Imphal, August 30: Naga Peoples' Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) (South Sector), while appreciating the stand of the Nagaland Congress to integrate all contiguous Nagainhabited areas, strongly flayed MLA Bijoy Koijam's speech at the 9th foundation anniversary of United Peoples' Front (UPF) at Kangla Hall on August 28 where he said, "� Moreover, it is a fact that Naga people living in Manipur do not have any intention of working against the integrity of Manipur".

The NPMHR said "these words clearly reflect again the consistent attitude of the majority community suppressing the rights of the Nagas and other minority communities in their desire to lead a life free of provocative repression".

The NPMHR asked as to since when did MLA Bijoy Koijam receive the mandate of the Naga people in Manipur to speak on their behalf or define their history, culture and desire.

The rights body asserted that it has been made amply clear for the Nagas, that living under one administrative unit is not just a demand but "our birth-right".

It further stated that arbitrary division by the British and then by India regarding the Nagas is well documented and need no further clarification.

"The United Naga Council (UNC) in clear-cut terms is spearheading the Naga integration movement by declaring non-cooperation against the Government of Manipur.

NPMHR lauded Naga MLAs and MP for expressing what is their (Naga) birthright constitutionally by submitting memorandum to New Delhi.

At the highest level, the Government of India and NSCN (IM) have been holding dialogue to resolve this long standing demand of the Nagas", reminded the body.

The NPMHR also alleged that atrocities were committed against people of Tokpa Ching in Thoubal district by security forces personnel.

"NPMHR strongly condemns the atrocities meted out by the combined force of 21 Assam Rifles and Manipur police commandos to innocent residents of Tokpa Ching in Thoubal on August 23, and the assault on innocent youths by 7 Manipur Rifles on August 22 at Moreh in Chandel district.

NPMHR would like to remind the people of Manipur about how human rights continues to be abused by supposedly the law enforcers including the state government machinery in the name of counter insurgency when they should be protecting the innocent populace.

Nagas have borne the burnt of the Indian military since the Naga movement started in the 40s.Villages were reduced to ashes, standing crops were burnt, women and children mercilessly murdered, domestic animals killed randomly and so on.

Unfortunately, this has continued despite the declaration of cease-fire between GOI and NSCN (IM).

"Notwithstanding these, the NPMHR still believes in the spirit that has guided our destiny and continues to do so," it asserted.

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