The NSCN-K (Khango) has intensified its stance in the dispute involving K Rulho, proprietor of KKB, and the Angami Youth Organization (AYO). In a statement from the members of the National Security Council, the NSCN-K (Khango) cautioned the AYO to refrain from interfering in its affairs, adding that the government has already cautioned Rulho against his individual provocations and stands by its statements regarding this matter.
It may be noted that AYO has announced a non-cooperation stance with the NSCN-K (Khango) in response to the death penalty issued to M/s K. Rulho over alleged non-payment of taxation.
According to the statement issued by the NSCN-K (Khango), it acknowledged the resolution of non-cooperation from AYO. However, it questioned the basis on which a youth organization, without a thorough understanding of the issues at hand, can interfere in governmental affairs. The NSCN-K (Khango) also questioned under what authority AYO assumed the right to challenge the government, particularly based on the provocations of a single individual, such as Rulho.
It also said that any individual challenging the integrity of the government or attempting to take the law into their own hands against the government will face appropriate actions as deemed fit under Yezhabo.
It further questioned the integrity of AYO officials concerning their claims of “possessing automatic weapons.” The NSCN-K (Khango) asked whether these weapons were meant for protecting Naga rights against the alien oppressor of armed forces or if they were intended to wage war against the Naga Army, which is fighting for the rights of the Naga people with the Government of India.
Acknowledging AYO’s recent statement claiming possession of automatic weapons, the NSCN group said that they consider this a “direct challenge” to their government and an “attempt to escalate tensions.”
In response, the NSCN group issued a stern caution that any casualties among members of the AYO, who are reportedly in possession of automatic weapons, will be regarded as “resulting from armed conflict between the NSCN, government, and AYO.”
“This incident should not be misconstrued as isolated assassination attempts,” it added.
By issuing this statement, the NSCN group aimed to clarify its stance and emphasize the importance of adhering to the Yezhabo and respecting the integrity and functions of the government.
It also explained that the NSCN/GPRN (Khango) has shown considerable patience over the past two years in dealing with issues related to K Rulho, who claimed to be the proprietor of KKB. “Despite this patience, KKB has only contributed 5 Lac for five projects being undertaken in Nagaland, after which all communication from KKB ceased,” it said.
“Numerous attempts were made to resolve this matter, but when Rulho finally responded, he not only questioned the integrity of the NSCN/GPRN (K) but also provocatively challenged the government to take any action it deemed necessary against his non-cooperation,” the NSCN group continued.
In response, the National Security Council (NSC) member from the NSCN/GPRN warned Rulho that such provocations could lead to capital punishment under NSCN Yezhabo, the governing code of conduct. The member of the NSC emphasized that no individual, regardless of their position, has the right to make such inflammatory statements against the NSCN/GPRN.
Furthermore, the NSC directed all contractors under the purview of AYO to immediately cease and demobilize their manpower and machinery currently deployed across other districts in Nagaland. This directive, it said, will remain in effect until a resolution is reached in the ongoing dispute between M/S KKB PVT.LTD Construction Company and the NSCN Government.
“These actions are in response to the declaration of non-cooperation by AYO in the media, and the NSCN urges all relevant parties to adhere to these instructions to avoid further conflict and ensure safety and order in the region,” it added.