Dimapur, June 18 (EMN): Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has expressed deep concern and anguish over the loss of lives of personnel of the Assam Rifles in the ambush by NSCN (K) cadres near Aboi town in Mon district on June 17.
A statement from the media cell of the chief minister’s office on Monday contained a message from Rio: “I hope and pray for the wellbeing of the injured. Such acts of violence have no place in civilized society and I convey my deepest condolences to the families of the bereaved. The government of Nagaland strongly condemns such acts of violence in the state particularly when Nagas are yearning for lasting peace after decades of strife and bloodshed.”
According to him, the present government was committed to an “early and inclusive resolution of the long-standing Indo-Naga conflict and has repeatedly declared that it will be an active facilitator in the peace process so that the Nagas can live in peace without compromising our unique culture, identity and traditions” recognised by the government of India.
“The state government held a consultative meeting with its Political Affairs Committee, PDA legislators and the 14 (fourteen) Naga tribal hohos on 11th May 2018 at the State Banquet Hall, Kohima. The house while appreciating the positive approach of the NSCN (IM) and NNPGs, further appealed to all the other Naga national political groups to come together under the spirit of unity and join the political negotiations in the greater interest of the people.
“The house further appealed to the NSCN (K) to return to the negotiating table and restore its ceasefire with the government of India to enable an all-inclusive peace process and work towards an early solution in the interest of all Nagas. At this crucial juncture, I on behalf of the government of Nagaland and the Naga people, appeal to one and all for an end to hostilities; and a return to ceasefire and peace talks so that all stakeholders concerned can be part of the peace process in the greater interest of the Naga family,” the statement read.
“Let us give peace a chance,” Rio added in appeal.
