The NSCN-IM has condemned the fatal Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast that killed an Indian Army personnel and injured four others near Khopanala in Shukhovi on July 13, describing it as a “cowardly terrorist act” aimed at disrupting peace and stability in the region.
In a statement issued by its Ministry of Information and Publicity (MIP), the NSCN-IM said the indiscriminate use of explosives serves no legitimate purpose other than to spread fear, create chaos and undermine the peaceful atmosphere that people have long sought to preserve.
The organisation said the use of activated explosive devices and anti-personnel mines is against humanitarian principles and endangers innocent lives. It reiterated that, as a signatory to the Geneva Call Deed of Commitment banning anti-personnel mines, it remains committed to honouring its obligations under the international humanitarian framework and rejects the use of such weapons.
Reaffirming its commitment to the Indo-Naga Ceasefire Agreement, the NSCN-IM said it would continue to abide by the ceasefire ground rules and remain committed to maintaining peace, exercising restraint and supporting the ongoing peace process.
Describing the explosion as an attack on both security personnel and the fragile peace process, the organisation said such acts are intended to create fear, fuel instability and derail efforts towards lasting peace. It added that it would make every effort to establish the facts behind the incident and identify those responsible.
