OKM reaffirms support for Ao Senden, AKM directives
Mokokchung, September 24 (MExN): The Ongpangkong Students’ Conference (OKM) has expressed deep disturbance over recent allegations and claims against experienced Naga political leader Dr SC Jamir regarding his statements on the Naga political issue.
The student’s body reaffirmed its full support for the statements and directives issued by its apex body, Ao Senden and Ao Students’ Conference (AKM), and affirmed that it would remain vigilant and responsive to any further developments in the matter.
OKM President Tongpangmangyang Kichu and General Secretary Sungkumjang Kichu, in a press statement asserted that every individual has the right to free speech and expression as a genuine Naga and an Indian citizen.
It stated that Jamir’s utterances on Naga political matters reflect his personal opinions and beliefs, and firmly believed that his statements were not intended to cause any harm.
OKM termed as uncalled-for and unacceptable the NSCN (IM)’s statements branding Jamir as someone who is “not mandated and authorized” and merely “talking for the sake of barking,” alongside assertions that he “is not an advocate of the Naga people” and has “no right to talk about the issues of the Naga people.”
It said such remarks should not be taken lightly, as any Naga citizen with an understanding of the Naga political landscape has every right to contribute their views toward advancing the prolonged political process.
The OKM believed that this war of words, accusations and counter-allegations would yield no positive outcome; rather, it would only weaken unity and foster deeper divisions among the Nagas. It urged all stakeholders pursuing a peaceful settlement to work diligently toward a timely and honourable political solution.
