Kohima, July 12: NSCN(I-M) today refuted Manipur Government's claim that it was involved in the current agitation by Naga students in that State but said it cannot remain a "silent spectator" if New Delhi allowed Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh to continue using "brute force" against unarmed Naga civilians.

"Ibobi and his people may cry against NSCN for its involvement, but it has no hand in the ongoing agitation of the Naga public led by ANSAM.

But how long can NSCN remain a silent spectator?," a statement issued by the outfit's Information and Publicity wing, which was received here today, said.

NSCN (I-M) alleged that the Manipur Government had deployed hundreds of security men equipped with sophisticated arms against peaceful agitators along NH-39 and NH-53 to escort goods-laden trucks to Imphal and the IRB personnel had shot at an innocent civilian.

The shooting of a civilian in Manipur was a violation of human rights as by modern convention tear gas, water canons and rubber bullets were normally used in explosive situations to warn people and control them.

ANSAM has launched an indefinite economic blockade and non-cooperation movement since June 19 in the four hill districts of Manipur paralysing the supply line to the land locked State.

The association is demanding revocation of the Manipur Government order of declaring June 18 as �Integrity Day�.

Naga civil society groups yesterday entrusted Naga Students' Federation to intensify agitation in Manipur in support of the ANSAM demand after the recent firing incidents in that State.