On the invitation of the Government of Manipur, the Foothills Naga Coordination Committee (FNCC) on Friday had a meeting with the Government representatives and agreed to call off the blockade and agitation with immediate effect.
A meeting was held at Imphal at 04:00pm today and after thorough and detailed discussion between the representatives of the State Government and representatives of the Foothills Naga Co-ordination Committee, the following agreements have been taken.
1. On the construction of an unauthorized road, it was clarified that the State Government had not approved or sanctioned any such roads as pointed out by FNCC. Necessary legal action will be taken after verifying the status of such illegal constructions/naming, if any on ground, will not be permitted.
2. As regards concerns expressed over SoO Agreement/ designated camps etc., interests and apprehensions of Nagas in Foot-hill areas will be seriously considered by State Govt. in consultation with Govt of India..
3. About the illegal Poppy Cultivation, it was acknowledged by both parties that the State Government has been taking stern actions against those involved in Poppy cultivation under NDPS Act and PIT (NDPS) Act under the initiative of War on Drugs1.0 & 2.0. The State Government had been taking steps towards Zero tolerance to NDPS matters more particularly illegal cultivation of Poppy and Cannabis. Destruction drives had been conducted by the State Police and Central Agencies like NCB. It was agreed that the State Government will take up necessary action including survey of area and destruction of Illegal cultivation of poppy & Cannabis in the State.
On the basis of above understanding, FNCC agreed to call off the blockade / agitation with immediate effect stated the statement jointly signed by N. Ashok Kumar (IAS), Commisioner-cum-Secretary, Government of Manipur, Dr. Aku Newme, General Secretary of Joint Tribes Council, B. Robin Kabui, Secretary of FNCC, Nelson Chithung, Nomination Convenor of Tangkhul Naga Foothills Organisation, and CH.Wirianjinlu, Co-convenor of Koubru Rangr Liangmai Women Union.
