Imphal: The NSCN-IM has strongly condemned the improvised explosive device (IED) blast that killed an Indian Army soldier and injured four others near Khopanala in Shukhovi on July 13, describing the incident as a “cowardly terrorist act.”
In a statement, the outfit said the indiscriminate act of violence served no legitimate purpose other than to spread fear, create chaos and undermine the peaceful atmosphere that people have long sought to preserve.
“The use of activated explosive devices and anti-personnel mines is contrary to humanitarian principles and places innocent lives at unacceptable risk,” the statement said.
The NSCN-IM further asserted that, as a signatory to the Geneva Call Deed of Commitment banning anti-personnel mines, it remains committed to upholding its obligations and rejects the use of such weapons.
Reiterating its commitment to the Indo-Naga Ceasefire Agreement, the outfit said it would continue to honour both the letter and spirit of the Ceasefire Ground Rules.
“It remains committed to maintaining peace, exercising restraint, and ensuring that its conduct is consistent with the obligations undertaken under the ceasefire arrangement,” the statement added.
Describing the explosion as an attack not only on the immediate victims but also on the fragile peace and stability of the region, the NSCN/GPRN said such acts were intended to sow mistrust, fuel instability and derail efforts towards peace.
The outfit also stated that it would make every effort, through all available and appropriate means, to ascertain the facts behind the incident and identify those responsible.
It further appealed to the public to remain calm, refrain from speculation, and cooperate in ensuring that the facts are established.
“The pursuit of truth and justice is essential to preventing those responsible from achieving their objective of disrupting peace,” the statement said.