Sayan Chatterjee,
Manipur : The NSCN-IM has committed a serious violation of ceasefire ground rules by setting up an “Unauthorised Camp” in Ukhrul district of Manipur, Indian Army sources confirmed.
When we delved a little more on the incident, Lt Col Harsh Wardhan Pande, PRO (Defence) Tezpur, said, “During the routine aerial recce on 25 Apr 19, some suspected temporary hutment type structures were observed in the forest, in general area Sihai Khunou/Khamasom, Ukhrul . Troops deployed to verify confirmed the existence of an unauthorized camp of NSCN (IM) in that area later”
Reportedly, the very same day, General Secretary of United Naga Council gave a phone call to Commander of Assam Rifles Sector and confirmed the presence of NSCN (IM) camp in that area.
“The Commander requested the villagers and pastor to inform NSCN(IM) cadres to vacate the camp immediately as it is an unauthorized camp and is in gross violation of existing ceasefire ground rules”,further added, Lt Col Harsh Wardhan Pande, PRO (Defence) Tezpur.
On 26th the chairman CFMG was briefed about the prevailing adversary situation at around 18hrs by IG Assam Rifles. Later, on 27 Apr 19, at around 1415hrs, it was confirmed by the Chairman CFMG that instructions have been issued by the group for immediate vacation of the NSCN (IM) camp. Accordingly, Assam Rifles troops contacted the villagers to confirm the vacation of the camp.
“In the meanwhile, the area has been reinforced by additional troops and the unauthorized camp is under constant surveillance by air and other means”, said Lt Col Pande, PRO (Defence).
However, aerial reconnaissance on 27th morning revealed that the camp has not been vacated. The spokesperson alleged that the inconvenience caused to the villagers is, “entirely due to the irresponsible actions by NSCM (IM) cadres”
“The security forces have shown great restraint. The villagers who were agains sent towards the camp met SS Lt Col David Rambo who was awaiting instructions from Hebron”, said, Lt Col Harsh Wardhan Pande, PRO (Defence) Tezpur.
Despite extreme restraint shown by Assam Rifles troops, no action has been taken by NSCN (IM) to vacate the unauthorized camp. This is a serious violation of Ceasefire ground rule by NSCN(IM). The onus for further escalation rests with NSCN (IM) hierarchy, if the unauthorized camp is not vacated immediately.
