Dimapur, January 22 (MExN): A senior leader of the NSCN/GPRN (Isak/Muivah) detained by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and currently being held in Tihar jail today said to go on hunger strike. Anthony Shimray, head of the “alee command” of the NSCN/GPRN issued an appeal through the MIP, received here.
The reasons for the “hunger strike” Shimray said to undertake is to press for his unconditional release for his being a “member of peace-talks; removal of “every hindrance that is blocking the progress of peace-talks such as kidnapping, torture, arrest and imprisonment” and “since Indo-Naga peace Talks is not under the law/court of India any member of NSCN involved in Peace-Talks must not stand trial under UAPA (ACTS).”
“It is my utmost request to kindly extend your support and help in this crucial moment. I am planning to begin my ‘hunger strike’ by last week of this month January. I strongly believe that through your effort and help, truth and reality behind the fact, can be conveyed in order to bring about changes and freedom,” Shimray said. Shimray also quoted a Bible scripture passage: “For your sympathetic support and timely succor, I shall always remain ever grateful to you all. Above all, God the creator and merciful Lord will bless you many folds in return.”
“Remembering the words of Bible, James 4: 17; anyone then, who knows the good he ought to do and does not do it, sins.”
Shimray’s lamented that instead of “correcting the mistake and strengthening the fragile peace-process” the NIA dismissed his bail by opening-up old cases of 1982. “This policy is very conspicuous of GOI conniving with National Investigating Agency to detain me longer in prison. Justifying my detention, under Terrorist Acts is directly attacking the NSCN and trying to chain Naga Freedom movement under the law of India. Moreover, it is a betrayal to the ongoing peace-process. It is similar to a war-like atmosphere. Even, in the worst time of fighting, many leaders and cadres were either released on bail or case withdrawn.”
Shimray also asserted “in my case” that the peace-talks or ceasefire don’t exist. “What is the meaning of peace-talks? Should I be treated in such inhuman manner? Even after kidnapping me in Nepal-Kathmandu Airport, torturing me by RAW like a criminal-terrorist and illegally detaining me in prison for 14 months, not enough? Why only targeting me. Am I not a member of NSCN? Did I not participate in the peace-talks more than ten times?”
The letter informed that a “speedy court trial” has been fixed for February 10–15. “Apparently, National Investigating Agency wants to convict 'life sentence’ for conspiring and waging war against GOI. In this given condition, what choice do I have but go for ‘hunger strike’. The cruel situation has compelled me take this extreme risky step. This decision is being taken after a contemplative thought and deep prayer with fasting,” Shimray asserted.
“I am not seeking justice because; they can’t undo what has been done. However, this cannot go on like this. Time after time, year after year our party/organization and Naga people have been played around like a small child with false promises, NSCN leaders fooled around. The conspiracy of silence has to be broken by the light of truth. The bottom line is, how GOI treats me, in the same way they will treat Indo-Naga peace-talks. Arresting me and keeping me in prison will never strengthening peace in entire region – North East.”
