Kohima, Dec. 21: A Manipur-bound truck was reportedly set on fire at Mao Gate this morning while essential commodities from two trucks were burnt by some blockade enforcers at Kigwema. The NSF has imposed total blockade on all Manipur-bound vehicles in Naga inhabited areas.
Addressing media persons at its office this evening, NSF president Subenthung Kithan owned the responsibility of burning of essential commodities consisting of milk powder from two Manipur-bound trucks at Kigwema. He, however, said it has no knowledge of the truck that was burnt outside Khuzama check gate.
On the present imbroglio between the Nagas and Meiteis in Manipur, Subenthung said the NSF has remained silent thus far.
Stating that the Meiteis started to target and harass the Nagas, vandalised churches and forcefully stopped members from attending the Sunday church service, the NSF said it therefore has resolved to impose total blockade on all Manipur-bound vehicles in the Naga inhabited areas.
He said the federation has changed its strategy this time unlike the past years and deployed its volunteers at strategic points starting from Dimapur to check entry of vehicles. He said the volunteers also move along the National Highway keeping an eye on the movement of Manipur-bound vehicles.On the burning of the essential commodities, the NSF president said it was done to show in action that the NSF is not simply issuing a threatening note but intends to carry out the blockade. He further cautioned that any driver who does not respect its call for the blockade will face the same consequences.
He also informed that on the day the blockade was imposed, about 150 Manipur-bound vehicles stranded at Khuzama returned to Dimapur.
Subenthung also informed about his talk with Manipur Chief Secretary O Nabakishore. During the talk, the NSF has sought assurance from the Government of Manipur for safety and security of the Nagas in Manipur.
He asserted that Meitei people residing in Nagaland will not be harassed and added that in good faith, Meitei students travelling back to Manipur for vacation have been exempted from the purview of the blockade.
On NPCC’s concern imposition of blockade during this festive season, Subenthung said the blockade will in no way affect the people and hamper the festive season.
He also asserted that the NSF will continue to impose the indefinite total blockade on Manipur-bound vehicles till the Government of Manipur assures the safety and security of the Nagas in Manipur.
