DIMAPUR, JULY 24 (MExN): The NPF has once again clarified on the firing incident which took place near the official residence of Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and pointed out that the consequences that led to the arrest of cadres from the NSCN (K) and allowing the NSCN (IM) cadres to go scot free was ‘beyond the NPF’s perception’. “The police according to reports, swung into action as soon as the firing incident took place and apprehended the persons found with arms on them, as it was their duty. As such, the NPF had nothing to do with the current case or with the duties of the State police and its lapses, if any”, stated Akang Ao, Spokesperson, NPF Central Office in a press communiqué.
The party spokesperson also clarified that the earlier press release issued by R. Paphino was on behalf of the NPF as a whole and was issued in the capacity of the Press Secretary, in good faith without the intention of jeopardizing either of the factions. “Hence the NPF request all Naga national workers not to misconceive and misinterpret the goodwill of the NPF party”, Akang stated.
The NPF stated that as a Naga political party, it will continue to work in the same spirit and principle with all cross-sections of the Naga people with good humor.
Stating that the NPF came to power along with pre-poll alliance partners with the mandate of the people and formed the DAN government in the State, the party spokesperson pointed out that the DAN government with all humility and sincerity declared its political agenda of ‘equi-closeness’ in order to maintain cordial relationship with all Naga national workers and to forge ahead with a negotiated settlement on the Naga issue. “The NPF whatsoever does not have discrimination or partiality with any of the factions in as such as equi-closeness is concerned and peace process with the government of India for amicable settlement of the Naga political problem” it stated.
It also stated that the firing incident that occurred near the CM’s residence on July 10 was unfortunate. “The NPF’s cry for peace is perpetually disturbed by such incidences. Disturbing the peaceful atmosphere, in any manner, for the peace loving citizens is unwanted and therefore, the NPF through its press secretary issued a press release in this regard”, the party clarified.
The party also stated that as per protocol, the Chief Minister has the armed police force to protect him from any impending danger and eventuality. It pointed out that apart from the police, paramilitary force being deployed by the State government, the Chief Minister did not require keeping personnel of any faction or illegal security, either private or public. “As such, the NPF denounce the article accusing the Chief Minister of having NSCN (IM) as his security guards, and term the article as illogical”, the NPF stated.
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