DIMAPUR, JUNE 18 (MExN): The Assam Rifles has refuted the press statement issued by the NSCN (K) wherein the latter had alleged that the Assam Rifles was creating unwanted situation in Mon and also allegation that raids were conducted. A rejoinder issued by the PRO IGAR North stated that on June 13, an operation was conducted by Assam Rifles based on specific intelligence about the presence of armed NSCN (K) cadres hiding in a specific house in Chenmoho village. Presence of armed cadres outside designated camps is in violation to cease fire ground rules, the press note stated.
It was claimed by the Assam Rifles that the search operation was conducted with a village guard and the chief of the village. Search of the target house resulted in the apprehension of two NSCN (K) cadres alongwith arms, ammunition and explosives - a clear violation of the Cease Fire Ground Rules, it stated. Further it was informed that a No Claim Certificate was obtained from the Village Chief and Village Guard.
The search also resulted in recovery of a huge quantity of rice approximately 30 quintals, which was verified by the Village Guard and Village Chief in whose presence the search was carried out, the press note informed. A certificate to this effect was obtained from them.
The PRO IGAR (North) also mentioned that two letters dated 19 January 2012 and 18 April 2012 signed by Brigadier Shahtem, Quarter Master, GHQ, NSCN (K) and addressed to the store keeper – Chen Block, Chen Area Village / Town Council, GB Chen Town, VCC Chochzu and Chenwetnya, demanding the Below Poverty Line (BPL) and Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) Rice of Feb 12 and May 12 for the NSCN (K).
The AR PRO said that the Assam Rifles is provided adequate rations by the government and does not have to resort to looting as the NSCN (K) has done in this case, rations instead is provided from our authorisation to needy people when requested. “The allegation of ransacking of public property, long pants and ladies mekhalas are laughable as the Village Chief and Village Guard were present, which the NSCN (K) appears to be unaware of”.
Further, it was highlighted that 20% of Assam Rifles troops are from the North East - Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Mizoram and any wrong doing by Assam Rifles will lead to discontentment and resentment amongst them.
The Assam Rifles termed the statements and claims of the NSCN (K) as “fabricated lie to hide its own crime of looting rations meant for the poorest of the poor and successful operations launched by the Assam Rifles”. The Assam Rifles stated that it stands by its commitment as ‘Friends of The Hill People’ and ‘Peacemakers’ to ensure a weapon and extortion free society and peaceful environment in Nagaland.
