Truce covers all Naga territories: NSCN (IM)
Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, May 20 2020:
he NSCN/GPRN has reacted sharply to a letter, the Chief Secretary wrote to Union Home Secretary and dubbed the same "as prodded by the UCM (United Committee Manipur)" regarding Indo-Naga ceasefire agreement and NSCN camps in Manipur and claimed that the ceasefire covers "all Naga territories" .
"NSCN has taken note of the Manipur Chief Secretary writing a letter to Union Home Secretary (Govt of India) as prodded by the UCM, wherein he mentioned that the Indo-Naga ceasefire does not extend to the State of Manipur.
We are, however, constrained to point out that the ceasefire covers all Naga territories and thus, peace process covers all Naga territories.
This spirit has guided the 22 years of Indo-Naga political talks throughout.
It was this mutual understanding and respect that has carried the talks this far," said a statement issued by ministry of information and publicity, NSCN/GPRN.
Accusing UCM of firing 'salvo' against the NSCN and Nagas in general amidst the battle against the Covid-19 pandemic, the statement said that "repeated spiteful remark by UCM against the Nagas is not going anywhere to reverse the historical reality and movement that has brought about the ongoing Indo-Naga political talks running more than twenty two (22) years.
More than that, such an absurdity shall not succeed the final scrutiny of Naga people's sacrifice for over seventy (70) years that is recorded in blood, sweat and tears," said the statement.
"Notwithstanding the UCM's recklessness to create a volatile situation we have the dignity to say that NSCN has great respect and good relationship with the Meitei people.
Therefore, UCM should restrain itself from inciting its own people.
More importantly, we have the foresight that Indo-Naga political solution will bring about peace in the North-East region of India and will immensely benefit the people of Manipur, politically and economically," said the statement.
"Meanwhile, Manipur Government and the political leaders that are at the helm of affairs should exercise caution and restrain themselves from giving out any irresponsible statement to provoke the Nagas, lest it turns out to be a historical blunder and undo the age old relationship detrimental to all," it added.