Dimapur, July 15 (MExN): The Working Committee of Naga National Political Groups (WC, NNPGs) has condemned the July 13 suspected IED blast near Khovanalla in Chümoukedima district, terming it a “grim reminder” that certain forces do not want the Naga people to experience real peace.
In a statement issued by its Media Cell on Wednesday, the WC, NNPGs said the attack was an “unforgivable provocation” against the people of Nagaland, irrespective of caste, colour, creed or political affiliation. The group cautioned that the perpetrators, who “forego political dialogue and negotiations,” must have the courage to own responsibility for the act.
“The IED detonation is a clear indication that there are vicious, destructive minds challenging both the Naga people and the Government of India (GoI),” WC, NNPGs Convener N Kitovi Zhimomi and Co-conveners said in the statement. It added that such elements are “tasting the patience” of the people as the Indo-Naga peace process inches towards a logical conclusion.
The Committee also expressed alarm that the attackers aim to plunge Nagaland into chaos similar to the ongoing conflict in Manipur, which it said would be a “blot on Naga history.” It reiterated that all signatory Naga political groups follow the Ceasefire ground rules in letter and spirit.
Reaffirming their commitment to peaceful resolution, the WC, NNPGs pointed out that on July 10, 2014, its Convener N Kitovi Zhimomi signed the Geneva Call’s three Deeds of Commitment in Switzerland, pledging to protect children in armed conflict, ban anti-personnel mines, and prohibit sexual violence and gender discrimination. Other affiliates, it said, are bonafide abiding partners of these agreements.
The statement asserted that political negotiations have “successfully concluded” unless the GoI betrays the Naga people, and that everything has been put in black and white. “Today the Naga people, with pride and head held high, can agree to co-exist with India on the basis of an honorable and acceptable political solution,” it added.
The WC, NNPGs cautioned that “those initiating violence, either from outside or within Nagaland, will face the wrath of the people.”
