Morung Express News
Dimapur | September 4
Ambiguity in the public domain over the political status and whereabouts of former chairman of the NSCN (K) Lt. Gen. (rtd) Khango Konyak continues even as conflicting reports make the rounds. While the news of his “impeachment” on August 17 was perceived as complete severing of ties or expulsion from the NSCN (K), emerging reports indicated otherwise.
The news of the “impeachment” had further stirred talks of him joining any of NSCN groups presently engaged in political parleys with the Government of India.
As per inputs from reliable sources, Khango is said to have maintained that he was removed from his position as chairman but not from the membership of the NSCN (K). The sources said that as far as his whereabouts was concerned, he is still in Myanmar and a member of the NSCN (K).
The ambiguity over his status notwithstanding, the GPRN/NSCN and the NSCN (IM) are reported to have expressed interest, though not openly, to welcome him into their folds provided he is willing. The sources though stated none of the groups have been able to open communication channels with him.
A senior NSCN (IM) functionary when asked about this said that if at all Khango decides to leave the NSCN-K, he will most likely join the NSCN (IM). Citing the present political scenario, the functionary said it would be wise on his part to do so.
Technically, to the GoI, Khango is a member of a banned organisation, which implies he is wanted by the security agencies of India. A sojourn into India would mean capture by government agencies in the event no peaceful overtures are made from his side.
The sources described Khango’s situation as “tricky.”
Civil organisations from Nagaland are also reportedly making efforts to reach out to him. A civil society leader of eastern Nagaland when contacted about this responded with vague comments. The leader though said that there were talks of reaching out to him only to add, “It’ll be known when the time comes.”
Meanwhile, a message received today, which was attributed to a report from Myanmar, informed of Khango reaching “his home in Nagaland safely” on September 4. The sources commenting on this maintained that he was still in Myanmar. A planned civic reception for an expected arrival on September 4 was cancelled after it became clear he will not come.
