COVID SHARE ISSUE: Naga political groups refute news report

Dimapur, June 18 (EMN): Reacting to news report in which a legislator had recently alleged some NSCN cadres of demanding ‘shares’ from Covid fund, the Naga political groups including NSCN (R), NSCN (IM), GPRN/NSCN and Khango-led NSCN (K) have denied their involvement.

In a clarification, NSCN (R) has reminded of its stance which was published in all the leading newspapers on May 25, wherein it directed all its cadres not to fall short of grace in seeking financial assistances even from its patrons, sympathisers or business communities during these trying times.

NSCN (R), however, has not ruled out involvement of some unscrupulous elements both cadres or non-cadres by taking advantage for their personal gain. In such case, NSCN (R) stated that specific names (including faction) and other particular details should be disclosed to enable respective factions to probe and to investigate NSCN (R)’s statement through its MIP warned that if any of its cadres are found involved, either directly or indirectly, severe actions of ‘very serious’ nature would be initiated.

However, if particular names or factions cannot be provided, NSCN (R) has advised responsible persons, groups, sources etc. to verify properly before issuing any ‘unconfirmed or irresponsible or corroded’ statements in public domain and in news media. It further stated that NSCN (R), like any other, is equally concerned with this pandemic threat and also hoping and praying for better times to come.

NSCN (IM) too has denied its involvement and stated that they are in total solidarity with the state government’s fight against the wicked Covid-19.

A NSCN (IM)’s statement through its MIP stated that they not involved in any manner that goes against humanity at this particular juncture where all Nagas, irrespective of social, political standing are expected to fight together.

Meanwhile, the GPRN/NSCN has also denied its involvement directly nor indirectly involved in the said allegation.

However, taking serious note of the news it stated that Sumi regional authorities met leaders of Sumi Hoho, Zunheboto GBs’ Union, Zunheboto Chamber of Commerce members and other civil authorities to contemplate and investigate the person/ party responsible and involved in such despicable conduct.

The GPRN/NSCN regional administrative officer (RAO) of Sumi region, Kheshiho Yeputho, stated that it would not take such incomprehensible steps in this trying time but instead be most willing to assist the healthcare workers in whatever manner in the fight against Covid-19 pandemic.

While denouncing the irresponsible and inhumane activity, GPRN/NSCN has expressed readiness to assist the citizens as and when required.

In another statement, Khango-led NSCN (K) too has denied its involvement and declared that it has not sought/ demanded share/ percentages from Covid fund as claimed at any point of time.

“Rather, the NSCN as a whole feels and knows its obligation to contribute towards the war against this dreaded pandemic,” a NSCN/GPRN’s statement through its MIP stated.

It further asked the legislator to verify and reveal the identities of those who made such demands thereby maligning the image of NSCN as a whole.