NSCN-IM questions Delhi's seriousness over peace talks

Following the arrest of one of its senior leaders by the Indian Army's Sikh Regiment, the Nationalist Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM) on Tuesday questioned the government's seriousness over the ongoing Naga Framework Agreement.

The NSCN-IM -- which inked an agreement with the central government to end the six-decade-long conflict in 2015 -- also accused New Delhi of undermining the talks, especially when it is expecting a final solution.

"The NSCN--IM seriously takes note on the arrest of our senior leader Z.D. Bob, steering executive member, on the morning of January 16, 2017, when he was returning home along with his family members, including children and in-laws," said a statement issued by the NSCN-IM.

The NSCN-IM said that there is a need for the Indian Government to control its armed forces, make them behave and adhere to the agreed ceasefire ground rules.

Seeking the release of the arrested leader, the NSCN-IM said: "Long-awaited peaceful solutions should not be relegated to the back-burner due to such unmindful actions of Indian armed forces. Equally it is viewed as potential threat to peaceful environment between India and Nagas that in any eventuality the government should be held responsible for."

--IANS

rup/lok/dg