NEW DELHI, Nov 24 ? Reports of NSCN (I-M) leaders postponing their visit has jolted the UPA Government, even as efforts were on to sort out the latest tangle. A visibly upset chief interlocutor K Padmanabhaiah today called on Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil in the wake of reports that Issac Chisi Swu and Th Muivah have postponed their visit to Delhi until a proper clarification was issued by the Government of India.
Although Padmanabhaiah was tightlipped about what transpired at the meeting with the Union Home Minister, he told newsmen that they have no confirmation about the visit of the NSCN (I-M) leaders.
Describing the latest imbroglio as unfortunate, he said that he has already clarified Government?s position denying the role of the Centre in supplying of weapons to Naga National Council (NNC) and rival NSCN (Khaplang) faction.
The UPA was eager to pick up the threads from where the previous NDA Government left off and restoring the Naga peace process. The I-M leaders have charged Government of India with encouraging the rival factions against them alleging that it has even armed them with automatic rifles.
Following the development Padmanabhaiah according to wishes to NSCN (I-M) issued a clarification. ??The NSCN (I-M) should not have any doubts about the Government?s sincerity in finding a peaceful solution. There is no question of Government encouraging other Naga groups when the talks are only with the NSCN (I-M), and they are also at a delicate stage. There is no reason for government to jeopardise them,?? he said. But that apparently was not enough and NSCN (I-M) continued with their tough stand.
Meanwhile, sources said that efforts were on to convince the NSCN (I-M) leaders to reconsider and come to Delhi for talks. Padmanabhaiah, on behalf of the Prime Minister delivered an invitation to the Naga leaders to come for talks. He himself is also reported to be in touch with NSCN (I-M) leaders, sources said.