HT Correspondent
DIMAPUR, Aug 6: Despite inclement weather, people in large numbers gathered at a rally at Old MLA Hostel junction in Kohima on Tuesday to voice their protest against unabated illegal taxation, harassment, intimidation and death threats to the common people.
The rally was called by the Angami Youth Organisation (AYO) following the recent death threat issued to contractor K Rulho, proprietor of KKB Rulho, by the NSCN (Khango).
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Speakers at the rally were unanimous in condemning any kind of illegal activities and asked people to stand in unison against such acts.
“Unabated illegal taxation and intimidation under any circumstances will not be tolerated,” said Kevesa Khamo, president, Chakhesang youth Front, at the rally.
Lotha Youth Hoho president Limhathung N Yanthan said illegal taxation, harassment, intimidation and death threats to the common people are alien to the Naga culture.
He added that anti-social activities by any individual or group must be outrightly rejected.
“We can never allow anti-social activities to penetrate our society and become our culture,” he said.
After the rally, the AYO submitted a memorandum to the governor urging that the government of India strictly enforce the ceasefire ground rules in letter and spirit by ensuring the cadres of the groups adhere to the agreed ground rules.
The memorandum, appended by AYO president Kesosul Christopher Ltu and general secretary Neidilhoutuo Sechu, pointed out that there may be cessation of conflicts between the security forces and the Naga national political groups after the signing of the ceasefire agreements but extortion and forcible collection of money from all business enterprises are being carried out with impunity and the public if facing the brunt with prices of essential commodities skyrocketing.
It added that the NSCN (Khango) had even gone to the extent of issuing death threats for not succumbing to their illegal demands.
The AYO also urged the state government to take necessary actions to protect its citizens and assert its authority if any such acts of coercion take place.
