Protest in Manipur against Naga leader's visit

Imphal (Manipur), May 16 (ANI): Scores of protestors took to the streets in Imphal to protest the proposed visit of leader of National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah, who wants unification and eventual independence of Naga-dominated areas in the north-east.

The tension intensified here on Saturday as the protestors raised slogans against Muivah.

They alleged that Muivah's homecoming was only a ploy to create a communal crisis in the state.

"We have co-existed together with love and peace and I believe his entry in the state will destroy the peaceful atmosphere and end that relationship amongst us," said Rojen Mayengbam, a protestor.

"We always want to live together peacefully and we want to say that if a problem will be created, it is better for him not to enter," he added.

Earlier this month, the state government banned Muivah from visiting Somdal, located in Ukhrul district.

The NSCN-IM had agreed to a ceasefire in August 1997 and launched a peace process with the Central Government to bring an end to the longest-running insurgency in India.

The rebel group has participated in several rounds of talks with central officials since the start of the ceasefire.

But talks between the two sides have not made progress over the rebels' main demand of unification and eventual independence of Naga-dominated areas in northeast India. (ANI)