This is believed to be in reference to the possible breakdown of 22 years of talks between the Centre and NSCN-IM.

The Nagaland government on Thursday directed all unit commanders of its police force to stock rations and fuel for at least two months in view of the “fluid situation” in the State.

This is believed to be in reference to the possible breakdown of 22 years of talks between the Centre and the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) over the issue of ‘Naga national flag’ and ‘Naga Yezhabo (constitution)’.

The instruction from the State’s Inspector-General of Police (Armed and Indian Reserve Battalions) to the commandants of the Nagaland Armed Police and IR Battalions was issued three days after the State government cancelled the leave of all administrative and police personnel.

On October 21, Chief Secretary Temjen Toy also warned government employees of “disciplinary action” if they criticise the polices and actions of the government in the press, social media or public meetings.

“All unit comdrs are hereby directed to keep atleast two months stock of rations/pol in view of the fluid situation in the State. Confirm a/taken (sic),” the wireless transmission message to the unit heads read.

Nagaland-based dailies on Friday said the series of messages to the police and government officials have triggered panic buying among a section of the people fearing a “Kashmir-like total shutdown” in case the Naga talks fail.