NSCN (IM) demotes three errant cadres

EMN DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 23 AFTER the outcry by the public and Sumi organizations against the December 21 incident at Aghuyito junction near Zunheboto town involving NSCN (IM) cadres. In the incident seven passengers including two ladies were harassed and humiliated. In a swift reaction the NSCN (IM) released a statement highlighting the action it has taken against the erring cadres. They have been punished with rank demotion, rank retardation and hard labour punishment.MIP statement said three cadres without any directives and under the influence of alcohol had violated serious human rights, which was not in any manner justifiable nor condonable. Stating that such “barbaric” and sick mentality has no place in the Naga society, the NSCN (IM) said it was deeply ashamed that its three cadres instead of playing the role of protectors became monsters. It stated that as per the Naga Army Act Rules & Regulations (NAARR) Chapter Viii articles 87 & 106 clauses i & ii, the three cadres namely, Sergeant Apam, corporal Mahori and private Ninoto of Zasibitou Battalion have been punished with rank demotion, rank retardation and they have been awarded with hard labour imprisonment. The NSCN (IM) has sought forgiveness and appealed the victims in particular and Naga people in general to pardon the actions of its three cadres whose irresponsibility and indiscipline had cost immense trouble and embarrassment to the government. “This incident has made us re-introspects the evilness within us. We pray for an early recovery of the victims and pray that God will give them strength to forgive us,” the MIP statement said.