Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
Title: Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What? Ram: Bhendi plants are my thing. I probably would not go anywhere. *** That was a wild guess on my part, but nice to see I got lucky. Considering how frequently I am off the mark, that was a good one, wasn't it :-)? But, that is NOT the point here. The concept of freedom means I can do what I want within reason: join the celebrations or not. *** I know, I know. But this concept of 'celebration',listening to hour-long harangues of the likes I described earlier, in 'tika-fota-rod' ( under a searing sun) is certainly a bizarre one at best. Only school children, whose freedom to choose whether to attend is always denied, forcing them to attend, building ( I mean destroying) character; while freedom loving adults can tend to their 'bhendi' plants or engage in 'adda'. If I were you Ram, I would THANK ULFA for providing the excuse, even to those whose freedoms not to ENJOY these celebrations are OFFICIALLY robbed by the custodians of servitude, the 'sorkar'. Imagine all the policemen on the beats, the ranks of the mid-level 'babus' who would be ordinarily required to attend, all the school children sweating in their school or NCC/girl scout uniforms, so on and so forth, actually got to ENJOY the day off, doing the things they REALLY like to do. You may call me cynical, but that is the REAL truth. On the other hand, your explanation is an exercise in spinning, that no-one other than the most naive and the deluded, will buy :-). That in essence is the problem with ULFA's tactics. As their ground support seems to be waning, I would almost have fallen for this, had it not been for the fact that I have been hearing this at least for a decade now. Same words, same spin. But then we saw how ULFA can strike, at will, where it chooses to. Would anyone believe that ULFA can operate like this if their support base did not exist? --they are willing to kill children if required for their 'cause'. I cannot not agree that this was a terrible thing for them to have perpetrated. However, at least as a wanna-be Jokaisukiya, you could appreciate that even a bholuka-baanhor-barhoni -w- buti-hoy ( even a broom made from the sturdiest of bamboo, wears short) making it useless after a while. Actions speak louder than words. Just mouthing off 'peace' doesn't make it so. Isn't that the truth? I cannot remember--how many decades now--that the Center has been promising to make peace? If the GOOD FOLKS, your Center and its proxy, the stooges at Dispur, keep resorting to the 'baagi' ( excuse, alibi) that if the ULFA chooses not to talk, what can we do where is their credibility? They can call ULFA's bluff instantly, by asking them to come sit at the table. But can they? Do they, your good guys, have the moral wherewithal to show they ARE the sincere ones? Luckily someone of MRG's stature appeared on the scene to call the Center's bluff. And we are witnessing their discomfiture, squirming. And no amount of spin will obscure that Ram. Who knows why Reghupati would make that statement - to appease B'deshi govt. on some quid-quo-pro deal? That is very persuasive :-). Take the River-Linking issue. I am sure there are people in GOI who actually know the pros and cons of RL on a purely scientific and practical basis. That stands to reason. And exactly for that reason, they will not release the PFR data. Why? Because they will become the laughing stock of their peers. That is why. And not because: the GOI has to also appease the B'deshi govt, because the B'deshi govt. does not think RL is good for them, Ram you got to watch---you might spin yourself into orbit, if you keep going like this. I may not agree with you, but I enjoy the communications and the camaraderie here. We will miss you too much if get spaced out :-). --while China would be all for RL (as they want to build dams too). So if China blesses riverlinking it must be good for Assam? That must have been a slip, even for you, I am sure. The souther states think RL is good, while others are not. That depends. If you think bean counters like Kalyanraman and rocket engineers like Pres. Kalam are also experts in hydrology, civil engineering or ecology, and they represent the south you may be right. But the fact is the first above could not be further from the truth. And the latter, that they represent ALL of the south also could not be further from the truth. The southern states have long disagreed and continue to as of this moment, on damming and river water sharing in THEIR rivers. Riverlinking is an entirely politically contrived boondoggle that has no merit whatsoever, in any shape or form, as presently floated. The other day I spoke to a very successful Assamese businessman who seems to have a good pulse of India. Three things he said rang in my ears: 1: It is the Indian and Assam political and bureaucratic class that paints this grotesque picture of the NE as a violence
Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
Title: Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What? Ram: Till such a time, Assamese people (who want to celebrate) will have to do it mutely and without drawing much fanfare. You are right. We have noticed :-). But seriously, if YOU were in Assam this past August 15, and there were no threats or show of force from no 'thugs', in uniform or otherwise, would you have preferred to rush to a freshly ploughed or the usually trodden-bare grounds of 'Joj-fild' to listen to heroic and inspiring 'boktrita' ( harangues) from some light-headed general and or other equally light-headed 'sorkari' luminaries or stay home tending to you our 'bhendi' plants or engage in 'adda' with your favorite neighbor over endless cups of tea served in 'mekuri-kania' ( cat-ear sized) kops ( cups--to Jokaisukiyas, like myself)? Tell us the truth Ram.They have truth detectors implanted in this net now. We can detect fake-patriotism and SPIN in a split second here. And you think the ULFA is least bit interested in 'peace talks'. ?Their actions of bomb blasts and mayhem before the I-Day doesn't seem to tell us that they are making overtures for such a solution. You maybe be right, and ULFA might NOT be interested. But what IF they are? Should we not encourage and support ANY overtures that might emerge, like it has thru MRGoswami's efforts? Should we instead assume, with our prescience or fake-intelligence,that they are not interested, and thus remain either pessimistic or apathetic or actively attempt to undermine such efforts like one of those light-headed, ghee-bellied generals who has this obviously self-appointed role of Assam's strong-man, has been doing? A negotiated settlement or peace talks needs at least 2 parties. It will never be possible, when one of the parties is out playing Rambo. I have to agree with that Ram. So what is Manmohan Singh's excuse for acting Rambo Singh and dragging his feet ? The same old BS of saying sweet things but not meaning it? On another but related matter, did you see Sri( not Sir) Reghupaty's ( MHA-mukhopatro's) denial of any knowledge of ULFA being innkeepers, or more precisely the Hiltons of Dacca or Patels of Pabna ? What happened? What are you guys? GWBs, being taken for a ride by your own CIA's? Boy that must have been a RAW deal, wasn't it? Tsk, tsk! I would like to see the squirming in the Editorial offices of the Sentinel and the Statesman and the AT now. But then again, if they had any such compunction, they would not have willingly participated in the propaganda to begin with, don't you think? c-da :-) At 5:12 PM -0500 8/17/05, Ram Sarangapani wrote: C'da, For some strange reason however, I doubt there will be profound analyses and proclamations about the victory of democracy over the '.thugs', and an impending demise of the insurgencies.? For people to go out and really celebrate two things must happen: (a) No threat whatsoever, perceived or otherwise : ie they should feel safe (b) No CRP or otherswith heavy bondobast- since that gives the impression that it really is NOT safe. Till such a time, Assamese people (who want to celebrate) will have to do it mutely and without drawing much fanfare. And if so, should the people, including us, not raise their voices to bring an end to the insurgencies thru a negotiated political solution And you think the ULFA is least bit interested in 'peace talks'. ?Their actions of bomb blasts and mayhem before the I-Day doesn't seem to tell us that they are making overtures for such a solution. A negotiated settlement or peace talks needs at least 2 parties. It will never be possible, when one of the parties is out playing Rambo. --Ram On 8/17/05, Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I was waiting to exhale after holding my breath for so long--about the impending violence and mayhem on Dependence Day--I mean, Independence Day :-) celebrations and also to read about all the throngs that would have defied the insurgents' call to go listen to the 'netas' on I-Day. But there is a curious silence in the news media. The ONLY reference I found was at http://www.janasadharan.com/. Apparently , except for a few ministers,hardly anyone went to re-plant their faith in 'independence' and desi-demokrasy or sow seeds of discontent on the freshly ploughed grounds of the Judges' Field. Well, what the heck, maybe the grass will grow better next time. Question is however, what is the story? I mean is it, like the Dainik J. announced that the presence and alertness of the 'security' forces prevented the violence ( and also the turnout of the loyal celebrants dying--not literally now--to take part in the festivities)? Or is it the fear caused by them insurgents' threats? Or was it empathy with the insurgents' calls? Or was it due to a deep apathy and cynicism towards these so called independence celebrations? For some strange reason however, I doubt there will be profound analyses and proclamations about the victory
Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
C'da, r stay home tending to you our 'bhendi' plants or engage in 'adda' with your favorite neighbor over ndless cups of tea served in 'mekuri-kania' ( cat-ear sized) kops ( cups--to Jokaisukiyas, like yself)? ell us the truth Ram.They have truth detectors implanted in this net now. We can detect fake-atriotism and SPIN in a split second here. Bhendi plants are my thing. I probably would not go anywhere. But, that is NOT the point here. The concept of freedom means I can do what I want within reason: join the celebrations or not. I would detest the fact that I am forced to tend my bhendi plants (even if that is what I had wanted to do all along) or my decision making is influenced by bomb threats or CRPFs. That in essence is the problem with ULFA's tactics. As their ground support seems to be waning, they want to 'FORCE' others to behave and think as they do. To that extent, they are willing to kill children if required for their 'cause'. You maybe be right, and ULFA might NOT be interested. But what IF they are? Actions speak louder than words. Just mouthing off 'peace' doesn't make it so. If the ULFA is serious about negotiations, then they will have to drop all pretenses and eschew violence. Then the GOI would HAVE to negotiate. The ball would be in GOI's court. ** I have to agree with that Ram. So what is Manmohan Singh's excuse for acting Rambo Singh nd dragging his feet ? The same old BS of saying sweet things but not meaning it? I should have known better. Should have made an explicit reference.Kept that wide open didn't I? :) On another but related matter, did you see Sri( not Sir) Reghupaty's I did see that - was shocked (not really). Political expediency seems to be the word of the day. Who knows why Reghupati would make that statement - to appease B'deshi govt. on some quid-quo-pro deal? Take the River-Linking issue. I am sure there are people in GOI who actually know the pros and cons of RL on a purely scientific and practical basis. Whatever the ultimate stand the GOI wants to take, based on facts,the GOI has to also appease the B'deshi govt, because the B'deshi govt. does not think RL is good for them, while China would be all for RL (as they want to build dams too). The souther states think RL is good, while others are not.So the GOI plays out the appeasement game - tell whomsoever what they want to hear. I think thats what happened with Regupati here. Just pure and simple appeasement. --Ram On 8/19/05, Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Ram: Till such a time, Assamese people (who want to celebrate) will have to do it mutely and without drawing much fanfare. You are right. We have noticed :-). But seriously, if YOU were in Assam this past August 15, and there were no threats or show of force from no 'thugs', in uniform or otherwise, would you have preferred to rush to a freshly ploughed or the usually trodden-bare grounds of 'Joj-fild' to listen to heroic and inspiring 'boktrita' ( harangues) from some light-headed general and or other equally light-headed 'sorkari' luminaries or stay home tending to you our 'bhendi' plants or engage in 'adda' with your favorite neighbor over endless cups of tea served in 'mekuri-kania' ( cat-ear sized) kops ( cups--to Jokaisukiyas, like myself)? Tell us the truth Ram.They have truth detectors implanted in this net now. We can detect fake-patriotism and SPIN in a split second here. And you think the ULFA is least bit interested in 'peace talks'. ?Their actions of bomb blasts and mayhem before the I-Day doesn't seem to tell us that they are making overtures for such a solution. You maybe be right, and ULFA might NOT be interested. But what IF they are? Should we not encourage and support ANY overtures that might emerge, like it has thru MRGoswami's efforts? Should we instead assume, with our prescience or fake-intelligence,that they are not interested, and thus remain either pessimistic or apathetic or actively attempt to undermine such efforts like one of those light-headed, ghee-bellied generals who has this obviously self-appointed role of Assam's strong-man, has been doing? A negotiated settlement or peace talks needs at least 2 parties. It will never be possible, when one of the parties is out playing Rambo. I have to agree with that Ram. So what is Manmohan Singh's excuse for acting Rambo Singh and dragging his feet ? The same old BS of saying sweet things but not meaning it? On another but related matter, did you see Sri( not Sir) Reghupaty's ( MHA-mukhopatro's) denial of any knowledge of ULFA being innkeepers, or more precisely the Hiltons of Dacca or Patels of Pabna ? What happened? What are you guys? GWBs, being taken for a ride by your own CIA's? Boy that must have been a RAW deal, wasn't it? Tsk, tsk! I would like to see the squirming in the Editorial offices of the Sentinel and the Statesman and the AT now. But then again, if they had any such compunction, they would not have
Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
On the subject of roads, I got good news from home at last. Finally the moon craters of the roads leading into Lal Ganesh - the Lakhra road, seem to be filling up. They were creating proper drainage and laying it out at good speed was last I heard. All is not done however - sometimes they stop inexplicably half way through and never get back. These roads were such a terror, I was delighted enough to throw a party here. This, though, after civilians (not affiliated with political parties) were lathi charged by the police. --- Alpana B. Sarangapani [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: - Don't extortion calls reach your home earlier than you can drive back from the dealership with your car, these days?? If the car makes it to your home in one piece after driving on those roads built by Assam PWD engineers, or are these engineers imported from Dilli as well? - From: Rajib Das [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: tridip [EMAIL PROTECTED], Ram Sarangapani [EMAIL PROTECTED], Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED] CC: assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu Subject: Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What? Date: Wed, 17 Aug 2005 17:10:12 -0700 (PDT) Btw, guwahati is the second fastest growing city in the whole of south and south-east asian countries after blore. This shows that the penchant for development is there .but only if u give it a chance ..and of course the consumer market is booming going by the numbers of Mercedes and other high end cars that are hitting the roads of ghy ( earlier Mercedes means its either from jorhat or from dibrugarh/tinsukia the tea- belt). And this rise in consumerism (in ghy and elsewhere) is indirectly proportional to the decline of ULFA. Touché. Don't extortion calls reach your home earlier than you can drive back from the dealership with your car, these days?? Start your day with Yahoo! - make it your home page http://www.yahoo.com/r/hs ___ Assam mailing list Assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assam Mailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.html To unsubscribe or change options: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam Start your day with Yahoo! - make it your home page http://www.yahoo.com/r/hs ___ Assam mailing list Assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assam Mailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.html To unsubscribe or change options: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam
[Assam] Much Ado about What?
I was waiting to exhale after holding my breath for so long--about the impending violence and mayhem on Dependence Day--I mean, Independence Day :-) celebrations and also to read about all the throngs that would have defied the insurgents' call to go listen to the 'netas' on I-Day. But there is a curious silence in the news media. The ONLY reference I found was at http://www.janasadharan.com/. Apparently , except for a few ministers,hardly anyone went to re-plant their faith in 'independence' and desi-demokrasy or sow seeds of discontent on the freshly ploughed grounds of the Judges' Field. Well, what the heck, maybe the grass will grow better next time. Question is however, what is the story? I mean is it, like the Dainik J. announced that the presence and alertness of the 'security' forces prevented the violence ( and also the turnout of the loyal celebrants dying--not literally now--to take part in the festivities)? Or is it the fear caused by them insurgents' threats? Or was it empathy with the insurgents' calls? Or was it due to a deep apathy and cynicism towards these so called independence celebrations? For some strange reason however, I doubt there will be profound analyses and proclamations about the victory of democracy over the 'thugs', and an impending demise of the insurgencies. And if so, should the people, including us, not raise their voices to bring an end to the insurgencies thru a negotiated political solution? cm ___ Assam mailing list Assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assam Mailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.html To unsubscribe or change options: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam
Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
C'da, For some strange reason however, I doubt there will be profoundanalyses and proclamations about the victory of democracy over the'.thugs', and an impending demise of the insurgencies.? For people to go out and really celebrate two things must happen: (a) No threat whatsoever, perceived or otherwise : ie they should feel safe (b) No CRP or otherswith heavy bondobast- since that gives the impression that it really is NOT safe. Till such a time, Assamese people (who want to celebrate) will have to do it mutely and without drawing much fanfare. And if so, should the people, including us, not raise their voices tobring an end to the insurgencies thru a negotiated political solution And you think the ULFA is least bit interested in 'peace talks'. ?Their actions of bomb blasts and mayhem before the I-Day doesn't seem to tell us that they are making overtures for such a solution. A negotiated settlement or peace talks needs at least 2 parties. It will never be possible, when one of the parties is out playing Rambo. --Ram On 8/17/05, Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I was waiting to exhale after holding my breath for so long--aboutthe impending violence and mayhem on Dependence Day--I mean, Independence Day :-) celebrationsand also to read about all the throngs that would have defied theinsurgents' call to go listen to the 'netas' on I-Day. But there is acurious silence in the news media. The ONLY reference I found was at http://www.janasadharan.com/.Apparently , except for a few ministers,hardly anyone went tore-plant their faith in 'independence' and desi-demokrasy or sowseeds of discontent on the freshly ploughed grounds of the Judges' Field. Well, what the heck, maybe the grass will grow better nexttime.Question is however, what is the story? I mean is it, like the DainikJ. announced that the presence and alertness of the 'security' forces prevented the violence ( and also the turnout of the loyal celebrantsdying--not literally now--to take part in the festivities)? Or is itthe fear caused by them insurgents' threats? Or was it empathy withthe insurgents' calls? Or was it due to a deep apathy and cynicism towards these so called independence celebrations?For some strange reason however, I doubt there will be profoundanalyses and proclamations about the victory of democracy over the'thugs', and animpending demise of the insurgencies. And if so, should the people, including us, not raise their voices tobring an end to the insurgencies thru a negotiated political solution?cm___ Assam mailing listAssam@pikespeak.uccs.eduhttp://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assamMailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.htmlTo unsubscribe or change options:http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam ___ Assam mailing list Assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assam Mailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.html To unsubscribe or change options: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam
Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
C-da, I feel that an economically strong nation with regionally balanced development is the best antidote for insurgents activities. Efforts in that direction would have direct benefit to the well being of the people rather than mereallowing people to firstengage inmilitancy and then inviting them to round table conferences. Umesh C-da wrote: "And if so, should the people, including us, not raise their voices to bring an end to the insurgencies thru a negotiated political solution?"Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I was waiting to exhale after holding my breath for so long--about the impending violence and mayhem on Dependence Day--I mean, Independence Day :-) celebrationsand also to read about all the throngs that would have defied the insurgents' call to go listen to the 'netas' on I-Day. But there is a curious silence in the news media. The ONLY reference I found was at http://www.janasadharan.com/.Apparently , except for a few ministers,hardly anyone went to re-plant their faith in 'independence' and desi-demokrasy or sow seeds of discontent on the freshly ploughed grounds of the Judges' Field. Well, what the heck, maybe the grass will grow better next time.Question is however, what is the story? I mean is it, like the Dainik J. announced that the presence and alertness of the 'security' forces prevented the violen! ce ( and also the turnout of the loyal celebrants dying--not literally now--to take part in the festivities)? Or is it the fear caused by them insurgents' threats? Or was it empathy with the insurgents' calls? Or was it due to a deep apathy and cynicism towards these so called independence celebrations?For some strange reason however, I doubt there will be profound analyses and proclamations about the victory of democracy over the 'thugs', and animpending demise of the insurgencies.And if so, should the people, including us, not raise their voices to bring an end to the insurgencies thru a negotiated political solution?cm___Assam mailing listAssam@pikespeak.uccs.eduhttp://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assamMailing list FAQ:http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.htmlTo unsubscribe or change options:http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam To help you stay safe and secure online, we've developed the all new Yahoo! Security Centre.___ Assam mailing list Assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assam Mailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.html To unsubscribe or change options: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam
Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
Hi all, This is something which has always needled me (from the time I was able to understand the pros and cons of things properly). Have often discussed this with my peers but never got a chance to discuss it with a wider audience. Now that I have joined this group I guess this is my chance to put forth my views and get some support or constructive criticism. Census 2001:- population of Assam - 26,638,407. And the total numbers of active ULFA cadres is what?? Roughly 2000 (almost)..of course its just a guestimate .I read it somewhere that it stands around 700- to 1500 at most . My point is, can the so called freedom struggle by a group of misguided youths (??)who numbers around a few thousands be actually called a freedom strugglein the first place?? Can the beliefs and motives of a few thousand people be representative of the belief sand motives of two and a half crore population??? To be honest my answer is no. maybe ppl have different views over it. And everyone is entitled to their own views. maybe when ULFA was born the common/general public supported their views and ideals. But I dont think that its the same case today. Dunno of the generations that preceded ours but I can say that my generation and the generations that follows ours dont support the ideals of ULFA at all ( esp. after gruesome incidents like the dhemaji blast last year).If we dont want an independent axom then for whom are they fighting this losing war??? Our generation is supposedly the future of axom. Right?? And we for sure dont want an independent axom. All we want is peace and a chance to prove our mettle without the fear of being maimed or killed by bullets and bombs Maybe its time forULFA to accept the realities and sit down for talks . In any case, If they are so sure of public support then I dare them to fight the elections and win it (Remember mizoram???). Its a! lways better to be the CM of a state then to live without statehood with the constant fear of being hunted down, I guess. I have my reasons to say that ULFA is fighting a loosing battle. In fact they are doomed (harsh words but might turn prophetic). First of all, gaining the so called independence is just not possible in their (ULFA top brasses) life time. Secondly, ULFA doesnt have well groomed, powerful and competent second rung leaders... the infighting in ULFA proves it...The core committee members of ULFA, most of them who are in jail, are ageing. If not by bullet, theyll die of old age and no matter what they think of themselves, the fact remains that they are old. What or who after them? They will soon disintegrate. What they can possibly do is to buy more time and try increase the longevity of their so called freedom struggle. In fact they are doing just that by saying that they are ready to sit for talks .with the erstwhi! le partners / ideological brothers of ULFA viz. NDFB and BLT etc leaving them in a lurch ..They hardly have other alternatives. Even their so called interest for talks, I feel, is just a mask to help get their leaders out from jails (release of its leaders being a pre-condition for talks).They used the same ploy in 1991-92 to help release their top cadres after the aftermath OP. BAJRANG. Aint it? They say that axom is a classic case of neglect by the foreign occupying forces. And they want to give axom back to axomiyas. Well, I say, assam lags in investments because of ULFA and also to some extent because of the fact that the assamese people has been stereotyped as laziness personified by the rest of India (lahe-lahe syndrome). Whod want to invest in Assam when there is a constant threat to life? not to talk of the rampant extortions?? Surely, I wouldnt as an investor. . Assam doesnt need independence to grow and develop...Its the crab-mentality of us assamese people that needs to be banished .only then will Assam prosper. Actually there are lots of points to talk and counter-talk about. But this mail is getting longer by the minutes so I better sign off here and pause to get the views of other members... but before I do that, one final thought. Lets consider a purely hypothetical scenario. Assam gets its independence finally. What next?? There will be demand for independent bodoland, independent dimaraji, the karbis will ask for their own home land and so will the mishings and host of other communities . Even if we consider for a moment that there wont be any such demands, what will Assam live on?? Tea and oil (which is very miniscule)? Cmon, give me a break. Btw, guwahati is the second fastest growing city in the whole of south and south-east asian countries after blore. This shows that the penchant for development is there .but only if u give it a chance ..and of course the consumer market is booming going by the numbers of Mercedes and other high end cars that are hitting the roads of ghy ( earlier Mercedes means its either from jorhat or from dibrugarh/tinsukia the tea- belt).
Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
Btw, guwahati is the second fastest growing city in the whole of south and south-east asian countries after blore. This shows that the penchant for development is there .but only if u give it a chance ..and of course the consumer market is booming going by the numbers of Mercedes and other high end cars that are hitting the roads of ghy ( earlier Mercedes means its either from jorhat or from dibrugarh/tinsukia the tea- belt). And this rise in consumerism (in ghy and elsewhere) is indirectly proportional to the decline of ULFA. Touché. Don't extortion calls reach your home earlier than you can drive back from the dealership with your car, these days?? Start your day with Yahoo! - make it your home page http://www.yahoo.com/r/hs ___ Assam mailing list Assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assam Mailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.html To unsubscribe or change options: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam
Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
.Assam doesnt need independence to grow and develop .Its the crab-mentality of us assamese people that needs to be banished .only then will Assam prosper. Looks like your answering yourself. Barua - Original Message - From: tridip To: Ram Sarangapani ; Chan Mahanta Cc: assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu Sent: Wednesday, August 17, 2005 6:24 PM Subject: Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What? Hi all, This is something which has always needled me (from the time I was able to understand the pros and cons of things properly). Have often discussed this with my peers but never got a chance to discuss it with a wider audience. Now that I have joined this group I guess this is my chance to put forth my views and get some support or constructive criticism. Census 2001:- population of Assam - 26,638,407. And the total numbers of active ULFA cadres is what?? Roughly 2000 (almost)..of course its just a guestimate .I read it somewhere that it stands around 700- to 1500 at most . My point is, can the so called freedom struggle by a group of misguided youths (??)who numbers around a few thousands be actually called a freedom strugglein the first place?? Can the beliefs and motives of a few thousand people be representative of the belief sand motives of two and a half crore population??? To be honest my answer is no. maybe ppl have different views over it. And everyone is entitled to their own views. maybe when ULFA was born the common/general public supported their views and ideals. But I dont think that its the same case today. Dunno of the generations that preceded ours but I can say that my generation and the generations that follows ours dont support the ideals of ULFA at all ( esp. after gruesome incidents like the dhemaji blast last year).If we dont want an independent axom then for whom are they fighting this losing war??? Our generation is supposedly the future of axom. Right?? And we for sure dont want an independent axom. All we want is peace and a chance to prove our mettle without the fear of being maimed or killed by bullets and bombs Maybe its time forULFA to accept the realities and sit down for talks . In any case, If they are so sure of public support then I dare them to fight the elections and win it (Remember mizoram???). Its a! lways better to be the CM of a state then to live without statehood with the constant fear of being hunted down, I guess. I have my reasons to say that ULFA is fighting a loosing battle. In fact they are doomed (harsh words but might turn prophetic). First of all, gaining the so called independence is just not possible in their (ULFA top brasses) life time. Secondly, ULFA doesnt have well groomed, powerful and competent second rung leaders... the infighting in ULFA proves it...The core committee members of ULFA, most of them who are in jail, are ageing. If not by bullet, theyll die of old age and no matter what they think of themselves, the fact remains that they are old. What or who after them? They will soon disintegrate. What they can possibly do is to buy more time and try increase the longevity of their so called freedom struggle. In fact they are doing just that by saying that they are ready to sit for talks .with the erstwhi! le partners / ideological brothers of ULFA viz. NDFB and BLT etc leaving them in a lurch ..They hardly have other alternatives. Even their so called interest for talks, I feel, is just a mask to help get their leaders out from jails (release of its leaders being a pre-condition for talks).They used the same ploy in 1991-92 to help release their top cadres after the aftermath OP. BAJRANG. Aint it? They say that axom is a classic case of neglect by the foreign occupying forces. And they want to give axom back to axomiyas. Well, I say, assam lags in investments because of ULFA and also to some extent because of the fact that the assamese people has been stereotyped as laziness personified by the rest of India (lahe-lahe syndrome). Whod want to invest in Assam when there is a constant threat to life? not to talk of the rampant extortions?? Surely, I wouldnt as an investor. . Assam doesnt need independence to grow and develop...Its the crab-mentality of us assamese people that needs to be banished .only then will Assam prosper. Actually there are lots of points to talk and counter-talk about. But this mail is getting longer by the minutes so I better sign off here and pause to get the views of other members... but before I do that, one final thought. Lets consider a purely hypothetical scenario. Assam gets its independence finally. What next?? There will be demand for independent bodoland, independent dimaraji, the karbis will ask for their own
Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
Today's Assam Tribune has a picture with the following caption: Relatives of last years I-Day blast victims at Dhemaji planting saplings at the blast site on Monday. School students took out a silent rally to mark State Grievance Day in memory of the departed souls. Now that is connected to the independence day celebrations. Though in itself, it is not quite a celebration. On 8/17/05, Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I was waiting to exhale after holding my breath for so long--about the impending violence and mayhem on Dependence Day--I mean, Independence Day :-) celebrations and also to read about all the throngs that would have defied the insurgents' call to go listen to the 'netas' on I-Day. But there is a curious silence in the news media. The ONLY reference I found was at http://www.janasadharan.com/. Apparently , except for a few ministers,hardly anyone went to re-plant their faith in 'independence' and desi-demokrasy or sow seeds of discontent on the freshly ploughed grounds of the Judges' Field. Well, what the heck, maybe the grass will grow better next time. Question is however, what is the story? I mean is it, like the Dainik J. announced that the presence and alertness of the 'security' forces prevented the violence ( and also the turnout of the loyal celebrants dying--not literally now--to take part in the festivities)? Or is it the fear caused by them insurgents' threats? Or was it empathy with the insurgents' calls? Or was it due to a deep apathy and cynicism towards these so called independence celebrations? For some strange reason however, I doubt there will be profound analyses and proclamations about the victory of democracy over the 'thugs', and an impending demise of the insurgencies. And if so, should the people, including us, not raise their voices to bring an end to the insurgencies thru a negotiated political solution? cm ___ Assam mailing list Assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assam Mailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.html To unsubscribe or change options: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam ___ Assam mailing list Assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assam Mailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.html To unsubscribe or change options: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam Start your day with Yahoo! - make it your home page http://www.yahoo.com/r/hs ___ Assam mailing list Assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assam Mailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.html To unsubscribe or change options: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam
Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?
Don't extortion calls reach your home earlier than youcan drive back from the dealership with your car,these days?? If the car makes itto yourhome in one piece after driving on those roads built by Assam PWD engineers, or are these engineersimported from Dilli as well? From: Rajib Das [EMAIL PROTECTED]To: tridip [EMAIL PROTECTED], Ram Sarangapani [EMAIL PROTECTED], Chan Mahanta [EMAIL PROTECTED]CC: assam@pikespeak.uccs.eduSubject: Re: [Assam] Much Ado about What?Date: Wed, 17 Aug 2005 17:10:12 -0700 (PDT) Btw, guwahati is the second fastest growing city in the whole of south and south-east asian countries after blore. This shows that the penchant for development is there .but only if u give it a chance ..and of course the consumer market is booming going by the numbers of Mercedes and other high end cars that are hitting the roads of ghy ( earlier Mercedes means its either from jorhat or from dibrugarh/tinsukia the tea- belt). And this rise in consumerism (in ghy and elsewhere) is indirectly proportional to the decline of ULFA. Touché.Don't extortion calls reach your home earlier than youcan drive back from the dealership with your car,these days??Start your day with Yahoo! - make it your home pagehttp://www.yahoo.com/r/hs___Assam mailing listAssam@pikespeak.uccs.eduhttp://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assamMailing list FAQ:http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.htmlTo unsubscribe or change options:http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam ___ Assam mailing list Assam@pikespeak.uccs.edu http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/listinfo/assam Mailing list FAQ: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/assam/assam-faq.html To unsubscribe or change options: http://pikespeak.uccs.edu/mailman/options/assam
