Imphal, May 02 2010: Six elected representatives belonging to the Naga tribe have criticised the state Government's move to prohibit visit of NSCN (IM) supremo Th Muivah to Manipur.

A joint statement issued today by MLAs W Keishing, W Morung Makunga, D Shaiza, Dr Khasim Ruivah, K Raina and N Awangbow described as 'unfortunate,' the decision of the State Cabinet that NSCN/GPRN general secretary Muivah would not be allowed to visit Manipur, his birthplace as well as the move to recommend to the Centre to bar his entry into the State.

Expressing that decision of the State Cabinet is uncalled for, the independent legislators also reiterated their position to welcome the NSCN (IM) leader and hoped that the visit would will contribute to bring an expeditious solution to the decades long Naga political problem, promote peace in the region and restore political stability in Manipur.

It is the long cherished aspirations of the people that the Naga political problem is permanently solved, reminded the MLAs while pointing out that ever since the Indo-Naga ceasefire came into effect bloodshed in the region has been reduced to a significant level.

Construing that peaceful atmosphere prevailing at the juncture is momentary as no permanent solution could be arrived at till date, the MLAs suggested that instead of preventing the visit, the Government of Manipur should have asked both parties involved in the negotiations to speed up the peace process so as to promote peace and tranquillity in the State.

However, if the Manipur Government does not want peace and prevent the peace process, it will be detrimental to the wishes and aspirations of the people and 'we as representatives of the people will have no moral obligation to continue in office', the joint statement added.