Naga bodies appreciate Centre’s decision to release Shimray

Kohima, Aug 17 (PTI) The Naga Hoho, an apex body ofthe Nagas, and other such organisations today appreciated theCentre’s move that released on bail Anthony Shimray, anNSCN(IM) leader, in the interest of the peace talks earlierthis month. Naga Hoho, Naga Students’ Federation and Naga Mothers’Association in a joint statement said "it (the release ofShimray) is a sign of demonstration of the sincerity andseriousness of the peace process". Shimray, suspected key NSCN(IM) arms procurer, was grantedbail on August 2 by a special court in New Delhi in a caseunder the anti-terror act, after NIA said his bail was"important in the interest of peace negotiations betweenNSCN (IM) and the Government of India". The judge granted bail to Shimray after NIA did notoppose his bail application. Shimray reunited with his family after nearly sixyears, the joint statement said. However, the Naga organisations once again reiteratedthat the Centre must release all other Naga politicalprisoners irrespective of groups or factions without delay.PTI NBS NNUZM