A Special Court under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in Imphal East has issued a proclamation notice against Gen. Niki Sumi (Retd), President of the NSCN-K (Nikki) faction. The action follows an Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation led by its Guwahati Zonal Office.
The proclamation was made during a court hearing held on June 30, in connection with a case registered under the provisions of the PMLA. Authorities allege that Sumi, along with four others including his wife, is involved in financial transactions under scrutiny by the ED.
The court acted on a statement given via video conference by the designated executing officer from the Dimapur District and Sessions Court. Citing the testimony, the judge concluded that Sumi could not be located and has “absconded,” prompting the issuance of the proclamation. The notice will be circulated in a local newspaper, displayed at key public places including police stations and the courthouse, and is returnable within a month. Also Read Niki Sumi Clarifies 2017 Cash Seizure; Reveals Clean Chit
The next hearing has been scheduled for August 8, by which time the accused is expected to appear before the court if he wishes to contest the charges formally.
While legal proceedings continue, many observers familiar with the regional context urge caution in prematurely framing Sumi’s actions. Some community voices suggest that the broader political and historical complexities surrounding Sumi’s role should not be overlooked, particularly in light of his past efforts at dialogue and peace-building in the region.
As the matter unfolds, both legal due process and the nuanced realities of Naga political dynamics remain essential lenses through which to view the situation.
Editor’s Note: Meaning of Proclamation Notice
A proclamation notice is a legal declaration issued by a court when an accused individual cannot be located or is willfully avoiding legal proceedings. Under Section 82 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), this notice publicly calls the person to appear within a fixed period—typically 30 days. If the accused fails to comply, the court may initiate further actions such as declaring them a proclaimed offender or attaching their property.