ANCSU withdraws disassociation statement against former president

Dimapur, July 10 (MExN): The All Nagaland College Students' Union (ANCSU) on July 10 withdrew the effect of its earlier statement dissociating itself from former president Katho P Awomi, saying the decision would remain in abeyance until the facts are conclusively established through due process of law.

In a clarification, the union said a particular expression in a press statement issued by its Media Cell on July 3 had inadvertently created public confusion and unintended consequences.

ANCSU said it had taken note that allegations relating to the alleged demand for money had already been categorically disowned and clarified on multiple occasions by the concerned parties.

The union said the earlier statement had unintentionally caused prejudice to the reputation of the Naga Students' Federation (NSF) and expressed sincere regret over the matter.

"Accordingly, after due deliberation by the union and in the larger interest of preserving unity, harmony and organisational decorum, the previous statement regarding the disassociation shall no longer remain in force until the facts are conclusively established through due process of law," it said.

At the same time, ANCSU reiterated its concern over the continued operation of illegal bars and nightclubs in alleged violation of the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition Act.

The union said that despite repeated appeals by civil society organisations, such establishments continued to operate openly and questioned why law enforcement agencies had failed to act against the illegal businesses.

It called upon the competent authorities to enforce the law impartially and take immediate action against all illegal establishments without fear or favour.