Congress creating confusion over Naga talks: Manipur CM

Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and Naga People's Front (NPF) MLA Awangbou Newmai on Tuesday accused the Congress of trying to create confusion among different communities over the Naga peace talks.

Opposition leader Okram Ibobi Singh had dared the BJP Chief Minister to comment on reports that the NPF, a coalition partner in the state government, did not take part in the all-party meeting held here on Saturday.

Biren Singh said the Congress should have verified the facts before going to the press.

He said: "The assembly had adopted a resolution and all sections of people in the state are for the unity and territorial integrity of Manipur."

Newmai said: "The talks between the Indian government and the NSCN-IM are for the restoration of peace. While the efforts are on, one party is trying to upset the applecart.

"It is trying to create misunderstanding among the people by driving a wedge. It is going to the press with one-sided stories."

There is widespread fear in Manipur that a settlement between the Indian government and the NSCN-IM may lead to Manipur losing Naga-inhabited areas to a Greater Nagaland.

--IANS

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