Naga organization opposes imposition of Sec 144 on NH-53

IMPHAL: The United Naga Council (UNC) has condemned imposition of Section 144 CrPC on National Highway 53 connecting Imphal and Silchar. Also known as the second lifeline of the state, it is among the three highways on which the UNC has imposed an indefinite bandh since August 21 to denounce the state government's alleged attempt to bifurcate Naga-dominated areas to create new districts.

The powerful Naga civil body's stir came in the wake of Sadar Hills District hood Demand Committee (SHDDC)-sponsored economic blockade on NH-39 and 53 since August 1, and an indefinite general strike in Sadar hills in Senapati in pursuit of its demand for creation of Sadar Hills district.

Incidentally, the Okram Ibobi Singh government is forced to bring essential commodities, including fuel, medicine and food stuff along the deplorable NH-53 under heavy security as NH 39 (Imphal-Dimapur route) has already been chocked by strike supporters.

"We condemn imposition of Section 144 CrPC along national highway-53 and the state government's evil motive against peaceful bandh supporters," the UNC said in a statement released on Friday evening. It also slammed assault on peaceful bandh supporters by police commandos in Chandel district on Thursday.

Stating that five strike supporters, including DK Mothang, the vice-president of All Naga Students' Association, Manipur (Ansam), were injured in the attack, the UNC said it has taken strong exception to the incident.

"We have traditional boundaries since time immemorial and therefore further bifurcation of Nagas' land for creating or upgrading new district without our consent will never be tolerated. We have history because we have land. We will not allow anyone to play politics with our land and history. We urge upon all to cooperate with us. But if any one defies our rights, the Nagas will not be responsible for any damage or injuries," it said.