Dimapur, February 6 (MExN): The Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation (DAYO) condemned what it termed as the “cowardly act of extortion” allegedly carried out by cadres of the NSCN-K (Khango) group against a fellow Lotha Naga entrepreneur in Purana Bazar, Dimapur, on February 4.
“Such despicable acts not only threaten the safety and livelihood of hardworking individuals but also undermine the spirit of entrepreneurship and self-reliance among the Naga people,” stated the DAYO in a press release.
In this connection, the DAYO expressed its full solidarity with the Dimapur Lotha Youth Organisation (DLYO) in denouncing the “blatant intimidation.”
Meanwhile, the DAYO further maintained that the repeated targeting of local entrepreneurs by armed groups is totally unacceptable and must be brought to an immediate halt.
“These groups, under the guise of political struggle, have instead become stumbling blocks to progress, preventing dedicated and rising entrepreneurs from contributing to the economic development of our state,” it maintained.
To this end, the DAYO urged the Ceasefire Monitoring Cell to take “urgent and decisive action to rein in the NSCN-K (Khango) group and ensure that such criminal activities do not recur.”
“If the ceasefire mechanism is to hold any credibility, it must ensure that armed groups strictly adhere to the Ceasefire Ground Rules and refrain from unlawful activities, especially extortion and harassment of the people,” it said.
DAYO further asserted that it would not remain silent in the face of such injustices and reaffirmed its commitment to stand by all Naga entrepreneurs who strive to uplift our society through hard work and dedication.
It also called upon all right-thinking citizens and civil society organisations to raise their voices against such “oppressive tactics that hinder our collective growth and aspirations.”
“We demand justice, accountability, and the protection of our people from such lawless elements,” it added.
