JVYO clarifies on Jul 21 encounter location

With regard to the killing of one NSCN (K) member during a joint operation by 12 Para (SF) and 19 Assam Rifles on July 21 last, purportedly in the jungles of Puliebadze, the Jotsoma Village Youth Organization (JVYO) has clarified that the encounter occurred at Saükhwi (which is beyond the PHE water reservoir/source and towards Western Dzükou) and not Puliebadze ridge or above Sazolie College as reported in the media.

In a press release, JVYO president Rokokhotso Rino and secretary Vizakieto Nagi said this was verified after a team comprising of the district administration, Police, DBs and JVYO trekked deep into the forest to locate the spot where the encounter took place on July 23.

Expressing its regrets and condolences at the death of NSCN (K) member, the JVYO has however strongly reaffirmed that it would not allow any factions to set up their bases or camps in its jurisdiction without prior information and knowledge of the village authorities.

The organisation asserted that the security of the villagers, residents, student community and tourist/visitors would be protected at all cost. Urging the security forces to be sensitive while carrying out any operations in the village jurisdiction, the JVYO affirmed that any accesses committed by security forces on innocent villagers, residents, student community and tourist/visitors would not be tolerated.

Further, pointing out that the encounter took place far from the Puliebadze Eco Tourism Project area, it informed that visitors need not hesitate to visit the tourist project sites. 

Meanwhile, the organisation has informed the general public and all visitors that JVYO entry gate to Puliebadze Eco Tourism Project would be open from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Setting up camps unacceptable: JVC

Jotsoma Village Council (JVC) has expressed appreciation to the district administration, police, DBs and JVYO for taking the trouble of trekking into the forest to locate and verify the spot where the encounter took place.

In a press release, JVC chairman Golepra Peseyie and secretary Seyielhuzo while expressing sadness at the death of an underground cadre stated that setting up of camps by any underground factions under Jotsoma village would not be acceptable. JVC also asserted that the peaceful atmosphere and the security of all under the village jurisdiction should be respected and maintained. 

In this regard, JVC appealed to all factions and the security forces to respect the same. 

According to JVC, the whole forest extending to the area where the encounter occurred has long been declared as Reserved Forest. It stated that the village has also initiated a project known as ‘Puliebadze Eco Tourism Project” with an objective to protect and preserve its natural beauty and resources and also to promote tourism.

Pointing out that lately the numbers of tourist has also increased, JVC, however, regretted that the July 23 incident could create some fear psychosis in the minds of visitors.