4-lane: ACAUT serves 3-days to NSCN (IM) for response

Dimapur, June 18 (EMN): The Against Corruption & Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) has given the NSCN (IM) three days to reply to the issue of construction work on the 4-lane between Dimapur and Kohima being stopped allegedly by members of the group recently. “Since the NSCN-IM hasn't reacted to newspaper reports that it is involved in stopping the 4-lane works by threatening to burn down all the machineries belonging to the contractors, the ACAUT Nagaland is of the view that indeed IM boys are responsible,” the press release stated. However, “in all fairness” the ACAUT stated that it was giving the armed organisation three days to clarify or take measures.The first query that the ACAUT posed to the NSCN (IM) was whether the latter demanded “tax” from the contractors involved in the 4-lane project of Asian highway-1. “If yes, whether it's the policy of the IM to stop all developmental works in Nagaland pending final settlement of its peace-talks with the GoI?” the press release queried. Secondly, the anti-corruption platform asked whether rogue NSCN-IM elements were involved in stopping the work. ‘If yes, what action is to be taken against such rogue IM cadres? And whether they would expose all these rogues elements with their complete identity and designations so that people of Nagaland know who these anti-people are?’ The ACAUT has demanded that the NSCN-IM give an appropriate reply within three days. In case the NSCN-IM fails to give its reply within the stipulated time, the press release stated, “then the automatic conclusion would be that the IM does not want Nagaland people to enjoy fruits of development. In case the problem persists, the ACAUT would be forced to appeal to appropriate authorities having unpleasant consequences." To the Maytas-Gayatri and Nagaland Contractors and Suppliers' Union, the ACAUT requested both not to stop their works under any circumstances and to ensure that the lifeline is not jeopardized. ‘It is reminded that workmanship and quality should not be compromised at any cost. Further The state government is urged not to remain a mute spectator and at least assure the Naga public that works will not be affected by giving press release to the effect,’ the press release stated. In the meantime, the ACAUT has affirmed a resolution of the Western Angami Public Organization that no entity shall be allowed to disturb the 4-lane work on AH-1 under any circumstances. The organisation has called upon every citizen of Nagaland to ensure no hindrance for swift completion of the road. “The ACAUT Nagaland also urges the Working Group of the 6 NPGs to give a public undertaking to the Nagaland people that the 4-laning works under AH-1, Nagaland sector, shall not be disturbed by taxation demands under any circumstances,” the press release added.