Rival cadres condemned at Naga Peace Summit

Kohima, Jun 27 (UNI) A joint statement, issued by NSCN-IM and NSCN(K) at the conclusion of 2nd Naga Peace Summit at Chiang Mai in Thailand, has condemned both parties' cadres for attacking each other in Dimapur.

A summit, organised jointly by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation and churches, was held between June 22 and 26. It was attended by 43 representatives from various political groups, civil societies and tribal Hohos, along with a few international participants from the American Baptist Churches and the British and Canadian Quakers.

It was the first joint statement among rival factions, signed by General (Retd) V S Atem, emissary to the collective leadership of NSCN-IM and Y Wangtin Naga, Deputy Kilonser (minister)in NSCN/GPRN.

It was agreed that the cadres from both sides should go back to their respective camps and the attacks from non-Naga armed group be stopped. It also upheld the spirit of foregiveness among the Naga people to promote unity.

A photograph, showing the rival leaders shaking hands by holding a crucifix, was also published.

In a statement issued last night, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation said it had received a letter from former US President Jimmy Carter encouraging the Nagas to rise to the challenge of leadership and end the division.

UNI AS PL DB1611