Mokokchung, June 13 (MExN): After seventeen days of blockade on the Mariani and Amguri roads linking Mokokchung and its neighbouring district, the Ao Senden (Ao Hoho) today “temporarily suspended with conditions” the blockade with effect from June 14, 2013.
A press statement issued by the Ao Senden President, Dr. Sangyu Yaden and General Secretary Tsupong Longchar stated that the decision to “temporarily” suspend the road blockade comes in the wake of the ‘written assurance’ given by the State Government to the memorandum submitted by the Ao Senden on May 27, 2013 and also the joint representation submitted by the Ao Senden and Kyong Hoho on June 6, 2013. The Nagaland state government has reportedly assured to take action with regard to the demands put up in the memoranda.
However, the Ao Senden cautioned that if the Nagaland state government fails to keep its assurance, then the Ao Senden will take up the matter more vigorously depending on the time and situation. In this regard, the Ao Senden called upon all the Ao citizens to be prepared for any eventuality in the event the State government fails in its promises.
Nonetheless, the Ao Senden also expressed deep appreciation to Minister, Forest & Border Affairs, Y Patton and Commissioner & Addl. Chief Secretary, Banuo Z Jamir, Commissioner Secretary Home, Temjen Toy who came personally to meet the Ao Senden and for understanding the objectives of the Ao Senden. Besides, the Ao Senden expressed appreciation to Home Minister Kaito Aye and his ministerial entourage who arrived at Mokokchung on June 12 and accepted the demands of the Ao Senden and assured to take action to realize the demands. It further thanked all the legislators from Mokokchung district for their concern.
It may be noted here that the Ao Senden imposed the road blockade at the Mariani and Amguri roads on May 28, 2013 in protest against the May 24 Mariani incident where some Naga travelers were assaulted and their vehicles damaged by a mob allegedly led by local Mariani MLA Rupjyoti Kurmi. Even a total Mokokchung bandh was called on June 11, 2013 which passed off peacefully.
