Rio flays dissidents

Kohima, Jun 07 (UNI) Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, whose leadership has been challenged by the dissident group led by Z Obed since May 30 last, has lashed out for the first time terming the dissidence as 'farce' and 'mockery'.

In an informal talk with media persons here yesterday, Rio claimed that he had support of majority group and his government was running smoothly.

He stated, "If anybody wants to be the leader, they should come openly, but not though a backdoor." Mr Rio described the situation as 'unfortunate' as the dissidents were using a three-years-old document.

He also brushed aside the allegation made by the dissident leader Obed about the horse-trading during the NPF Legislature party meeting.

UNI