Nagaland CM, Home Minister condemn killings

Kohima, Jun 5: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Home Minister Imkong L Imchen today condemned the killings following the clashes between the rival factions of the NSCN in Dimapur yesterday.

In a release issued from the Chief Minister's Secretariat, Mr Rio condemned the killings of 14 cadres and expressed concern on the recent spurt of fratricidal bloodshed.

He said a high-level meeting of senior state and police officials was held at Kohima yesterday to review the situation and take appropriate measures for ensuring the safety of the public.

The meeting also emphasised on strict enforcement of the Cease-Fire Ground Rules, jointly by police, Central para-military forces and the Army as per the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

He also appealed to the underground groups to refrain from the mindless killings and heed the cry of the people for understanding and reconciliation.

In a separate release, Home Minister Imchen condemned the bloody Xhelozhe clash in Dimapur yesterday, which he termed one of the most deplorable action committed by the NSCN factions.

UNI