C'da, Bhuban da,
In general, I agree with your views - that all interested in Assam's welfare should give as much support/advice to the PCG. I think, this is one of the few opportunities that Assam can get to advance her case.
Bhuban da mentioned the letter in the AT, which raised some doubts about the members. While I think the selected members are some of the best minds and truly do have the best interests for Assam in their hearts (I actually happen to know a couple of members personally), such doubts, such as the letter in the AT, does tell us a little about the level of confidence people have in the group.
Further, the ULFA had said, according to news reports that it had selected this group of "like minded" people.
What does that mean? Is the group seen as a first-line 'spokesperson' to represent ULFA's interests or to represent the true interests of the state?
Recent history does not really tell us that ULFA's interests and that of Assam are congruent.
The PCG has done something that is very good - ie requesting advice and comments from the public. That move should allay some of the doubts.
Lastly, IMHO, why should there be an effort to exhort people to send in comments/questions? I mean, assuming that the Assamese people have the full confidence in the PCG to represent their interests to the GOI, wouldn't they do it without someone having to egg them on? People turn up in huge numbers to cast ballots in elections?
But, I agree, in order for Assam to get a fair shake, the PCG must have the full backing and confidence of the people. In essence, one would hope there is a huge participation by the people.
>Particularly for those whose 'Assam patriotism' is more than an abject subservience to Indian >nationalism.
Heh! heh!. C'da, I must tell you these are not good marketing points (to get people to support the group) :).
'Subservience' is ONLY the way you look at it. Others feel Assam is very much a part and parcel of India. They feel they can be proud Assamese as well as proud Indians. They could well ask those who have a visceral hatred for India, and who would like nothing better than to separate Assam from India at any cost, as being 'subservient' to ULFA.
On 9/14/05, Chan Mahanta <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
Hi Utpal:
Thanks for sharing the contact address and not seeing any response, of following up.
It is a very timely reminder for those who care, to contact the PCG and offer their ideas for Assam. Particularly for those whose 'Assam patriotism' is more than an abject subservience to Indian nationalism.
We discussed this issue at great length and with as much acrimony as you see since you joined Assam net, if not more, about the need for the people of Assam ( and its well wishers) to close ranks behind those who would be representing Assam's interests in a bargaining/negotiating exercise, and by giving their input on their vision of a better Assam.
It was generated by a very persuasive and lucid explanation by netter Santanu Roy. He pointed out that the higher the support for the negotiators of the people of Assam, the better are the chances of their obtaining better terms for Assam, and urged a public discourse and participation on the matter.
I too urge everyone to transmit their views to the PCG, hopefully with solid and substantial recommendations. I also hope that the media in Assam ( the part that cares for its well-being that is) will do its share in generating the public participation.
Unfortunately though, some of our able, vocal and highly politically charged members expressed their opposition to dealing with the untouchables -- the ULFA, and rejected the idea of getting any concessions for Assam from Mai-Baap in Hastinapur, if it happens thru the untouchables. In fact some even floated a parallel - me too - movement . Never mind that their blood brethren in whose loyal servitude of Indian policies have done little if anything for them if not gave the shop away altogether. Such are the powers of patriotism.But I have a different word for it :-). At any event the concept of 'sua' remains alive and well amongst this group of kharkhowa ex-patriates, who would not shy away from 'Apwnar naak kati xotinir jatra bhongo kora' pursuits :-).
But I hope the progressive will translate their wishes to words of advice and support.
Some might ask, what about you -cm? Well, let me put it this way: My brother is in the PCG. He knows of my views :-). But I still will participate if there is a desire to put out an assam netters' joint appeal/advice/feedback.
Best,
c-da
At 10:51 AM +0100 9/14/05, utpal borpujari wrote:Hi. Have you seen this piece on the website northeasttribune.com? - Utpal------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Your time has come- be a part of ULFA-Government dialogue
NET News Network
Guwahati, Sept 13: The People's Consultative Group (PCG) appointed by
United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) to kick off peace process with
Central government today announced its e-mail, Short Messaging Services
(SMS) number and postal address where people can connect and submit
their suggestions and opinions based on which a peace module would be
designed by the group for the next month dialogue.
PCG for the convenience of every segment of society has asked the net
savvy citizens to mail their opinions in [EMAIL PROTECTED] whereas
9435061746 is the Cell number where suggestions can be sent through SMS.
Others can drop their suggestions in the office of Para! g Das Tathya Kendra,
Jyoti Nagar, Bamunimaidan. Guwahati-21. Assam. India.
PCG will continue receiving suggestions and opinions till September 25,
2005.
The group which had its first brainstorming session on September 11
decided to build public opinion based on feedback ranging from common
people to democratic organizations.
To help you stay safe and secure online, we've developed the all new Yahoo! Security Centre.
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