The NSCN/GPRN condemn in the strongest terms the ongoing harassment of civilians by the Indian security forces at TM Kasom village, Makuilongdi and other nearby surrounding villages, conducting unauthorized raids, door-to-door searches without judicial warrants, militarization of residential areas and especially the abduction of four innocent civilians. These actions constitute a grave violation of fundamental human rights. Civilians caught in the midst of any conflict; justified or not, deserve protection, not persecution.
The Indian security forces are violating the mutually agreed Ceasefire Ground Rules at a pace that outstrips the MIP, NSCN/GPRN ability to draft a condemnation note. The recent military activities of the Indian armed forces in Naga areas are of grave concern; this militarization has created peaceful villages into zones of fear and control.
The Indian Security Forces are reminded again that the agreed Ceasefire Ground Rules is a bilateral agreement. It is reiterated that it is not an agreement giving them sole rights to act on their own whims and fancy.
These violations are on record and it is a serious breach of trust that undermines the credibility of the ongoing peace talks. It is high time the Government of India (Gol) made its intentions clear to the world whether they want to pursue peace through force or peace through genuine dialogues. Either way, the Naga people remain resolutely committed to go the distance, at all costs.
Be that as it may, the Gol should commit itself even while making up its mind to the following:
1. An immediate and independent investigation into these violations of the Ceasefire Ground Rules.
2. Strict adherence to the terms of the Ceasefire Agreement.
3. International and independent human rights monitoring of affected areas.
The pursuit of a lasting, honorable solution to the Indo-Naga political issue should be based upon trust and respect for each other’s differences rather than on the barrel of a gun.
Issued by:
MIP, NSCN/GPRN
