Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, February 04 2010:
Declaring that there are approximately 40 to 50 camps of the North East based underground groups in Myanmar, GOC of 3 Corps Lt Gen NK Singh has informed that movement of the UGs from Manipur have been detected in Nepal.
Interacting with journalists from the North East at Rangapahar Cantonment yesterday on the occasion of the 25th Raising day of 3 Corps, the GOC 3 Corps Lt Gen NK Singh revealed that out of these camps, 25 to 30 have been identified as bigger camps or of established nature while the remaining are of temporary nature.
With regard to movement of UGs from Manipur in Nepal, the Army officer observed that although this is almost like setting up base camp there, no activities would be possible without the support of the Nepal Government.
Presenting an over all scenario of the situation of the north eastern states, the GOC said in Nagaland, the FNR initiative for Naga reconciliation has gathered momentum and the political dialogue is taking place at various levels in several different ways.
"Though violations of Ceasefire Ground Rules do occur, they are of minor nature and manageable and resolved as per the rules and the provisions of the law," he stated.
The GOC also said Dimapur has become a common hunting ground for a large number of UGs belonging to the North east, particularly those operating in Nagaland, Manipur and some from Assam.
Responding to a query, he said the numerous UGs are by and large involved in extortion, mainly from business establishments and outsiders and also on contracts and bigger deals.
He, however, stated that UGs from outside were not indulging in violence so as to keep the area free from too much of actions of
security forces.
"We are aware that approximately 10-15 groups from outside have some kind of floating population in Dimapur," he added.
With regard to the fencing of border areas in Nagaland, the GOC said the Government has not shown any keenness in fencing the Nagaland-Myanmar borders so far.
However, work on border fencing in Manipur has already begun (north of Moreh), while border work south of Moreh will hopefully start in another few months.
"Mizoram will also get a border fence, perhaps once the fence bordering Bangladesh is finished, then the effort will get moved this side," he informed.