DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 22 (MExN): The Global Naga Forum (GNF) has called for unity and restraint in the wake of recent clashes between the NSCN (IM) and the Zeliangrong Youth Fron (ZUF) at Lamdangmei village under Noney district, Manipur on December 17 resulting in the loss of three lives.
“The Global Naga Forum stands in disbelief and utter dismay over the recent factional clashes,” the GNF stated. “Two factions that share a common heritage and purportedly fight for the same cause—the self-determination of the Naga people. This resurgence of violence among brothers is not only shameful but shocking, particularly when we are actively engaged in peace negotiations for the resolution of the Indo-Naga Talks with the Government of India,” it said.
After years of relative peace among Naga factions, the GNF termed it disheartening to witness the resumption of hostilities, leading to the tragic killing of fellow Nagas. “We are sorely aware of the machinations masterminded by external forces working tirelessly to crush the Naga people's movement for self-determination. The same old tactics of planting moles and collaborators within Naga communities are being employed to continue the nefarious agenda of fragmentation and division,” the GNF claimed.
The forum said it is crucial for all Naga communities to recognize that “these external forces will live to regret their malevolent designs.” “The Naga cause transcends the sum of its parts, and the animosity fuelled by external forces only serves to consolidate and strengthen the resolve of the Nagas to assert their rights and free themselves from forced occupation,” it added.
It further stated that the events and episodes in the past few years against innocent Naga citizens have been “glaringly vivid, exposing the relentless efforts of alien forces to extinguish the Naga cause.” However, the GNF reiterated that the Naga people “are a civilization of their own kind, and nothing on earth can erode that inherent identity, no matter the challenges thrown our way.”
While condemning the killings between the NSCN (IM) and ZUF, the GNF appealed for peace and calm. “The Nagas must draw inspiration from the exemplary unity of various ethnic groups in the North East like Chin-Kuki- Zo and Meitei Communities and immediately cease fire among blood brothers,” it said. The GNF urged Nagas to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation over violence, for the sake of a shared future. It further extended condolences to all the bereaved family members for the lost of their loved ones.
