WC-NNPG condemns Chümoukedima IED blast, warns attempts to derail Naga peace process and urges accountability for perpetrators in Nagaland
DIMAPUR — The Working Committee of Naga National Political Groups (WC-NNPG) on Wednesday condemned the July 13 improvised explosive device (IED) blast near Khopanala in Chümoukedima district, describing it as a deliberate attempt to undermine peace and provoke instability in Nagaland.
In a statement, the committee termed the attack an "unforgivable provocation" against the people of Nagaland and a reminder that some elements did not want the Nagas to experience lasting peace. It stated that those involved in the blast should own responsibility for the act.
The WC-NNPG maintained that the explosion was a challenge not only to the Naga people but also to the government of India, and warned against attempts to derail the ongoing Indo-Naga peace process.
Also read: Chümoukedima IED blast: DGAR calls attackers 'enemies of Nagaland', urges peace
Naga groups condemn IED Chümoukedima blast, warn against attempts to derail peace process
It asserted that all signatory Naga political groups were adhering to the ceasefire ground rules and claimed that the peace negotiations had reached an advanced stage, with the framework for a political settlement already finalised.
According to the organisation, there were attempts by certain elements to create unrest in Nagaland similar to the ongoing ethnic conflict in neighbouring Manipur.
Recalling its commitment to humanitarian principles, the WC-NNPG stated that under the leadership of N Kitovi Zhimomi, the GPRN/NSCN signed the Geneva Call's three Deeds of Commitment in Geneva on July 10, 2014, pledging to protect children in armed conflict, ban anti-personnel mines, and prohibit sexual violence and gender discrimination. It added that other constituent groups of the WC-NNPG also subscribe to these principles.
The committee asserted that Naga people were prepared to coexist with India on the basis of an honourable and acceptable political solution, but warned that those attempting to trigger violence from within or outside Nagaland would face public opposition.