UNC appeal for 48 hours total bandh in Naga areas

June 16-18: in protest against communal policies of GoM

DIMAPUR, JUNE 13 (MExN): A public appeal was made by the United Naga Council (UNC) in relation to the 48 hours total bandh in Naga areas from midnight of June 16 to June 18, 2013. It may be mentioned that in the Presidential Council meeting held on June 3, 2013 the matter of “relentless communal onslaught of the Government of Manipur (GoM) and communal forces” of Imphal valley upon the Nagas and tribals was tabled for discussion. 

After thorough deliberation it was decided to observe a 48 hours total bandh in Naga areas to protest against the unabated communal actions and policies of the GoM and the communal forces, and to urge the Government of India to intervene immediately with an alternative arrangement, pending settlement of the Indo-Naga issue.

According to a press note from the UNC’s Publicity Wing, the decision was arrived at after considering the manner of response of the GoM and communal forces on many issues which emerged even after the direct attack on Christians and Tribals in Imphal valley in the wake of the reported assault on actress Momoko, the Napetpali assault and molestation and the murder of 2 Kongkan Tangkhul villagers – all during the Christmas season of December, 2012. The UNC pointed out that the communal actions continue unabated in different forms, amongst which several incidents were discussed in detail. 

It was alleged by the UNC that in order to promote the narrow communal interest, the GoM under the leadership of O. Ibobi has gone against the principle of democracy, violated the constitution, made a mockery of the judiciary and committed illegalities with impunity.

The UNC pointed out that Nagas and tribals cannot have their identity respected; have their land and way of life protected; live with dignity and honour under the communal Government of Manipur and with the communal forces in Imphal valley. The UNC therefore called for immediate intervention of the Government of India with an alternative arrangement outside the Government of Manipur.  

Meanwhile it was informed that the 48 hours total bandh will cover the railway construction works. Medical services, fire-brigade, media, power and telecommunication departments will be exempted from the purview of the total bandh. All Naga tribe Hohos and Regional Organisations have been told to take up appropriate steps in their respective jurisdiction for the effective observation of the total bandh.