Diwali fest as tool of 'Soft Power' --- for Hindus, India and Modi Govt :::::: UN recognition of Yoga came under Modi Govt

The Indian diaspora’s growing clout in the US corridors of power has led to it being wooed by successive presidents from Barack Obama and Donald Trump to Joe Biden.

It was Obama who first started the tradition of lighting the White House for the Diwali festival way back in 2009. But the then Congress-led coalition government helmed by Dr. Manmohan Singh did not give much importance to religiosity. There was no media hype back home in India.

"Narendra Modi’s regime is a great believer in the power of the macho-Hindu nation. The recognition of yoga and the latest move by US lawmakers to declare Diwali a federal holiday also suits him politically back home." -- I wrote for an article for UCA News.

(Refer link ..... 

Happy Reading : eurasiareview

Diwali symbolizes the victory of good over evil, light over darkness and knowledge over ignorance. It celebrates the return of Lord Ram to his kingdom in Ayodhya, which now serves as a political symbol for the BJP and allied forces’ Hindu revival campaign, from a 14-year exile and victory over the demon king Ravan.

 Diwali fest as tool of 'Soft Power'

New Delhi:

The move by US lawmakers led by Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney from New York to get a new draft law that would declare Diwali as a federal holiday is a landmark event of our time. (this happened in 2021) 

In 2024 also --- Hindus matter when it comes to the US Presidential polls due Nov 5.

As US President in his earlier stint Donald Trump did celebrate Diwali at the White House with the Indian community !! 

In 2021, I wrote for a piece for IANS -- 

After Yoga, we now have Diwali - the festival of Light and Sound - as a symbol of India's Soft Power.  Statesmanship, mutual benefits and strategic significance - not necessarily in that order - decide foreign policy ball games in the contemporary settings. 

Now, it is time to add 'Soft Power' as a major tool. The emphasis is bigger and more forceful in the post pandemic era.

Without realizing much, we now know that the world is changing pretty fast. 

For beginners, a Microsoft study says nearly 40 percent of professionals are keen to give up their existing jobs. This too was 2021. 

Welcome to a new world era - wherein the civilisational and cultural prisms too could prove to be effective tools in the changed world order.

Perhaps this can be underlined better also in the context of developments in Afghanistan and some roles played by Pakistan. Religiosity can have a soothing impact for someone who uses these occasions to gaze in within oneself. 

These virtues are appreciated in advanced societies as materialistic achievements have made people lonely and friendless.

More than creating 'segments' like Hindu culture or fest, certain things are emerging now as a global phenomenon.

The timing of Diwali festival in between autumn and winter is not something to be lost about. The light and sound kill some bacteria in the air - that's for the rational school; and in pursuing this argument, one knows the problems lay in overdoing things.

Bursting of firecrackers would have been pleasant and a tasteful experience had not this become a symbol of showmanship. If firecrackers are bad for environment, so is gambling and the so-called gift-exchange culture of Delhi for human behaviour.  

Here too, the problem is in overdoing things; not ordering blanket ban as a presumed corrective strategy.

The global recognition by the UN and ongoing craze for Yoga and a renewed zeal for festivals such as Deepawali have some messages.

Of these, the big picture message is - the international game can be no longer about pushing a single-agenda item.  Soft power games also means persuasive diplomacy. It may be out of the box, but not something to be dismissed as out of the blue.  

Life is often like standing in the dusk, to use poetic jargon. 

India's Soft Power strength figured in Delhi G-20 Summit as well

It is all about optimism. Optimism leads to patience. The storm would pass off eventually no matter how long it is. This is a major take away from oriental teachings and India's perspectives.

That’s the essence of India’s civilisational “soft power” strength too. Diwali symbolises glory of virtues over vices like most festivals and rituals across the globe.

Switching on to another chapter now, there are observers who say that Indians thrive in self pity and  that's why we Indians often continue to curse ourselves.

The polarization of India’s intellectual class is so deep that it is difficult to express an opinion and that would still be considered an objective one. 

If one writes a few lines on Hindu festivals and oriental traditions and values, he is in danger of being called a communal ! But the fact of life is that some Indian and for that matter Hindu fests have attracted attention and excitement globally. 

This has not happened because Indians can influence the outcome in an US election, this is also because people see merits in some of these festivals and practices.

The festival of light and sound which essentially marks the victory of Good over Evil and Knowledge over Ignorance is being celebrated with religious zeal in countries such as the UAE, Canada, African nations and Malaysia.

(This was true for 2021 as well as 2024.)

In many countries, Diwali has made a mark as a festival of share and care. People also go out in charity works at orphanage, old age homes.

It is worth mentioning that in 2016 in the context of Art of Living’s World Culture Festival in Delhi, none other than Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said - "We (Indians) can make contribution (of India’s soft power) only when we ourselves feel proud of our culture. But if we continue to curse ourselves, then how will the world look towards us.The world is not only united by concerns of  economic growth, but also by human values and India can play a vital role in it"

The motive of building a predefined narrative against Hindu fests and practices - if any -  thus has fallen flat.  

The UN recognition of yoga came after the Modi government pressed for a resolution to that effect at the UN General Assembly. The UN Postal Administration (UNPA) also issued 10 stamps on Yoga Asanas on a single sheet to mark the International Day of Yoga in 2017.

One reason for the rising importance of a Hindu-majority India, its culture and its philosophies is geopolitics. In a fast-emerging multipolar world, the largest democracy of the world is bound to be a major player.

India has moved closer to key global players such as the US, Israel, France, Japan and Australia. It is on friendly terms with Russia and Brazil, and along with them is part of BRICS with China and South Africa as the other partners, hoping for greater economic cooperation in the decades to come.

The Indian diaspora’s growing clout in the US corridors of power has led to it being wooed by successive presidents from Barack Obama and Donald Trump to Joe Biden.

Ends

Rishi Sunak as UK PM :: Diwali 

Trump and Diwali 

ends 

Donald Trump knows what's going on in South Asia !! Ex-US Prez vows to boost ties with India; flags attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh,

(In the US Presidential polls, early voting has begun in some states. 

Donald Trump's tweet came days before the US will vote in a high-stakes presidential election on November 5. )

Former US President Donald Trump condemned the attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh and said he was keen to strengthen ties with India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Hindus matter: Trump and Diwali 2024 

Donald Trump on Thursday strongly condemned the "barbaric violence" against Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh and vowed to strengthen his ties with India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He called Namo a "good friend" !!  

In a Diwali message, Trump, who is the Republican presidential candidate, extended his greetings on the occasion and accused his Democratic rival and Vice President Kamala Harris and President Joe Biden of 'ignoring Hindus' in the US and across the world.  

"I strongly condemn the barbaric violence against Hindus, Christians and other minorities who are getting attacked and looted by mobs in Bangladesh, which remains in a total state of chaos," he tweeted.  

In July-August 2024; several members of the Hindu community in Bangladesh were attacked and their properties and shops were vandalised by mobs after a students' agitation over a controversial quota system turned into a massive anti-government protest.

The stir resulted in the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Violence continued against Hindus for days even after Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh to India on August 5.  

"It would have never happened on my watch. Kamala and Joe have ignored Hindus across the world and in America.," he wrote.

"They have been a disaster from Israel to Ukraine to our own southern border, but we will Make America Strong Again and bring back peace through strength!" Trump said.

"We will also protect Hindu Americans against the anti-religious agenda of the radical left. We will fight for your freedom. Under my administration, we will also strengthen our great partnership with India and my good friend, Prime Minister Modi," Trump said.

During his tenure from 2017 to 2021, Trump shared a warm and cordial relationship with PM Modi and both leaders have showcased their camaraderie on camera. The Prime Minister participated in the 'Howdy Modi' community event in Texas in 2019, while Trump took part in the 'Namaste Trump' event at the Narendra Modi cricket stadium in Ahmedabad in 2020.

Trump has in the past also praised PM Modi, calling him his "friend" and the "nicest human being".

"Kamala Harris will destroy your small businesses with more regulations and higher taxes. By contrast, I cut taxes, cut regulations, unleashed American energy, and built the greatest economy in history. 

We will do it again, bigger and better than ever before, and we will Make America Great Again."  

Ending his tweet with Diwali greetings, the former president wrote, "Also, happy Diwali to all. I hope the festival of lights leads to the victory of good over evil!" he said.

Modi with VP Harris : File snap 

ends 

Naga CM Rio need not resign :::: It may be too early to call it a Diwali bumper ... !! But 'latest' NNPG statement is forward looking and positive

Things have moved progressively and on the occasion of the 5th anniversary of the mega announcement of breakthrough in Naga peace parleys, something positive has emerged lately.  

If either of them -- Alezo Venuh and N Kitovi Zhimomi or the both or all other key leaders of the NNPG were playing spoilers to the talks process for the last few months -- frankly they have to blame themselves. Well, they might have been instigated and misguided by the saboteurs gang -- but the fresh statement from the umbrella group is welcome. 

At an individual level trying to follow the Naga issue; I may call it positive, pragmatic and also forward looking.  

June 2022 : NNPG leaders get 'endorsement' from Arunachal Nagas - Kitovi in green shirt !!

Others are doing their part and here we may include the role of the church. The respected Naga Shisha Hoho (prayer group) organised a special session on Oct 30 (Wednesday) at Dimapur.

Of course -- things may be a little too early to call it result oriented. One is unable to draw the inspired spirit of optimism -- that is otherwise so inherent among Nagas -- only because the anti-Solution gangs are quite powerful. They have shown in the past that they can undo and do things. They include Netas, they include 'underground players' and of course they include stakeholders within Nagaland and outside Nagaland. 

To take it further - they also could include a section of Delhi's ivory tower experts -- both in the media and intellectual circles and Babudom !  

But optimism has been a spirit that guided the NNPG ever since they came forward and had interacted with R N Ravi and others around 2017.  

By October 2019; things looked so good and smooth and then things were derailed. But the NNPG leadership did not give up.

In August 2024, Alezo Venuh was already the Ato Kilonder (Prime Minister) of NSCN-GPRN (Unification). During my interaction with him, Alezo said - "I am confident the good and right sense will prevail upon even the wrong persons. We need Solution and those who think they can get away by delaying things will soon be cornered and face gradual isolation in Naga society". 

This too was refreshing. But now as the festive spirit and crackers and sound and light shows prevail around Lutyen's city and the rest of the globe; the NNPG latest statement issued on Oct 30, 2024 is a much relieving thing for the Modi Govt.  

It is true as far as the Naga peace talk goes even the Modi government and especially Prime Minister Narendra Modi had come under attack for the so-called indecisiveness. There were occasions when despite being a 'Modi-Bhakt'; one had criticised the Prime Minister and urged him to 'wake up' and take the call. 

Namo : A man who knows how to handle challenges !!

Now, the Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups (WC, NNPGs) hopes that the government of India would complete signing of the Naga peace agreement in the calendar year 2024 itself, so that Nagaland and Naga areas of other states could also take part in the 'Vision 2047' of Prime Minister Modi. 

This is certainly encouraging from a nationalist standpoint. 

The greed for power -- directly and also indirectly - was so far harming the peace process. Veteran Naga leader S C Jamir has said time and again that for some endorsing the final Naga Peace pact is like signing off their good times both -- in political and economic terms. 

We also blamed the leadership of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio more than once for suggesting that the 'longest serving chief minister' in Nagaland and one of the most durable men in that post (other than Gegong Apang of Arunachal Pradesh) has not been giving his best. But it is also true the Mizoram prism of the 1980s often blinded many. 

Everyone must have thought once the pact is inked - Rio and his ilk would have to step aside.  Naturally, the political outfit headed by Chingwang had their reasons to play the shenanigans of the corridors of power. 

But the honest assessment of the situation perhaps started in 2023-24 that the Mizoram formula of the Chief Minister resigning need not work for Nagaland !  

Now in Oct 2024 -- we have enough reasons to believe that there need not be and should not be any transition in the elected Govt.

That way the Govt of India will do well even to allow the present Assembly complete its term -- that is up to 2028 !!

Blogger and rebel leader Kitovi : Somewhere in North East India 

To take the point further; analysts may suggest that any underground leaders after the Peace pact keen to play power-game in a positive sense can easily join electoral politics. 

The nomination card is of course another option.  Some of it would be debated like formation of an Upper House. 

In June 2022 amid the glum, the NNPG leaders were jubilant. Of course, Kitovi and his onetime lieutenant Alezo Venuh were also working hard and they were together then. 

Hence when the Arunachal Nagas backed NNPG and Kitovi's leadership; they all saw the development as a mild setback to the NSCN-IM at such a critical juncture.

Even in Delhi, players said -- "The stake of NSCN(IM) on their supposed Supremacy over Naga Political solution received a big jolt".

The Government of India believed it got an 'encouragement' not to delay the signing of the final Peace pact. In fact, a joint statement issued by NNPG and Tirap Changlang Longdeng People's Forum, Tirap Changlang Longdeng Women Association and Tirap Changlang Longdeng Students' Federation said (in 2022) that a joint meeting was held on June 4th, and the Arunachal Nagas have decided to urge the NNPG to usher an 'honourable and acceptable political solution".

"The clarity and transparency on the political and administrative aspects" were also "acknowledged", the statement had said. This meant the Agreed Position of NNPG (inked also by Kitovi and the then negotiator R N Ravi and others) had been endorsed.

Importantly, within Nagaland state, the much respected Nagaland Gaon Burrah Federation, 14 Tribal Bodies, Central Nagaland Tribal Council (of Aos, Semas and Lothas) and Nagaland Tribal Council  had also urged the Government of India to sign the agreement on "whatsoever concluded as on October 31, 2019".

The hands of the clock -- Ghari Ki Sui as Atal Bihari Vajpayee used to say - has come a full circle. Mark the date ! Today is also Oct 31 (but 2024) and here again we are back with the optimism. And this optimism is not without good reasons. 

Extending warm wishes to Naga people on the fifth year of successful completion of the Indo-Naga peace talks, WC, NNPGs in a statement said when it entered the peace process, the Centre had the hangover of negotiations and agreements made with NSCN (I-M), which was never disclosed. 

The NNPG now claims that the central government was interested only to listen to its demands and close the chapter as a foregone conclusion.

I will request Team Chingwang to endorse what the NNPG has stated. 

In other words, go for a Solution and final Peace pact that will ensure a different economic and working atmosphere for Nagaland state. This will give a booster to the Modi's Act East Policy and also to New Delhi's 'Vision 2047'.

India will celebrate 100 years in 2047. Some of will be on the 'matured' side of the seventies; we may no longer be in this world.

As a state, Nagaland will turn 84. That's also a matured stage. The state has suffered a lot due to a plethora of reasons. It has also suffered due to players from outside. Dream merchants need to be shown their place. Some dreams are planted to blind you ! 

Let us all wake up. History belongs to dreamers -- that's true .... but we should not miss the point that dreams can be fulfilled -- when we work for it and yes everyone can work for it -- when we are pragmatic. Time to appreciate our own strengths and weakness and then move ahead.

I spoke to a BJP leader and he says candidly -- "People say - we pay to 27 groups. Tell me do we know any other part of the world where common shoppers and shopkeepers have to pay ransom to 27 groups. Are we not creating ground for a civil war?"

ends 

Full statement of NNPG on Oct 30, 2024 

 

"On the fifth year of the successful completion of Indo Naga Peace talks, The Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups extends the Warm Wishes to the entire fraternity of Naga People. 

WC NNPGs, while entering into the dialogue process, the Government of India was on the hangover of the negotiations and the Agreements they had made with NSCN IM which was never disclosed.  GoI was interested only to listen to our demands and close the chapter as a foregone conclusion. 

The calculations of the Government of India went off the track as the proceedings began. The gravity and in depth analysis of the political conflict  created  new dimension and impetus to the Peace Talks, Preliminary rounds of negotiations thus led to  a standing Agreementon 17th of November 2017 that abides both the entities on the people, Political considerations and the Governing Principles for negotiated political solution:-

“The Government of India recognizes the Historical and Political rights of the Nagas to self-determine their future in consonance with their distinct identity. 

The two entities have agreed to work out the details of a relationship that is honourable, enduring and an inclusive peaceful co-existence with due regard to contemporary political realities”

The Agreed Position has the status of an intergovernmental agreement as the Working Committee has signed with the designation as the head of Federal Governments  and  the Interlocutor Shri RN Ravi holding a Cabinet Rank in the Government of India. 

The political solution so reached clearly separates the Powers of Legislation between the Government of India and the Nagas. The Legislative system for the Nagaland State demarcated as a separate geopolitical entity for the 17 Naga Tribes will have a bicameral Legislature with the existing Democratic system rechristened as Leacy Hoho. 

The Upper House will be known as the Nagaland Federal Hoho representing the Naga Traditional Customary system thus empowering the Nagas to legislate  the subjects falling under the Naga Customs, practices and Procedures, Land and all its natural resources and endowments  in own ways. 

These Legislative fields stand vacated by the Parliament of India. The Naga National Insignia, along with the flag will be the zeal and Zest of the naga Federal system. 

The Political solution fully recognizes the Naga Identity, with a separate page in the Indian Passport and separate contingent of Nagas in all International events. 

Nagas will have a position in all the national and international bodies of the GoI and will have an enhanced representation in both the Houses of the Parliament. 

The Strength of Leacy Hoho will be increased from the existing 60 to 80 legislators. 

The Political solution would being a new fiscal Management regime and Economic system that would cover the lapses and lags of the past 13 plan periods. With a well devised programme, the backward areas will be brought to a balanced level of infrastructure and growth within a transitory period of three years. 

Institutional growth with centres of Health Care, Higher education, Technology development and integrated communication systems will bring Nagaland to the forefront of the States within the first plan period itself after the settlement. 

The Villages system would be engineered to transform to self sustain revenue generating Local Self Governments transforming to be a major employer as with any urban township elsewhere. 

The Cadres and the revolutionary leaders will have their respective space and positioning that would create a new harmonious investor friendly business climate. 

WC NNPGs hope that the Government of India will complete the signing of the Agreement in 2024 itself, so that Nagaland and the Naga Areas of other states can also take part the vision 2047 of the Hon’ble Prime Minister. 

- Issued by,

Media Cell, W/C, NNPG’s.

Key Naga rebel leaders in China : Great Wall - 1960s

ends 

Hokishe survived two No-Trust motions, first CM Shilu Ao was voted out in 1966 :::::: As NL Assembly keeps date with destiny, we may reflect on old records

 As NL  Assembly keeps date with destiny, we may reflect on old records

Hokishe survived two No-Trust motions, first CM Shilu Ao was voted out in 1966

'Nagaland Page' link

New Delhi 

The third assembly was witness to 'defections' and gross political instability. The first Vizol ministry took over reins on Feb 24, 1974. K V Keditsu was elected Speaker of the House.

Illustrious Hokishe with Rajiv Gandhi

But owing to defections, the Vizol's UDF ministry had to step aside on March 10, 1975 and an NNO ministry led by J B Jasokie (reportedly an intimate friend of Hokishe) took charge the same day.

 

Rokonicha, a known name in regional politics, from Medziphema (Ghaspani area) was elected Deputy Speaker on March 17, 1975. But he resigned the next day. 

S C Jamir : Blogger and two other 'Chuba' journos - 1998

In fact, the period between March 18 and 20th (1975) saw a series of defection and shifting of political loyalties. That was the era in Delhi and elsewhere - intellectuals and media persons joked about the 'political headhunting' in Nagaland -- albeit a reference tothe tradition of head hunting !!Mark the date... in June 1975 -- Indira Gandhi imposed Emergency.

J B Jasokie, the senior Angami leader, from Kohima town was perhaps the only Chief Minister who complained in the assembly that seven of his MLAs and three of his ministers were 'detained' by unscrupulous elements. Thus they could not come to the House.

The first Chief Minister P Shilu Ao was voted out on Aug 11, 1966

when the no confidence motion against the government was carried through. 

T N Angami was Speaker and he was later elected as Shilu Ao's successor.

The students of politics should note that in the general election to the second Nagaland legislative assembly held in February 1969, only 40 members were elected.

The Tuensang Regional Council selected 12 members to represent Tuensang district.

On Feb 16, 1969, a 16-member ministry headed by Hokishe Sema had assumed office.

K V Keditsu was the pro-tem Speaker and 51 members took oath on March 6, 1969.

Notably, K Shikhu, the Speaker of the first legislative assembly, was unanimously re-elected Speaker of the second Nagaland legislative assembly. 

Chishi - 2022 'explaining layers of corruption' peeling an onion

In the subsequent period on March 10, 1969, K V Keditsu was elected Deputy Speaker.

In fact, during the stint of the second Nagaland assembly, no confidence motion against

Hokishe Sema ministry was taken up twice -- Nov 28, 1972 and later Sept 8, 1973.

Much to the credit of Hokishe's handling of politics - on both the occasions, the Chief

Minister survived as the two no-trust motions were rejected. 

Incidentally, in the 1990s - the Phek district produced two Speakers Z Lohe and Thenucho.

From the Pfutsuro assembly constituency in Phek district, there were two

stalwarts in their own rights. Kewephape Therie and Thenucho. Thenucho became headline hunter when his brother-in-law Vamuzo became Nagaland's only 'non-MLA' Chief Minister and he became the Speaker.

Needless to add, S C Jamir later regretted the move as he had proposed "the non-MLA Vamuzo" as the Chief Minister and along with that handed over the powerful chair of Speakership to Thenucho. This was a case of family rule, Vamuzo's critics would easily recall.

But it is also true Jamir kins were always part of the Congress limelight in the corridors of power.

 

Thenucho holds a distinct record of disqualifying as many as 15

legislators. However, in 1993 assembly polls, he was humbled by Therie.

Thenucho also survived a major ambush and attempt on his life when he was

traveling to Mon to address Independence Day speech. His staff from the Assembly secretariat and a few security personnel lost their lives.

Thenucho also served as a key minister under Neiphiu Rio and it was to the good luckof Azo Nienu that Rio developed differences with both Therie and Thenucho.

However, Azo is now an NPF die-hard regionalist and K G Kenye has made a bigcomeback.  

From the Tuensang district, Chenlom Phom had become Deputy Speaker in 1985 and

then Speaker in 1987. In 1993-94, when Neiba Ndang was the Speaker and Chenlom in the opposition

bench; he had requested the chair to give him additional time in the name of a "former Speaker". 

"Eneka na koribi, former Speaker naam teh time dibi" - he had said, throwing the entire House into peals of laughter.

E T Ezung was the Nagaland assembly Speaker in the mid-eighties. In 1990 as Power Minister underJamir, he had come under attack from the then Leader of the Opposition K L Chishi.

Ezung was up on his feet and retorted sharply, "Speaker Sir, I can assure you one thing;I will certainly take action against the Chief Engineer". Several members and those in the gallery could guess the catch. The Chief Engineer, Power was then a kin of K L Chishi.

This was the period when T N Ngullie was the Speaker. Later when the Jamir Ministry was reduced to a minority. Ngullie as the Speaker had disqualified 10 members including Neiphiu Rio.

However, after Thenucho became Speaker --- all the 10 disqualified MLAs were given back their membership.But the irony is that after a few months, Thenucho disqualified 15 legislators.

In the 1960s and 1970s -- most Naga leaders had 'Naga political movement'

background. Either they were part of the negotiating team to ensure peace

in 1960 and enlist statehood or there was someone like Vamuzo - a former Naga army Brigadier - who had surrendered.

There were also flamboyant and vocal legislators like Huska Sumi. Bangjak

Phom had his unique Nagamese to entertain the House. 

Chishi had the lung power and debating skills that no one could match. On one occasion as he was speakingabout 'alleged corruption' against the Jamir ministry and there was thunder lightning, he quipped:  "Honourable Speaker Sir even Heaven agrees there is corruption in Nagaland".

When T N Ngullie was conducting the House proceedings and the Congress Govt in Goa was toppled after the Speaker there joined the opposition camp; Chishi told T N Ngullie : "Speaker Sir,Goa Speaker has joined the opposition and he will be Chief Minister tomorrow. You are still sitting there". 

No story of the Nagaland assembly can be complete without reference to two political rivals and 'friends'-- S C Jamir and Vamuzo. Jamir would not mind saying, "I don't know why this dull fellow is sitting here" and Vamuzo would counter - "You are a habitual liar". And believe it - within minutes they both would laugh at each other. 

Blogger and Late Vamuzo: 1994-95 'Naga Banner' newspaper office reviewing a copy of 'Nagaland Post'

Real leaders knew there was nothing personal about many things in public life !

ends  

Which way Manipur is going ? Committee on Tribal Unity cautions Biren Singh against entering Kuki areas :: Manipur CM set to skip function at Marenmai village

Manipur CM Biren Singh was to attend a function at Marenmai Village in Senapati district on Oct 30.

The function is being organised by Liangmai Naga Council, Eastern Zone, Manipur.  

A similar attempt by the Chief Minister to pass through Kangpokpi on August 3 was strongly opposed by the Kuki community and was ultimately canceled.

CoTU Warns Manipur CM against 'Entering Kuki Areas' En Route to Senapati Visit, Holds State Accountable for Any Unrest

CoTU described the Chief Minister’s planned route through Kuki areas as a deliberate act that could "inflame volatile relations," accusing Singh of previously fueling hostilities and calling any attempt to “trespass” into their regions a “threat to their community.” 

Which way is Manipur going ??

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh was to make a visit to Senapati district on October 30.

Committee on Tribal Unity (CoTU) has unequivocally cautioned him against entering Kuki dominated areas, labeling any such move as “provocative” and potentially “dangerous.” 

Besides CM Biren Singh, state Health Minister Sapam Rajan Singh, Animal Husbandry Minister Khasim Vashum, MLA J Kumo Sha and NPP leader Z.  Kikhonbou Niumai have been invited for the function.  

The function is being organised by Liangmai Naga Council, Eastern Zone, Manipur.  

CoTU’s statement includes direct accusations against Singh, alleging his role in inciting violence against the Kuki people and warning that his presence could spark fresh unrest, says a local media report. 

Biren Singh is set to visit Senapati district on October 30 to attend Liangmai Changa Ngee, 2024, at Marenmai village, located near the strife-riven Kangpokpi district. 

A similar attempt by the Chief Minister to pass through Kangpokpi on August 3 was strongly opposed by the Kuki community and was ultimately canceled.

The powerful warning from CoTU has cast a spotlight on the escalating tensions in Manipur, where ethnic violence between the Kuki and Meitei communities has scarred the state, analysts say.

“His presence here is not welcome,” said Lamminlun Singsit, CoTU General Secretary, asserting that “it represents an escalation of political interference in Kuki territories.” 

He emphasized that Singh’s actions have left the Kuki community “deeply distrustful” of his motives, with lingering accusations of the state’s complicity in violence against the Kuki people.

With allegations of state-backed discrimination still reverberating in the aftermath of Manipur’s recent ethnic violence, CoTU’s ultimatum reflects a profound distrust of the government’s intentions. The organization has urged Singh to show restraint and avoid what they consider an "incendiary" act, underscoring the fragile peace that remains in Manipur.

CoTU also urged the central government to advise the Manipur Chief Minister to avoid trespassing through Kuki dominated areas en route to his visit to Senapati. 

The Committee warned that if the Chief Minister intentionally and forcefully trespasses into Kuki areas, any untoward incidents arising from it would be the sole responsibility of the state government.

Differences are increasing manifold .... in the NNPG and this may trigger troubles for the Peace process and the so-called Solution

The NSCN (Unification) led by Alezo Venuh has claimed that a statement of allegiance to N Kitovi Zhimomi was made "just to save" Kitovi’s face in the wake of his alleged failure to get recognition for his new group. 

A statement from the MIP, GPRN/NSCN (U),  expressed strong condemnation on what it termed as “false propaganda unleashed by N Kitovi Zhimomi”, in staking “tall claims” that senior ranks of Naga Army are in his fold.

The statement claimed that “two major generals, brigadier and colonel joining him did not arise under any circumstances”, as they were retirees from active Naga Army service since 2019 and 2021. 

MIP said only those whose identification cards had been cancelled were with Kitovi. It also claimed that all other senior ranks in political and military service remain with GPRN/NSCN (U).  

Further criticisms in the statement focused on Kitovi’s alleged “misuse of office and power,” referencing “the display of palatial buildings and sophisticated weapons.” According to the GPRN/NSCN (U), Kitovi’s activities in recent months “on the pretext of being the convener of WC, NNPGs” had exposed his intentions. 

The release stated, “It is now also evident that the fortification he had made in the civilian area was with the objective of running a parallel camp and power center of his own at the behest of GPRN/NSCN (U). There is no one ignorant about what Ino N. Kitovi had been doing.”

However, a few months after the mega episode of split within the GPRN/NSCN *Unification;  it was argued by the Kitovi camp that the 'coup' against Kitovi was on 21st April Sunday.

The sources had said in September 2024 that the National Tatar Hoho was initially conveyed on 24-25 April.

But the 'impeachment' was carried on Aprl 21, 2024 -- which was Sunday.

As they say now there are wheels within wheels.

The GPRN/NSCN never conveyed its National Assembly or any Govt.business on Sunday, the Kitovi camp had claimed in September. 

But what it ought to be laid emphasis is that the differences in NSCN - U and the split in the FGN camp would be a matter of concern for the Govt of India as  this would suit only the saboteurs of the Peace Solution.

Ends

When Naga teenagers want to join medical; what can armed forces do?

When Naga teenagers want to join medical; what can armed forces do?

Medziphema/Chieswema (Nagaland) 

Notably, Chieswema is also called Tsiesema locally !!

In her teens, Ms Ashikyeshon Konyak dreams about becoming a doctor.Well, there could be hundreds of such Naga damsels who want to find careers in engineering or medical.

The issue of getting 'Frontier Nagaland' for the eastern part of the state has not thwarted their dreams. But the more striking part of Ms Ashikyeshon's dream is -- she also wants to become an army officer. She is now studying at Medziphema/Ghaspani boarding school.

"Sir, you are a journalist; can you tell me how I can become an army officer?" - that was a query that left me impressed. 

I stared towards a serving military officer in the vicinity and requested him that something ought to be done to educate these children about how to make their careers. 

The officer - who hails from the outskirts of Delhi - and hence a 'neighbourly friend' - told me in his limited restriction, "We are already doing that".

I looked back at the young Konyak child's eyes and could guess there would be many others.It took a few hours when I landed at Chieswema village on the way to Wokha and here there were quite a few who too wanted to be engineers and doctors and also join the defence forces.

One boy with 70 percent plus marks in Class 12 in Chieswema said - "In fact, Sir I would be more interested in the Indian navy".

I started my research and discovered that in north east India, the Modi government is doing a lot.

The Indian Army and the Assam rifles in collaboration with organisations like National Integrity and Educational Development Organisation (NIEDO), State Bank of India and Axis Bank, and PSUs have taken a unique initiative to provide free coaching to underprivileged Naga and other native students for competitive exams like JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) and NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test).

My daughter appeared for NEET 2024 and so I know the pain. sweat and tension behind thatboth for the students and the parents. And here the Assam Rifles running under the Ministry of Homeand other central Govt agencies were providing 12 months free guidance for NEET and JEEexams. 

I was not surprised when Madam Mishra (Chieswama boarding school) told me-- "Last two years, our strike rates were 100 per cent".

Madam Mishra hails from Uttarakhand and that way she also knows the pain studentssuffer trying to make careers. Here things were available at your door steps.

In the next few hours I was on my way to Wokha town and near Botsa, I bought half a dozen Squash (vegetables) from a Class VIII Lotha girl. As a curious news hunter I grilled her about her family and career plans. She retorted: "I have heard about the boarding school run by Assam Rifles. And after Class XII, I will try for a medical course".

'Nagaland Page' link

On my way back, I met my military friend for a cup of black tea and some chips.

A gentleman officer -- he asked me :"Kuch Gyan aapke taraf se .... (Any advice about these boarding schools); - I said: "To my surprise I found them more patriots than myself.... But you make it a point that they sing the National Anthem on weekends or so".

His response was a smile. I did not pursue the matter further.

In fact, both in Chieswema and Ghaspani (Medziphema) boarding schools - number of girl aspirants outnumber boys. 

"Out of 64 students in Medziphema NEIDO centre, we have 43 girls," said one student leaving this journo (father of a daughter) almost in moist eyes.

During interaction, I told them -- they should work hard and make their parents and Nagaland proud. One of them - obviously a boy with his mischievous smartness - remarked, "We will also make India proud".

Back in Dimapur just before catching the flight to Delhi; I had a breakfast meeting with a senior Assam Rifles official. We discussed the NEIDO-Assam Rifles schools too.

He said, "The Super 50 Scheme is intended for students from families with limited means in states like Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh. The program has helped many worthy students in Nagaland. You may not know, the program goes beyond the usual classroom instruction. Boarding and lodging is free and to suit Naga local appetite there is non-veg foodsupply thrice in a week".

"I am also a parent and now in tune with the Govt policy we want that these students should thrive academically and develop in a structured, inspiring atmosphere under this holistic approach," he said.

As a parting shot, I told him -- "Chieswema Boarding school is organizing a Halloween showon Oct 31, 2024".

As he was still trying to grasp what I said - I added : "...the souls of the dead return to their homesthat day".

Inside the aircraft, as the plane was flying over the Bangladesh landscape -- my journo-inspired mind started thinking wild. 

Halloween 2024 and creation of Bangladesh !! Sam Sam Manekshawand Lt Gen JFR Jacob and the unsung Indian soldiers. 

Talking about North East India or even the insurgency-hit state of Nagaland, we all know that there have been lapses in the past. These ought to be corrected and these are slowly being done presumably in these boarding schools. The quick-fix solutions offered earlier did not yield expected results. 

ends