Dimapur, December 27 (MExN): A wave of condemnation has erupted following the alleged extortion demand of Rs 50 lakh by NSCN/GPRN (Khango) against one Aolemba Longkumer, Chairman of the Country Craft Development Society.
The Ao Lanur Telongjem (ALT), in a statement, denounced the extortion demand as “shocking and utterly unacceptable.” Highlighting Aolemba’s contributions as talented entrepreneur and recipient of the President’s and Governor’s Awards, the ALT emphasised his role as a “Nagaland State treasure and a National Asset.” The organization extended solidarity to Aolemba and urged law enforcement to expedite investigations and bring the culprits to justice.
The Dimapur Rengma Youth Organisation (DRYO) echoed these sentiments, condemning the act as egregious and calling on citizens to unite in the fight for justice. “Justice delayed is justice denied,” stated the DRYO, urging swift action from authorities to restore public faith in the system.
The Naga Tribal Union Chümoukedima (NTUC) also repudiated the demand, describing it as a crime that fosters fear and disrupts societal harmony. NTUC stressed that entrepreneurs like Aolemba, who have significantly contributed to Nagaland’s development, should be celebrated, not harassed. The union expressed unwavering support for Aolemba and demanded the swift apprehension of the perpetrators.
The Dimapur Ao Youth Organization (DAYO) has also denounced the incident. “We are shocked and overwhelmed that he has been served extortion notice by people who claim to be the defender of Naga identity and our rights which is totally unacceptable,” it stated.
The DAYO said that it stands united in denouncing such criminal practices that undermines economic stability and public safety. “The rise of extortion cases in Nagaland has made the citizens very insecure and agitated and if not addressed at the earliest, explosion of law and order situation may become unavoidable. Extortion and intimidation of honest and hard working citizens are a direct challenge and violation to the values of integrity and justice in a civilized society,” the DAYO said.
It stated that the DAYO will not tolerate any form of extortion towards community members and urged the concerned authorities to ensure that the perpetrators of this crime are brought to justice and put behind bars at the earliest.
The Foothill Ao Youth Organisation said that “when young people come together and try to contribute to our State economy such unlawful practices are unacceptable in this generation.” It appealed to all right thinking citizens to vociferously voice out against such evil acts and encroachment on one's personal liberty to life.
The Ao Lanur Telungjem Medziphema called upon law enforcement agencies to act decisively against those who engage in such anti-social practices and stringent penalties must be ensured to deter future offenders.
The Ao Youth Forum Diphupar demanded that the NSCN/GPRN (Khango) immediately retract their demand and cease their campaign of harassment and intimidation. It called on the concerned authorities to precipitate the arrest of those involved.
Naga youth organizations from Chümoukedima and Dimapur convened an emergency meeting and issued a joint statement condemning the extortion attempt. They described Aolemba as a pioneer in exporting Naga handicrafts and called for the immediate handover of the culprits to authorities. The groups criticized the NSCN (Khango) for betraying its motto of “Nagaland for Christ” by resorting to such tactics during the festive season.
“For too long, Nagas have suffered under the bondage of excessive extortion by multiple NPGs,” the statement read. “The future of Naga youths cannot be marred by the self-interest of a few selfish individuals and groups.” The organizations cautioned that their simmering frustration could lead to democratic action to protect citizens' rights. They appealed to the Ceasefire Monitoring Group (CFMG) and Ceasefire Supervisory Board (CFSB) to intervene and ensure accountability.
