New Delhi:
The Home Ministry today lodged a protest with the Ministry of External Affairs over the visit of eight envoys of the European Union to Nagaland. No information had been given to the Home Ministry in advance, nor had any security clearances been handled.
Sources say the delegation, which includes ambassadors of Czech Republic, Hungary, Finland, Poland, Bulgaria and Slovakia, met Nagaland's Chief Secretary, the Speaker of the Assembly, leaders of political parties, representatives of several NGOs and businessmen yesterday.
The envoys also visited Nagaland University and met Governor Nikhil Kumar. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio is hosting a dinner for them tonight.
Sources said the Home Ministry was particularly upset over the delegation's meeting with leaders of political parties and civil society members in a state struggling with insurgency.
Officials in the ministry also worry that insurgents trying to "internationalise" their cause may try to exploit the diplomats' visit for attention in Europe.