NSCN-IM says no to creation of new Manipur districts

IMPHAL: The NSCN(IM) is opposed to the state government's move to declare Sadar Hills and Jiribam as full fledged revenue districts, said a statement of the Naga rebel group.
In an emergency meeting at Hebron on Monday, the NSCN(IM) took strong exception to the reported plan of the Okram Ibobi Singh government to declare Sadar Hills and Jiribam as districts.
"The house took a unanimous decision to oppose such a provocative move," said a release issued by the outfit.
The NSCN(IM) said ownership of land is a part of ancestral Naga domain.
It added, "Therefore, unless rightful ownership of the land is acknowledged by the settlers, the NSCN/GPRN shall never tolerate any move that infringes upon the rights of the owner (Nagas)."
However, they are prepared to negotiate on any proposed agenda if ownership is duly acknowledged and respected.