Dimapur, August 1 (MExN): The “GPRN/NSCN” has officially responded to the chief minister of Nagaland Neiphiu Rio and the recent statements made by him during “Indian election campaigns and its aftermath”. A note issued by the “GPRN/NSCN” pointed out that the chief minister of Nagaland acted “not as a leader but an inconsistent individual whose priority lies elsewhere rather than help Nagas reason together”.
“His statements on Naga socio-political issues of late borders stereotyped ramblings bereft of conviction and determination which is doing more harm than good,” stated the note with regard to his view that the Naga movement had lost political vision.
“GPRN/NSCN would simply advice the state’s chief minister not to play moral science teacher to Naga national workers since he is the chief architect of the present social and political turmoil.” The note asserted that Rio’s desire to further differentiate NSCN into ‘K’ and ‘U’ is politically motivated. In this regard, it told the chief minister that “GPRN/NSCN” is headed by chairman SS Khaplang, general secretary N Kitovi Zhimomi and ‘commander-in-chief’ “gen.” Kholie Konyak and they “have never lost sight of Naga political vision and aspiration”.
The “GPRN/NSCN” further stated that “with this clear conscience, they are collectively and wholeheartedly supporting the unity and reconciliation process under the aegis of Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR).” Alleging that it was Rio who had himself lost political vision, the note said “an Indian flag flying above his home and office constantly reminds him of his allegiance to Indian constitution, what right has he to talk about 1951 Naga plebiscite where 99.9% Nagas opted for a free Naga homeland?”
Likewise, to equate “GPRN/NSCN” with other anti-social elements for excessive extortion and criminal activities was to question the very root of the political struggle, the note asserted. It added that the Government of India understands perfectly well that over the last sixty years it had failed to curb traditional contribution offered by the Nagas willingly. “Other generous contributions by well-wishers and sympathizers to the Naga national cause should not bother him. Hundreds may complain but millions still pray and support and contribute to the Naga political struggle,” the outfit asserted.
Interestingly, the “GPRN/NSCN” noted, that while Rio complains of excessive taxation, “he must first explain why the Nagaland Government Registered Class I Contractors as well as other smaller contractors are being doubly taxed by his government against all works and against purchase of materials”. In this regard, the outfit countered that the chief minister’s and ministers share in any development projects are demanded and pocketed even before work orders are released. “The menace of deductions and collections of irregular commission altogether amounts to more than 25% of the contractual works. All into the mouths of politicians! This is the mother of all crimes and extortions”, the note asserted.
