GPRN/NSCN accuses NSCN (K) of recruiting ‘under aged children’

MIP of the GPRN/NSCN has expressed concern over alleged recruitment of under aged children who, after leaving schools,were “labouring at the Suruhuto camp in Sumi region” of the NSCN(K) awaiting basic military training course.

The MIP reminded that as per the UN Convention of Article 38,no person below 15 years of age is to involve in hostilities.MIP also cited the Rome Statute of International Criminal Court that came into force on July 1,2002, which prohibited conscription of children under 15 years of age.

Further it cited an optional protocol which forbade non-state actors from recruitment of any one under 18 years of age.  It asserted that the “potential child soldiers” must be rescued and sent back to school “ so that Naga revolutionary tradition is imbibed into their hearts through correct understanding at a proper age.”

GPRN/NSCN vowed it would not allow the Suruhuto camp to “turn innocent Naga school children into criminals and anti social elements.”
Stating the it believed that every Naga child should be allowed to live a normal life and grow into adulthood to make independent decision about the future, MIP described the Suruhuto camp as “ a place for deserters”. MIP accused the NSCN(K) of recruiting under aged boys by violating all international norms to stem its dwindling numbers.

Further, it vowed not to allowed Suruhuto camp to destroy the future of innocent Naga youngsters. It demanded that the government of India immediately act to ensure the safe return of the underage boys to their respective schools and villages.

MIP said “ the future of these children is too precious and the GPRN/NSCN will not hesitate to take necessary measures to save the potential child soldiers at Suruhuto Camp.”

Further it demanded that the Suruhuto camp should allow the children to go home to their parents adding “ their reintegration to larger Naga society is vital.”

For More Updates, follow us on    and