Dimapur, June 28 (MExN): The Working Committee, Naga National Political Groups (WC-NNPGs) on Sunday condemned the ‘disturbing’ killing of an alleged extortionist at Kohima on June 23 by the Anti-Extortion Squad.
In a press release, the Media Cell of the WC-NNPGs said that “Irrespective of whether the deceased victim was unassociated or belonged to any Naga political group, gunning down an unarmed man is cowardice,” and questioned the capability of the state police force. “As trained men the Police were expected to display tactical acumen, awareness and arrest or subdue the suspect,” it said, while terming the incident as a “blot on the police department.”
It meanwhile alleged that “the fingerprints of police extortionists” were on all revenue generating fields and questioned the ‘moral authority’ with which the police force seeks to “stop National Workers from seeking and soliciting humble contributions from shops and commercial centres particularly those who come to Nagaland and making huge profits.”
“The police force is reminded that the Naga National workers inherited a political legacy and responsibility which precedes Indian Independence. From the inception of our struggle, nominal contribution to the cause has been mandatory. The question of extortion, therefore, does not arise,” the release stated.
“Our political struggle is for the Nagas by the Nagas, to salvage our history and political right,” it said, while adding that “WC will continue to seek contributions from Naga well wishers and Non-Naga business establishments in Nagaland.”
The WC-NNPGs further appealed to the Naga people that considering the current status of political negotiations between Government of India and the Working Committee, “it is important to distinguish between extortionists and genuine National workers.”
“Working Committee, NNPG is putting every effort to sustain the Naga political movement. Our responsibility is to secure an honourable and acceptable political solution for all Nagas at the earliest,” it added.
