Ukhrul, Jan 16: The National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) has condemned a recent directive issued by the Officer Commanding (OC) of Wakka COB, 44 Assam Rifles to village heads in the Tirap, Changlang, and Longding districts of Arunachal Pradesh.
The directive, dated January 15, 2025, cautioned village authorities against permitting recruitment activities by NSCN factions, including NSCN (IM), NSCN (KYA), NSCN (Reble), and ULFA-I. It also stated that any such activities must be reported immediately to the Wakka COB, and warned of legal action if failed to comply.
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Responding to the directive, the NSCN has called it an overreach and an affront to the dignity of the Naga community. The group contended that the notice contradicts the Ceasefire Ground Rules established between the Government of India and the NSCN. These ground rules outline the interactions between the Indian state and the NSCN throughout the ongoing peace process.
Further, the NSCN clarified that its recruitment practices do not involve coercion, addressing concerns raised by the Government of India about forced recruitment. Additionally, the organization accused the OC of Wakka COB of overstepping his authority and undermining the ceasefire agreements.
“The information emanating from a mere CO of an Assam Rifles Battalion is disgusting and disgraceful for the Nagas of Arunachal Pradesh in particular and for the entire Naga community in general,” the NSCN stated in its release.
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The group added that its movement is focused on defending the historical and political rights of the Naga people. It then urged the OC to avoid intervening in matters that exceed his authority, cautioning that such actions could escalate tensions.
The NSCN’s strong condemnation reflects ongoing sensitivities in the region as the group continues to advocate for Naga sovereignty and self-determination. The situation underscores the need for careful navigation of the ceasefire agreements to maintain peace and mutual respect in the region.
Efforts to reach the Assam Rifles for their response were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.