Rio condemns inter-factional clash, appeals for peace

Kohima, Jun 26: Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today condemned the latest eruption of violence between the rival factions of the NSCN at Vihokhu village under Niuland sub-division in Dimapur district.

In a release here, the Chief Minister termed the inter-factional clash as most unfortunate since it coincided with the peace nitiative taking place at Chiang Mai in Thailand, under the call of the civil societies and the Church.

Mr Rio appealed to the underground cadres to listen to the voice of the people, who have been craving for peace and cessation of hostilities between the underground groups, and adhere to the ceasefire ground rules.

He also appealed to the underground groups to work for peace and said the killings among the Naga brethren were completely unjustified and will only create more division and hatred.

Mr Rio said after receiving information of yesterday's clash between the NSCN-IM and NSCN/GPRN, the district administration officials, along with security forces, rushed to the spot for the protection of the civilians.

He said the government had deployed Assam Rifles, Indian Reserve Battalion and district administration officials in the entire area for the protection of the civilians.

UNI