NSCN-K threat to Rio over "Z-plus" security to Muivah

Kohima, Dec 28 (UNI) The NSCN(K) today warned Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio of dire consequences if NSCN-IM leader T H Muivah was provided security during his forthcoming visit even as the Centre directed the state government to provide him 'Z-plus' security.

According to intelligence sources here, the Union Home Ministry directive came after the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Khaplang) issued a threat that it would assassinate National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) General Secretary T H.

Muivah if he attempted to visit Nagaland.

Mr Thuingaleng Muivah is likely to visit the state in January 2007 to discuss with his organisation the progress of bilateral negotiation with the Union Government.

But arch rival NSCN(K) warned Mr Rio of dire consequences if Muivah was provided security during his visit.

In a statement here, senior NSCN(K) leader Kughalu Mulatonu warned, ''Providing security to a terrorist would tantamount to inviting dangerous threat to Neiphiu Rio, his family and the Democratic Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) government.

''Isak and Muivah will not be allowed to enter the state and hundreds of armed cadres are ready to attack them if they do so,'' he cautioned.

''Two rival leaders would not be allowed to stay in and around Dimapur even for a day and have consultative meetings,'' he added.

Earlier, Mr Rio had also announced that Muivah would be provided security during his visit as the government was duty-bound to extend all possible help for his safety.

Now, after the directive of the Union Home Ministry, Muivah would be provided bullet-proof cars, and would be guarded by a number of security personnel.

Muivah, who came to India on December 20, is in New Delhi in connection with the proposed talks with Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil.

NSCN-IM Chairman Isak Chishi Swu and General Secretary Muivah had visited Nagaland in 2004.

Mulatonu also threatened NGOs they would be penalised if they attended the consultative meeting at the Council Headquarters at Camp Hebron near Dimapur.

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