Imphal, January 10: Opposition DPA constituent partner Manipur Peoples' Party said it will take up arms, if necessary, if Government of India concedes to the demand of NSCN (IM) to amalgamate all Naga inhabited areas under one administrative umbrella.

Addressing news persons at the MPP office today, president of the party and firebrand leader O Joy said the present peace talks between Govt of India and the NSCN (IM) to solve the Naga issue is based on four points put forward by the underground outfit.

While pursuing a solution to the vexed issue, drastic measures should not be taken that could have far reaching consequences in other States.

Instead of hurting the sentiment of others to accommodate and please another which he described as undemocratic, Joy suggested that Centre lay more emphasis on development programmes for the deprived people.

Since the demand for single administration of Naga inhabited areas necessitates taking off a major chunk from the neighboring States and distorting the landscapes it is akin to discrimination against the affected States, he said.

Contending that the peace talk centered around four demands of the NSCN (IM) - single administration unit of all Naga inhabited areas, a separate parliament, Naga flag and own utilization of resources from the Naga areas - Joy said MPP will not hesitate to take up arms for safeguarding the territorial integrity of Manipur.

Joining the media briefing, Dr Nimaichand Luwang said formation of a separate State based on religious-practice, language and interest of a particular community is not the right way to solve a problem.

Nimaichand also disclosed that he will not think twice to resign as an MLA if Government of India comply with the demands.

Meanwhile, Solidarity Committee on the Territorial-Ethnic Integrity of Manipur while hailing the Indian Government on its initiatives for a lasting solution to the Naga problem said Manipur's territorial integrity should not be disturbed.

The Govt should take into account the 2000 year old historical facts of Manipur before arriving at any logical conclusion to solve the five decades old Naga problems, said the convenor during a press briefing this afternoon at Hotel Anand Continental.

Manipuri people cherish and promote peace but cannot remain mute if the State's integrity is threatened.

Comment