydro Electric Power (HeP) potential (50000MW) of this region and tranmit it to power deficient regions of the country through power grid lines. Out of the huge potential, only 7% has been exploited till date. Communications; surface, air and water communications are being improved. Major highways, NH 39 & NH 53 have been ordered to be four laned. Rail links are being improved- New Azra to Byrnihat (to connect Meghalaya to New Delhi), Dimapur to Kohima, Jiribam to Imphal, Kumarghat to Agartala, Trans Asian Railway to connect 28 nations to include China, Thailand, Myanmar, Bangladesh, Pakistan, India, Iran and Turkey is planned. This will enter India at Moreh in Manipur. Air connectivity is planned to be improved in terms of improving existing air fields, creating new air fields, increasing the number of flights and paving way for new airlines to enter the market.

Mizoram will become a trade hub when trade starts through Sittwe Port in Myanmar which is being linked through 160 km of Waterway (through Kaladan River) and 65 km of road link. Besides above there are other upbeat indicators. Four land custom Stations i.e. Moreh in Manipur, Dawki in Meghalaya, Sutrakandi in Assam and Agartala in Tripura are being planned. It is also being proposed to convert Nathula
into a Land Custom Station. China has already planned to connect Nathula with Lhasa through a rail link in next three years. This will help boost Sino Indian trade. This region of our country is floating on oil and other sources of energy like natural gas and coal that need to be explored. Meghalaya has huge deposits of Uranium to meet our nuclear energy needs.

China, Thailand and Burma are evincing interest in improving trade with India in this region. Bilateral meetings and mutual visits have already happened. India is seen as other wing of Jumbo economy of this region, the other being China. Chief Ministers are going out of their states to show case inherent business potential in respective states and woo investors both at national and international level e.g. Shri P.Gogoi, Chief Minister Assam did it in Bombay and UK recently.

The Flip side too can not be ignored. North East region is connected to the rest of nation by 20 km x 200 km thin Siliguri corridor (called Chicken Neck) which needs to be protected at all costs and all times against inimical elements. In case this corridor is cut off the only connectivity is by air which is difficult to sustain. Notwithstanding the planned projects to improve connectivity, will we see their fructification in desired time frame? Recently central forces have been ordered for providing security to construction of rail link in NC hills of South Assam that is already over delayed. China is constructing a dam, in its territory, on Tsangpo River that enters India as mighty Brahmaputra. This dam will affect HeP potential of this region by starving Brahmaputra river of few million cusecs of water diverted by China for her own purpose. India needs to be seen from the point of view of developed nations vis a vis China in this region and their strategic interests.

Last but not the least the violent related incidents. An investor needs two things; feeling of security and return for his investments. Security feeling is perceived by an outsider from electronic and print media news. As per statistics of Institute of Conflict Management the details of insurgency related fatalities w.e.f. 2001 to 2006 are given below:-
Civilians SFs Militants Total
Assam 1005 153 1080 2238
Manipur 383 215 776 1374
Nagaland 81 8 221 310
Tripura 168 259 637 1064

As per status paper of MHA for the period Jan 07 to 31 Mar 07. The insurgency related fatalities in Assam, Manipur and Nagaland are :-
Civilians SFs Militants Total
Assam 99 5 44 148
Manipur 28 23 124 165
Nagaland 13 - 61 74

Off late Assam had seen an upsurge in violence related incidents especially against the Non Assamese? This has resulted in issue of cautionary instructions, by foreign countries, to their citizens visiting this region as tourists. Assam is a gate way to North East India. When the gateway is not perceived to be peaceful, how would the investors come? In Manipur GoI has launched subsidy based credit linkage scheme for establishment of Agriclinics and Agribusiness centres based on project report by a qualified graduate. But no bank is ready to disburse loan despite having graduates trained by Institute of Cooperation Management Imphal. There is stiff resistance by locals against exploration of natural resources in their state e.g. oil exploration in Nagaland and Uranium mining in Meghalaya. These people have their own well founded reasons as they perceive that they will not get requisite benefits of exploration or it will affect the environment etc.

There is no doubt that this region is on the verge of the economic boom but what is lacking to catch up with the boom? It is often felt in unison that more funds need to be invested. Yes! It is an important input for any growth oriented society but there is a need to ensure end to end accountability in the chain of implementation. For optimal exploration and utilization of available natural resources there is urgent need to work out a mutually accepted transparent formula, which convinces the affected population that their interests will not be exploited but taken care of.

“Progress always involves Risk; you can not steal second base and keep your feet on first.” ‘Fredrick Wicox’


Geoffery
( reders can reach out to the author on email:
jaey_geoffery@yahoo.co.in

IDOLIZE POSITIVELY

IDOLIZE POSITIVELY


“How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world”
‘Anne Frank’

Societies, regions, countries do not develop overnight. But there are some positive happenings in the societies; at individual level, at village level, at Government level that need to be idolized for progress and development. Nyabil village in Cachar (Assam) and efforts of Andhra Pradesh Government for village upliftment are two diametrically opposite examples of Will Power and commitment: one for manual commitment and the other for optimal use of technology and transparency. Three villages of Mizoram have earned All India Nirmal Gram Award. One village of Mizoram is excelling in grape production. With a little initiative district administration of Sivasagar district (Assam) has been able to make 500 youth self employed. At individual level, Tsu Tsu Mary of Kiphre Disrict (Nagaland) working against drug abuse and 10 youths (Five (Nagas plus 5 Manpuris) who made in UPSC civil services final list are leading the way for others to follow.

Nyabil village along with other two villages (Borja lenga and Dakbungalow) of Cachar (Assam) were taken up under Assam University Rural Communication Project (AURCP). The aim
was to improve socioeconomic status of these villages with least assistance from outside. The project commenced in 1998 and with drawn in 2001. Thrust was laid on improving the communication strategy. Now the villages are basking in the glory of success with increased agricultural produce, self sufficiency and self dependency. There was a canal which used to flood and spoil the crops due to weak banks. With only self help and guidance of AURCP the villagers repaired and made the banks of the canal stronger by spending just Rs 5000/- as compared to Government estimates of Rs 1, 00,000/- minimum. What an achievement? North East is an agribased society, therefore; it is time to take the lead from Nyabil and revolutionize economic dependency? Why postpone local development waiting for outside help and face inconveniences because ‘Self Development is higher duty than self sacrifice’. This does not absolve the administration from their responsibility, yes! It will hasten the progress.

National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (NREGS) is a buzz word these days. As an extension of this; Andhra Pradesh Govt has launched India’s first e-governed social security scheme covering 13000 villages in the state. The scheme, Andhra Pradesh Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (APREGS) guarantees 100 days of assured daily work and workers are paid through computer generated pay bills. The web site www.nrega,ap.gov.in developed by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is being fully monitored by the community with click of a mouse. All the data are meticulously fed i.e. estimates, investment, expenses etc. Any one can access the web at anytime in Telgu and Tamil language to know the details. The best part of this is; it has eliminated the ever-growing fears of exploitation by contractors and vested interests. Wow! Why can’t other states follow this example and adopt system as applicable to respective states?

Mizoram was in the news; for being the most peaceful state, generating 2.37 lakh employment under NREGA, three villages (two from Lungleh district and one from Serchip district) have been awarded All India Nirmal Gram Puraskar (Clean Village Award) by the President of India and Hnahlan, a Mizo, village near Indo Myanmar border is doing extensive grape cultivation and production which is likely to be highest in India. What positive news!

With the initiative of Sivasagar (Assam) district administration 500 youth of 15 villages of Kakotibari area, who had long been lured by the UG outfits have come forward to bring an economic revolution. The project called Suikapha Yuva Smridhi Yojana is an extension of Swaranjyanti Gram Rojgar Yojna(SGRY). Seeing this more number of youths are coming forward to be part of this project. What a progressive step at district level!

North Eastern states of the country abound in fertile land, rich forests, verdant valleys with salubrious climate, various scenic spots and unharnessed tourist potential despite inherent natural advantages. Tourism is a growth engine on which this region can happily ride on and reap the unprecedented benefits. Sikkim, the smallest and youngest state has already led the way by enhancing its tourist traffic by 30% in last decade. The state is visited by large number of domestic tourists (approx 250,000) and foreign tourists (approx 10000) annually. Two reasons for this spurt are; safer destination and value for money a tourist wants. Wish other states of this region are able to follow this that will make this region an envious tourist destination and harness the revenue that is lost out otherwise.

It is not only the organisations but individuals who form the society have to make a difference. It will not be wrong to quote an example of TsuTsu Mary whose story appeared in the July 06 issue of Outlook. She is working for a local NGO, International Border Area People Welfare Organisation (IBAPWO) at Kiphire, against drug abuse. Her dedication and commitment has earned her titles like ‘Angel in the Town’, ‘Florence Nightingale’ etc. Probably she is following the quote of Norman Vincent Peale in letter & spirit “when every physical and mental resource is focused, one’s power to solve a problem multiplies tremendously”. I am sure we have many people, in every town, who can duplicate this example. Recently 5 Naga youths and 5 Manipuri youths have made it to the final list of 474 successful candidates of UPSC. What a pride for the family, village, district and state?

These are some of the examples but there are many. From the foregoing only one conclusion is arrived at; it is not the quantity of resources but the commitment, dedication and devotion at individual, village, district administration and govt level that can overcome off repeated deficiencies in the region ie Development. Do not wait, Get started! Be happy and spread happiness. Make this region “Owners Pride Neighbors Envy”.
“The achievement of your goal is assured the moment you commit yourself to it”. Mack R Doglas.

Geoffery
(Request readers to forward comments/views on e:mail-
jaey_geoffery@yahoo.co.in)

CONTRADICTIONS

CONTRADICTIONS


“God offers to every mind its choice between truth and repose”

‘Emerson’

It was very strange and amusing to read the following in print media during last few days: - an uproar in the ongoing Manipur State Assembly at motion called by the opposition member Okram Joy of Manipur People’s Party. Replying to the motion Hon’ble CM of the state said “illegal imposition of tax by NSCN (IM) on transportation in Manipur is a cause of serious concern.” He did not highlight the role played by two dozen UG outfits operating in Manipur. Besides this another news item- the reaction of ULFA on killing of an innocent by security forces as mistaken identity in Tinsukia district, Assam. Both are self contradictory in their essence.

May I ask the constitutionally elected members of Manipur; Is it only NSCN (IM) involved in collection of illegal taxes? What about UNLF, KYKL, Kukis, PULF, KCP and other outfits of Manipur? Do they enjoy some sort of patronage by those who matter? It was also stated in the state assembly that many a times the issue has been raised with the PM and other functionaries of Central Government. Does it mean that state Government has no role to play in handling this situation? Will just raising the issue with centre government bring solutions? NO! Ceasefire agreement of GoI with NSCN is only in Nagaland. Therefore, constitutionally elected members of Manipur along with the state machinery must make all efforts for effectively reining in all the UG outfits operating in Manipur that are responsible for the prevailing chaos. Please avoid playing the famous Polka Dance one step forward, two steps backward and side step the issue.

From the foregoing and the following it will be clear that it is not only one outfit responsible for collection of illegal taxes there are many. As stated by one of the truck drivers “both legal and illegal taxes start from Jakhalbandha in Assam continue through Nagaland till Imphal in Manipur. He further stated that they have to pay approx Rs 4000/- in one journey because they have to pay Rs 200/- and Rs. 500/- , at various places enroute, for a receipt of Rs. 2/- and Rs. 5/- respectively”.

ULFA has condemned the killing of innocent youth in Tinsukia by saying that “Will govt. relief grant of Rs. 3 Lakhs to deceased family bring back the dead”. I agree, the innocent killing is highly condemnable in the strongest words. May I ask the same from the outfit, “can those innocents killed by the blasts triggered by ULFA comeback” Does the outfit have an answer to questions raised by Assam People’s Works(APW) on 27 Apr07 and 18 May07 against atrocities of ULFA in the state? Who will answer? Probably, None!

There is a need to introspect, realize, reconcile and reconstruct the society to meet the changing needs and arrive at a conclusion; who is wrong and who is right?

“Life is just a mirror and what you see out there, you must first see inside of you”
‘Wally Famous Ancos’
Geoffery
jaey_geoffery@yahoo.co.in

WHOSE SINS?

WHOSE SINS?


“I myself always strive to have a conscience without offence towards and men- Act 24:16”

All of us must have read the very enlightening speeches by Shri Muivah and Swu in which they have blamed sins of the Naga society and the handiwork of ‘Good old satan’ as the main cause of delay, in resolution of the protracted Naga Political problem.

In some ways this is hilarious and in other ways pathetic. Let me recount some of my ideas here? What sins have we the Naga people done? We also need to define what sin is? Is it a sin to be happy? Is it a sin to miss a mass? Is it a sin to work outside the State? Is it a sin not to sympathize or empathize with the IM faction?

What sins have we done which the rest of the country or the world not done? Are we more sinful than America (which almost wiped out American Indians and used slavery to flourish), England, Portugal or France (the original imperialists)? Are the leaders of the IM Faction so bereft of ideas that they have to invoke God in putting the blame for lack of progress in peace talks to the society at large?

What about your own sins, Sh Muivah and Swu? Taking thousands of innocent lives and leading to the path of sin, of young and malleable minds. Is extortion a sin Mr Muivah? So do the poor suffering people of Nagaland expect this form of donation to stop? No sir! Your sins will continue and the Naga society will continue to be blamed for your ‘Sins’. Will the killings stop Mr Muivah? Now that you have realized the true path to peace and salvation.

Yes Lord Christ is very forgiving. May be he forgives you and your types for the atrocities and hardships perpetuated by your men in the last so many years, on your own people. May we expect something better in the future? If sins of the general public are to be blamed for our ills, will a sudden reform to church standards (repent and confess) remove the ’Sins’ of the other Indians believing in some other religion, so that both sinless groups can negotiate peace?

Some say a weak man takes recourse in God. Psychiatrist say this is the ‘external locus of control’ where in we blame all our problems, inaction and lack of success to God or other factors such as luck, fate etc. Be strong Mr Muivah. In your hands lies the fate of the Talks. If you have repented and confessed, maybe this round of talks will be more meaningful. But should you fail, as usual, please do not blame us poor souls or Lord Almighty Christ who is compassionate, loving, benevolent and kind. Please do not try and show HIM as an angry and upset God whose only pastime is to stop or delay peace talks.
“Ask, and it shall be given to you; Seek, and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened to you”
-Bible-
Geoffery
Jaey_geoffery@yahoo.co.in

FREINDSHIP TEA

FRIENDSHIP TEA

Friendship is a term used to denote cooperative and supportive behavior between two or more humans. It defines a relationship that involves mutual knowledge, esteem and affection. Although friendship and association are considered to be part of the same continuum but comparatively former is considered closer than the latter. Historically, friendship is considered one of the central human experiences and has been sanctified by all major religions. The Epic of Gilgamesh, a Babylonian poem that is one of the earliest known literary works of history, chronicles in great depth the friendship between Gilgamesh and Enkidu. The Greco-Roman has a paramount example of friendship between Orestes and Pylader. The Abrahimic faiths have the story of David and Jonathan. The Christian Gospels state that Jesus Christ declared “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15: 13).

Different cultures have different views of friendship. Very few people are accorded the status of a friend in Russia, but intensity of relationship makes up for the numbers. Greece viewed friendship from the eyes of rulers, who required their subjects to be in poor spirits and did not want a strong bond of friendship among them. In Middle East & Central Asia, friendship is more open than in Russia. In modern West friendship is viewed, more in terms of physical relationships. According to a study the number and quality of friendships for an average America is declining. It says 25% of Americans have no close confidants and average number of confidants per person has dropped to 2. Japanese psychologist Doi Taker claims that male friendship in American society are fraught with homosexual anxiety and thus homophobias is a limiting factor stopping men from establishing deep friendship with other men.

Colloquially a friend is defined variously: A fair weather friend supports when it is easy & convenient for him; a true friend supports emotional difficulties all through; Casual friend maintains a relationship of benefits; a best friend is the one who is closest with reciprocal & complex rapport. What ever it may be? In the sequence of emotional development, friendships are the most important relationship between the end of early childhood and the onset of full adulthood. Friendship is related to the value, a friend demonstrates in terms of desiring the best for the other; in terms of sympathy, in terms of empathy in terms of honesty and mutual understanding.
In China and Japan the art and tradition of drinking and serving tea plays a major cultural role. It inspires poetry, songs and life long friendships. The ceremony involves large number of steps and may last for hours. But the emphasis is on preparation and serving of tea to the guests. This region of our country is the largest producer if tea in our country and second largest in the world after China. It will not be wrong to adopt a recipe of tea that brings friends and dispels opponents. One such recipe is:-

Take the Water of friendship;
Add the Tea leaves of good will,
Good wishes and Goodness;
Add the Sugar of love;
Add the Milk of sincere prayers;
Boil it on the Heater of warmth;
Strain out all the ill will with the Sieve of affection;
Pour it in a Cup of understanding;
Offer it to your friend in a Tray of smile.
(GOOD LUCK READERS)

Geoffery
(Readers can reach out to the writer on email;
jaey_geoffery@yahoo.ci.in)

PEOPLE'S WISH

PEOPLE WISH


Recent public survey conducted by APW (Assam Peoples Work) in nine insurgency affected districts of Assam against the sovereignty demand of ULFA is an indicator of what the people want. More so APW consists of kith & kin of the members of ULFA outfit. Not to forget the welcome euphoria that prevalied during the run up to peace talks with ULFA before these were abrogated due to non acceptance of Center’s preconditions by the outfit. This is an indicator that people need peace, both at physical & psychological plane. Viewing the complete Kaleidoscope of North East India. One concludes that people in other states also wish & hope for peace and tranquility in future. While Extension of Cease Fire between NSCN and GOI has been widely welcomed but inter factional violence, extortion, intimidation strongly opposed. Even the tribes of Tikhir and Yimchunger have been advised by NSCN to resolve their differences peacefully by mutual understanding & not to get back to narrow confines of olden days. It shows that the NSCN also innately wants peace in the state.

Manipur ISKON temple blast was widely condemned. Even collateral damage/killings during inter factional clashes/when UG outfits target SFs are being widely condemned. These result in calling of avoidable Bandhs/formation of JACs, doling out compensation to the aggrieved etc. Some of the organization like all Manipuri Nupi Marup (a woman organization) has requested prime Minister to take concrete steps for restoration of peace in the state. We all know about the welcome accorded to large scale surrenders of 119 HNLC cadres in Maghalaya & 809 BLFM cadres in Tripura. Killing of 72 non Assamese by ULFA in upper Assam is a reaction to rejection of its sovereignty demand by the public. It is an indication of outfit’s desperate attempt to force its WILL on the public. Little has the outfit realized its wide ranging ramification including hitting of Assam’s economy due to migration of Hindi speaking Labor force. To quote Mr. Phukan (40), a brick factory owner “We are all employed Youth. We have taken a loan to start a business, and if our factory closes down completely, we will have taken a loan to start a business, and if our factory closes down completely, we will have no way but to commit suicide”.

We all know that peace is a precursor to prosperity, progress, development & good governance. It helps the Governed to prosper & excel & Government to discharge its judicial Legislative & Executive functions in a democratic & effective manner. This is what the People Wish! Therefore, let us make conscious & holistic efforts for lasting peace & make our society, a blessed society where every member is engaged in the blissful desire of love.

MONSOON MONTH JULY 07

MONSOON MONTH JULY 07

Gone month of July had been very eventful and disdainful for more reasons than one. The month has witness international, national & regional news affecting Indians and India that hit head lines affecting the nation as a whole and NE region in particular. But these happenings have number of lessons for the central polity, regional polity, security forces and the commoner.

Dr Haneef was blamed by Austrilian Govt to be a part of terror lot (burning Chirkee jeep hitting Glasgow air port terminal) but released later as a mistaken identity. Mr Howard, honourabel PM of Australia has candidly refused to apologize for the mistake despite maligning the image of the individual and the nation. More so, when no Indian Muslim had been named as part of terror plot any where in the world till date. President is the first citizen of our country and is supposed to be a political & secular appointment elected by the Electroral College. Sadly this image has been politicized . The type of controversy and mud slinging, before Madam Pratibha Patil took the baton, forced our people’s President Dr APJ Abdul Kalam to say NO to the second term.

Famous character Munna Bhai (Sanjay Dutt) has been sent to six year Rigorous Imprisonment for possession of illegal arms 14 years ago. Not to forget the often offenders who possess and using illegal arms in the insurgency affected states of North East India, Jharkhand and Andhara Pradesh and other states. Moreover, these offenders who contribute negatively to the society get away with impunity with a status boost in the eyes of onlookers.

At regional level especially North East India. NSCN(IM) has entered into an indefinite Ceasefire agreement with GoI on 31 July 07 to be effective from 01 Aug 07. Previously it was being extended on six monthly basis dependent on progress of talks and mood of the negotiators. The word indefinite has both positive & negative connotations. Positively the progress march of Nagaland continuing for a decade can go uninterrupted. Negatively, there is a fear of this being abrogated at any time based on the progress of political talks. Even ceasefire with Boros has also been signed for another six months. Better silver living in the horizon is Government of Manipur (most troubled stae) has also decided to invite the UG groups to negotiating table. A draft is being worked out that will be finalized in consultation with MHA at Delhi. Hope this materializes soon.

In addition to above, elected representatives of the people were annoyed by the commissions and omissions of security forces. Shri Ph Parijat (a cabinet Minister of Manipur) was quizzed by Maj Thacker of 7AR at Wangoo Sagang post. The minister’s motorcade was stopped for security check to total dislike of the dignitary and an avoidable verbal duel took place between minister and the post commander. The incident had upset privilege and prestige of honorable minister. Similarly Shri Salam Joy an MLA made head lines when UGs decamped with the weapons of his security guards by overpowering them. DGP Manipur had been admonished to the extent of demanding a serious action against the official for pointing out the complicity on the part of MLA. A matter of interest the MLA has now been promoted to the general secretary of All India National Youth Congress. Anyway! These are political matters. He had moved out of Imphal Municipal Limits without informing the state Home Department and without taking extra security cover as laid down. Not only there was violation of security precautions he had also followed a more vulnerable route on return journey when his convoy was ambushed. Various nexus associations, disassociations, affiliations and disaffiliations can not be ruled out.

Now the lessons that this month of Jul 07 has in store for the society. There is a need to stand up to the national pride to avoid Indians being taken for granted. Honorable PM, Dr Manmohan Singh has shown grit and steadfastness by not bowing to US designs in case of 123 Agreement. The result; India has entered the agreement by negotiated removal of redundancy in all the clauses to meet civil and strategic nuclear needs of the nations. Therefore, do not take soft spoken people lightly. There is lot to learn from our people’s President Dr Kalam. He transformed erstwhile imperial Viceroy’s Bhawan to People’s Bhawan. He displayed apolitical nature of the post in a very transparent manner.

Elected representative are for the people and by the people. Their status should help in smooth functioning of the Govt administration and not hinder the same. Security forces must remain with in their domain but not compromise the concerns their duty demands. Privilege and prestige of our elected members should be weighed against the security concerns the nation faced in Dec 2001. Here attackers made use of this privilege and prestige clause of honorable members of Parliament and succeeded in threatening the august and highest decision making body of our nation. Probably if our elected representatives had permitted security procedures, the incident could have been avoided that brought India and Pakistan almost to the brink of war.

The need of the hour is conservation of energy at all levels. Honorable ministers and legislators are requested to conserver their personal energies and not waste on fragile issues. They need to spend their time and energy more on countering under development, unaddressed issues, monitoring uncompleted projects, understate and over perform. Probably the situation to deploy security forces and hurting privileges and prestige of citizens will not arise thereafter. Security forces need to remember; at no stage their cheeky behavior will be pardoned. O Boy! You may not get pat on you back for things going right but you will get brickbats for things going wrong. We all need to contribute to make our society a better society and not stop due to fear of being alone. “ I am only one. But still, I am one. I can not do everything but still I can do something. And because I can not do every thing, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do”

REIN IN PLEASE

REIN IN PLEASE

If we allot numerical value to each alphabet of English and then total up numerals of these two words; ‘Attitude’ and ’Discipline’, we shall find each word totals up to 100. This means attitude and discipline fuels the life 100%, be it individual or society. But, it is found there is a dearth of these two inputs of life. The effect of this deficiency is further aggravated by the unbridled activities of UG outfits in NE region. It is good that leaders of both outfits in Nagaland have acknowledged the indiscipline existing amongst their cadres. That is the first step before corrective measures are taken. But in Manipur, outfits are not that upright. Cadres are taking hapless people for granted due to illicit power of wielding the gun. Now the people have realized and started voicing against the rampant and undesired activities of errant outfits. There is a feeling, at large, that the violent activities are more of an act of crime than the lofty ideals propagated. Now the people’s reactions are clear-cut writings on the wall to be read carefully.

Sometime back two cadres of ULFA were lynched in Sivasagar (Assam) district for carrying out extortion. Similarly, three cadres of NSCN (IM) have been lynched in Tuensang( Nagaland) on 18 Aug 07 for extortion. Much wanted apology by NSCN (K) leadership to Angami people’s organisation and Angami student organisation for highhanded ness of Sgt Yehokhu Sema towards Medo Yhokha (a former president of Angami student union) has cleared the ongoing stand off between the outfit and Angamis. Further, (K) leadership has accepted to discipline its cadres. A group of senior citizens have sought information under RTI act from different factions regarding their annual collection of tax from Government employees and business community/contractors i.e.25% of one month salary and 10 to 20 percent of income respectively.

Tribal union, United Sangtam Likhum Bumji (USLB) of Nagaland has decided to penalize the village that hosts factions. Angamis have expressed their resoluteness to end violence and gun culture. Assam Peoples Works (APW) is asking for accountability of ULFA towards innocents abducted and killed.

Attempted rape and murder of 16 year old Manju of Senapati district (Manipur) has been very widely condemned. Truckers had to abandon their Imphal bound trucks at Dimapur due fear of harassment enroute. This caused drugs and medicine crisis in Manipur and now is the turn of LPG. Effect of closure of LPG bottling plant at Seikmai (due to excessive demands of UG outfits) in Manipur is being felt by the commoner. Now the kitchens are starved of LPG and black marketeers are having hay days. Education employees from state directorate of university and higher education are on a sit in dharna in front of its office due to “unbearable pressure exerted upon them from all quarters of insurgent groups”.

The foregoing and other endless incidents will compel any one to think! Are these outfits really fighting for the cause? If so, was there a need to issue National Standing Azhas by NSCN (IM) after Wungram Incident? Is their any need of issuing diktats by the outfits to ensure people pay attention to what they say just out of fear? Writing on the wall is conspicuous with a message to the erring youth; please, restrain your activities and discipline your cadres, we want peace and progress in life, come out to join the main stream and change your attitude towards positivism of life.

Do not eye on our hard earned money and deprive us and our families, of the benefits of leading a better life. Stay away and do not clutter up peace of our daily life. Be accountable for your role towards society.

VALUED SHAME

VALUED SHAME


It was very interesting to read a write up titled ‘Politics of shame’ in News week of 23 Jul 07. It is about China adopting stringent societal norms to deal with corrupt officials based on Confucian ethics. In this, shame (to societies) is valued more than the guilt and crime committed by individual. The nation grants very harsh penalties to people who cause shame to the orgination and society.. State food and drug administration chief, Zheng Xiayu, has been executed for accepting bribe of 850.000$ and approving untested medicines that has resulted in death of 10 people. Shame has always been a powerful force in China. In fact some of the officials committed suicide for simply being questioned for corruption e.g. A former police chief killed himself in June. Obviously my mind ran to the state of rampant corruption in our nation and non existent shame. Despite the available proofs defaulters make all possible alibis to pose themselves as innocents. Should we also resort to the stringent measures like our neighbor? Answer ! Probably yes! Probably no! Some recent cases will be reflected discussed in succeeding paragraphs for readers to decide on this.

The case of BJP MP (Babu Bhai Katara ) who used to get kickback of Rs Eight Lakhs per person for (agents received much more). For illegally exporting humans as part of his entourage. Is well known. Former CM of Punjab, Amrinder Singh was questioned for Rs 30billion corruption case relating to construction of the sprawling Ludhiana City Centre (Punjab). Orissa health Minister Duryodhan Majhi responded to the supply of fake medicines in

Governance Hospitals and feticides in the state and “I will not resign because I have not made any mistake as a minister. He further demanded a probe into unseen link among politicians, officials and medicine traders. Sir! You are also in one such category. In Mokokchung, Nagaland Deputy Inspector of Schools has been accused of embezzlemet of funds and pocketing 50% of money allotted for construction of Schools in the district under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA). Thanks to communitizaion Programme in the state the official has been brought to book due to vigilance of village councils who refused to give fake receipts. An enquiry is yet to be ordered in to the case.

Recently an unholy nexus politicians and UGs has emerged in Manipur. On 18 Aug 07, twelve UGs Cadres with weapons had been apprehended from the official quarters of three congress MLAS (Brajabidhu, K Meghachandra and Bijay Kojam) at Babupara in Imphal. On 24 Aug 07, a PLA cadre has been nabbed from residence of sitting MLA, R Kanda of Manipur Peoples Party (MPP). This may be just the tip of iceberg. We are also aware of the political nexus with Black window group of NC Hills for drawing Political gains and the results. Probably this is one of the reasons of unending turmoil in NE. These people’s representatives keep on crying hoarse,, “ the situation is very complicated and difficult to handle and centre has been approached to address this.” Probably the nexus has made it more complicated and the same will aggravate further if patronage continues. May be attack on MLA Salam Joy’s (Manipur Assembly) security personnel and decamping of weapons by UGs was part of this nexus. Difficult to say!.
Usual responses of the erring MLAs are : total refusal, claming apprehendees as personal servants with unknown antecedents etc. It is very surprising & embarrassing that our responsible elected representatives make irresponsible statements like this. In today’s environment, every responsible citizen is supposed to verify antecedents of the person being employed. MLA B. Kozam has said “the raid is politically motivated”. Does this also happen? May be it is a part of political arm twisting to keep the defiant in party line.

Honorable CM of Assam has decided to raise one well trained jungle battalion to handle ULFA menace in the state. Surprisingly it has taken three decades to realize the need of such a force or were there political compulsions? The dynamic of self criticism has also been implemented by China to rout out the problem of corruption. In fact it is time is to learn lessons from our neighbor to carry out constant self analysis conscientiously and display political will to end all forms of corruption plaguing the region and society as a whole. This will pave way to peace, progress, excellence and development of all.

Now is the time to decide. Should stringent measures be adopted against those who bring stigma and disrespect to the society they represent or leave them with mild chiding “please do not repeat it again ”as happened with erring MLAs of Manipur? Destiny is the mater of choice we make and not the chance we take.

WELCOME TREATY

WELCOME TREATY

“Where there is no common power, there is no Law, where there is no Law, there is no Justice”

‘Thomas Hobbes’

International Campaign to Ban Land Mines (ICBL) is doing a Yeoman’s service to mankind. By now 155 nations (approx 81 %) have joined the Mine Ban Treaty; only 40 countries(less than 20%) are balance. Not only the states but armed groups (non state actors) can also join the elite band of human savior treaty by signing a Deed of Commitment (DoC). Recent news of NSCN (K)’s willingness to join the ‘No Mine User Group’ is very heartening and welcome step. Other faction NSCN (IM) had already signed DoC in 2003. The outfit earned international acclaim for the noble act. KNO (Kuki National Org) has signed the DoC in Aug 06. NDFB is also progressing positively towards accepting the treaty.

Interestingly, the outfits that have either entered into ceasefire agreement with GoI or SoO( suspension of operations) agreement are making progress towards banning land mines. Probably they have realized the senselessness of these silent killers. Hopefully UNLF, an ally of NSCN (K), ULFA and other outfits take in a lesson from this and make this region a Mine Free Region. The treaty is a comprehensive treaty that deals with mine use, production and trades, to victim assistance, mine clearance and stock pile destruction. In Southern districts of Manipur UNLF has laid large number of land mines and villagers are afraid to go to their fields due to fear of being maimed/ killed etc. In essence families lose their livelihood/ wage earners/kins for no reason. To add to the misery necessary medical aid is available at far off places like Kolkata etc. which are unaffordable and there are no NGO’s to help out. Not to forget the Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that affects every one irrespective of age in varying degrees.

The FEAR is 24x7. To quote Lalrammawi a local of Kaimunthang (Manipur) “I could not believe when I was told my brother has died and 6 month later I was told my dad was hit. I went into a depression. I would not speak to people normally”. Village council member of Khaitinthang Thanlon says “since a long time we the residents of this village have not been able to go into the forests to collect our necessities because of fear of bombs planted by the undergrounds groups. So our daily process of deriving livelihood into forests has been affected. If one goes out to the forest one is sure to step into a bomb”.

Now the questions that come to mind are. Against whom are these mines planted? Who is the final victim? What is the long term effect? How does it affect the planters and victims? Can these mines distinguish a friend and a foe? Is the treaty comprehensive?
Intra tribal, Inter tribal rivalries and Intra factional, Inter factional clashes make the news frequently e.g. UNLF and its breakaway factions/ splinter groups, various Kuki groups, NSCN (IM) and NSCN(K) etc. Have these outfits migrated from insurgent aims to mere criminalization? Are these outfits not trying to act colonial against their own tribe and also other tribes who have been staying in this land from times immemorial? Are these outfits not trying to oppress their own tribe and other tribes who have been sharing this land from times immemorial? Answer to all this is affirmative.

Think of the wage earner who has been maimed due to mine and become dependent on the family he is to support. The problem becomes more critical when these victims turn into alcoholics and drug addicts due loss of self esteem. I am sure, some of the members of outfits, responsible to plant mines, too must have been staved and maimed by mine blasts. May I ask these friends of mine? How does it feel? Must be burdensome both for the victim and caretaker, I suppose! Same is the case with other victims.

The treaty has made considerable progress in its aim by generating awareness and effort to ban mines. It needs to be more comprehensive to include improvised explosive devices or any other bombs designed & planted on earth . The definition of mine should read “a device designed to explode by the presence, proximity/contact of a person and remote control that will incapacitate, injure or kill one or more persons and cause damage to property”. There is need to come out of the narrow confines of our thought process and dedicate ourselves for a happy , healthy and mine free society that we so well deserve.

“Narrowness of mind is often the cause of obstinacy: we do not easily believe beyond what we see”

‘Le Rachefoucauld’



Geoffery
( Readers can reach out to the author on
email: jaey_geoffery@yahoo.co.in)

FIRE THE CAESEFIRE

FIRE THE CEASE FIRE

"Whenever a separation is made between Liberty and Justice, Neither in my opinion, is safe.”

‘Edmund Burke’

Ceasefire means ‘Truce’ to end violence. The sequence of ceasefires commenced with NSCN (IM) entering into an agreement with GoI in 1997. Number of such agreements with various other outfits (NSCN (K), UPDS, ANVC, DHD etc.) followed the suite. NDFB has entered into a more akin agreement i.e. Soo (Suspension of operations). Literally speaking these agreements mean that these outfits shun the use of weapon, stay in designated camps and stay away from factional fights, kidnapping, extortion, societal violence etc and contribute positively to the society. Not withstanding the negative contribution of the outfits that have not entered into such agreement those who have are no less.

Despite initial hesitation, Manipur Govt. has also decided to go in for ceasefire agreement with UG outfits operating in the state. Perpetual efforts of ceasefire agreement with ULFA have failed. To a thinking person; these agreements mean UG outfits have come over ground. It means peace, development, prosperity and end of violence. But, has it been achieved? Is the self feeding spiral of mis-governance fuelling violence or vice versa? All and sundry need to find an answer to fire the ceasefire. First question is partially answered by the facts. After these agreements, there is semblance of peace and prosperity but far from satisfaction. Statistics by institute of conflict management reveal that overall violence related fatalities are on decline in the NE. Now the second question, former part is more true then the latter. What do we expect? When there is an established political & UG nexus for mutual convenience? When a chief Minister of a state, during budget speech (2006) resignedly says “It is not possible for any government to prevent extortion completely”? When erstwhile surrendered cadres BPPF (H) hold the key to power in Assam? When NSCN (IM) has issued diktats to bureaucrats and local tribes with impunity and made the affected parties kneel & plead? When elections in South Assam are postponed due to well established nexus?

Numbers of voices in the media call these states as failed states. Responses of the people to unending violence are a futuristic warning of desperation. Lynching of ULFA carders in Sivasagar (Jun 07), Jorhat (01 Oct 07) and NSCN (IM) cadres in Tuensang (Sep 07), people’s vehement voice against the violence and absurd acts of judgment by the over ground out fits (Jalukie Jangdi and Intagaki Reserve Forest case) in Nagaland, Truckers & Education staff in Manipur going an strike against unethical demands of outfits etc are recent examples Readers can draw their own conclusions.

To make the ceasefire more productive the players who can contribute are; Centre Govt, State Govt and the common man. Out of the three, state Govt has to play big. The leaders need to leave exclusivist tribal leanings behind. The leaders need to stop dividing the society for power games they play. The leaders need to stop looking to wards the mainland for everything that goes wrong and start identifying their own responsibilities. The leaders need to make a paradigm shift from rhetoric to action. The leaders need to synthesize history with contemporary needs. There is need to improve the response capacities of law and order machine and also reduce their response time (Tripura has achieved to some degree). Lack of development is one reason for the existing state of affairs. But as per union minister of commerce, Jairam Ramesh “On a per capita basis, each state of NE gets much more than any other state in the country but nothing is visible on ground”. What happens to the funds or the fund flow is a pollution of democracy? People are not wrong who go on Blockades, Strikes and Dharnas either on developmental issues that they so well deserve or corruption of state machinery that needs reining. Losses due to these should not be mere statistics but taken note of. To quote figures in Manipur, there had been 42 days of Bandh & 77 days of Blockade in 2006-07 till 31-1-07. Each day of bandh and blockade has costed the exchequer, Rs 6.88 crores and Rs 3.01 crores respectively totalling to whooping Rs 520.73 crores.

One thought to fire the ceasefire is: Include a clause for cadres to deposit weapons for the tenure of agreement and assign some productive unit to be manned & managed by the outfit (not linked to rehabilitation of surrendered). Let them contribute to the society economically rather weaning away the same. Let them contribute to the positive thinking of the youth. Let them contribute to the saving of lives of young cadres who are used as cannon fodders or die of malnutrition or sickness in jungles etc. As per statistics from 2001 to 31 Mar 2007 there had been 5373 violence related fatalities. Out of these 2943(55%) are militants (obviously the younger cadres). Let these outfits not be above the law of land.

Exclusivist tribal identities and attendant insecurities of various tribes need to be impartially understood by the elected leaders of the state and represented at the centre cohesively. Ceasefire Meeting at Dimapur on 31 Jul 07 is a historical signpost lending the talks an inclusive dimension. It will not be wrong to quote ex governor of Nagaland H.E. Shymal Dutta who said “Though I dealt with North East desk before my retirement but my understanding of Nagaland and neighbouring states is more realistic and better now than it was earlier”.

Now the society. More is required from energetic & adventurous youth who need to explore their stamina & enterprise. Youth here does not lack anything but guidance & moral support of elders and NGOs. It was very encouraging to read in Sangai Express (23 Sept 07) about Kanglei Economic Development Organisaiton (KEDO) in Manipur. Its mission is to spread the message of self dignity & dignity of labour amongst the youth? Following KEDO Boys, Girls have also started the work, who sell items of daily use to the women vendors in famous Khawairamband Bazar. Each girl earns upto Rs 200/- every day. These girls deposit rupees ten every day for something big in future. Remember! small opportunities are often the beginning of big enterprise. Some of these girls are educated, some are pursuing studies and some are sports persons of national level. One of the girls told the media “We have come out to work, not because we do not have anything to do at home. But to show; that there are lot of works that can be done and earn money outside the home if one is determined”. She further added “In order to bring development in our society, we the youth should work tirelessly. Only then we should be able to make decision of our own”. Wow! What a positive and adventurous outlook to emulate and stop lamenting? Positively engaged youth will be idolized and bring lasting development. To make cease fire deliver results everyone need to identify his onus to fire the ceasefire lest it’s too late.

“The world is not moved by the mighty shoves of the herores but also by the aggregate of tiny pushes of each honest worker”.
“Hellen Keller”


Geoffery
( readers can reach out to the author on
Email: jaey_geoffery@yahoo.co.in)

'D' is The Key

‘D’ IS THE KEY


Reasons for NE region of our country being resource rich, little explored, underdeveloped, beautiful but less understood are; Lack of understanding the needs of this innocent region by centre, Lack of timely commitment of developmental funds, Lack of effort to bring this region in the mainstream at physical, social and psychological level e.g. recent example of publishing guide lines for North East Students by police dept of Delhi, distance from main land and vote bank vision of our leaders. On this, regional leaders make political speeches impregnated with words like difficult situation, complex situation and attribute this to lack of security forces, lack of funds etc and disguise their own inadequacies by further saying” we have approached the Centre Government for this”.

Now coming to the crux, as author understands. Two intertwined and interlinked issues of underdevelopment and unemployment need to be addressed by developmental course of action that every one desires. But there are some vested interests that resist developmental activities e.g. even BRO could not undertake road construction in interior of Chhattisgarh due to security reasons as told by H.E. Governor of Chhattisgarh to Asian Defence News. Need to introspect; can a handful of misguided youth hold the state to ransom? To meet our desire (D) we need to decide (D), dedicate (D) and develop (D) the decided course of action. Though a long process, but simultaneous efforts have to be made by leaders, parents, teachers and NGOs to bridge the ethnic, social and economic divide in the society. This can be done by attacking existing Tribalism (ethnic hatreds), Feudalism (unaccountability of leaders, bureaucrats and society), Colonialism (racial/ cast / creed/religious superiorities) and Phoney socialism (satisfaction over token development of the under privileged) that will invigorate the society.

Holistic development encompasses three forms i.e. physical, social & psychological. Physical is a precursor and ally of the other two. Out of myriad activities of physical development there is need to focus on forerunners and feeders to other forms of development. Churchill had said, “It is a mistake to try to look too far ahead. The chain of destiny can only be grasped one link at a time”. I feel development of roads in a centrifugal manner will lead to centrifugal (centre to periphery) and centripetal (periphery to centre) progress. Of late, all out efforts are being made towards development of this region in planning, at least. Government of India has launched an ambitious backward region grant fund of Rs 5000/- (Five thousand) crores per year during eleventh 5 year plan (2007-2012). The fund will cover 250 districts (including 24 districts of seven North East State) of 27 states and will be totally grant based. India has total of 604 districts out of which 250 have been identified as most backward i.e. more than 40% of populated India. Mathematically, the plan will grant minimum of Rs 20 Crores to each identified district every year during eleventh plan to surmount its backward features. This is over and above the other developmental funds allotted in the annual budget of the states.

India being a developing country, finances are always at a premium and the Government is always trying to harness the funds in various ways. One thought to add to the planned grant fund is: Firstly, arrive at a political consensus of focused development without barriers; secondly, divide the states into most backward states, backward states & developing states. States need to further categorize the districts in the same manner; thirdly, pool in 60% of local area development fund of MPs, MLAs/MLCs totalling approx Rs 1000 plus crores. This could be proportionately allocated to the districts of the most backward states.

Draw concentric circles of 5 to 10 Km distance from the district HQ of identified district. Start monitored development of quality roads. Then the day is not far, when we shall see new habitation, new means of livelihood and new avenues of development upcoming along these lines of communication. Need to implement this with political responsibility, political will, continuity of political forethought, political commitment, developmental vision and not political vision of vote bank politics. In a discussion organised by CNBC TV 18 channel, Mukesh Ambani of reliance had said “political parties exist because of people and in next 20 years people would want to see performance not just promises ----------- “. To allay the fears of security, department of home will have to be taken on board for requisite measures. In case local vendors are not available, the projects can be implemented under Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) concept. Of course, the aspect of security still rests with home deptt.

Foregoing is ok. With our fragile polity & uncertainty of staying in power, this may seem utopian. But it is not! It will not be out of place to quote an international example here; AKP party in Turkey came back to power with better percentage of votes in 2007 than that of 2002. It is due to policies of paying attention to the needs of poor, encouraging budding entrepreneurs and ensuring equitable share of development reaches all and sundry. The development will change the status of North Eastern states from special status to equal status states with mainland. It will change the mindset of mainland decision makers towards this innocent, fertile, resource laden and vibrant region having power to be feeder to rest of the country in more ways than one. It will prevent the youth falling prey to vested interests for planting bombs or taking to gun culture just because of being poor & unemployed. Remember! “There is a thin line between Hunger & Anger”.

Geoffery
( readers may reach out to author on email;
jaey_geoffery@yahoo.co.in