Kohima, Jan. 9: Unlike local newspaper banner headlines that screamed “Tears, joy, cheers welcome NSCN (I-M) leaders” — reflecting the “general mood” as well as the intense activity in the nation’s capital — the mood in the state capital was as sombre as the weather. The streets of Kohima showed neither excitement nor anticipation on a day that has been described variously as “crucial” or “historic” by prominent leaders and citizens in the run-up to the talks between the Centre and the NSCN (I-M) today in New Delhi.
For most, it was just another day. “Our quotidian life has not been interrupted. It is business as usual for most, though we have been keeping abreast of the happenings through news bulletins,” said James Angami, a student.
With the mercury falling considerably compared to the past few days, most citizens preferred to stay indoors, huddled in front of TV news channels to watch developments in New Delhi.
Some even carried pocket radio sets for news bulletins. “According to All India Radio news, the collective leadership visited Mahatma Gandhi’s samadhi in the morning,” said Chishi, as he tuned to his radio set.
With chief minister S.C. Jamir away on tour to Zunheboto and Mokokchung and most Opposition leaders in New Delhi, political activity, too, was at a low ebb.