Manipur CM refutes Rio's claims

Imphal, June 2 (UNI) Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh today said his government was not informed of Nagaland Chief Minister Nephieu Rio's visit to Manipur recently.

Mr Ibobi, speaking during a function held at Kangla, said Mr Rio was very close to him and the Manipur government would always welcome him.

''The Nagaland Chief Minister can visit any time. However, if an official intimation is given to the Manipur government security measures can be taken up,'' he added. The Manipur government was responsible for anything which occurs inside its territory, he added.

Mr Rio's visit sparked off a major crisis in Manipur after the Nagaland Chief Minister reportedly asked Naga MLAs of Manipur to support the unification of all Naga inhabited areas.

The Manipur Assembly, civil organisations of Manipur have already condemned Mr Rio's statement. The Manipur Assembly also resolved several times to protect the territorial integrity of Manipur.

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