Ao Senden accepts NSCN (IM) leaders’ retraction

Mokokchung, October 7 (MExN): The Ao Senden on Wednesday said it has “honourably” accepted the “forthright retract” issued by Lt Gen (Retd) V S Atem, Deputy Ato Kilonser of NSCN (IM), and Rh Raising, NC Special Emissary to the Collective Leadership, NSCN/GPRN, for their “unacceptable statements” against former Nagaland chief minister Dr SC Jamir.

In a joint statement, Ao Senden President Marsanan Imsong and General Secretary Imtipokyim said a formal retract declaration signed by both NSCN (IM) leaders has been received, stating that their comments were never meant to hurt the sentiments of the Ao Senden and have been retracted forthright.

The development follows a long deliberation on October 3 between the Ao Senden and a delegation appointed by the Office of the NSCN (IM), during which the delegation expressed its regret. However, the Ao Senden made it unequivocally clear that the statements against Dr Jamir had to be retracted by the individual leaders who made them.

“It is our understanding that any Naga leader must be a paragon of Discipline, Fortitude, Humility and Wisdom,” the organisation said, appealing to all concerned to move forward in the spirit of unity and mutual respect.

The Ao Senden reaffirmed that no individual or group has the right to deny any Naga citizen their legitimate voice in Naga affairs, and said it will remain vigilant and reserves the right to undertake appropriate action should the need arise. “Henceforth, any infraction against any Naga citizen must be avoided in the interest of the Nagas,” it added.

The two senior NSCN (IM) leaders have retracted their September 16 comments on Dr SC Jamir. The retraction on October 6 came within the 15-day deadline set by the apex Ao body, which had warned of its “own course of action” if the remarks were not withdrawn.