Council alleges
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, March 06 2011:
While condoling the death of a teenager in the February 5 gunfight between suspected cadres of NSCN (IM) and the newly floated Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) at a Tamenglong district area, the Zeme Council North East India has contended that the victim was misled into joining the ZUF.
A statement of the Council issued by its president deplored that the victim namely Paulei Zeme s/o Semabe Zeme of Mabauram village in North Cachar Hills district of Assam was lured with empty promises to the newly floated armed group for he was a loyal soldier of the NSCN (IM) for many years, who later defected from the parent organisation to form the ZUF.
Informing that Paulei joined the NSCN (IM) at a tender age and was killed in the March 5 clash that took place at the foothills of Atingba range near Khoupum Valley, the Zeme Council held ZUF authorities responsible for the demise of Paulei at such a young age.
Quoting reliable sources, the Council reiterated that Paulei might not be aware that he was with the ZUF for there is every possibility of those who defected from the NSCN (IM) of alluring him.
Condemning alleged whimsical policy and 'dirty mindset' of those responsible for the death of Paulei, the Council also made a fervent appeal to all concerned that peace in the region should not be shattered.