NSCN(IM)-Army continue to trade charges

KOHIMA, February 4: Although declining rate of killings among the underground factions is felt, the people are still in a muddle with the security forces and the NSCN (IM) unceasingly blaming each other for violation of mutually agreed ground rules of the ongoing cease-fire. The security forces charged the NSCN(IM) of violating agreed ground rules of the existing ceasefire whereby dishonouring the sentiments of the general public who are consistently yearning for permanent peace in their land. The security forces said on February 2, they intercepted a Maruti 800 on the Kuhoboto-Nihoku road and on search apprehended Azheto Sumi, deputy kilonser (minister), Semaho Sema and Hivishes Sema, both corporals of the NSCN(IM) with pistol, ammunition and large amount of extortion cash. Terming the action as a clear violation of the ground rules of the ceasefire and reflection of the NSCN(IM)'s total disregard for the ongoing peace process, the security forces said it, in the spirit of maintaining harmony and genuine interest for maintaining peace, released Azheto Sumi through the Ceasefire Monitoring Cell of the outfit (NSCN-IM). On the other hand, the NSCN(IM) described the activities of the security forces as "kidnapping" and further accused them of indulging in "deliberate ceasefire violations". The NSCM(IM), in a statement issued by its under secretary L Tallanao described the apprehending of its deputy kilonser Azahacto Sumi along with two of his associates by security forces as "kidnapping". It further questions whether such unprovoked rampant kidnapping spree of its (NSCN-IM) cadres by security forces was a goodwill gesture. "Will it really bring about better understanding through such act", asked the NSCN(IM) official. "The Indian Armed Forces should put an immediate halt to the blatant violation of the mutually agreed cease-fire ground rules". Although various tribal councils and the general publics are in full swing organising peace rallies in several parts in the state denouncing activities of the underground groups, like killings, extortion, intimidation, etc, citizens are still confused with both the security forces and the NSCN(IM) continuing the mudslinging at each other. People also expressed time to time that they were unaware of the outcome of the political dialogues that have been going on between the NSCN(IM) and the Government of India. They said they had every right to know the outcome of the political process.