'NSCN-IM manipulating public opinion'
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, September 13 2024: Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) has issued a strong rebuttal to a recent statement released by the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM), accusing the latter of spreading misinformation in the public domain.

According to ZUF, NSCN-IM's claims, published on September 12, are false and misleading.

ZUF alleged that the NSCN-IM statement claiming that 10 ZUF cadres joined NSCN-IM through peaceful means on September 11, is entirely fabricated.

ZUF categorically denied that any of their members had defected to NSCN-IM, stating that, in fact, more NSCN-IM cadres had recently joined ZUF.

The Front expressed its willingness to provide names and ranks of these individuals if necessary.

ZUF described NSCN-IM's statement as a form of psychological warfare aimed at deceiving the public and garnering support through falsehoods.

They criticised NSCN-IM for what they called "self-glorifying" tactics meant to manipulate public opinion.

Furthermore, ZUF took issue with the praise directed towards NSCN-IM leader Longvibu Gen Ningkhan Shimray, accusing him of creating divisions within the NSCN-IM leadership.

According to ZUF, there is growing discontent within the Eastern Flank of the NSCN-IM, which is demanding Shimray 's resignation.

In the statement, ZUF also warned the Zeliangrong community, particularly the youth, about NSCN-IM's recruitment of local youths under the guise of forming a village defence force.

The Front alleged that these youths were being sent to conflict zones and subjected to harsh treatment, while urging village authorities to take responsibility for the safe return of their youths.

The ZUF statement cautioned the Zeliangrong people not to be swayed by NSCN-IM's "sweet-sounding words" filled with falsehoods.

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