Mokokchung, 30 July (MTNews): In response to a news report titled, “Rio backs CM Biren Singh on comments on Manipur situation” published by the Nagaland Post on 28 July 2023, the Nationalist Democratic Progressive Party (NDPP) has clarified that it falsely attributed statements to Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, regarding his stance on the Manipur situation.
The NDPP expressed disappointment that “one of the senior newspapers of Nagaland has filed and headlined a news report that is completely inaccurate and misleading.” It clarified that the Chief Minister’s statement on the Manipur situation was clearly recorded on video and widely reported by various media outlets.
The party pointed out that Rio had never stated that he stood by the statement of the Chief Minister of Manipur, N Biren Singh as claimed in the ‘misleading’ report. No other media house or journalist had reported the statement in such an erroneous manner except Nagaland Post, the party said, adding, “This action on their part makes the public question the intention and purpose behind the reportage.”
“Such irresponsible and inaccurate reporting is damaging and uncalled for and defamatory in nature,” the NDPP stated.
The party reiterated Rio’s strong stance against the prevailing law and order situation in Manipur. “He has condemned the human rights atrocities in Manipur and continues to appeal to the Centre to take concrete steps towards restoration of peace, order and the confidence of the people,” it added.
It went on to say that the Chief Minister has also taken efforts to organize relief and assistance to victims and families of the crisis. “It is in this context and background that the misleading report has done significant damage. We appeal to the press and media fraternity to be more responsible in their reportage, especially when covering events of humanitarian crisis and political sensitivity,” the party added.
Reiterating that it has deep concern for the humanitarian crisis in Manipur, the NDPP aligned with the views of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the entire country has been shamed. The party appealed to the central government to take strong and decisive actions to restore normalcy and regain the trust and confidence of the citizens.
“The NDPP once again make known our readiness to extend any assistance that may be required for restoration of order and peace in Manipur at the earliest. We pray for the victims of crime against humanity and hope that the citizens will get justice,” it concluded.
It may be noted here that the Chief Minister’s Office has also clarified on the matter in Nagaland Post on its 29 July 2023 issue.