IED blast a challenge to Naga resolve for peace: WC, NNPGs

DIMAPUR, JUL 15 (NPN): Working Committee, NNPGs (WC, NNPGs) under the leadership of convenor N. Kitovi Zhimomi has termed the July 13 IED blast near Khopanala in Chümoukedima district as a challenge to the Naga resolve for peace, asserting that those initiating violence, whether from outside or within Nagaland, would face the wrath of the people.
Taking serious note of the July 13 IED blast, WC said it was an unforgivable provocation against the people of Nagaland, regardless of caste, colour, creed or political affiliation, and a grim reminder that the perpetrators did not want the Nagas to experience real peace.
WC said a group or entity, committed to killing Indian security forces and Nagas, instead of pursuing political dialogue and negotiations, should have the courage to own responsibility for the act. The committee said its convener N. Kitovi Zhimomi and all co-conveners were appalled by the IED blast, describing it as a clear indication that “vicious and destructive minds” were challenging both the Nagas and the Government of India (GoI).
It said all signatory Naga political groups had been adhering to the ceasefire ground rules in letter and spirit, and alleged that, as the Indo-Naga peace process moved towards a just and honourable conclusion, certain elements were testing the patience of the people of Nagaland.
According to WC, these elements wanted Nagas to descend into chaos similar to the ongoing tribal conflict in Manipur, which it said would be “a blot on Naga history.”
WC also noted that on July 10, 2014, under the leadership of N. Kitovi Zhimomi, GPRN/NSCN signed the Geneva Call’s three Deeds of Commitment at Geneva, Switzerland, covering protection of children in armed conflict, banning anti-personnel mines, and prohibiting sexual violence and gender discrimination. It said other WC, NNPGs affiliates also remained committed to these principles.
WC said the political negotiations had been successfully concluded unless Government of India (GoI) betrayed the Naga people, adding that everything had been put “in black and white” and there was no confusion.
“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,” WC stated.