
Dimapur, July 7 (MExN): The UT-I, NSCN (IM) has condemned what it called “unwarranted raid” carried out by 39th Assam Rifles at the private residences of the Union Territory-I (UT-I) staffs, who were all unarmed, on July 7 in the wee hours.
Disrespecting the agreed ground rules, the AR apprehended the four staffs without any rhyme or reason, a press release from Ghokuto Chishi, Secretary UT-I, NSCN (IM) alleged. “They were blindfolded and extreme physical torture was meted out during interrogation which was purely against the agreed ground rules by the two parties,” it claimed.
The 39th Assam Rifles, the UT-I stated, also provoked the staffs by demanding to surrender arms and ammunitions immediately and also enquired about the details of NSCN leaders and threatened to raid their private residences.
“To the utter surprise they also wanted to know the reason behind the arrival of RN Ravi, Interlocutor of Indo-Naga peace talks, his maiden visit to Nagaland they were forced to disclose the agendas and meeting places,” the release added It was further alleged that the 39th AR also "snatched away some mobile phones worth Rs.50,000/-, extorted cash to the tune of Rs. 15,000/-, grasped wrist watch and did not spare even the cosmetic items.”
In this regard, the NSCN (IM) “sternly warned” the 39th AR not to advocate differences among the two entities at this fragile stage of peace process, while accusing that the intention of 39th AR is to disrupt the ongoing smooth peace process.
The release also informed that an emergency meeting was held with UT-I authorities under the initiative of Steering Executive member, NSCN Kihoto Yeptho and seriously viewed the prevailing situation at this stage of talks. In the event of any untoward incident, the 39th Assam Rifles will be held solely responsible, it warned.
Meanwhile, the NSCN (IM) asserted it will not remain a silent spectator but “act accordingly that deem fit come what may.”