Morung Express News
Dimapur | April 14
Nagaland Minister for Agriculture, Printing and Stationery K Azo Nienu today expressed displeasure over recent incidents at Phek, meted out by both factions of the NSCN. He also urged upon the Chakhesang Public Organization to not remain a silent spectator on such occasions and incidents.
In a statement, Azo said he was totally shocked by the behaviour of NSCN (K) cadres at Phek Town where it is alleged that they had summoned the Village Council Chairman of Phek, Shenutso Soho, “an elderly and respected person among the Phek community,” and who was then “mercilessly tortured and beaten up doubting his integrity.”
“Shenutso was an ex-member of the NNC and had tirelessly worked for the Naga cause throughout his entire life,” he said.
Therefore, Azo said, the integrity of Shenutso does not arise as he is and will always be a sympathizer and supporter of the national cause.
Condemning the ‘cowardly’ act in the strongest manner, he said “such action should also be condemned by every individual, association and NGOs in the strongest manner.”
Supporting the press statements issued by the Phek Village Council and an organization named Joie De Vivre, the Minister said, “I strongly condemn the unreasonable action of the NSCN (IM) cadres who had burned down the entire reserved forest belonging to Phek village.”
He informed that the very forest, rich in mineral resources, was being preserved for more than 100 years. It was reduced to ashes within a span of only 2-3 days, he said.
“The burning down of such forest will not solve the Naga political problem but will cause more hatred and misunderstanding among our Naga brothers. Such an unreasonable act should not be repeated in the near future.”
Further, Azo said the silence of the Chakhesang Public Organization has created confusion in the minds of the people of Phek district. He has also requested “both the cadres of the NSCN (IM) and the NSCN (K) to vacate the district headquarters in the greater interest of the general public and to uphold and respect the decision of the CPO.”
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