Kohima, January 14 (MExN): The Global Naga Forum (GNF) has expressed “deep sorrow and grave concern” over the recent violence involving NSCN-K (Yung Aung) and NSCN-K (Ang Mai Mulatonu) in the eastern part of Myanmar (Burma), resulting in the unfortunate loss of Naga lives.
Citing available information, the GNF stated that an armed incident occurred on January 9, followed by retaliatory action on January 12, and that this chain of violence has further aggravated an already fragile situation.
To this end, the GNF asserted that the “killing of Nagas by Nagas is a tragedy that cannot be justified under any circumstance, regardless of claims of provocation or retaliation.”
At a time when Naga villages remain fragile, borders are tense, and ordinary families continue to carry the burden of uncertainty, internal armed clashes only deepen fear, division, and irreversible loss, it added.
The forum further pointed out that every “bullet fired” at one another tears the moral fabric of the people, and that such actions undermine the moral strength of society and erode the collective spirit of the Naga people.
It conveyed its firm belief that violence among Naga groups must cease immediately.
“Differences, however serious, should be addressed through dialogue and understanding, not through the use of arms against our own people,” it held, adding that the cost of such violence is borne not by leaders or camps, but by mothers, youth, and villages living in the shadow of guns.
The GNF thus called upon NPGs operating in the eastern part of the Naga homeland to exercise restraint and act with a sense of responsibility.
This region borders diverse ethnic communities with varied aspirations and challenges. In such a sensitive context, unity, coexistence, and mutual respect among the Nagas are essential for peace and for achieving their destiny, it noted.
It further urged all concerned to de-escalate tensions without delay and to uphold the sanctity of human life above all internal differences.
The forum also conveyed that it stands with the people in their pursuit of peace, not with violence, adding: “Let this moment serve as a test of our moral responsibility as a people. If we fail to protect Naga lives from our own hands, we betray not only our history but also the future we claim to defend.”
Cancels planned visit
Meanwhile, in view of what it termed a “deteriorating situation,” the GNF has decided to cancel its planned visit to attend the Naga New Year celebration at Layshi town scheduled from January 14 to 16, despite having received an invitation.
This decision was taken in consideration of the prevailing security concerns and the seriousness of the situation on the ground, it added.
