8th Death Anniversary Of NK Sanajaoba Observed
Fitting tributes paid to pioneering journalist
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, November 01 2012: The eighth death anniversary of NK Sanajaoba, former Editor of the journal Lamyanba published by Pan Manipur Youth League who was known for his investigative journalism was observed today at Lamyanba Shanglen, Palace Compound under the aegis of NK Sanajaoba Memorial Observation Committee.

Offering of floral tributes to the photograph of NK Sanajaoba and a panel discussion programme on the topic 'Conflict, Media and Civil Society' were the main features of the death anniversary function.

NK Sanajaoba born to Nongmeikapam Ibocha and Nongmeikapam Muktarei at Singjamei Kshetri Leikai on December 30, 1936 breathed his last on November 11, 1995 .

Giving the key-note address of the function, chairman of the observation committee Lokendro Arambam observed that ceasefire between NSCN-IM and Government of India has completed 15 years.

As per media reports, a political solution is expected by March next year before the Assembly election of Nagaland.

Tributes being paid on the occasion

Though the exact points of agreement have not been disclosed, media reports revealed that NSCN-IM has been insisting on three main points which are; any settlement of the issue should be based on the unique history of Naga community, the settlement should not be within Constitution of India and third, there should be power sharing between the Government of India and NSCN-IM.

Media reports further indicated that the Government of India is opposed to the idea of granting sovereignty to the Nagas and it is not willing to bring all Naga inhabited areas under a single administrative roof.

But the Government of India is ready to grant maximum autonomy to the Nagas.

For this, the Government of India is prepared to amend its Constitution, if necessary, said Lokendro citing media reports.

Given this unfolding situation, it is crucial for media as well as the civil society to be prepared in case settlement of the Naga issue should affect territorial integrity of Manipur and integrity among the 34 indigenous communities of the State.

The function was attended by AMWJU president A Mobi as chief guest and vice chairman of the NK Sanajaoba Memorial Observation Committee Sh Shamu as president.

Senior journalist AK Sanaton and Change and Peace Building director RK Bobichand spoke at the function as resource persons.

Bobichand said that conflicts happen when people are denied their basic rights for survival, well-being, identity and self-determination.

The exploited mass may remain silent out of helplessness but this is not real peace.

It is negative peace.

Questioning the settlement process of the Naga issue, Bobichand asked whether territorial integrity would hold any meaning if the integrity among indigenous communities has been shattered.

It is the responsibility of media to make the settlement process between Government of India and NSCN-IM transparent as far as possible.

He also urged upon all sections of people to pay special attention towards reducing misunderstanding among people of different communities at their respective work places.

AK Sanaton highlighted the importance of media to adhere to professional ethics.