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Hoho for �total separation� of Nagas, Meiteis

By Correspondent

KOHIMA, May 23 � Expessing deep concern over the sufferings and suppression of the Nagas living in Manipur, the apex body of the Naga tribal organisations has said the present situation has crossed the stage where Nagas and Meiteis can no longer co-exist and they have to live as different identities.

Briefing mediapersons after a marathon closed-door consultative meeting at Hotel Japf� here yesterday, Naga Hoho President Keviletuo Kiewhuo, along with his colleagues, said the problem in Manipur initially started with ADC (Autonomous District Council) elections which led to economic blockade to prevent the polls in certain areas. In the midst of that, NSCN-IM General Secretary Th Muivah�s proposed visit compounded the situation and now it has crossed that certain level, he said.

The Hoho said it would not comment on the issues of Muivah�s proposed visit or the ADC election, but categorically stated that it now wants �total separation of the people, i.e. the Nagas and the Meiteis�. �We have to live as different identities, we cannot co-exist now,� they said.

On whether the Hoho was demanding integration of Nagas, the Naga Hoho president said whether the Nagas in the South are integrated with Nagaland or they remain as a separate identity is an issue that will emerge and tackled in the near future. But he affirmed that Nagas in Manipur can no longer live with the Meiteis anymore, while questioning on how long they (Nagas) can struggle and how long the Meiteis can be allowed to suppress the Naga people.

�We shall not yield to suppressive policies of the Manipur Government or the Meities,� the Naga Hoho said, stating that the Nagas have every right to live as a people and shall endeavour to live as a people. Asserting that it cannot allow any other people to separate the Naga people, the Hoho said, �Wherever the Nagas are � whether Assam, Manipur, Arunachal or Myanmar � the life and property of every Naga should be protected by the Naga Hoho.�

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