April 8, 2019

Nagaland Post www.nagalandpost.com

Vol XXIX No. 121

DIMAPUR, MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019 Pages 12 ` 5.00

Modi, Mamata trade fire during Sunday campaign

Man City through to FA Cup final

Israel PM vows to annex West Bank settlements if re-elected

national, Page 5

sports, Page 12

international, Page 9

Shutdown greets Modi in Imphal

STILL CLAIMS NO BANDHS AFTER BJP CAME TO POWER

Prime Minister Narendra Modi being welcomed by party workers (R) Deserted look of busy Imphal street. (NP)

Correspondent

IMPHAL, APR 7: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday was greeted by a total Manipur shutdown, imposed by Manipur rebel groups, even as he claimed that under the BJP rule Manipur was free from “bandhs”. Coordination Committee (CorCom), a conglomerate of major rebel groups operating in Manipur, called for a total shutdown to protest against Modi’s visit to Manipur. Normal life was crippled across in the valley, as almost all the streets in Imphal city wore a deserted look. Almost all shops and business establishments in the city area remained shut for the day. Modi, who arrived late in the evening (after 5 p.m.) against his scheduled arrival of 2.30 p.m., went on to address a BJP election rally in Imphal’s Hapta Kangjeibung. Despite knowing that bandhs and similar forms of strikes were

WSH warns on usage of Sumi names

DIMAPUR, APR 7 (NPN): Western Sumi Hoho (WSH) issued a stern warning on usage of Sumi names and surnames by non-Sumis after taking note of an affidavit that declared names of Himato Murumi and Faruk Hussain son of Toluvi Murumi alias Shajul Islam. WSH through its president, Zheshito Swu and general secretary Vikato K Achumi demanded immediate nullification of the said affidavit. WSH also “warned and questioned” those advocates and notary public/s, as to how Naga names and surnames could be accorded, despite of knowing that such people were of non-Naga origin? WSH said since the issue has invited serious criticisms from every section of Naga society involving Sumi tribe’s prestige and name in question, WSH warned of stringent action if the affidavit was not nullified. WSH said it does not recognize usage of Sumi names or surnames by non-Sumis and demanded the nullification should be published in the media. It also warned that no others, than Sumis by blood, can acquire Sumi name/surname and those found indulging in such acts shall sternly be dealt with. WSH reminded that it will not tolerate such acts lightly and appealed to all Nagas to also not sell away the coming generation’s future for the sake of few rupees.

This is it!

“In our party, they don’t know that the older one gets the better.” K Y M C

hindering the development activities in the state, Modi said that the previous Congress government had done nothing to end such forms of strike. However, after the BJP-led government was installed, calling bandh has been a thing of past, Modi claimed and added that Manipur was now free from bandhs under the “chawkidari” of BJP government. Coming down heavily on the Congress for having failed to bring any development in the North East, including Manipur, despite years of its rule in the region, Modi said: “The BJP is working to correct the damages inflicted by the Congress towards the North East... The region is finally coming into the mainstream.” He said the Congress did not fulfil its pre-election promise to make the region a manufacturing hub, adding, the grand old party is actually an “expert in manufactur-

ing lies and false assurances”. Modi took the opportunity to spell out various initiatives taken up by his government for the region, saying it was because of his government’s hard efforts that the people of the region could see the light of development. Focussing his entire speech on the changes and development brought about in the last five years, he explained how better roads, rail and air connectivity was being provided to the North East. He claimed that around 1500 km of National Highways (NHs) was added in the region and out of which 300 km was in Manipur. Modi said the previous Congress had brought big projects to the state but failed to complete them. But the NDA government was compelled to complete the projects, with enhanced cost estimates, in order to fulfil the commitment given to the people of the region.

37 BJP members quit party DIMAPUR, APR 7 (NPN): In a major jolt to BJP on the eve of Lok Sabha election, 37 members, including its four State executives and five Zunheboto district unit leaders, resigned from primary membership of the party with immediate effect. In a letter to BJP State president Temjen Imna Along Longkumer, the members explained that they were tendering their resignation as they could not agree with the party’s principles and philosophy in general, particularly its ‘Hindutva policy’, besides with the party’s State leadership led by him and the conduct and functioning of organising secretary Anantha Mishra, which was highly objectionable and abominable. The members also listed six specific reasons for their resignation, including their disenchantment with the delay in reaching a final agreement on the Naga political issue, despite signing

of the Framework Agreement in 2015 and holding of negotiations umpteen number of times with the Naga National political groups by the NDA government. They said the Naga people were extremely disappointed. Mentioning that they believed that India is a great democracy and is based on sound principles of equality, secularism, freedom of expression and opportunities, the members said they were, however, saddened that the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) was passed in Lok Sabha and taken up in Rajya Sabha despite opposition by the people of the Northeast, including Nagaland. Though the Bill was not introduced in the recent session of Rajya Sabha and therefore was not a law yet, they pointed out that BJP national president Amit Shah had announced in Assam in February 2019 that it would be a part of the party’s mani(Cont’d on p-7) festo.

(Cont’d on p-7)

NPCC questions intent of fake letters DIMAPUR, APR 7 (NPN): Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) president K. Therie clarified that neither he nor All India Congress Committee (AICC) general secretary (I/c NE) Luizinho Falerio has any knowledge about the alleged fake letters. In a statement, Therie, however, alleged that chief minister Neiphiu Rio has been fooling Congress leaders in New Delhi since 2015 with the help of some state Congress leaders in the past. Also reiterating his party’s commitment to support NPF in the formation of a secular government, he asserted “we mean what we say”. Mentioning that the signatures appeared to be genuine, Therie said the papers were perhaps used to convince “money-minded” NPF members to support NDPP and BJP while social media is rife with allegations that they have accepted crores of rupees. He said anything is possible with NDPP – “they can do and also deny”. “They support CAB at Delhi and deny it in Nagaland. He can throw any friend any time for his convenience for power and money,” he added. According to the NPCC president, had Congress formed government at the Centre in 2014, Rio would have surely looked for Congress support. Stating that filing FIR may bring out the reality, he said he wants the FIR to be filed.

Fake letters take state by storm; NDPP & CMO file FIRs DIMAPUR, APR 7 (NPN): The emergence of fake letters in social media with forged signatures of chief minister Neiphiu Rio and its president Chingwang Konyak on the eve of Lok Sabha election have taken the State’s politics by storm. Re a c t i n g s h a r p l y to the matter, NDPP, in a statement, said it was shocked and appalled that its political adversaries and detractors, who had run out of ideas and strategies, had gone to the extent of resorting to such “blatant criminal act”. Two fake letters – one apparently written on the letter head of chief minister and addressed to Congress president Rahul Gandhi and the other on the writing pad of NDPP gave details of an apparent ministerial and portfolio reshuffle – and both with the forged signatures of Rio and Konyak have emerged in social media While both the chief minister’s office (CMO) and NDPP have filed FIRs with the authorities con-

cerned, NDPP has taken the matter to the attention of Election Commission of India as, the ruling party alleged that the crime was deliberately committed to confuse the minds of the electorate during these last crucial days before the polls, aimed at “negatively” impacting the position of the PDA candidates. NDPP said the crime included forgery, impersonation, illegal production and misuse of official State stationery with the intent to mislead citizens of the State and create confusion in the minds of the masses by resorting to strategies that were illegal and deserved exemplary punishment. These were very serious political crimes that challenge the very foundations of democracy, aimed at making innocent citizens lose confidence in the system and the government, it added. Alleging that it was aimed at demeaning and insulting a constitutionally and democraticallyelected State government,

the party claimed that it was also a direct attempt at trying to create instability and confusion within the PDA government in the hope of sowing seeds of mistrust and breaking the levels of confidence within the coalition. “But the PDA stands stronger than ever and will not be swayed or affected by such mindless criminal acts,” it asserted. NDPP alleged that the fake letters were initially sent to BJP leadership and circulated among senior political leaders, journalists and media houses, before being shared on social media platforms. While exposing the fact that it was a political strategy aimed at impacting the PDA coalition and defame the ruling coalition’s leadership, the party alleged that it was executed by its political adversaries. According to NDPP, this was not the first time that such a “mala fide” strategy was chalked out as similar attempts were made in the past too. (Cont’d on p-7)

Prominent citizen Hekevi Achumi passes away

Late Hekevi Achumi

DIMAPUR, APR 7 (NPN): Prominent citizen and social activist of Dimapur, Hekevi Achumi passed away on Sunday after brief illness. He was 76. Besides serving various social organizations, late Hekevi was also the former president of Naga Council Dimapur and adviser of ACAUT Nagaland. According to family sources, the funeral service will be held at IMC Hall, Dimapur on April 8 at 11 a.m.

Sanis youth, Green-SONS volunteers rescue elephant calf DIMAPUR, APR 7 (NPN): Volunteers of Green-SONS and youth from Sanis town in Wokha district on Sunday rescued an elephant calf that had strayed from its herd in the area. Green-SONS chairman Jess Murry said a loud electrical spark was heard around 8:30 pm on Saturday. Immediately thereafter, the trumpeting of fleeing elephants was also heard, he added. When local youth and Green-SONS team went to inspect the area the next morning, he said they found the calf wandering alone, being separated from its herd. Murry, in a press release stated that the herd might have abandoned the calf during the electrical spark. It is also suspected

Elephant calf rescued by Green-SONS and Sanis youth volunteers.

that adult elephants may have been electrocuted as well, though this could not be confirmed as there is risk associated with inspecting the spot at the moment.

According to GreenSONS chairman, the calf was taken to Sanis town, adding the department concerned has been informed and that it was initiating necessary steps. It may be mentioned that the same power grid line from NEEPCO project in Doyang to Dimapur had electrocuted two elephants on October 24, 2018. Meanwhile, GreenSONS has urged North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO), Doyang to initiate urgent measures to minimise risks associated with its power lines and take necessary precautionary measures to avoid human and animal eventualities “before any serious uprising unrest arises against the company,” it cautioned.

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Poll training for ROs in Mon

The final round of training for poll officials in progress in Mon on April 6. (DIPR) DIMAPUR: The third and final round of training for presiding officers and 1st polling officers for the forthcoming Lok Sabha Elections was held on April 6 at Council Hall, Mon. According to DIPR, deputy commissioner &

district election officer Mon, Thavaseelan K, while addressing the trainees, requested the polling officers to clear their doubts before going for the polls. He also explained the importance of the Pole Star App and its uses.

The DC requested the trainees to train well on operation methods and uses of Electronic Voting Machines, Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trails (EVMs and VVPATs), and Control Units in order to avoid unnecessary delays

92L cash, 62 litres liquor seized to date

A/C on March 10, and with the election code of conduct in effect, law enforcing KOHIMA, APR 7 (NPN): Following an- agencies of the state have seized a total of nouncement of the Lok Sabha General Elec- Rs 92,26,640 cash and 62,949 litres of liquor tions and by-election to the 26 Aonglenden from different parts of State till April 7. Correspondent

2nd Nagaland Armed Police (NAP) Battalion, Alichen casting their postal ballots for the 26 Aonglenden Assembly Constituency by-election, on April 5. (DIPR)

Presiding officers and 1st polling officials drafted for election duty cast their votes through postal ballots for the by-election to 26 Aonglenden Assembly Constituency, at Mayangnokcha GHSS, Mokokchung on April 5. (DIPR)

and failures on polling day. He also spoke on the importance of Mock Polls and reminded the polling officers to follow procedures. Thavaseelan also emphasized on web casting and offline videography. According to Thavaseelan, hands on training for EVMs & VVPATs will continue at DRDA Conference Hall. Additional Deputy Commissioner Mon, Hiazu Mero, addressing the trainees said that polling officers are the core of election processes. He advised the trainers to apply their minds and use the knowledge learnt at the training, and to aid this end, he also requested the trainers to read training manuals thoroughly. The third round of training for 2nd and 3rd polling officers is scheduled for April 8, to be held at the same location.

Temjen Imna condoles DIMAPUR: Minister for Higher & Technical Education, Temjen Imna Along Longkumer has mourned the demise of B Tekalong who passed away in Dimapur on April 6 at the age of 81. A condolence message sent through the Department of Information and Public Relations stated that the late Tekalong was one of the leading educationists from the Ao Naga community. It added that he was born in 1938 in Aonokpu village, and was an intellectual who devoted his entire life to teaching and to the field of academics. He first joined Fazl Ali College in Mokokchung as a lecturer in 1976 and after serving in various categories as an academician for 39 years, Tekalong finally served as administrator of St. John College, Dimapur in 2006. He also served as secretary of the Nagaland Public Service Commission. Describing Tekalong as a dedicated mentor, Temjen Imna stated that he will be remembered for the many contributions he made to the community and society at large. He prayed that God will give strength to the bereaved family and friends to bear the profound grief and hoped that the departed soul rests in peace.

Yimchungrü Regional Council reacts to statement

DIMAPUR: Reacting to the April 5 statement, issued by information and publicity wing of NNC (PB) led by Z. Royim, the Yimchungr ü Regional Council (YRC) has expressed shock and dismay, while terming it a “big lie” that Ahoshe Yimchungrü, president of YRC was not known to Z. Royim/ party. Also terming it as a “sin in front of God and men”, midan peyu Sheto, president Yimchungrii Women Federation (YWF) Majila, region executive members-- Hothrogba,

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Mükam and Jumong, YEF members-- Tsüsola Yimchungrü and Thromjula Yimchungrü, in a joint statement claimed that during the November 8, 2015 region meeting, Ahoshe was elected as president, after the demise of region president Kiumukam, in the presence of Z. Royim with all executive members and women federation members. However, they said this fact of reality, denied and not known by Z. Royim and party was “a real lie and sin in the history Yimchungrü people and

YRC in particular.” The signatories said that the “big lie and sin of issuing a press release to cover his shame as GB and VDB member in his village cannot be covered or done away with it as it is well known to all the people in Yimchungrü region.” With regard to warning of taking “stringent action”, the signatories said they have taken it as a very serious matter of open threat and intimidation. “But we are ready to face for the truth and the Naga rights,” they stated. The signatories also

made it clear to all concerned, that Z. Royim and party will be held responsible if anything happens to any of its genuine members and NNC leaders. The members said they were ashamed to note that “there are full of lies for those who run after chair and money, by hook and by crook and the worst are full of hatred, jealousy and corruptions in Naga political affairs.” However, “truth will remain truth and our God the truth will judge the guilty and punish the National sin,” they added.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

news in Brief NSH consultative executive meeting: Northern Sumi Hoho (NSH) has convened its consultative executive meeting for April 13, 10 a.m. to be held at Mithehe village under Wokha district. All members representing particular villages, and advisors, have been asked to attend the meeting.

SOTK meeting: Shena Old Tughalomi Kuqhakulu (SOTK) has convened its meeting for April 17, 11 a.m. at Shena Old Union, Kohima office building, New Market, Kohima. All office bearers, sector union chairmen and president SOSU have been requested to attend the meeting.

Uncontrolled extraction of sand from the Dhansiri River bed. The government should implement a ban on sand mining within the Town Area. (Vikato Zhimomi, Citizen journalist)

Clean Elections signature campaign in Peren DIMAPUR: A Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation program (SVEEP) & Signature Campaign was organized by District Election Office Peren in collaboration with Peren Students’ Union at Town Square Peren, on April 6. According to DIPR, in the slogan competition, Peidolungle, Class XII, from Government Higher Secondary School; Katenamga, Class X, Government Higher Secondary School; and Ingenlung, Class IX, All Saints Higher Secondary School, Peren, bagged the first, second and third prizes respectively. Deputy Commissioner (DC) & District Election Officer (DEO) and assistant returning officer, Peren, Sarita Yadav, and

Sarita Yadav signing the clean elections signature campaign banner on April 6 in Peren. (DIPR) Damwiliu District Icon delivered messages on the SVEEP campaign and ethical voting. The DC & DEO gave away the prizes

to winners. EVM demonstrations were shown by Sukhalu Chishi, EAC Peren. An EPIC voter slip aware-

Requisitioned vehicles dispatched from Dimapur

ness talk was delivered by Toshimongba Longchar, AEO. The signature campaign was led by Sarita Yadav.

DC Tuensang meeting with law agencies DIMAPUR: DC Tuensang, Mohammad Ali Shihab, conducted a meeting with Law and Order agencies in his office chambers on April 6. According to DIPR, he gave a briefing, and solicited information about, law and order in and around Tuensang for polling day. The DC also asked the agencies to make sure ample security is in place and personnel are on duty in vulnerable polling stations. He also spoke about installing sufficient video broadcasting in sensitive polling areas. Shihab called upon all the security agencies to come together as one to ensure that free and fair elections are conducted.

EVM randomization and commissioning in Phek

Requisitioned vehicles parked at State stadium in Dimapur on April DIMAPUR: The first and second 7. (DIPR) supplementary randomization DIMAPUR: With the Lok Sabha stadium Dimapur on Sunday. The and commissioning of EVMs Elections 2019 approaching, more than requisitioned vehicles included buses, (Control units, ballot units and 200 vehicles, including government Tata sumos, Tata mobiles, Ecco vans, VVPATs) was done at Phek DC vehicles, requisitioned for election duty Alto cars and government vehicles. office conference hall on April reported at the State stadium Dimapur The remaining vehicles will be used for 6. Representatives of political on April 7. election duty in Dimapur district and parties were also present at the venue. The machines will be comDIPR reports that around 180 will be dispatched on April 9. vehicles were dispatched to ZunebThe Lok Sabha Elections are missioned on April 8 from the DC’s conference hall. (DIPR) hoto and Peren districts from the State planned for April 11.

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

Skill counselling program concludes in Ahthibung

MSHSS Kohima conducts cleanliness drive

DIMAPUR: A cleanliness drive along the way to Mount Puliebadze, Jotsoma, was undertaken by standard XII students of Science, Mount Sinai

Higher Secondary School (MSHSS), Kohima on April 6. A press release from Mount Sinai Higher Secondary School princi-

pal, JP Nathan stated that students cleaned up the path by picking up empty water bottles and discarded plastics. Arts students of standard XII, accompanied

by their teachers, also paid a visit to the Waste Management Plant at Lierie, Kohima on April 6. They were sensitized on waste management and on treat-

ing waste efficiently. Altogether 50 Mount Sinai Higher Secondary School students accompanied by nine teachers were part of the visit.

Participants and resource persons of the career and skills counselling program conducted at Ahthibung town, Peren on April 6.

DIMAPUR: Eimi Nexus, in collaboration with Kuki Students’ Organisation Nagaland (KSON) and Jalukie Batallion of Assam Rifles, organized a career and skills counselling program at Christian School, Ahthibung town, Peren on April 6. A press release from KSON media cell stated that more than a hundred students and job seekers from Khelma, Bongkolong (Mongjang), Ahthibung town and Jalukie Valley attended the program.

A presentation on preparing for entrance exams with other procedure information for NDA, CDS, engineering, law, social work, including other professional courses and schemes was shown during the program. Skills, including baking classes and handmade crafts, were also taught during the program. Earlier, a welcome speech was delivered by Paotinlam Guite, president Eimi Nexus; the invocation was said by Rev. Lienthom

Gangte, KCC Nagaland Synod and exhortation was delivered by Ruopfukuotuo Noudi, SDO (Civil) Ahthibung. The resources persons included Lamkhomang Singson from YouthNet Nagaland; department of Justice & Law librarian, Henpu Kuki; Ahthibung Region Club’s Lalkholen Thomsong; Brendon Singson; Hengkhogin Singsit; Abigial Sitlhou (Bake for You) and Nengneithem Hengna, Runway Nagaland.

Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, MLA, seen visiting the site of a fire accident at Bible Hill Colony, Phek Town on April 4. (Press secretary to MLA)

IDEAL Charitable Society outreach program to Longsa KOHIMA: As part of its outreach program, the IDEAL (Initiative for Destitute to Empower and Liberate) Charitable Society held a fellowship service with elderly people of Longsa village under Wokha district on April 6.

Based in Kohima, IDEAL Charitable Society is a non profit organization and runs Bright Morning Star Children Home (BMSCH) in Kohima. A press release from the society stated that the visit to Longsa village was led by its founder director Abi Angami and BMSCH superintendent Aleno. Alongwith some children of BMSCH and staff, nagalandpost.com Poll the team prayed for good health and Q.: Is current hyperna- longevity of the elderly people. tionalism a ploy to deThey also distributed gifts to flect real issues? nearly 40 elderly people and received their blessings in return. 100% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The visit was organized to 90% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– spend time with the elderly persons, 80% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– interact with them, listen to their 70% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– stories, have fellowship with, and 60% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– pray for, them. 50% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The society also intended to 40% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– show love and affection to elderly 30% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– 20% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– persons because some of them may 10% –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– be physically unable to take part in 0% social events or not have someone A B C who will sit and listen to their sto92% A Yes. ries, and they subconsciously may 8% feel alone. B No. Through this outreach pro0% C Can’t Say. gram, the society hoped to enable younger generation, especially Next poll the BMSCH children, to understand Q: Are economic and social issues pertinent in the the art of giving, and to love and respect the elderly. Lok Sabha election? The little amount collected  Yes. during family fellowships of IDE No. AL Charitable Society goes to this  Can’t Say. outreach project. The children sell home-made biscuits and its earnings are used WEATHER FORECAST for this village visit program where each year, two different villages are April 8 targeted. (Temperature in ºC)

Max Min

Agartala A heavy t-storm in the p.m.

33 23

A heavy t-storm in the p.m.

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Guwahati A heavy t-storm in the p.m.

30 19

A t-storm around in the a.m.

27 15

Itanagar A t-storm around in the p.m.

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Shillong A heavy t-storm in the p.m.

20 12

Aizawl Imphal

Kohima

A p.m. thunderstorm in spots

Dimapur A thunderstorm or two Mkg

A p.m. thunderstorm in spots

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Tuensang Mostly cloudy, a thunderstorm 15 9 Wokha

An a.m. thunderstorm or two 21 15

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ANHTU Kohima general meeting & election Dimapur: An ANHTU Kohima unit general meeting & election of new office bearers will be held on April 13, 10:30 am at RBP School, Keziekie, Kohima. All government Hindi teachers under Kohima district have been requested to attend the meeting without fail. The union will take strict action against absentees. K Y M C

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Cong, Left will stoop to any level to oust me: PM Modi

Udaipur, Apr 7 (PTI): Hitting out at the Congress and the Left Front, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said Sunday the opposition parties were hell-bent on removing him from power, even if that meant singing paeans to Pakistan. Addressing a rally in Udaipur, Modi said the people of Tripura has set a precedent for the entire country by ousting the Left Front government after 25 years. “Mamata Banerjee’s Trinamool Congress has been trying its best to make inroads into Tripura, but people haven’t allowed that. They tolerated the atrocities of the Left Front, waiting patiently for the BJP to rise. I thank the people of Tripura for believing in the BJP,” he stated. Modi asserted that the opposition parties could stoop to any level to remove him from power. “The Congress and the Left are working together to oust Modi. They have stooped too low, singing paeans to Pakistan even when

Narendra Modi (PTI)

the NDA government was taking on the terrorists on the soil of the neighbouring country. “Am I not doing the right thing by giving a befitting reply to the enemies of the country?” he asked the people who gathered at the rally. Taking a jibe at the Congress manifesto, Modi said, “The grand old party came out with their hypocrisy document of 50-60 pages. They haven’t mentioned the middle-class even once in the notification. “The middle-class has long suffered under the Congress rule. Some parties, including the Congress, have said that more taxes should be levied on

the middle-class.” Attacking the Left parties, he said, they consider their “party’s constitution bigger than that of the country’s”. “The Left parties don’t want to give the country a direction. They are only keen on improving their own condition,” Modi said. Heaping praise on CM Biplab Deb, he said the state government has improved the law and order situation and developed infrastructure in just one year. Under the Saubhagya scheme, the NDA government has ensured power connection in almost all homes in the state, the prime minister noted. “As promised before the assembly election, we have initiated work on broad gauge rail line, built bridges, started train services, connecting Agartala with other parts of the country. Work is also underway to give Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport an international makeover,” he added. Election to two Lok Sabha seats in Tripura will be held on April 11 and 18.

I have done enough for Shillong constituency: Pala Shillong, Apr 7 (PTI): Former Union Minister and Congress candidate for the Shillong Lok Sabha seat, Vincent Pala claimed that he has done enough for his constituency in the last 10-years to be re-elected again. The highways were in shambles when I became MP for the first time in 2009. I have managed to convince all concerned and successfully built and completed the Shillong-Guwahati four lane road, the Shillong ByePass, Jowai-Silchar highway, ShillongNongstoinTura highway, said, Pala the sitting MP from Shillong seat. “I have done enough for Shillong constituency in last 10 years as an MP. I have been successful in getting infrastructural projects worth over Rs 8,000 crore,” the two time MP told PTI. “My constituency has issues with connectivity and congestion and I have tried my level best to ensure that these are resolved,” he said. Pala said he is very approachable. “I have been approachable as ever. I meet

people till as late as mid night and then in the morning again. I have never denied meeting anybody who comes to me,” he said. Pala said his priorities this time will be to move to the Government of India to promote tourism in the state by allowing government officials to avail certain percentage of airfare if they travel to the north east. Pala, 51, an engineer by profession and a native of Lamyrsiang village in coal-rich East Jaintia Hills district, said “This election is important for the people of this country as this election is about which party respects your sentiments and which leader is not.” The for mer Union minister alleged that the BJPs politics are hurting the sentiments of people in the country. “People in the North East and in the South are not happy with the direct and indirect imposition (of Hindi),” he said. The senior Congress leader claimed the tribal people of Meghalaya have decided that they will not vote for the BJP and its allies here.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

Rs. 6.4 lakh seized in Meghalaya Correspondent

Shillong, Apr 7: Election flying squads on Sunday seized unaccounted cash worth Rs. 6.4 lakh in poll-bound Meghalaya’s West Garo Hills district. Chief Electoral Officer, Frederick Roy Kharkongor said the money was seized from two persons when the election squads were checking movement of vehicles at Hallydayganj under Selsella assembly constituency. Selsella assembly constituency is going to byelection simultaneously with the Lok Sabha polls to Tura and Shillong Lok Sabha constituencies on April 11 and as part of the efforts to ensure free and fair poll, the police have intensified checking of vehicles at various points. Of the Rs. 6.4 lakh, Kharkongor said an amount of Rs 4,80,000 was seized from one Saha and another amount of Rs 1,60,000 was also seized from one F Seikh. The seized money has been kept in safe custody of Tura Treasury Strong Room.

Arunachal church body seeking votes for Tuki: Rijiju Gu wahat i , A p r 7 (IANS): Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Sunday alleged that the Arunachal Pradesh Catholic Association (APCA) has been asking people to vote for Congress candidate and former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki. Rijiju, on his Facebook account, posted a letter signed by Secretary General of APCA Pekhi Nabum where the church body has urged the people to vote for Tuki. The letter reads: “APCA appeals and requests all the parishes and catholic churches in Arunachal Pradesh to pray for Nabam Tuki, who is contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Arunachal West parliamentary constituency. He is the pillar of Catholic churches in the state.” Rijiju is the Bharatiya Janata Party candidate from Arunachal West. “APCA requests all the voters of the catholic community who are going to cast their valuable vote on April 11 to exercise their adult franchise with prayer-

Kiren Rijiju (File)

ful clear conscience and vote in favour of Tuki,” the letter added. Rijiju said: “This is not proper. We all are children of the God who never discriminates. Democracy is a system in which the government is elected by the people. I’ve always served the people with full sincerity. I help all the believers and religious organisations. If anyone has doubt please contact most Reverend Bishop P.K. George to know about my contributions. Please pray for me and everyone.” Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in Arunachal Pradesh will take place on April 11.

Assam’s tea body resent unmet promises Success eludes national parties in Sikkim Dibrugarh (Assam), Apr 7 (PTI): Minimum wages, ST status, basic amenities and permanent employment avenues are some of the demands of Assam’s tea tribes, who form a considerable chunk of voters in this Lok Sabha constituency but are struggling to be heard above the din of political rhetoric. This tea town, which goes to the polls on April 11, is home to around 4.5 lakh voters of the community, made up of scores of tribes who form the bulk of workers in the tea gardens of the state. But things have not improved much for tea garden workers despite leaders from the community getting elected to Parliament several times. This time there are four contestants in the fray who hail from the community -- Rameshwar Teli (BJP), Paban Singh Ghatowar (Congress), Titus Bhengra (Bahujan Mukti Party) and Israil Nanda (Independent).

In 2017, the Assam government formed an advisory board to fix minimum wages of tea workers. The board recommended an amount of Rs 351 but a final decision is yet to be taken. At present, a tea garden labourer gets a daily wage of Rs 167. According to Teli, who represents the constituency in the Lok Sabha, the government cannot raise wages and it is up to tea garden owners to take a decision. “We cannot put pressure on the tea garden owners to raise wages. They will face problems. So what our government is doing is giving support to the tea garden community to improve their living conditions. We are giving free rice, monetary help to pregnant women, mobiles to line sardars (head of labourers) and scooters for girls,” Teli told PTI. His political rival, former Union minister and Congress candidate Paban Singh Ghatowar, questions

the BJP’s stand on the minimum wage issue saying it has been fooling the tea garden community. The Assam Chah Mazdoor Sangha (ACMS), the largest tea workers’ body in Assam, is critical of the government’s attitude. “Did we fix the amount for minimum wage at Rs 350? The BJP government said the Congress was exploiting tea garden workers and they would raise the minimum wage. But they did nothing. They are doing nothing but politics. Since they could not fulfil their promise, they are now rolling out roles to buy votes,” said ACMS general secretary Rupesh Gowala. Titus

Bhengra, a retired college professor who is fighting on a Bahujan Mukti Party ticket, claims the money being deposited by the government in the accounts of tea garden workers is their own PF money. Independent candidate Israil Nanda, who is supported by Adivasi National Party of Assam and other small parties, says ST status and minimum wages are a must for the tea garden community. The Assam Tea Tribes Students’ Association (ATTSA) has also been demanding that Scheduled Tribe status should be granted to all the 112 tea tribes of the state.

Gangtok, Apr 7 (PTI): Winning the Lok Sabha or assembly polls in Sikkim has eluded the national parties for the past four decades since the state came into being. It has been the regional parties - Sikkim Sangram Parishad (SSP) of Nar Bahadur Bhandari and Sikkim Democratic Front(SDF) of Pawan Kumar Chamling which have won the lone Lok Sabha seat and the state assembly since 1979. In an exception, in the first Lok Sabha polls held in

Sikkim in 1977, two years after its merger with India, the Congress had won unopposed to the Parliament. In respect to the assembly polls it has tasted limited success so far. The party had won an assembly seat in 1984, two in 1994 and a lone one in 2004. The BJP is yet to open its account in the 32-member assembly of the Himalayan state. The fortunes of parties like the CPI, CPI-M, Trinamool Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), who have contested

in Sikkim at various times, have been equally disappointing so far with more than 60 per cent candidates of all national parties forfeiting their deposits since 1979. Asked, a BJP senior leader said that strong regional sentiments among the people, who feel more comfortable with local leaders has led to the complete rout of the national parties in the polls in the state. “The regional parties like the ruling Sikkim Democratic Front have milked the vulnerabilities of the

local people to their advantage by telling them that if the national parties come to power in the state they will abrogate Article 371(F), which protects their rights and provides special provisions for Sikkim,” he said. “We have been unsuccessful so far in convincing that we will safeguard their rights,” the BJP leader said, adding, it would require more interaction between the party’s leadership and the people for any headway in the electoral politics of Sikkim.

Dearest Joy, Remembering you on this special day and wishing you tons of happiness, may your path ahead be filled with all the love and success you deserve. Happy birthday to a wonderful person. Form your Motu WC-127

36th Wedding Anniversary Rev. Luvito Chishi & Mrs. Hutoni Aye 8th April 1983 – 8th April 2019

Dear Aliki, As you celebrate your 4th Birth day, we pray that God will bless you abundantly with good health, long life and wisdom. May you grow up to be God’s instrument that will shine God’s light into this world. Many Many happy returns of the day, God Bless You From, Apuh, Aza and All your loved ones Hey Dear, May ur Bir thday be filled with Happiness,Joy and Love as you celebrate another year.Cherish this and enjoy ur day together with ur familys and frndz.....M.G.B.U....Happy Birthday Frnd:-B...Phom

Seeing you smiling and cherish each other is an encouragement to many. May you live to enjoy and celebrate many more. Happy wedding anniversary Dad & Mom. Loving children DP-2643

Happy 50th Wedding Anniversary Mr. Thungbemo Ngullie & Mrs. Ratseno Ngullie

IN THE COURT OF PRINCIPAL DISTRICT AND SESSION JUDGE

DC-523

TUENSANG : NAGALAND NO.PD&SJ.TSG/OBJECTION NOTICE-1/2017-18/218 Dt. Tsg the 11th March 2019 OBJECTION NOTICE Whereas Mr. Thronghose husband of Late Mrs. Y. Seponglichu of Litsung 'B' Ward Longkhim Town has applied for issue of Succession Certificate to operate/draw/transfer/withdraw the debts & security in respect of his late wife who expired on 05/03/2019. Now therefore, the public are hereby asked to file claims/ objection if any within 30 days from the date of issue of this notice. Sd/Principal District & Session Judge Tuensang, Nagaland DP-2637 AFFIDAVIT

Regd. No. 1704/2019 Dated 28/02/19 I, Mr. Michael N Yanthan, aged about 36 years, son of Nzanthung Yanthan resident of Church Road, Block 3, H.No. 773, Ward 9, Chumukedima, Dimapur, District- Dimapur Nagaland, do hereby solemnly affirm on oath and declare as under: 1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India belonging to Lotha Naga Tribe. 2. That in all my educational documents my name has been inadvertently entered as Michael Yanthan. Whereas, in my entire official documents my name has been entered as Michael N Yanthan. 3. That the name Michael N Yanthan will be my official name and henceforth I shall be known as Michael N Yanthan for all purpose. 4. That this affidavit is made to affirm that the names Michael Yanthan and Michael N Yanthan are of one and same person. 5. That the statements in this affidavit are true to the best of my knowledge, every part thereof is true and nothing material has been concealed there from. Deponent Sworn before me on this the 28th day of February, 2019. Notary Public DP-2669 K Y M C

Dearest Apo and Ayo, You both are an inspiration to us all. You have taught us that love must be taken care of with respect, care and forgiveness. At “50” years, you both are Gold. May your affection shine like Gold as you go through the years. Loving children, in-laws and grandchildren. DP-2544 K Y M C

national

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

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Modi, Mamata trade fire Tax raids on properties of MP CM’s close aides during Sunday campaign Kolkata/Siliguri, Apr 7 (AGENCIES): A war of words erupted between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and chief minister Mamata Banerjee during campaigning in north Bengal on the last Sunday before the first phase of Lok Sabha polls in Bengal on April 11 At back-to-back highvoltage rallies in Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar districts in the afternoon, the two rivals traded charges over a range of issues. “Mamata Banerjee has made alliance with people who want two prime ministers, one for Delhi and one for Jammu and Kashmir,” Modi said at his first election rally in Cooch Behar district. “Bengal’s Didi is losing political ground. The invective being showered on me, her anger with EC expose her fear,” he said. Referring to the Saradha scam, Nararda sting videos and Rose Valley chit fund scam, Modi said, “You all know who benefitted from these scams. I promise to expose all of that,” Modi, who held the first rally of the day, said in Cooch Behar. An hour later, Banerjee returned the compliment at her rally at Moynaguri in Jalpaiguri district. “I have seen many prime ministers. But I have never seen a man of such low taste as we see now. Today you (Modi) referred to Narada and Saradha scams and you said this with one

Mamata Banerjee and Narendra Modi. (File) of the main accused in both scams sitting on the same dais,” Banerjee said in an obvious reference to former Trinamool Congress general secretary Mukul Roy who is now convenor of BJP’s West Bengal election cell. Roy addressed the rally before Modi in the morning. Without naming Banerjee’s nephew and political heir Abhisek Banerjee, the Prime Minister said, “People of Bengal had put their faith in Didi. But she shattered it. The aunt-nephew duo has handed over Bengal to extortionists. She has blocked all development. Centre allotted huge funds for central schemes such as Ayusmaan Bharat but Didi has blocked everything.” Modi had dubbed Banerjee “speed breaker Didi” at his rallies in Bengal on April 3. He repeated it on Sunday. The Trinamool Congress chief, in turn, accused Modi of weakening all gov-

ernment institutions. “You cannot get away by telling lies. All government institutions, starting from Reserve Bank of India to Central Bureau of Investigation are failing. In 2014 people were told that the chaiwala (tea seller) had arrived. The tea seller has disappeared and we now have the chowkidar. People can see through these tricks,” said Banerjee. “In Tripura, the erstwhile communist government resorted to misrule. People were disgusted. But while people of Bengal put their faith in Didi, voters in Tripura selected us. We changed Tripura. But in Bengal Didi adopted a shortcut and followed the same path shown by the Marxists she defeated. She has set up a dangerous model. Nobody in India thought that after the communists misrule would continue in Bengal,” Modi said.

New Delhi/Bhopal, Apr 7 (PTI): The Income Tax Department Sunday launched pre-dawn searches on at least 50 locations in Delhi and Madhya Pradesh against people linked to state Chief Minister Kamal Nath on charges of alleged tax evasion, officials said. A team of about 200 I-T department and police officers swooped down on these premises around 3 am and some undisclosed cash was recovered, they said. The searches are linked to suspected movement of hawala money during the ongoing polls season and tax evasion, they said. Locations in Indore, Bhopal and Delhi (Green Park) were being raided and those being searched included Nath’s former Officer on Special Duty (OSD) Pravin Kakkad, former adviser Rajendra Miglani and executives linked to his brother-in-law’s firm Moser Bayer and his nephew Ratul Puri’s company, they said. Both Kakkar and Miglani resigned from their posts just before the Lok Sabha polls were declared. In Indore, the raids were conducted by a team of officials, who arrived from Delhi, at Kakkad’s residence in Vijay Nagar area and other places associated with him, sources in the I-T department said. Searches were also conducted at Kakkad’s house in Bhopal’s Nadir Colony and a couple of other places in the state capital, they said. They said documents seized during the searches were being scrutinised in detail.

The raids are also being conducted against Kolkatabased businessman Paras Mal Lodha, the sources added. Kakkad, a former Madhya Pradesh police officer, was appointed OSD to Nath after the Congress-led government came to power in the state last year. He earlier served as OSD to former Union minister Kantilal Bhuria during the UPA regime. Bhuria is contesting the upcoming Lok Sabha poll from Ratlam-Jhabua seat in MP. Kakkad’s family is associated with a number of businesses, including hospitality. Ratul Puri was last week grilled by the Enforcement Directorate in Delhi in connection with the Rs 3,6000 AgustaWestland helicopters purchase probe. Reacting to the raids, a Congress leader in MP accused the BJP-led central government of targeting opposition leaders for “political vendetta”. MP Congress’ media cell vice president Bhupendra Gupta, also a former OSD to Nath, charged, “The BJP government has been targeting opposition leaders across the country due to political enmity. Due to such act of political vendetta, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister (N Chandrababu Naidu) and DMK leader M K Stalin had to stage protest against the Centre.” However, the BJP hit back, saying thieves were now having a complaint against the ‘watchman’. “Black money worth

Income Tax department officials conduct raid at the residential premises of Rajendra Kumar Miglani, former advisor of Madhya Pradesh CM Kamal Nath, in New Delhi, Sunday. (PTI)

crores was recovered during the Income Tax department’s raid at the house of private secretary of Mad-

hya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath. This has made one thing clear that those who are thieves have

a complaint against the watchman,” BJP’s national general secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya said.

Cong releases campaign slogan ‘Ab Hoga Nyay’ New Delhi, Apr 7 (PTI): The Congress on Sunday announced that its campaign slogan for the Lok Sabha polls will be ‘Ab Hoga Nyay’ while alleging that an atmosphere of ‘anyay’ (injustice) was prevailing in the country. The party’s campaign will be centred around ‘Nyay’ and the word not only alludes to the Congress’ proposed minimum guarantee scheme but encompasses justice to all sections of society, senior leader Anand Sharma said at a press conference. “There is a cry for justice in the country which

has been denied to the poor,” he said while emphasising that “the campaign will focus on winning hearts”. Sharma said the party has followed the Election Commission guidelines and taken all necessary permissions for its publicity. The campaign’s main theme song ‘Main hi toh Hindustan hoon’ has been penned by Javed Akhtar. While the campaign film has been directed by Nikkhil Advani and the cinematography is by Tushar Kanti Ray, the concept and script was provided by Anuja Chauhan, and

the music was composed by Arjunna Harjai, the Congress said. Congress president Rahul Gandhi, General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, members of the campaign panel as well that of the core committee were involved in brainstorming the campaign strategy, Sharma said. Advertising agency Percept is behind the publicity campaign, he said, adding a young team also worked for the party as part of its digital media campaign. Its campaign on digital media platforms is being

taken care by SilverPush, while other supporting agencies involved in the campaign include Design box and Nixon, he said. The themes covered in the campaign include the ‘Nyay’ scheme, poverty eradication, jobs for unemployed youths, farmers, women reservation, simplified GST, universal health care, education and startups as promised in the Congress manifesto. Party leaders said it is a 360-degrees cross-platform campaign that includes TV films, cinema spots, radio jingles, hoardings and digital screens, print adver-

tisements, social media and public transport. A special feature of the campaign will be thousands of container trucks with Congress campaign advertisements on them taking the party’s message to various parts if the country starting Sunday. The campaign also has regional adaptations in six vernacular languages, including Marathi, Bengali, Gujarati, Assamese, and Malayalam.

Centre allowed Pulwama for Modi’s victory: Farooq

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah dances during an election campaign rally in Srinagar, Sunday. (PTI)

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traffic on Jammu-Srinagar national highway. “We are being pushed for no fault of ours. Are we living in a free country or is this a colony? They have imprisoned us. They must lift this ban before there is more bloodshed in Kashmir,” Abdullah warned the authorities. The state government has banned civilian and public transport on Jammu-Srinagar highway on Sundays and Wednesdays to ensure safe passage to convoys of security forces in the aftermath of the February 14 Pulwama terror attack which killed 40 CRPF troopers.

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S r i nag a r , A p r 7 (IANS): Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah on Sunday alleged that the Central government knew about the Pulwama terror attack, but allowed it to happen so that Narendra Modi could win elections. “It is their (Centre’s) mistake. They knew that the attack was going to happen. Where did the explosives come from? Modi had to win the elections, so he did this ‘karnama’ (misadventure),” said Abdullah, who on Sunday led an NC sit-in against the ban on civilian

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OPINiON/EDITORIAL

Nagaland Post Vol. XXIX NO. 121 Dimapur, MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

Economy and jobs

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hen it comes to economy, Nagaland last year recorded a Per Capita Income (PCI) of Rs.90,000 which is not bad. That figure placed Nagaland in fourth place among all eight north eastern states. The highest PCI recorded was Sikkim with Rs.2.97 lakh and followed by Mizoram with Rs.1.28 lakh and Arunachal Pradesh in third place with Rs.1.19 lakh. The PCI however does not reflect the actual development in terms of basic infrastructures and in this area, Nagaland ranks at the lower half of the bottom. The consequences of poor infrastructure undercuts the potential for growth and that adversely affects job creation. The economy is therefore not booming but whatever has been considered, come mainly from money pumped into the local economy by the state government. The main job giver is the state government which alone employs around 1.4 lakh out of a total of 19.8 lakh people. However, despite several years of expansion of government through bifurcation of departments or creation of new ones also promoting entrepreneurship; unemployment continues to rise. These efforts have proved incapable of absorbing a larger segment among the rising number of unemployed youth in the state. There could be practically over one lakh unemployed youth in the state, by some estimates. Each year, thousands who come out of colleges or various institutions are unable to find “suitable jobs”. There are several thousand graduates, some specialized in a particular field and a few thousand post graduates but a majority are unemployed. The investments in furthering education appears to have been in vain. Frustration has grown because more and more are not finding jobs and unfortunately, expose the desperate ones into taking up undesirable activities. The sense of frustration is more when the practice of “backdoor appointment” continues in the government. Even if different ruling parties proclaim their commitment for transparency, when it comes to the test, it is the same result. The efforts to impart skills has been welcomed as it was believed to be the panacea. Imparting skills that are honed in for employment may not be the cure for the ailment because that many jobs are not available. To add to the problem, the state’s economy is on unsure ground, with no industries and restricted opportunities for investments in private enterprises owing to the feeling of insecurity. The only viable economic activity is for tapping huge resources from oil operations. However, till the oil issue is resolved, the practical aspect is to evolve a sustainable economy is agroindustrial which , has been retarded and eventually consigned to unstable ground due to frequent changes of ‘vision’. Exploiting oil resources would not only benefit the state financially but also provide the much needed quantum job opportunities for many thousands of youths with self-employment avenues. Good governance is needed to effectively enforce the rule of law and tackle lawless elements spreading their tentacles. The disinclination by authorities stem from lack of political will of those holding the reins of power. An economic vision prepared through political aberration that does not take into account the ground reality will not go far and thus be worth the paper it is printed on. This has been the case and will remain unless there is a will to make a turnaround.

DailyDevotion

Why We Lack Understanding

He commanded them that they should tell no one the things they had seen, till the Son of Man had risen from the dead. —Mark 9:9 As the disciples were commanded, you should also say nothing until the Son of Man has risen in you— until the life of the risen Christ so dominates you that you truly understand what He taught while here on earth. When you grow and develop the right condition inwardly, the words Jesus spoke become so clear that you are amazed you did not grasp them before. In fact, you were not able to understand them before because you had not yet developed the proper spiritual condition to deal with them. Our Lord doesn’t hide these things from us, but we are not prepared to receive them until we are in the right condition in our spiritual life. Jesus said, “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now” (John 16:12). We must have a oneness with His risen life before we are prepared to bear any particular truth from Him. Do we really know anything about the indwelling of the risen life of Jesus? The evidence that we do is that His Word is becoming understandable to us. God cannot reveal anything to us if we don’t have His Spirit. And our own unyielding and headstrong opinions will effectively prevent God from revealing anything to us. But our insensible thinking will end immediately once His resurrection life has its way with us. “…tell no one….” But so many people do tell what they saw on the Mount of Transfiguration— their mountaintop experience. They have seen a vision and they testify to it, but there is no connection between what they say and how they live. Their lives don’t add up because the Son of Man has not yet risen in them. How long will it be before His resurrection life is formed and evident in you and in me?

Quotes

What good is my parents’ wealth and education and upbringing if I’m not contributing to the world? ~ Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy

T

he election is leading to new thinking and a new economy. The road to it looks competitive for placating the voters with direct sops. The Congress has opened up Indira Gandhi’s socialist wonder box. Others may be trying to outwit. The issue is not who delivers and who makes it possible. The campaign is attempted to be pitched between Rs 6,000 a year to kisan that BJP promised in the central budget and Rs 6,000 a year to poor by the Congress – garibi par var, bahattar hazaar – war on poverty, Rs 72000 – to 20 percent poorest households. Everything can be delivered. The poor need it too. It costs a mere Rs 3.6 lakh crore according to Congress and some experts say it is Rs 18 lakh crore – more than the revenue earned. Even that may be possible! But its answer can be found in Odisha’s KAALIA scheme for farmers and labourers. Today Odisha is facing severe labour shortage as locals do not go to work, complacent with the dole. The state is importing labour from West Bengal and Jharkhand. It has pushed the state in debt. Competitive mindless

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

Back to Indira’s socialism

poverty removal is costing the nation in many other ways. The MNREGA also has made people lazy and many get work for cuts despite bank transfer of the “wages”. Its positive is reversal of migration of labour. But it has caused labour shortage in rural areas too. The gram sabhas and urban local bodies to “employ” youth for regenerating water bodies, the manifesto says. The funds again would obviously go from the centre. The economists who have worked out such freebies are motivated by the concept of distributing wealth. That’s laudable. But a country where economy is slowing down as the ADB has pointed out in its latest report, how would such programmes sustain it particularly as banks are in a tizzy. The manifesto does not speak for the bank health or the roadmap for creating jobs though asserts it would give jobs. Miracle may happen or not, the new slogan ties to match Modi hai to mumkin hai. His bag is yet to be opened. It has gone back to 1950s in announcing that it would create ministry of employment and one crore jobs in villages. The Nehru

government had set up employment exchanges (EE) under central government in the first plan and before the second plan transferred it to state governments. The EE remained non-functional. Nice to promise 33 percent jobs to women, but in a scenario where the economy is in a tizzy, doing that is not easy. The route suggested is to employ 22 lakh persons in government jobs. If it can be done, it may change a narrative and it should also Shivaji be seen as a failure of Manmohanomics, which had promoted privatization. The Congress is smart. It has pushed the NDA government to follow its economic policies and forced it to face jobless low-growth syndrome. The private industries except some large ones are gasping. The new back to government policy, if it can enchant the young voters, can change the electoral dynamics. Will the BJP also attempt a similar move? That means the Left may be diminishing in political scenario, their socialist ideals followed by Indira Gandhi are back. It also means the major political parties are in a

quandary. Is India unsure of the path? The welfare has become a major plank – be it rashtriya suraksha bima, ayushman bharat or now the Congress doubling of government spending on healthcare rather than insurance. So will the government be able to do that? Theoretically, it is fine but again how to work out the logistics. The manifesto has brought education at centrestage through investment of 6 percent Sarkar of GDP and free education upto class 12. The roadmap to higher education that is crumbling due to lack of social funding is not clear. The Congress and the BJP are at an even plain. But some of the sensible decisions are in replacing electoral bonds with national election fund, restoring Planning Commission, withdraw citizenship bill, scrap Angel tax, fee for government examinations and posts, law on sedition and ending AFSPA that gives draconian powers to the uniformed forces. Simply put, it is keen on deviating from the debate on nationalism-rashtravad. The sedition law – Sec 124A- is a colonial law and should

have been scrapped long back and whether AFSPA has helped or harmed nobody is sure. The bonds are stated to be opaque. Whether it’s so or not, how the new poll fund would be different has also to be explained. The restriction of Aadhar to welfare schemes may help many people whose bank accounts have been swindled. It may end the confusion that prevails in banking and many other sectors. It is not clear how restoration of special category status to NE would make a difference except for political rhetoric. There is a great disappoint. The Congress manifesto does not speak a word about high incometax, atrocious levels of highway and other tolls and bank charges. If Congress and BJP have the same policy, it would be a wonder that the voter would choose the Congress. The Congress has promised a one-rate GST including on fuels. That is a way to lure the business class who stood by the BJP even after demonetization. But there are hints that since all these promises, if the party wants to implement in sincerity may be

a disaster for the economy and the common man’s pocket. The revenue kitty is small. New taxes and levies would inevitable to bridge the gap. Congress experts are hinting at that too. So the Left-leaning budget has to gain capital and the obvious way is to burden the people with more levies. Despite some disillusionment with the BJP, this can benefit the Congress rival, which has cut income tax and post-poll is likely to redo the tax arithmetic for higher slabs. The biggest question is whether this would make difference to the Congress fortune. But the latest ED charges on the Agusta middleman may also have repercussion on the party. Would the gains of the manifesto be shadowed by Agusta? Graft remains an issue for the past few years. It may not be an easy job for the Congress but it would like to come out of it charging that these are political manipulations by the government. The voter would have the final laugh. That apart the manifesto does not unfold the map for rejuvenating the economy. Sops may charm voters but if economy does not move up it can end up in disillusionment.

Post-mortem The battle for Kohima and the battle for Nagaland

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he battle for the possession of Kohima which was started on o4, o4, 1944 at 4:00 p.m. was a very crucial battle for seizure of world power by the world’s super powers of the 1940’s. At the global level, the whole world was aflame with the flames of the 2nd World War. But in the battle for Kohima the fate of a diminishing world power and that of an emerging world power, clashed in bloody combat around a small hillock. For Britain, after ruling over India for over 200 years, if her army was defeated in the battle of Kohima, she would be forced to beat a hasty retreat from her south Asian empire in a debacle similar to her retreat from the shores of Dunkirk France in May 1940. As for Japan, though she had scored initial victories like the strike at Pearl Harbor in Dec. 1941, she too had also suffered disasters like the defeat at Midway and the Solomon Islands in 1942. But by April 1944, she had conquered the whole of South East Asia and was poised to strike India via Imphal and Kohima. If their victory could be assured in the battle of Kohima, there was every possibility that Japan could become the next super power in Asia. But unfortunately the Japanese troops alienated the Nagas who were initially trying to help them. When the Nagas turned their allegiance to the British, Kohima became a Japanese graveyard. In the battle as well as the retreat from Kohima and all across the Arakan, it is estimated that almost 70,000 of her best troops perished from the whole misadventure. Japan was never able to recover from this terrible blow and finally surrendered to the Allied Forces on Sept. 2, 1945. As for the Naga contribution to the British victory at Kohima, Field Marshal Sir William Slim wrote the following words in connection with the battle of Kohima: “There were the gallant Nagas whose loyalty even in the most depressing times of the invasion had never faltered. Despite floggings, torture, execution and the burning of their villages, they refused to aid the Japanese in any way or to betray our troops. Their active help to us was beyond the value of praise. Under the leadership of devoted British political officers, they guided our columns, collected information, ambushed enemy patrols, carried our supplies and brought in our wounded under the heaviest fire-and then being the gentlemen they were, often refused all payment. Many a British and Indian soldiers owe his life to the naked head hunting Naga, and no soldier of the Fourteenth Army who met them will ever think of them but with admiration and affection.” (Field Marshal Sir William Slim, Defeat into Victory, pp. 336 to 337). In line with this tribute, the following acknowledgement is inscribed

on the memorial stone of the 2nd Division who fell in the battle of Kohima: “Without continuously loyal aid from Naga stretcher bearers, porters and guides, this victory could not have been won.” However, despite all these tributes paid to the Nagas, when the British left their South Asian Empire on August 15, 1947, they left the Naga territories dissected into Burma and India. They also armed both India and Burma with massive weapons. But they knowingly abandoned the Nagas to a fate they clearly foresaw. Next, to quote B.N. Mullik who was then Jawaharlal Nehru’s Personal Secretary, the following words were found in his book “My Years with Nehru”: “Troops moved into Tuensang (Nagaland) by October 1955 and the war with the Nagas started from then.” (B.N. Mullik: My years with Nehru p.308). These Indian troops assisted with heavy artillery and Jet fighters burned hundreds of Naga villages into ashes in the early 1950s. They also raped, tortured and murdered thousands of innocent Naga villagers in their mad rampage all across Nagaland for the past over 6 decades. When this Indian military onslaught began, Nagas had no anti aircraft guns or any piece of artillery to fight back this massive invasion of Nagaland by India. In helpless desperation, Nagas again and again pleaded for British intervention for the sake of yesterday’s friendship with the British Government. But to date, the British had never intervened on behalf of the Nagas. We Nagas, had assisted the British Government in both the 1st and 2nd World Wars. In the 1st World War, over 4000 Nagas went to Europe to assist the British in their fight against Germany. Coming to the 2nd World War, as stated earlier, Nagas saved the British from a tragic end of empire in 1944. However, when the battle for Nagaland started in 1955 (with its roots in 1947), the British just abandoned us and watched the horrifying war in Nagaland from across the seas. This is precisely what I have called as “The greatest British betrayal of the twentieth century.” Yes, we Nagas have all watched the 75th anniversary of the battle of Kohima and have also heard and read the many words of reconciliation expressed by the British, Japanese and Indian delegates. We however, wonder if any of these delegates ever heard the silent cry of every Naga father, mother and child whose lives have been shattered by the impacts of the battle for Nagaland. Their silenced hearts will continue to silently beat for justice and restoration of their rights and national dignity long after you are all gone. Kaka D. Iralu

An election of change!?

I

t would seem as if everyone is ready for the upcoming Lok Sabha election with great expectations and hopes for a positive result. But, what if things go out of control and the multitude goes berserk for the lust of money? Are we more concerned for today or tomorrow? Will there be happiness or grief waiting for the children of tomorrow because of our inability to stand and vote for the righteous and truthful government? The hate and feeling of enmity instilled in our minds by various candidates against their opponents are daft because at the end of the show, we suffer relentlessly and they inherit the throne. As humans, we all have our own flaws and weakness but what I don’t understand is; “Why do we always keep voting for the same wanker when we can envision our pathetic future under their rule?” It is really encouraging to see various organizations and groups come together in the name of “Clean Election” by utilizing all their efforts and capabilities in enlightening the general masses on the outcome of good governance if we are honest and trustworthy voters. I understand the reason of some commoners selling their votes because of poor financial status and their neediness to acquire their wants, but this does not portray everyone’s character, because for some, it’s all about money and their greed for evil purposes. So much has happened in the recent years when elections were held and most of us are perfectly aware of the mistakes we’ve committed in the past, yet fail to overcome these wrongdoings since old habits die hard (wouldn’t you say so?). It is vividly understood and seen that the public are agitated, but their thirst for a better government lays unquenched even to this day. I write this to you readers so that it’ll serve you as a gentle reminder (everyone must be fed up by now) from stepping into the same minefield as you did in your bygone years. With high hopes and prayers shall we wait for the final result and that our dreams are fulfilled when we can proudly shout, “An Election of Change”. Thotchanmung Jamang, Wungram Colony, (thot1289@gmail.com)

Y

How to vote?

ou can vote only if your name appears in the Voter List (also known as Electoral Roll). Voters can also find information on Polling Booths, Contesting candidates, Election Dates & Timings, Identity cards and EVM. Name in Voter List/Electoral Roll: You can only vote if your name appears in the Voter List (also known as electoral roll). Verify your name on the list by either: o Logging on to electoralsearch.in o Calling the Voter Helpline 1950 (please add your STD code before dialling) o SMS <ECI> space <EPIC No> to 1950 (EPIC stands for Electors Photo Identity Card also commonly known as Voter ID card). Example - If your EPIC is 12345678 then sms ECI 12345678 to 1950 o Download Voter Helpline App F i n d Po l l i n g b o o t h (Where to vote) o Voters can go to electoralsearch.in or use Voter Helpline App to find their polling booth o Voters can call the Voter Helpline, the number is 1950 (please add your STD code before dialling) o For Polling station location SMS <ECIPS> space <EPIC No> to 1950 Mobile phones, cameras or any other gadget is not allowed inside a polling booth. Voting Process at Polling Booth o First polling official will check your name on the voter list and check your ID proof o Second polling official will ink your finger, give you a slip and take your signature on a register (Form 17A) o You will have to deposit the slip at the third polling official and show your inked finger and then proceed to the polling booth

o Record your vote by pressing the ballot button opposite the symbol of the candidate of your choice on the Electronic Voting Machine (EVM); You will hear a beep sound o Check the slip that appears in the transparent window of the VVPAT machine. The slip with the Candidate serial No., Name and Symbol shall be visible for 7 seconds before it drops in the sealed VVPAT box o You can press NOTA, None of the Above, if you don’t like any candidate, and don’t want to vote for any of them, it’s the last button on the EVM o For more information, please see the Voter Guide on http://ecisveep.nic.in/ Identity Card Voters can carry any of the recognised ID cards for polling, ‘Voter ID’ card is not compulsory: o E P I C ( Vo t e r I D card) o Passport o Driving License o S e r v i c e I d e n t i t y Cards with photograph issued to employees by Central/State Govt./PSUs/Public Limited Companies o Passbooks with photograph issued by Bank/Post Office o PAN Card o Smart Card issued by RGI under NPR o MNREGA Job Card (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee) o Health Insurance Smart Card issued under the scheme of Ministry of Labour o Pension document with photograph o O f f i c i a l i d e n t i t y cards issued to MPs/MLAs/ MLCs o Aadhaar Card Election results will be announced on 23rd May. (Media Cell, CEO Office Nagaland)

Reader’s Post Sir,

For some improvement

Some improvement is called for at New Market area especially where vendors sit out in the open space. There is no proper shed or even a decent tarpaulin to provide the necessary shade from sun and rain. Even the ground area gets muddied and filthy during the rainy season making the entire market area very unkempt. Market places need to be kept clean so as to attract more shoppers for enhanced economic returns to the state coffer. V. Kaholi Yeptho, Burma Camp, Dimapur

Reader’s note: Articles or letters published in any of the columns do not reflect the view of this newspaper nor that of the Editor in any manner.

national/state

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

BSP, SP, RLD denounce BJP, Cong

vehicle will be allowed to ply towards the Town Hall area. The entire stretch of road from the Main Traffic Police Point to DC office junction and then from DC office junction to Supply Point junction via Town Hall and SBI main branch will be declared a ‘ No parking zone.’ The road from Supply Point /Yongpang market junction towards Town Hall via SBI main branch will be declared ‘No entry.’ The change and restrictions on traffic on the routes mentioned will come into effect in different time slot: April 9- 7:30 am to 1:00 pm; April 10- 5:30 am to 03:00 pm; and April 11- 3:00 pm till the polling party completes poll day process.

(From p-1) It said that in them Rio was targeted by adversaries through creation and circulation of a fake news to selected digital media platforms stating that he had held closed door meetings with the Congress president with copies of fake news being shared with the top NDA leaders. The party said it was indeed unfortunate that the

level of Politics in the State had stooped to such a level where its political adversaries, “in their desperation and frustration”, resorted to such an “unbelievable and shocking” political strategy. However, the statement said both NDPP and PDA were confident that the people of the State were not gullible as their adversaries take them to be, adding the people would not be fooled by such “wild gimmickry”.

While appealing to the agencies to deliver justice at the earliest, NDPP also urged the people of Nagaland to continue reposing their faith and confidence in the PDA coalition and its leadership. Mentioning that the PDA remains firm and will not deviate from its pre and post poll commitments as it respects the mandate of the people, the party said it will tirelessly work towards

uplift and development of all sections in an equitable manner “standing on the principles of transparency, accountability and good governance“. And with the polling day approaching, the NDPP-PDA appealed to the citizens of Nagaland to come out and exercise their franchise by casting their votes and uphold the great democracy of “our nation”.

Highway ban throws life out of gear in J&K Valley

Srinagar, Apr 7 (AGENCIES): With the two-day-a-week ban on the movement of civilian traffic on the 270-km-long Srinagar-Jammu national highway coming into effect on Sunday, the authorities in Kashmir have deployed hundreds of security forces along the crucial stretch of the highway to secure it for the safe passage of their convoys. The restrictions

imposed on the civilian traffic have thrown normal life out of gear in the Valley, as almost negligible movement of traffic is visible on the national highway. At all major intersections and crossings along the highway sneaking across Srinagar city, the security forces comprising the CRPF, J&K Police and Rashtriya Rifles have put

up barricades, including concertina wires, to restrict the civilian traffic movement. Police personnel deployed at these spots could be seen checking the antecedents of civilians driving private vehicles as the administration has announced that patients, students and government employees would be exempted from travel restrictions.

the danger of losing their identity and uniqueness because of CAB, they added. According to the members, economy too was in doldrums as unemployment has become a matter of very serious concern. “We cannot continue to be a party to this serious anti-people policy and governance. In fact, it is our belief that the strength of India lies in unity in diversity,” they explained. The members thanked all their colleagues in the State BJP and their friends for their coordinated effort as a team in bringing the party thus far. They also urged all their friends to make an informed choice. State executive member and former chairman of State BJP’s Finance and Development Committee HK Khulu, State executive members Dr Kuhoi Zhimomi, Anito Khulu and Zandi Dmota, Zunheboto BJP unit general secretary Vitoli Chophy, Zunheboto BJP unit secretary Oto Shikhu, Zunheboto BJP unit BJYM general secretary Ivuka Z, Zunheboto BJP unit secretary Hutoshe Chophi, Zunheboto BJP unit media cell convener Ikiho Yeptho and Zunheboto BJP unit minority cell secretary Nokheto were among the 37 members who had quit the party.

Shutdown greets Modi in Imphal (From p-1) He said Congress remembers the Northeast and Manipur only at election times. “They will keep lots of promises to the people of the region but will forget after the elections over,” he said. Acknowledging Manipur for producing a number of talented sportspersons over the years, he said the BJP government has decided to make the state a sports hub and set up a national sports university. He further went on to remind the people about

India’s airstrike in Balakot (Pakistan) in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack, claiming that it was for the first time that the Indian military attacked a terror camp inside Pakistan territory. Criticising Congress for seeking hard evidence of the air strike, Modi said this showed that Congress had less faith with the Indian forces. As Prime Minister’s arrival was delayed, it compelled the state BJP leaders to take time in giving lengthy speeches in order to avoid people from leaving the venue.

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DIMAPUR, APR 7: Several traffic routes have been diverted in Mokokchung in view of the forthcoming Lok sabha polls and the 26 Aonglenden bye-elections from April 9 to 11. A press release by the Mokokchung Superintendent of Police has stated the changes in routes are to ease traffic for the poll party. The release informed the general public that the one-way traffic from the entry point of Main Traffic Police Point proceeding towards Town Hall will be diverted just before Town hall towards Upper Penli Ward or NPTO office. The traffic from Commissioner’s Guest House as well as DC Hill will be diverted towards Whispering Winds junction and no

Fake letters take State by storm; NDPP & CMO file FIRs

fice bearers and loyal party workers, including senior leaders, because of whom BJP could return with two digit figure for the first time in the Assembly. Stating that the immoral activities of Mishra had been highlighted in local media and in social media time and again, the members said the cases of cheating, forgery and embezzlement by the State president had made the rank and file of Nagaland BJP hang their heads in shame. The loyal workers have no confidence to go to the electorate before the Lok Sabha polls, they added. They declared that they agreed entirely with the writers and artistes (published in local dailies on April 2) as well as the farmers on the principle “live and let live”. They said democracy in India is at stake, particularly due to the hate politics of BJP. Stating that members of the minority communities are feeling extremely threatened, the members claimed that lynching in the name of gau raksha had become common, along with burning of churches in various parts of the country and the likelihood of the passage of Anti-conversion Bill. The people of Northeast are in

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Diversion in Mkg traffic routes for polls

has been completely violated by the present president and his team, adding that 90% senior members are not given any assignments. In fact, the letter said many office bearers and executive members are not even aware whether they are even primary members, not to talk of active members. It said there are many members, who had left the party before the last Assembly elections to either contest or support other parties, but are still office bearers. Loyal members have no place in the party, it alleged. The letter alleged that the principle of one man one post was not being followed as the State president is also a cabinet minister, for which he is unable to give adequate time for the party. Pointing out that there has been no meeting of the party to discuss any important issue pertaining to functioning or betterment of the party, the members said no party meeting was held after the Assembly elections in 2018 even to felicitate the elected members or take stock of the party’s position or discuss with the candidates who had lost the elections. The letter claimed that there is a serious disconnect between the party resident and of-

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end up splitting anti-BJP votes in the Lok Sabha elections. Speaking first at the Jamiya Tobbiya Medical College ground, former Chief Minister Mayawati was at her aggressive best as she said that removing Prime Minister Narendra Modi alone would not do and that Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath must also go. “Our gathbandhan is winning and the BJP is going, provided they don’t tamper with the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs),”

(From p-1) If CAB is passed and becomes an Act, it will have tremendous effect and change the demography of the State and the region, they cautioned. “As political leaders in the State, we have no choice but to remain with the people, hence we cannot remain a part of the party that has no respect for minority communities in the country, particularly the Northeast,” the members reasoned. They alleged that democracy was at stake in the country as there is no respect for citizens, especially religious and other minority communities. In fact, a cow is safer than a citizen from a minority community in the country today, they added. The letter said “Northeast is burning because of the Citizenship Amendment Bill. Constitutional provision such as Article 370 is proposed to be scrapped and Article 371(A) may be next.” Pointing out that the party’s constitution provides that 75% office bearers and executive members should be senior members, the members alleged that this

DP-2502(B)

D e o ba nd , A p r 7 (IANS): Addressing their first joint rally in Uttar Pradesh, BSP supremo Mayawati, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav and RLD chief Ajit Singh on Sunday declared war on both the BJP and the Congress saying they were two sides of the same coin. Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav, who shared a common public platform for the first time in years, particularly warned Muslims against supporting the Congress, alleging that the grand old party would only

ises made by the Modi government in the last Lok Sabha battle and accused the Prime Minister of speaking lies. “In the last Lok Sabha elections he (Narendra Modi) was a chaiwala and now he is a chowkidar.” Rashtriya Lok Dal’s Ajit Singh called the BJP “anti-farmer” and alleged that it had come to power by creating communal tensions. “The BJP has done nothing in the last five years. Today even the farmers are saying that their crops are being gobbled up by Modi and Yogi. But the situation is changing and the ouster of the BJP is a certainty now.” BSP’s Fazlur Rahman is contesting the election from the Saharanpur Lok Sabha constituency, which will go to the polls in the first phase on April 11. The BJP swept the 2014 Lok Sabha polls in Uttar Pradesh, winning a staggering 71 of the 80 seats. An ally won another two. The Congress won two seats and the Samajwadi Party five. The BSP won no seat.

37 BJP members quit party

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Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav, Bahujan Samaj Party supremo Mayawati, RLD chief Ch Ajit Singh wave at the supporters during their joint election rally. (PTI)

Mayawati said, adding that the voters would end the “drama of chowkidari”. Modi had not fulfilled even one fourth of the promises he made in the 2014 Lok Sabha battle that brought him to power, she said. The Prime Minister had also failed to protect the borders, she added, citing increasing instances of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Mayawati did not spare the Congress either, calling its election manifesto ‘hawa-hawai’. Akhilesh Yadav said that both the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Congress pursued the same policies. “Not a single vote should be divided. Both these parties are same. There is not much difference between them.” Speaking on the alliance, which has emerged as the most potent challenger to the BJP, he said: “This coalition is to provide a new Prime Minister.” Yadav slammed the Congress, saying the party does not want change. The SP chief raised questions about the prom-

7

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Crossword

Su doku

KAKURO

No. 9190 Yesterday’s solution No. 9189

No. 3809 Yesterday’s solution No. 3808

No. 2835 Yesterday’s solution No. 2834

Across 1 Go up and get caught on branch of tree (5) 4 Stupid animal seen while taking cards out (7) 8 Infallible authorities lose car that’s ordered (7) 9 Anger about bishop revealing scripture (5) 10 Bird seen by an ancient deity (5) 11 Start using some paint rollers (5) 13 Constantly heard in every direction (6) 15 Part of Beau Geste emphasising respect (6) 18 Racecourse for a person from Kelso, say (5) 20 Something useful - like a matching collection? (5) 23 Moment that’s doubtful on the first of January (5) 24 Graphically describe harbour light? (7) 25 Divert outsiders in race, twice entertaining public (7) 26 Place for storage of French drug (5) Down 1 European actor in a play (8) 2 Siesta after one - and time is not appropriate (5) 3 Solitary in tree? Rubbish! (7) 4 Boy’s name very recently entered (6) 5 Measure young animal with it (5) 6 This chap is a sombre sort (7) 7 Fat girl comes to end of diet (4) 12 Stone Age leader with me on your street (8) 14 Why transport to wharf? (4,3) 16 Agitated drapers exchanged blows (7) 17 The main thing holding papers together? (6) 19 Rodent turning up under arch (5) 21 Cancel fight (5) 22 Just open for a drink (4)

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New Delhi, Apr 7 (IANS): Budget passenger carrier SpiceJet will commence a daily direct flight connecting Mumbai with Bangkok from May 17, 2019. According to the airline, Bangkok is the second international destination after Dubai that it will connect with a direct flight from Mumbai. The airline already operates non-stop flights from Bangkok to Ahmeda-

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Arun Jaitley and comprising state ministers, in its meeting on January 10 had permitted service providers and those dealing in both goods and services with a turnover of up to Rs 50 lakh to opt for composition scheme with effect from April 1. The GST composition scheme was so far available to traders and manufacturers of goods with an annual turnover of up to Rs 1 crore. This threshold too has increased to Rs 1.5 crore from April 1. Under the scheme, traders and manufacturers are required to pay only 1 per cent GST on goods which otherwise attract a higher levy of either 5, 12 or 18 per cent. Such dealers are also not permitted to charge GST from the purchaser.

SpiceJet to start new flights from May

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and Customs (CBIC) said suppliers who want to opt for composition scheme would have to file Form GST CMP-02 by selecting ‘Any other supplier eligible for composition levy’ latest by April 30, 2019. Businesses which apply for new registration may avail the said benefit in Form GST REG-01 at the time of filing application for registration. AMRG & Associates Partner Rajat Mohan said “numerous service providers tried to file this intimation opting composition scheme recently but were denied due to a legal embargo. Now with this clarification, GSTN would start accepting the intimations soon”. The GST Council, headed by Finance Minister

and that of SBI dropped by Rs 3,391.35 crore to Rs 2,82,910 crore. ITC suffered an erosion of Rs 2,513.02 crore to Rs 3,61,200.58 crore, while Kotak Mahindra Bank’s valuation reduced by 82.09 crore to 2,54,783.55 crore. In the ranking of top10 firms, RIL stood at number one position, followed by TCS, HDFC Bank, ITC, HUL, HDFC, Infosys, State Bank of India (SBI), Kotak Mahindra Bank and ICICI Bank. During the week, the Sensex advanced by 182.32 points, or 0.48 per cent and the Nifty gained 42.05 points, or 0.36 per cent.

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(4.5 km from Zion Hospital) Area : Any Size plot available Price : 160 per sq. ft. * Plots with drainage and approach road Contact : 8787777148

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New Delhi,Apr 7 (PTI): Aviation turbine fuel (ATF) should be brought under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime as it will ensure a level playing field for the domestic airline industry, Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu said. He said input costs should be competitive for any sector and the ministry has been of the strong view that the fuel should be brought under the GST

New Delhi, Apr 7 (PTI): The tax department has given service providers with a turnover of up to Rs 50 lakh time till April 30 to opt for the composition scheme and pay 6 per cent GST. The option to pay Goods and Services Tax (GST) at the reduced rate of 6 per cent would be effective from the beginning of the financial year or from the date of obtaining new registration during the financial year. Service providers opting for the composition scheme can charge a lower tax rate of 6 per cent from customers, as against the higher rates of 12 and 18 per cent for most services under GST. In a circular, the Central Board of Indirect Taxes

soared by Rs 19,155.92 crore to Rs 7,69,782.96 crore. HDFC’s valuation surged Rs 15,346.61 crore to Rs 3,54,004.99 crore and that of Infosys jumped Rs 6,094.66 crore to Rs 3,30,400.44 crore. In contrast, the mcap of Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) slumped by Rs 10,412.23 crore to Rs 3,59,275.99 crore. ICICI Bank’s valuation dived Rs 5,376.90 crore to Rs 2,51,729.21 crore, and that of RIL tumbled Rs 5,039.26 crore to Rs 8,58,956.4 crore. The m-cap of HDFC Bank eroded by Rs 4,016.88 crore to Rs 6,26,837.10 crore,

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Suresh Prabhu (File)

regime. Different rates of taxes in states pushes the price of ATF, he said. “Each state has a different tax. Due to this, the refuelling (for airlines) cost completely changes. We feel that it should be done. I hope the GST Council takes a call on that and we are pursuing this with the council continuously.” “We will work on it that aviation fuel should also be brought under GST for predictability and for ensuring level playing field,” the minister told PTI in an interview. Airlines have been demanding inclusion of ATF in the new indirect tax regime. Airlines could expect an annual relief of up to Rs 5,000 crore by way of input tax credit if ATF is brought under GST.

Service providers can opt for GST composition scheme by April 30

New Delhi, Apr 7 (PTI): Three of the 10 most valued firms together added Rs 40,597 crore in market valuation last week, with TCS emerging as the biggest gainer. From the top-10 pack, TCS, HDFC and Infosys saw gains to their market capitalisation (m-cap) for the week ended Friday, while Reliance Industries (RIL), ITC, HUL, HDFC, SBI, ICICI Bank and Kotak Mahindra Bank suffered losses. The cumulative gains of TCS, HDFC and Infosys were higher than the total loss suffered by the seven firms, which stood at Rs 30,758.64 crore. The m-cap of TCS

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Suresh Prabhu bats for bringing ATF under GST

count can become a further drag on the banks,” said an official of public sector bank asking not to be named. The Supreme Court on Tuesday quashed the February 12, 2018 circular of RBI that asked banks to start resolution of an account even if there was one day default in repayment of loans. This resolution would have to be completed in 180 days failing which it would be mandatory upon banks to refer it for bankruptcy proceedings. Following this order from the apex court, it was widely believed that banks would use extra time now available with them for resolution. But for Jet, PSBs are in no mood for extended period of resolution.

New Delhi, Apr 7 (PTI): India’s coal import increased by 7.8 per cent to 212.11 million tonnes in the April-February period of FY19, a report said. This comes at a time when the government is looking at relaxing the timeline for the 1 billion tonne coal production target it had set earlier for Coal India (CIL), which accounts for over 80 per cent of the domestic coal output. The country produced 196.59 million tonnes (MT) of coal in April-February period of fiscal 2017-18, according to the report by mjunction services. “During April-February 2018-19, coal and coke imports stood at 212.11 MT, about 7.89 percent increase over 196.59 MT recorded for the same period last year,” it said. Coal imports in the month of February was at 18.31 MT (provisional) as compared to 21.15 MT (revised) in January 2019, it said. Coal and coke imports in February 2018 stood at 15.98 MT, according to mjunction’s compilation. Of the total imports during February 2019, noncoking coal was at 13.86 MT, against 14.59 MT imported in January 2019, it said.

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for resolution,” the source added. Jet first defaulted on loan repayment on December 31. Going by this, the 180 day period from default will end on June 30. Once the matter lands in NCLT, banks get another 180 days to find a resolution of the stressed asset with an extension of 90 days, if required. Post this, if banks fail to resolve the account, liquidation process starts. “We will go by the 180-day deadline that was being followed as per now defunct RBI circular. With each day the problem at Jet seems to be multiplying and if a resolution is not achieved immediately, there is no point to drag the issue any further but to take the account for bankruptcy. Otherwise, the airline ac-

Meanwhile, the lenders on Saturday invited expression of interest (EoI) from investors looking to pick up majority stake in Jet. The EoI would have to be submitted by April 9. Extensions could be considered, if bids are not satisfactory. A statement issued on Thursday by a consortium of lenders led by the State Bank of India (SBI) said : “The lenders intend to pursue the bank-Led resolution plan for sale of stake in the company in a time-bound manner under the present legal and regulatory framework and intend to invite expressions of interest.” Jet Airway’s former Chairman Naresh Goyal has said he has cooperated fully and facilitated the bank-led resolution programme for the company. On March 25, Goyal had stepped down from the board of the airline and ceded majority control to the SBI-led consortium. Under the debt resolution plan, the lenders would inject up to Rs 1,500 crore working capital into the airline and convert their debt into equity, to revive the airline and then sell their stake in it. The airline owes over Rs 8,000 crore to lenders.

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New Delhi, Apr 7 (IANS): Public sector banks, led by State Bank of India, have given themselves 180 days to resolve the Jet Airways account even though the time limit has become irrelevant post Supreme Court order that quashed an earlier RBI circular on debt resolution. Official sources in the Finance Ministry said that banks have informed the ministry that they were not ready to wait endlessly to restore health of the beleaguered airline and if attempts to bring in a strategic investor fails or is not completed by June 30, lenders may immediately initiate bankruptcy proceedings against Jet. “All attempts are being made to see that Jet Airways does not fail and its operations are maintained albeit on a smaller scale. Banks, including SBI and Punjab National Bank (PNB) have already decided to provide interim funding support of Rs 1,500 crore to Jet,” a source in the finance ministry said. “Now effort is on to bring in a strategic investor. But if there are no satisfactory bids, banks would not wait anymore and refer the airline to National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT)

Three of top 10 companies add Rs 40,597 crore to m-cap

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180 days to resolve Jet Airways account

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Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

UN calls for ‘urgent’ Libya truce

TRIPOLI, Apr 7 (Agencies): The military conflict shaking Libya escalated Sunday as forces of strongman Khalifa Haftar launched an air strike on a suburb of Tripoli and the UN-backed government vowed a major counteroffensive. The United Nations called for an urgent twohour truce for the southern outskirts of the capital to allow evacuations of civilians and the wounded. Rivalries between the two camps threaten to plunge the country into a full-blown civil war after Haftar on Thursday launched an offensive on Tripoli. Oil-rich Libya has been riven by chaos since the NATO-backed uprising in 2011 that killed dictator Moamer Kadhafi, with rival administrations and armed groups vying for power. Repeated attempts to find a peaceful solution have failed. After a pause overnight, fierce fighting flared anew on Sunday morning south of the capital between Haftar’s self-styled Libyan National Army (LNA) and forces backing the internationally recognised Government of National Accord (GNA). As clashes raged in the mainly farmland re-

Libyan National Army members head for Tripoli. (Esam Omran al-Fetori/Reuters)

gion of Wadi Raba and the disused international airport south of the capital, a spokesman for pro-GNA forces said a “counteroffensive” had been launched to push back Haftar’s forces. Colonel Mohamed Gnounou told reporters that operation “Volcano of Anger” was aimed at “purging all Libyan cities of aggressor and illegitimate forces”, in reference to Haftar fighters. The LNA meanwhile announced it had carried out its first air raid on a Tripoli suburb, despite calls by the international community to halt hostilities. GNA head Fayez alSarraj warned on Saturday of a “war without a winner” and said that reinforcements were pouring into Tripoli

from several regions. Powerful armed groups from the western city of Misrata and fighters from Zentan and Zawiya - all battle-hardened militiamen who took part in the 2011 uprising that toppled Kadhafi - have joined the battle. At least one armed group from Misrata known as Brigade 166 arrived Saturday in eastern Tripoli with dozens of vehicles, some mounted with anti-aircraft guns, to join the counter-offensive, an AFP photographer said. “We are waiting for orders to repel any advance by the enemy towards Tripoli,” said the group’s spokesman Khaled Abu Jazia. Misrata fighters ousted the Islamic State group from Libya’s coastal city of Sirte,

Theresa May issues ‘stark’ warning of no Brexit at all London, Apr 7 (PTI): A cornered Theresa May issued a “stark” warning to the warring factions within the UK Parliament that the choice was between agreeing on a withdrawal agreement or risk no Brexit at all. In her latest statement from Downing Street on Saturday evening, the British Prime Minister sought to defend her move to reach out to Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn in an attempt to break the ongoing parliamentary deadlock over Britain’s impending exit from the European Union (EU). “Because Parliament has made clear it will stop the UK leaving without a deal, we now have a stark choice: leave the European Union with a deal or do not leave at all,” she said. “My answer to that is clear: we must deliver Brexit and to do so we must agree a deal. If we cannot secure a majority among Conservative and DUP MPs we have no choice but to reach out across the House of Commons,” she added. Her latest intervention comes amid a mounting mutiny within her own Conservative Party for sitting down with Corbyn to thrash out a solution, which will inevitably take the form of a so-called soft Brexit given Labour’s preference

Theresa May (File)

for a common Customs Union with the EU as part of any future relationship with the economic bloc. However, the British PM highlighted that it was either that or not leaving the 28-member economic bloc at all and reneging on the June 2016 referendum in favour of Brexit. She said: “The longer this takes, the greater the risk of the UK never leaving at all. It would mean letting the Brexit the British people voted for slip through our fingers. “I will not stand for that. It is essential we deliver what people voted for and to do that we need to get a deal over the line.” In a clear attempt at placating her hard Brexiteer party MPs, May insisted that there are areas where the two main UK parties, Conservatives and Labour, agree. “We both want to end free movement, we both want to leave with a

Haven’t read Mueller report yet, says Trump WASHINGTON, Apr 7 (Agencies): U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday he had not read Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s report investigating contacts between his 2016 campaign and Russia that his Democratic opponents say should be released in full. “I have not read the Mueller Report yet, even though I have every right to do so,” Trump wrote on Twitter. “Only know the conclusions, and on the big one, No Collusion.” According to Reuters, US Attorney General William Barr has said he plans to make public a redacted copy of the nearly 400page investigative report into Russian interference in the 2016 election by the middle of this month, if K Y M C

not sooner. On March 22, Mueller completed his 22-month probe and Barr sent a fourpage letter to Congress two days later outlining the main findings. Barr told lawmakers the investigation did not establish that members of Trump’s election campaign conspired with Russia, but also did not exonerate the president on obstruction of justice. Barr said he had concluded there was not enough evidence to show that Trump committed the crime of obstruction. But news media reports this week said members of Mueller’s team were unhappy with the way Barr, a Trump appointee, had characterized the report’s conclusions.

good deal, and we both want to protect jobs. That is the basis for a compromise that can win a majority in Parliament and winning that majority is the only way to deliver Brexit,” she stressed. May is set for another trip to Brussels next week to follow up on her letter to European Council President Donald Tusk seeking a short extension to Article 50 until June 30. However, it remains to be seen what the remaining EU member countries will be willing to agree to, with any decision on an extension to the Brexit mechanism requiring their unanimous backing. The UK has already sought one extension to the March 29 Brexit deadline and is set to crash out of the bloc on April 12 unless an alternative arrangement is agreed with the EU. British MPs have rejected May’s EU divorce bill three times over the controversial Irish backstop clause and last week’s talks between the two main parties were aimed at trying to find a proposal which could break the deadlock in the Commons before an emergency EU summit on Wednesday. However, the three days of meetings stalled without agreement on Friday.

Kadhafi’s hometown, in 2016 after months of bitter fighting. Sunday’s LNA air raid came a day after forces backing the GNA launched air strikes on their rivals for the first time since the offensive began, with at least one targeting an LNA position south of Tripoli. L NA s p o k e s m a n Ahmed Mesmari had vowed the force would retaliate. On Saturday he said pro-Haftar fighters were “progressing on several fronts... as planned” and that Tripoli would soon be captured. Analysts say Haftar has been buoyed by a series of successful military operations that have brought all of the east and much of the south of Libya under his control. A field marshal who served under Kadhafi and now backs an administration in eastern Libya opposed to the GNA, Haftar was counting on a swift battle to capture Tripoli but some experts say he miscalculated. “To date, Haftar’s operation has mostly failed to go according to plan, and it has now galvanised western Libyan forces against him,” said analyst Wolfram Lacher.

Pak releases 100 Indian fishermen in first batch KARACHI, Apr 7 (Agencies): Pakistan on Sunday released 100 Indian fishermen arrested for violating the country’s maritime borders as a goodwill gesture. The Indian prisoners will be brought from Karachi camp station to Lahore. They will then be handed over to Indian authorities via Wagah Border. As a goodwill gesture amid tense situation with India, Pakistan had announced to release 360 Indian prisoners including 355 fishermen and five civilians during the month of April. The prisoners will be released in four batches, scheduled as 100 each on April 8, 15 and 29 while 60 prisoners including 55 fishermen and five civilians will be freed on April 29, Foreign Office Spokesman Dr Mohammad Faisal said at his weekly press briefing. He informed the decision had been taken for 360 out of the total 537 Indian prisoners, who had completed their sentence. “Pakistan expects that India will reciprocate the gesture to release 347 Pakistani prisoners including 249 civilians and 98 fishermen, currently languishing in Indian jails,” the FO spokesman added. Earlier, Pakistan had decided to release 360 Indian fishermen from jail in four different batches beginning from April 5.

India planning to attack us: Qureshi Islamabad, Apr 7 (IANS): India is planning to attack Pakistan after staging a “mishap” in Jammu and Kashmir and this could happen between April 16 and 20, Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said on Sunday. He urged the international community to reprimand India for what he said was its “irresponsible conduct”, the Dawn reported. Qureshi told the media in Multan that Islamabad had “reliable intelligence that India is devising a new plan” to attack Pakistan. “I am speaking responsibly, I hold a position of responsibility, and I know the words I utter will be picked up by the international media,” he said. “Preparations are being made (by India), and there are chances of another attack against Pakistan. According to our information, the action could be taken between April 16-20. “A new mishap could be staged in Indian Kashmir, just like (the) Pulwama (attack). And its purpose will be to justify their (India’s) offensive against Pakistan and to increase diplomatic pressure against Islamabad,” he said.

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Israel PM vows to annex West Bank settlements if re-elected London, Apr 7 (Agencies): Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has said he will annex Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank if he is re-elected. According to BBC, Israelis go to the polls on Tuesday and Mr Netanyahu is competing for votes with right-wing parties who support annexing part of the West Bank. The settlements are illegal under international law, though Israel disputes this. Last month the US recognised the occupied Golan Heights, seized from Syria in 1967, as Israeli territory. Israel has settled about 400,000 Jews in West Bank settlements, with another 200,000 living in East Jerusalem. There are about 2.5 million Palestinians living in the West Bank. Palestinians want to establish a state in the occupied West Bank, East Jerusalem and the Gaza Strip. What happens to the settlements is one of the most contentious issues between Israel and the Palestinians - Palestinians say the presence of settlements makes a future independent state impossible. Israel says

Benjamin Netanyahu (File)

the Palestinians are using the issue of settlements as a pretext to avoid direct peace talks. It says settlements are not a genuine obstacle to peace and are negotiable. He was asked during an interview on Israeli TV why he had not extended Israeli sovereignty to large settlements in the West Bank. “You are asking whether we are moving on to the next stage - the answer is yes, we will move to the next stage,” he said. “I am going to extend [Israeli] sovereignty and I don’t distinguish between settlement blocs and the isolated settlements.” Senior Palestinian official Saeb Erekat said the statement by Mr Netanyahu was “not surprising”.

He added: “Israel will continue to brazenly violate international law for as long as the international community will continue to reward Israel with impunity, particularly with the Trump administration’s support and endorsement of Israel’s violation of the national and human rights of the people of Palestine.” A spokesman for Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas told Reuters: “Any measures and any announcements will not change the facts. Settlements are illegal and they will be removed.” These comments by Benjamin Netanyahu are potentially explosive over an issue that has helped stall peace efforts for years. They will resonate with several parties with which he’ll try to form a coalition government if he wins the biggest share of votes. But the very idea of annexation will rouse new Palestinian fury, as well as international condemnation. Mr Netanyahu may have been emboldened by the Trump administration, which just last month recognised Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights.

Rwanda marks 25th anniversary of genocide Lo n d o n, A p r 7 ( Ag e n c i e s ) : C o m memorations have begun in Rwanda to mark the 25th anniversary of the genocide that killed about a tenth of the population. The country will mourn for 100 days, the time it took in 1994 for 800,000 Rwandans to be massacred. Most were minority Tutsis, killed by ethnic Hutu extremists. President Paul Kagame, who led the rebel force that ended the genocide, lit a remembrance flame at the memorial in the capital, Kigali. The commemoration activities began with the flamelighting ceremony at the memorial, where about 250,000 victims are said to be buried. The flame will burn for 100 days. The 61-year-old president, who has led the country since the end of the genocide, is scheduled to make a speech at the Kigali Convention Centre. He will then lead a vigil at the Amahoro National Stadium, which was used by United Nations officials to try to protect Tutsis during the killings. A number of foreign leaders are expected to be at some of the events. They are mainly African, although Prime Minister Charles Michel will represent the former colonial ruler, Belgium. French President Em-

men, women and children who lost their lives over 100 days in 1994. But for survivors, the memories never fade. It might be a quarter of a century but it doesn’t feel like it. They still carry the scars, literally and figuratively, of those days. They are still forced to explain to their children Pictures of victims at the Genocide Memorial in Kigali. why they don’t have grandparents or aunts and uncles. manuel Macron will not falls silent to remember the They still dream of the horbe there. This week he ap- hundreds of thousands of rors they witnessed. pointed a panel of experts to investigate France’s role 1ST DEATH ANNIVERSARY in the genocide. OF LATE. Dr. BENDANGKOKBA JAMIR (LONGSA) France was a close ally 8th April 2018 of the Hutu-led government prior to the massacres It broke our hearts to lose you, and has been accused of but you did not go alone. ignoring warning signs and A part of us went with you. training the militias who If tears could build a stairway, carried out the attacks. And heartaches make a lane, France will be repre- We’d walk our way to heaven, sented by Herve Berville, And bring you back again. a Rwandan-born MP. In life we loved you dearly, Ugandan President In death we love you still, Yoweri Museveni will also not be there. He has been In our hearts you hold a place accused of backing Rwan- That no one could ever fill. dan rebels who oppose Mr Miss you deeply. Kagame. Loving, At midday, Rwanda Wife & Son, Shisar .B. Jamir K-875

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

July 20, 1981 – April 1, 2019 In the midst of darkness, the grace of God manifests itself through gentle hearts overwhelmed with love. The memories remain forever etched in our hearts. Words are inadequate to express our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who stood by our family during the sudden demise of our beloved Mr. Tongpangnokdang Longchar (Chungtia) who passed away on April 1, 2019. His untimely death came as a shock twirled with pain and sorrow. Despite such unfathomable grief, we, the family of Late Tongpangnokdang Longchar, found peace through the acts of kindness by people from all walks of life. We deeply acknowledge all- neighbours, villagers, the citizens of Dilong Ward, friends and colleagues from Mokokchung Town, Tamlu Town and beyond. Your kind physical, financial and moral support greatly lightened our sorrows and gave us solace. Your kind deeds have greatly assuaged and comforted us during this time of sorrow. We are unable to personally thank you all, but it is our humble prayer that our good Lord would bless you abundantly. Loving dad, mom, brothers, sisters and relatives. MKC-155

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Infotainment

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India needs human-centric AI to curb fake news

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s social media giants fight to curb fake news ahead of the Lok Sabha polls, an Indian-origin tech junkie has stressed it is not enough as the nation needs better human-centric Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based solutions to combat the spread of misinformation. For Lyric Jain, a 22year-old Cambridge and MIT graduate, social media platforms and other stakeholders, including the government, may design solutions to fight fake news but there will be glitches, as is with the case with any technology.

“India needs to prepare better as the stakes are high. Facebook is taking the problem of fake news seriously but there are many other digital platforms that aren’t working towards that direction,” Jain told IANS. Conceived by Jain, Logically has been developed by a diverse team of data scientists, coders, designers and journalists. Adding a layer of credibility to the Internet to battle misinformation, the Logically platform acts as a real-time, user-friendly filter, ensuring users can quickly consume informa-

tion that is fair, authentic, credible and trusted (FACT). “News isn’t just limited to media houses anymore. The idea is to create ‘responsible sharing’ among people,” said Jain. “Logically will analyse whether the information is fake or not, even if the information is being provided by a well-known journalist from a credible publication,” he added. When asked how the technology works, Jain replied: “It is a humancentric AI effort”. “We analyse the content or text, check the meta-

data that is being mined and see how information is being circulated across networks. “We then combine these indicators and conclude whether the news is credible or not. Also, our human fact-checking team complies with the international fact-checking standards,” Jain said, adding that it was the fake news and political interference debate around Brexit and the 2016 US Presidential elections that drove him to launch the Logically platform. As the India elections inch closer, Jain said the platform will try its best to analyse the flow of information. Logically taps deep learning algorithms and web graphs of millions of web sites from top publishers around the world to identify top quality sources for trending, quality news, per category, query, or article. “Logically will look for information that is misleading, distorting or interfering with the elections,” he added. (IANS)

Nickleback in no rush to record new album

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had Kroeger has told Billboard that Nickleback is in no rush to begin work on the followup to 2017’s “Feed The Machine” album. “Now there isn’t this urgency,” he said. “It’s not like you have this amount of time you have to make a record because we’re going to go tour. It’s not [snaps fingers a few times] rinse and repeat, rinse and repeat, with pressure from management, booking agents, record company. That’s not there anymore. It’s so nice and it really allows me a lot of time to, er — drink.” Kroeger co-founded Nickleback in 1995 in Alberta, Canada with his brother Mike, who plays bass for the band. They have released nine albums, six of which have gone platinum. With more than 50 million units sold, Nickleback is the 11th best-selling music act and second best-selling foreign act in the U.S. in the 21st century behind The Beatles. “How You Remind Me” was named Billboard’s top rock song of the decade and reached No. 4 on the Top 10 songs of the 2000s list. (Blabbermouth)

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

Lots of positive stuff for female stars in showbiz: SRK

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hah Rukh Khan feels the attitude towards women is changing for good in India. The Indian superstar says there are lots of positive developments for female actors in the film industry. The actor expressed his views on the changing gender dynamics in Indian entertainment industry in an interview to BBC Asian Network. He was in London to receive an honorary doctorate in Philanthropy from The University of Law, London. “The roles of women and the kind of attitude you have at the workplace for women is changing for positive,” Shah Rukh is seen saying in the video shared on the official Twitter handle of BBC Asian Network. “There will be discrepancies and ups and downs too. There were times when I was working in the 1990s that if a lady got married, she normally did not have the opportunity to come back and act in a film. “But now they are married and acting in films and its so seamless and nice, so I think lots of positive stuff

for female actors in the film industry,” he added. On the film front, Shah Rukh has failed to generate box office hits despite his wide fan following and ‘superstar’ status. With “Dilwale”, “Fan”, “Raees”, “Jab Harry Met Sejal” and last year’s “Zero”, Shah Rukh’s projects have failed to elicit the expected response backto-back. There was some respite for him with “Dear Zindagi”, but the film was about the journey of Alia Bhatt’s character Kaira and his role was more about helping Kaira discover happiness. He was also seen in hit film “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” in a special and brief role. What will his next role be?

“My next role will be as sexy as my last one. So you want me to be a sexy father, a sexy hero, sexy whatever you want me to be. My next role will be as sexy as you want me to be,” he said. “When I meet people around the world, they will turn around and say ‘your films makes us happy’. And that is very encouraging. But I want to now make people happy personally and change their lives,” he said. On being asked about filmmakers’ fight with the Indian censor board, the superstar said: “There are going to be issues between creative people and what they want to say but I would say no filmmaker, ever, I think wants to disturb the sensibilities of the audience. People are changing, society is changing but culturally I think we are a very strong nation and I think that needs to be respected always.” Over the years, Shah Rukh has established himself as a successful actor, film producer, television host, philanthropist and an entrepreneur. (IANS)

and bassist Johnny April — playing a three-song acoustic finale with current drummer Sal Giancarelli. It marked Staind’s first live appearance in three years. Prior to the the “Aaron Lewis And Friends” concert, Mushok told iRockRadio that he “definitely” wanted to make new music with Staind. He also confirmed that Staind doesn’t have a record label at the moment. Mushok said: “I don’t think it’s necessary for us to do a 10-song re-

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assachusettsbased rockers Staind have shared a short video on their social media sites, teasing what appears to be some sort of announcement. The 17-second clip features the band’s logo accompanied by video static and the caption “stay tuned.” Some fans have speculated that Staind will announce its return to the live stage in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the band’s “Dysfunction”

cord. It’s just so much work to get a good record done. [And albums] don’t sell at all. You get the same bang for the buck if you put out one or three [songs], or whatever it is — as long as it’s great.” Lewis first dipped his toes into country music with his 2011 EP, “Town Line”. His second fulllength album, “Sinner”, arrived in the fall of 2016 and was followed by a stand-alone single, “Folded Flag”.

Lewis will release his third full-length country album, “State I’m In”, on April 12 via Big Machine imprint Valory Music. Mushok and ex-Three Days Grace vocalist Adam Gontier unveiled Saint Asonia in early 2015, releasing a self-titled debut album and scoring a Top 10 rock single with “Better Place”. Saint Asonia’s second full-length effort is due later this year via Spinefarm Records. (Blabbermouth)

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Staind teases return to live activity

album, which was released on April 13, 1999. Staind vocalist Aaron Lewis recently hinted that the band would regroup in 2020, adding that “there might even be live shows this year.” The last time Staind performed was back in August 2017 at the “Aaron Lewis And Friends” benefit concert in Northampton, Massachusetts. The event saw three of the band’s original members — Lewis, guitarist Mike Mushok

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ctor and vociferous Bharatiya Janata Party supporter Anupam Kher faced the heat over a Twitter post in which he commented on the move of over 600 film and theatre artistes urging people not to vote for the BJP. Anupam pointed out how some people from the film fraternity were “officially campaigning” for opposition parties by releasing a letter for the public. But it didn’t go down well with netizens, as well as actresses Swara Bhasker and Soni Razdan who reminded him of “democracy”. “Some people from my fraternity have issued a letter for public to vote out the present government in elections. In other words, they are officially campaigning for opposition parties. Good! At least there are no pretensions here. Great,” he wrote. The comment was aimed at the letter by artistes, including Amol Palekar, Naseer uddin Shah and Konkona Sen Sharma. They K Y M C

had made a joint appeal to people to “help safeguard the Constitution and our syncretism, secular ethos” by not voting for the BJP. Reacting to Anupam’s tweet, Swara wrote: “Yes, it’s called democracy sir.” Anupam replied: “Agreed! As long as it is not confused with intolerance when others use it.” Soni stepped in the debate, and commented: “If you can align yourself to the present government, why would you think others doing the same are any different? Just curious.” Anupam then clarified saying he was just making an “observation”. Unlike Anupam, several celebrities hailed the artistes’ appeal to people to vote out the government in the elections. “Fukrey” actress Richa Chadha wrote: “I applaud the artistes fraternity for taking a stand, rejecting the politics of hate. “I also understand the motivation of people seeking destruction of the nation’s social, moral fabric for temporary gains like cash for tweets and laal batti perks. It is an uncertain industry.” Voting in the sevenphase Lok Sabha elections will begin on April 11 and conclude on May 19. (IANS)

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Anupam’s tweet on artistes’ vote call sparks debate

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sports

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

Bayern reclaim Bundesliga top spot Wozniacki, Keys in Charleston final

MUNICH, Apr 7 (Agencies): Champions Bayern Munich dismantled Bundesliga title rivals Borussia Dortmund 5-0 on Saturday, scoring four goals in a flawless first half to reclaim top spot and get back on course for a recordextending seventh straight league crown. The Bavarians exploded into action and scored twice in the opening 17 minutes through Mats Hummels and Robert Lewandowski, adding two more from Javi Martinez and Serge Gnabry before the interval. Lewandowski’s strike meant the Polish forward became only the fifth player in Bundesliga history to reach the 200-goal mark and the first foreigner to do so. The hosts, who drew 1-1 at Freiburg last week, stepped off the gas after the break and controlled the game before Lewandowski scored again in the 89th minute and Bayern moved up to 64 points with six matches remaining, one point clear of Dortmund. The first chance, however, fell to Dortmund with Mo Dahoud hitting the post after a lightning quick break. But that was the last Dortmund attack for a long

Bayern Munich players celebrate after scoring a goal during their Bundesliga match against Borussia Dortmund.

time, with a glancing header by Hummels putting the host ahead in the 10th minute and highlighting their aerial superiority. In total Bayern had 22 shots on goal compared to Dortmund’s four and things got worse when Dan-Axel Zagadou’s backpass fell to Lewandowski in the 17th

and the Bundesliga’s leading scorer chipped it over keeper Roman Buerki and volleyed in. Poland’s Lewandowski, who has scored 21 in the league this season, was the first player to break the 200goal milestone since 1987. Buerki had to rescue his team again when Hum-

mels and Lewandowski beat the Dortmund defenders in the air. The keeper denied Thomas Mueller from close range in the 41st minute but could do nothing to stop Martinez’s rebound that put the hosts 3-0 up. Gnabry added another to kill off any hopes of a

Lin Dan wins Malaysia Open to end title drought

(L-R) Chen Long, Lee Chong Wei and Lin Dan on the podium at the men’s singles presentation ceremony.

Lin up against an in-form Chen, who got breezed through the Open impressively in a series of straight matches. But the 35-year-old

Lin, five years Chen’s senior, dictated the pace by working his opponent with deft netplay and his trademark ferocious front court smash.

The title is Lin’s first win this year, and also his first major success since taking the Malaysia Open in 2017. The two-time Olympic gold medallist received a $49,000 cash prize presented by his long-time Malaysian rival Lee Chong Wei, who sat out the Open over his cancer recovery. Lin said he hoped to meet Lee on court again, as both men prepare for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Lee has been on the sidelines since July last year, when he was diagnosed with early-stage nose cancer, and is seeking to make a full recovery.

Coutinho not planning PL return Madrid, Apr 7 (Agencies): Philippe Coutinho has ruled out returning to the Premier League this summer, insisting he is happy to remain at Barcelona. The Brazilian midfielder has struggled to hold down a regular starting spot since moving to the Nou Camp from Liverpool in January 2018. Reports have suggested he could cut short his time in Spain and return to England, with the likes of Manchester

United and Chelsea said to be interested. However, Coutinho has given those stories short shrift, saying, “My head is exclusively in Barcelona. Returning to England now does not fit into my plans.” “This is my second season here. I have won titles but I am always an ambitious and demanding player. So, I want more and more. But I’m happy. I wanted to play in Spain and I’m at the best club in Spain.”

Caroline Wozniack returns a shot to Petra Martic during their Charleston Open semi-final match. (R) Madison Keys reacts during her match against Monica Puig.

lead in the second set but the 16th-seeded Martic bounced back to level at 4-4 before the Dane broke back and closed out the match. “I thought I was close,” said Martic. “But many players feel this way against Caroline. I felt like I couldn’t keep up with her physically.” Keys led 4-3 in the first set when rain halted her match with Puerto Rico’s Puig. The big-hitting American, who upset top seed Sloane Stephens in the quarter-finals, lost only one more game, winning eight in a row to seal victory. Keys closed out the first set with a forehand service return, then broke Puig, the Olympic champion, three

times in the decider. Puig did not go quickly in the final game, though, saving three match points before Keys hit a big forehand return on a fourth match point to force an error from Puig. The rain delay helped Keys. “Honestly it was good,” she said. “I had just gotten broken and I got to go inside a reset. I think I did a pretty good job to close it out.” Keys, who has lost to Wozniacki twice, said meeting the Dane on clay could work in her favour. “It’s a little bit of a slower court,” Keys said. “My heavy ball will work better so I think I will be able to do a little more.”

KOHIMA FOOTBALL LEAGUE 3RD EDITION Theme : “To be a Professional Foootballer ”

Scheduled : May (Tentative) 2019 Venue : IG Stadium Kohima Total cash prize of over Rs 4 Lacs

Inviting all the interested clubs to kindly obtain forms at: Sports Paradise Rüluo Market Kezieke/ Global Sports opposite Oking Hospital/ Wonderland Shop Old NST Contacts : 9402211604 / 8794477894 / 9862835381 *Last date of form submission 15th April 2019 Organized by Kohima Town Club K-885

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KUALA LUMPUR, Apr 7 (PTI): Chinese badminton ace Lin Dan clinched the Malaysia Open Sunday after an electric performance against countryman Chen Long to claim his first major title in two years. The win comes after the five-time world champion made several early round exits since January, including at the Indonesia Masters, German Open and the All-England. But in a nail-biting 78minute match, the world number 16 smashed his way back to victory with a final score that tallied 9-21, 21-7, 21-11. It was a game that saw

comeback by Dortmund, who badly missed their injured top scorer Paco Alcacer. Lewandowski notched his 21st goal of the season and 201st in the Bundesliga to put the cherry on top of a big win for Bayern which made them title favourites once more.

Ch ar l e sto n, A p r 7 (Agencies): Former world number one Caroline Wozniacki maintained her dominance over Croatia’s Petra Martic on Saturday to move into the final of the Charleston Open where she will play Madison Keys. D a n e Wo z n i a c k i , showing confidence after a recent illness, defeated Martic 6-3 6-4 before American Keys turned back Monica Puig 6-4 6-0 in a semi-final that was delayed for more than an hour by rain. “I’m just so thrilled to be healthy, that’s the main thing,” the fifth-seeded Wozniacki said after making her first final of the year. “It’s been a long time since I made this long run here,” said the Dane who won the South Carolina tournament in 2011. The fifth seed broke Martic twice in the second set to claim the win and maintain her record of never having lost a set to Martic in six meetings. “I served well in most of the match and I think I returned really well most of the match as well, and I just tried to stay aggressive as much as I could and tried to make (Martic) run and make her move,” Wozniacki said. Wozniacki, world number 13, grabbed a 4-2

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KKR top table with win over RR out for 6 off 8 balls while Ben Stokes managed only 7 off 14 balls. The bulk of the scoring was left to Steve Smith who hit his first IPL fifty since his return from the ball-tampering ban. Steve Smith found the gaps with precision and remained unbeaten on 73 off 59 balls - his innings was studded with 7 fours and 1 six. Had it not been for Smith’s deft placement and sharp thinking, RR would have finished with a lot less than their eventual 139 for 3 off 20 overs. R a j a s t h a n Ro ya l s would be left to rue the fact that they did not accelerate earlier despite the presence of some big hitters lower down the order. A target of 140 was

KKR batsmen Chris Lynn and Sunil Narine celebrate their partnership during the IPL against RR. (PTI)

Jaipur, Apr 7 (Agencies): Kolkata Knight Riders crushed Rajasthan Royals by 8 wickets in Jaipur on Sunday and replaced defending champions Chennai Super Kings at the top of the points table in the 2019 Indian Premier League. Harry Gurney starred for KKR on debut and picked 2 for 25 off his 4 overs before Sunil Narine and Chris Lynn powered the team to victory. Dinesh Karthik won the toss and invited Rajasthan Royals to bat on what looked like a slow pitch. Piyush Chawla, the legspinnner, was given the new ball and he bowled beautifully up front. Chawla’s 4

overs cost only 19 runs while Sunil Narine gave away only 22 off his 4 overs. But it was Harry Gurney who made the major impact with the wickets of Jos Buttler and Rahul Tripathi after M Prasidh Krishna had removed Royals skipper Ajinkya Rahane in only the second over. Jos Buttler and Steve Smith ensured RR did not suffer any more damage but their scoring rate left them far behind in the game against a power-packed KKR batting unit. When Buttler fell to Gurney for a 34-ball 37, RR needed the likes of Tripathi, Ben Stokes and Steve Smith to explode. Instead, Tripathi was

not really going to test KKR who had gunned down 206 against Royal Challengers Bangalore two days ago. Sunil Narine (47) and Chris Lynn (50) powered the Knight Riders to a rapid start. The pair added 91 for the first wicket before Narine fell to Shreyas Gopal in the 9th over. Gopal struck again in his 3rd over to snare Chriss Lynn but KKR needed only 25 off 9 overs and it was only a matter of time before KKR won the fourth out of their five matches in the 2019 Indian Premier League. Brief scores: KKR 140/2 (Chris Lynn 50, Sunil Narine 47; S Gopal 2/35) beat RR 139/3 (Steve Smith 72*, Buttler 37; Harry Gurney 2/25) by 8 wickets.

RCB’s woeful run continue There was no end to Royal Challengers Bangalore’s woeful run this IPL as the Kohli-led side suffered its sixth straight defeat while Delhi Capitals played like a unit to win by four wickets. Put to bat, RCB batsmen could only manage 149 for 8. Kohli scored 41 off 33 balls. Moeen Ali hit a 18-ball 32. South Africa paceman Kagiso Rabada (4/21) accounted for four RCB batsmen to lead Delhi’s bowling attack, which also comprised Chris Morris (2/28), Axar Patel (1/22) and Sandeep Lamichhane (1/46). Shreyas Iyer then played a captain’s knock, making a 50-ball 67 to guide Delhi Capitals to a comfortable win. Chasing 150 to win, Iyer forged a 68-run partnership with opener Prithvi Shaw (28) after Shikhar Dhawan was dismissed by Tim Southee in the third ball of the innings. In the 9th over, Pawan Negi removed Shaw after the batsman top-edged a delivery and was caught at deep square leg by Akshdeep Nath. Iyer then shared 39 runs with Colin Ingram (22) before being trapped by Moeen Ali. Rishabh Pant came out with intent, blasting a couple of fours. In the 17th over, Iyer miscued a pull off Navdeep Saini and was caught at short cover by Chahal. With just five runs needed, Delhi survived some anxious moment after losing Chris Morris (0) and Pant. Axar Patel then smashed a four to take Delhi home.

Sarri expects Giroud to stay at Chelsea

L ondon , A p r 7 (Agencies): Maurizio Sarri expects Olivier Giroud to stay at Chelsea for another season via a yearlong extension clause in the France striker’s contract. Giroud has been unsettled at Stamford Bridge due to a lack of first-team games, admitting in January that his future at the club looked bleak following the arrival of Gonzalo Higuain from Juventus. The 32-year-old has made just seven starts in the Premier League this season and only four appearances in the division since Higuain’s arrival in the winter transfer window. But when asked if he wants to hold on to Giroud, Sarri said, “Yes, of course. I know the club have an option for another season, so I think he will remain.” Chelsea are set to be under a transfer embargo this summer after being punished by FIFA for breaking rules regarding the signing of overseas players under the age of 18. FIFA has previously suspended punishments during appeals but the West London club said they were “astonished” after the governing body denied a request to freeze the ban during their appeal. Giroud, who signed for the Blues from Arsenal in January 2018, sees his current deal expire this summer.

Nagaland Post, Dimapur MONDAY, APRIL 8, 2019

Man City through to FA Cup final

Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus celebrates with team-mates after scoring a goal during their FA Cup semi-final match against Brighton.

LONDON, Apr 7 (Agencies): The “impossible” quadruple dream remains intact for Manchester City after an early headed goal from Gabriel Jesus sealed a scrappy 1-0 win over Brighton. Jesus launched himself into the air to connect decisively in the third minute but City never hit top gear and they rather laboured to victory in a forgettable match. Nevertheless, after bagging the League Cup, being locked in a titanic battle with Liverpool for the Premier League title and in the Champions League quarterfinals, Pep Guardiola’s side remain on course for an unprecedented clean sweep. It was a tired-looking display against Premier League relegation battlers Brighton, though, and City will need to rediscover their spark ahead of Tuesday’s trip to Tottenham Hotspur in the first leg of their Champions League last-eight tie.

B a c k a t We m b l e y where they beat Chelsea on penalties to win the League Cup in February, City were huge favourites to get past a Brighton side. City side who had won 20 of their last 22 matches in all competitions was in tatters after only three minutes. In one of the only fluid moves they put together at a less-than-full Wembley, Kevin de Bruyne whipped in a superb low cross and Jesus arrived at the far post to plant a diving header past Brighton keeper Matthew Ryan. The Brighton fans must have feared the worst in the south coast’s club’s first FA Cup semi-final since 1983 when they beat Sheffield Wednesday. But the onslaught never arrived. And had City fullback Kyle Walker been shown a red card during the first half after a clash with Alireza Jahanbakhsh the

outcome could have been different. Walker reacted angrily after being shoved in the back and as the players squared up face to face, he appeared to move his head into Jahanbakhsh forehead. The incident went to the VAR but referee Anthony Taylor was not required to send Walker off, although he was replaced at halftime by Danilo. Brighton gradually grew in belief and but for a superb goal-line clearance by Aymeric Laporte they could have drawn level, the Frenchman hacking clear just when Glenn Murray seemed poised to equalise early in the second half. Brighton caused the occasional problem from set-pieces and with City unusually lethargic the result was never in the bag until referee Taylor blew for full time to put them into the FA Cup final.

Barcelona down Atletico; edge closer to La Liga title Azarenka into Monterrey final Madrid, Apr 7 (Agencies): Barcelona closed in on the La Liga title after beating 10-man Atletico Madrid 2-0 in top-of-thetable clash at the Nou Camp as late strikes by Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi gave the Catalans an 11-point lead at the top of the table. Atletico began brightly but their gameplan went out of the window when Diego Costa was shown a straight red card in the 28th minute for a verbal tirade at referee Jesus Gil Manzano. Atletico produced a gutsy second-half display, expertly shackling Barca, but the Catalans finally found a way past the visitors’ outstanding goalkeeper Jan Oblak with a superb curling shot from Suarez in the 85th minute. Moments later Messi sealed victory and quite probably the league title with an irresistibly cool finish into the net and Barca’s fans jubilantly chanted “champions”, crowing at their surely unassailable lead at the top with seven games remaining.

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi in action during their La Liga match against Atletico Madrid.

Atletico midfielder Koke conceded that Barca had wrapped up the title but questioned the decision to send Costa off. Suarez highlighted his side’s character for winning such a difficult game so soon after their gruelling 4-4 draw against Villarreal in midweek. Atletico realistically needed to win at the Nou Camp for the first time since 2006 to stay in the title race

and they played with ambition and intelligence in the opening stages, keeping the ball for long periods and depriving Barca of space. But they were rocked by Costa’s moment of madness which killed their early momentum and left them with little choice but to defend for the remaining hour of the game. Striker Costa reacted angrily to not being awarded a foul after being tackled

by Jordi Alba and gave a long verbal response to the referee, who to his disbelief pulled out a red card. Costa had to be shepherded off the pitch by Barca’s Gerard Pique as he struggled to control his temper while his team mates Diego Godin and Jose Gimenez earned bookings for venting their anger over the decision. Atletico coped superbly with the setback and numeri-

cal disadvantage, controlling the space for the majority of the game. Messi still carved his way through the middle of the pitch on two occasions, creating openings for Suarez and himself but both South American forwards were thwarted by the titanic presence of Oblak. Atletico naturally had limited opportunities down the other end but were not far from finding a goal when Antoine Griezmann picked out Rodrigo from a free kick but the midfielder headed over the bar when Gimenez was stood behind him, in a better position. Diego Simeone’s side could not last the distance, however, and as their legs inevitably tired, Barca’s attacking quality made the difference. “We knew what the game would be like, Atletico are very organised and after the red card we tried to attack more but it wasn’t easy,” Suarez said. “But we kept going, we showed great attitude and kept testing their goalkeeper who was the hero of the game.”

Monterrey, Apr 7 (Agencies): Victoria Azarenka used her superior serving and punishing ground strokes to upset top seed Angelique Kerber 6-4 4-6 6-1 and advance to final of the Monterrey Open against Garbine Muguruza. In a battle of former world number ones the momentum shifted in the Belarusian’s favour early in the third set when Kerber committed two double faults in a careless service game to hand Azarenka a 2-0 lead. Azarenka seized the opportunity, consolidating the break in the next game before cruising to the finish line to reach her first final in more than three years. “I’m ver y pleased with how I played today,” she said in an on-court

Victoria Azarenka returns a shot to Angelique Kerber during their Monterrey Open semi-final match.

interview on a warm night in northern Mexico. “It was an important match and to see how I can do under pressure against a top player,” she said. “I haven’t won many of those in the last couple years so it’s good that I’m able to turn it around and pick up my level.”

Earlier, second seed Muguruza eased past Slovak Magdalena Rybarikova 6-2 6-3 to book her ticket to the final. Azarenka came out the victor in her only previous meeting with Spaniard Muguruza, a hard-fought 7-6(6) 7-6(4) win on the hard courts in Miami in 2016.

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