We Nagas have to admit Eastern Nagaland was neglected, Govt of India has proved its calibre in dividing Nagas : Global Naga Forum

 Chuba Ozukum, convener of Global Naga Forum, has outright denied that for years it hass been working as a frontal body for NSCN-IM.

In a brief but candid interview with this journalist at his Kohima residence, he said: "When we started speaking truth ... we made enemies. People started dismissing our statments as pro one faction or so. If allegations against us is true; our detractors do not realise they have four fingers pointed towards them ... in such case all CSOs are with one Naga faction or the other. I can say ... A is with Rio and B with the BJP. There is no end to this".

To a question he said, "You may say Bengalis are divided, Hindus are divided or Punjabis are divided... But as a Naga I can say ... we Nagas are the most divided lot. The Govt of India knows it well and they also know how to take advantage of it". 

Citing the latest development related to FNT for eastern Nagaland; he said: "Obviously we neglected that region. They joined Nagaland and the larger Naga family in 1950s and 1960s... but today they lost faith in administrative ans governance authorities ... all past and present leaders must admit failures. What 20 MLAs from that region have been doing; you visit Dimapur and you will get all the answers.

"However, it is also true New Delhi worked tirelessly ... they invested time and resources. Its a case study of Divide and Rule And thats the Master stroke we talk about".

On Naga peace talks and the stalemate, he said -- "FNT might have come. But Nagas are Nagas ... we are one. Hence the spirit of Nagalim remains. It is in our veins. But as far as the Solution goes; there is no sincerity of purpose. Signing any peace pact with any A,b and C will not bring Solution. It has to be inclusive and collective.

"Look at the hypocrisy of certain people and groups. They want an inclusive solution... but they want one or two chief stakeholder out of it. There is self contradiction".

To a question, he further said : "I agree ... Solution should be acceptable and honourable... But its a good phrase....but we cannot have it if we continue with these differences among us".

Chuba said : "We may come back to your quetion; my friend the spirit of Naga Nationalism and the struggle for Self determination has survived so far due to this organisation. I am telling something very bitter ... that is why some people and organisations well known as close to Govt of India do not like us". 

I quizzed when will the Solution come: Chuba's response was : "Ha ha ... its very near .... but so far". 

Ends 

What should Govt of India do .....if Jamaat gets majority in Bangladesh ?? :::: what is best scenario for Yunus to survive ???

 Early strides always help a competitor take intial advantage. This is the case with Jamaat in Bangladesh today.

The BNP though presumed to be favourite has hence faced tough competitions from Jamaat. 

The Jamaat has captured the imagination of ordinary citizens by promising them clean administration and a prosperous Bangladesh. 

From electoral point of view it has played the surprise element well. It  has cleverly pitched itself as an untested entity which deserves a chance to govern Bangladesh. 

This strategy has further weakened BNP's prospects because since 1990s; both BNP and the Awami League have been at the helm of affairs.

Bangladesh politics is not just at crossroads. It is at redefining stage not only for itself but also for bigger geo strategic games vis-a-vis South Asia and key global players including India. 

Hence, India, China, the US and to an extent even Russia are taking keen interest about Feb 12 elections.

And the Jamaat actually never got a chance to rule. Its campaign is focused on two aspects: One, that the party is non-corrupt, and two, compared to the BNP — the Jamaat is more disciplined and therefore will be able to provide more cohesive governance.

Bangladeshis, proud of their culture, language and music, have largely shunned the Jamaat in the past.  But in the wake of the fall of Sheikh Hasina things have changed. 

The emerging scenarios and possible implications after Feb 12 polls : 

1. If BNP gets a majority of its own --- Mohammed Yunus has to quit within months.

2. If Jamaat gets majority - Yunus will stay on but for a limited period.

3. If there is a hung parliament; there are chances Yunus will go stronger.

Then comes an important aspect what will happen to army chief Gen Waqar Zamam remains to be seen

***

BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has reaffirmed the party's commitment to conducting foreign policy in a way that prioritises the country's and the people’s interests.

He reiterated BNP’s pledge while unveiling the party’s election manifesto at a press conference at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka today.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman has invited BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman to take part in a live public discussion to present their respective political visions and election manifestos before the nation.

In a post on his verified Facebook, Shafiqur said political legitimacy in Bangladesh could only be secured through a free and fair election, stressing that no result would command public confidence without transparency and trust.

"We are celebrating Amit Shah's success. Look what we Nagas have done unto ourselves"

 

"Look what we Nagas have done unto ourselves... We have failed to stay united as Nagas. We got fragmented.... mixed feeling is the worst consolation prize ... We have proved our adversaries right .... we are divided," says a veteran Naga politician.

Asked to comment on the FNT deal inked in Delhi on Feb 5; he said -- "There is a paradox in my reactions ... I feel happy our ENPO people will get some good development projects ... But will the longest surviving Nagaland chief minister ever tell us why no good roads came there over last seven decades and more".

Asked ... "Sir you are speaking so well ... can I quote you?"

He shot back quite assertively but a polite response - "You decide ... you want tea or my comments frankly. But you cannot quote me".

This was a big dilemma for a blogger. Hence I thought -- taking his comments would be a better option at this juncture. 

"Yes  .... signing for FNTA has certainly created mixed feeling.  But as I close my eyes; it is pleasant and unpleasant. It is a master stroke by Shri Amit Shah ... and we Nagas meekly agreed with him, conspired with him and now celebrating his success".

To a question, he said -- "It may seem a momentary good news .... but once the dust settles and people will realise their mistakes and the impact of over expectations. And so when they realise .... it will be too late".

Asked whether this can impact NPF-BJP ties or bring the two parties closer - he said : "Where is the NPF ? It is BJP everywhere ... you know who is the master and how we all have accepted the fate. We got statehood in 1963 but in 2026 we realised our own leaders have failed our own leaders. This can happen when voters sit patiently to sell their votes. This shows what is the role of opposition in a democracy. We are a family corporate obedient masses".

Such a big stand but the issue was "never discussed in the assembly ... quite often we hear about Political Affairs Committee. ... This panel has lost the meaning of its existence".

Answering questions, he said -- "In media we say - Absolute power makes one absolutely corrupt. But in Nagaland; Power has silenced the Truth absolutely".

However, he hastened to add : "...when power is gone truth will prevail. The bitter truth is this is beginning of partition of Nagas and I sincerely wish; I am wrong". 

Blogger in hills

Triumphant Home Minister

On the future of regional party such as the NPF; the leader said -- "May be I am the most pesimistic man under the sky... But as I see; it is the end to a common goal on political issue".

"Did you notice Amit Shah was in triumphant mood ? Naga politics is at a confused stage. BJP has their own priorities and games. NPF has its own issues ... original NPF is sidelined ... and so the ideology no longer bothers anyone."

He also said: We are outsiders ... what happens in NPF, BJP or Congress is their own internal matters".

"However, it is Cristal clear that the Original and hard core NPF has been sidelined  which is an indication that all is not well."

Ends 

Congrats 'Eastern Nagaland' -- bigger celebration vis-a-vis Naga Solution expected too

 Congrats 'Eastern Nagaland' -- bigger celebration vis-a-vis Naga Solution expected too

New Delhi/Kohima 

A new chapter has been written aboit Nagas. A Tripartite agreement (Memorandum of Agreement) was signed between the Government of India, Government of Nagaland and representatives of the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) in New Delhi on Thursday, Feb 5,  paving the way for creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA).

The agreement was signed in the presence of Union home minister Amit Shah and Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio. The FNTA will cover six eastern districts– Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak and Shamator– and will have devolution of powers over 46 subjects. 

Addressing the gathering, Shah described the occasion as a significant step toward a “dispute-free Northeast".

Blogger with a Naga youngster at Kohima

This is a milestone with special significance. 

This breakthrough after years of talks, permutation and combinations -- that begun during UPA era in 2011-12 came at a time when the neighbouring state of Manipur is struggling hard to come out of turmoil of ethnic differences.

Hence, one quick refrain is Nagaland’s readily offering a lesson to Manipur. 

One keen northeast watcher says the FNTA deal is an example of good Governance.

The Modi Govt is able to recognise and execute the much needed political will the need for growth in development of the far flung areas. 

Another refrain is the periof from 2023 is a great loss for people in Manipur -- as the fallout of ethnic clashes still remain and Kukis are "unhappy" that their demand for a separate administrative has gone unheeded. But officials suggest - the New Delhi apparatus is still willing to hammer out a mutually accepted Solution for all communities in Manipur too.

A retired military officer says : "While elements in Manipur decided to glorify the trouble times features of 2023 as foundation of future roadmap -- they must realise this is only an invitation to chaos. The Govt of India will have to work harder in Manipur now".

On the other hand there is optimism in Nagaland.

"Nagas for the first time are celebrating a solution.   Eastern Naga people may be backward in development but they have shown their ability to think forward and take decision. This may be a catalyst for Naga political solution," goes another refrain only underlining the fact that there are saboteurs working full steam in Nagaland as well.

However; on matters related to Naga political issue and the negotiations that's hanging fire since 2015: we may apply the finer points of the saying -- "If you don't like your results; Change the Approach".

With regard a larger Naga Solution they will have to be more pragmatic.

The ENPO originally demanded a separate state ("Frontier Nagaland") in 2010 due to perceived neglect in development and infrastructure. While the 2026 agreement provides autonomy instead of full statehood, the ENPO has accepted it as a "temporary" narrowing of their stance to ensure immediate progress.

It is learnt that geology, mining and tourism subjects will be dealt jointly by FNTA and State Govt. 

Fund allocation will reportedly be made by Central Govt to State Govt under a separate FNTA head, with the same to be disbursed to FNTA within 07 days. The subject of finances will reportedly be dealt by Addl Chief Secy, to be nominated by Governor on consultation with the Chief and Dy Chief of FNTA. 

***  Govt of India a scores both a strategic and moral victory.

^^^** 

This is certainly a case of "division" coming to the fore. Has it defeated the hyped speech about Nagalim or greater Naga integration ?

The fact is -- in 1960s - Nagas of Tuensang area in erstwhile NEFA - todays Arunachal Pradesh - had come closer and joined other Nagas for statehood in 1963. Now, they say the State Govt apparatus has failed them.

Critics of Modi Govt are already at work and may soon .... interpretation and deliberate misinterpretation may be thrown out.

Nevertheless, its a strategic victory for those who believe divide and rule. Is not it ?

 

Nagas do keep talking about Integration; but the paradox is people are celebfating the other story. 

As for future -- I take shelter of writer James Baldwin --- 

"Children have never been very good at listening to their elders. But they have never failed to imitate them".

Congrats 'Eastern Nagaland' -- provided bigger celebration vis-a-vis Naga Solution also comes sooner than expected.

Ends 

Firm owned by Naga CM Rio's son Chabou gets Show Cause notice for delay in Work Project

 The popular construction and road making firm owned by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio's son M/s Chabou and Kohima was on Feb 5 served with a show cause notice for delay in work implementation.

The show cause notice asked the company to respond within seven days for delay jn works related to Wokha Merapani road. 

The notice is served by Chief Engineer Swarai Meru, PWD.

The PWD ministry is held by G Kaito, also belonging to Rio-led NPF.

BJP high command' perhaps most favourite chief minister in north east Rio heads a NPF-BJP dispensation since 2018.

Rio earlier led NDPP, which on Oct 21, 2025 merged with NPF.

The show cause notice means the authorities have been compelled to take such a step against "most blue eyed firm" in the state owing to public pressure.

Incidentally, the development comes within hours President's Rule was revoked in Manipur and a new BJP leader Y Khemchand led ministry was sworn in at Imphal on Feb 4th.

Kechangulie Rio, only son of Chief Minister, heads the firm. The M/s Chabou and Co. is a big time business player in Nagaland and Junior Rio is also president of Nagaland Cricket Association with good network in the national and international sporting circle. 

In Manipur's new ministry - NPF legislator L. Dikho, who hails from Mao tribe, was sworn is as a Deputy chief minister on Feb 4, 2026.

Ends 

Jamaat in poll-bound Bangladesh promises women in cabinet, youth at the helm

 

Jamaat in poll-bound Bangladesg promises women in cabinet, youth at the helm in election manifesto. 

 It also lays out 26 priorities including governance reform and merit-based recruitment. 

The 90-page manifesto outlines 26 priority areas, which include an uncompromising Bangladesh in the national interest; building a humane country based on justice; empowerment of youth; building a safe, dignified and participatory state for women; overall improvement of law and order and establishment of a corruption-free state.

It promised merit-based recruitment; bringing perpetrators of extrajudicial killings to justice and ensuring fundamental human rights. It is generally believed that a prominent anti-India nation, that is Pakistan is backing Jamaat in order to corner New Delhi in geo politic in the longer term.

On the other hand; the BNP said it will build a state founded on equality, knowledge and respect for labour, priotising the people above power and merit over privilege. The party chairman Tarique Rahman's wife Dr Zubaida Rahman said on Feb 4. 

We say ‘we’ before ‘me’, 'the country' before 'us', 'the people' before 'power', and Bangladesh on top of everything and equality over division,” she said at a views-exchange meeting organised by the BNP Election Steering Committee. 

Equal opportunities for all, respect for labour, and valuing merit through merit-based jobs -- this is how we want to present a society and a state where the people come first, she said, according to Dhaka-based 'Daily Star'. 

If elected, the party also plans to create more jobs for women, improve safety in public transport, and expand access to maternal and neonatal healthcare.

Senior BNP leaders said the commitments are part of the party’s election manifesto and its 31-point reform outline, which places women’s empowerment at the centre of governance and development.

According to Bangladesh Election Commission data, of the total 12,76,95,183 voters, 6,28,79,042 are women.

Bangladesh elections have own contradictions. 

There is little doubt that nefarious actors exist—at both local and national levels—within both major party blocs, as well as within the administration and the security forces, who, if given the opportunity, may seek to tilt the electoral process in favour of one side or the other. 

While the government insists that this will be the cleanest election in the country’s history, it remains uncertain whether sufficient safeguards and scrutiny are in place—within the Election Commission, among observers, or in the media—to prevent rigging. Ultimately, this is something that can only be judged on the day itself and in subsequent reporting. That said, it seems likely that any manipulation, should it occur, will be relatively limited in scope, said an opinion piece in newspaper Daily Star penned by Bangladesh watcher David Bergman.

He also says : 

The next elected government will have a crucial role to play. It must move away from some of the most damaging practices of the interim period, including the banning of Awami League’s party activities and the use of mass arrests and prolonged detention of its members without evidence. 

Only prosecutions supported by credible and sufficient evidence should proceed; all those currently detained without such evidence should be released. 

Bangladesh army is 'acting shy' 

Ends

Congress and other opposition women MPs again moved towards the treasury benches

 Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra hit back at the ruling party, alleging that the Prime Minister avoided the House due to the protest. “He got scared and that is why he did not arrive in the House,” Priyanka Gandhi said. 

She also took a swipe at Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, claiming they “ran away like a bullet train”.

Women MPs gheraoed PM's chair: What happened inside Lok Sabha minutes before speech

Sources said that after the House was adjourned, Congress and other opposition women MPs again moved towards the treasury benches, advancing up to two rows behind the Prime Minister's chair and heading in the direction of BJP MP Nishikant Dubey.