Imphal, January 28 2009: Taking strong exception against the statement of the DIG of Assam Rifles, PS Mander that there is no ceasefire in Manipur during a public meeting, the Naga Peoples' Movement for Human Rights has dubbed such a statement as irresponsible and unbecoming of an officer.

In a release, NPMHR said that such a statement suggests that the Assam Rifles is more interested in confrontation than peacefully settling the issue.

The rights body also questioned whether the Assam Rifles is abiding by the directives of the Union Home Ministry or acting at the behest of vested interest communities and individuals.

The statement that the ceasefire should not apply in other Naga areas undermines the political negotiation between the Nagas and the Government of India, it asserted.

It has been 10 days since the siege of Shirui has been laid, said NPMHR and added that it supports the demands of the people of Shirui to the representatives of Naga Hoho, NSF and also to the DIG of 17 Assam Rifles.

Following the siege, Shirui village for the first time in its history has had to forgo the seed sowing festival scheduled on January 27, said NPMHR.

This is the seed sowing season and since the people are not able to tend to their field, the prospect of food shortage hangs over the village, said the statement and added that in the event of any food shortage, the Government of India, through its officers in the district should be held responsible.

The siege has also adversely affected the students who are set to appear in the Board's examination as well as students who have to seek re-admission as this is the season.

The representation submitted to the Ukhrul DC of January 23 to depute a Senior Magistrate at the site has not been complied with, said NPMHR.

The siege is in total violation of human rights, it asserted.

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