"Since the PMO (Prime Minister's Office) has requested us to wait for things to settle down, we cannot disregard the request," senior NSCN-IM functionary Phungthing Shimrang said, adding Muivah was, however, determined to head for Somdal in Ukhrul district at any cost.
"It is up to the government of India how fast it can handle the present situation and create a congenial situation for our general secretary to visit his native village without any hindrance," he told media persons.
"Now the ball is in the government's court and we are waiting for its response," Phungthing said.
He, however, asserted that Muivah was determined to head for Ukhrul at any cost.
Muivah's visit has been opposed by Manipur government on the ground it would disturb communal amity in the state.
The Manipur government had clamped prohibitory orders and deployed police in strength at the Mao inter-state check gate fearing breach of communal harmony if the NSCN-IM leader was allowed entry.
Shops and business establishments remained closed in response to a strike called by the All-Manipur United Clubs' Organisation opposing Muivah's visit, which it claimed was to divide
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