Lotha Hoho calls for protest rally against Assam Rifles today

KOHIMA: Lotha Hoho and Lotha frontal organisations have announced to hold a public protest rally on Wednesday in Wokha town expressing resentments over the killing of a GPRN/NSCN cadre and injury to another in an operation carried out by 28 Assam Rifles at Okotso village on October 23.
In a statement, Lotha Hoho chairman Mhao Ezung and general secretary Mhondamo Ovung said the rally was in protest against “unprovoked violation” of the peaceful atmosphere by 28 Assam Rifles at Wokha district.
It asked all citizens of the town, including students, to be present in traditional Lotha or concerned tribeal attire, college and school uniforms, at main police point, Wokha town. Educational institutions and business establishments have also been asked to cooperate.
Informing that the rally would be peaceful, LH, however, asked district administration and police to ensure security.
In connection with the incident, Naga Hoho had on Monday met D K Pathak, CFMG Chairman at Kohima and appraised him over the “high handedness” by security forces.
In a statement on Tuesday, its president P Chuba Ozukum and general secretary Mutsikhoyu Yhobu condemned the “blatant act” of 28 Assam Rifles, saying such killings could have been averted had the Assam Rifles dealt the situation with better understanding and reasoning.
The NH alleged that security forces have been deliberately demeaning the existence of Naga armies under the pretext of AFSPA. Therefore, it appealed to the Assam Rifles not to break the breach of trust and honour the cease-fire ground rules with seriousness.
Further, the Hoho appealed to all armed forces to maintain utmost restraint, rather than perpetrating violence and killing human life under the excuse of maintaining law and order.
The Nagaland Gaon Burhas Federation (NGBF) vehemently condemned the excessive action of the 28 Assam Rifles in attacking GPRN/NSCN cadres.
NGBF president Shahlem Konyak and general secretary Shikuto Zalipu alleged that the Assam Rifles, calling themselves friends of the Hills, was trying to jeopardise the peace process.
The NGBF said, “Any clarifications will not be substantiated for this act of cowardice, slaughter the laid down ground rules and rules of engagements.”
The motive behind the attack in the heart of peace zone, “compelled the Nagas to apprehend the hidden agenda of the government.”
At this crucial period, when various groups have signed cease-fire with Government of India for amicable solution, the motive behind the attack in the heart of peace zone, “compelled the Nagas to apprehend the hidden agenda of Government of India.”
“Therefore, before situation get worse, we need to nip on the bud” said NGBF. Further, NGBF urged Government of India to set up an inquiry commission and expose the culprits by awarding befitting punishment deem fit under the law of the land. NGBF further conveyed condolences to the bereaved family, and wished speedy recovery to those injured, it said. (UNI)