Stop factional violence; FNR, NMA, ANSF implore
DIMAPUR, JUNE 1 (MExN): Atleast three persons were killed and another wounded in an alleged gun-battle between cadres of two Naga Political Groups in Tirap district, Arunachal Pradesh on May 31. As per a report, the firefight occurred between NSCN (IM) and the GPRN/NSCN around 7:30 am in the Namsang village area, which falls under Deomali sub-division of the district.
The report said that two cadres of the GPRN/NSCN were among the deaths while another was injured. The third fatality was said to be a civilian. Meanwhile, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), Naga Mothers’ Association (NMA) and the Arunachal Naga Students' Federation (ANSF) has expressed concern over the factional violence.
FNR in a press statement while expressing devastation by the loss of human lives and injuries in the aftermath of the violence, lamented that at a time when Nagas are reasoning together and seeking ways to strengthen the Naga Reconciliation process, the factional violence in Deomali undermines the Naga yearning for reconciliation, understanding and harmony.
It said such acts of armed violence contradict the commitment and principles of the Covenant of Reconciliation that calls for ending all factional violence, especially armed violence.
The FNR has urged leaders of both the groups involved in this particular incident to immediately intervene and stop this factional violence. “Further violence should not be allowed to spiral out of this incident. We make this appeal for restraint and urge the two sides to address the issues which caused this violent confrontation by using dialogue and peaceful means,” the press statement read.
It also made a clarion call to all the Naga Political Groups to remain vigilant and to refrain from all forms of armed violence and media-war.
In a separate statement, the Arunachal Naga Students' Federation (ANSF) said one civilian named Ali (a shopkeeper), who was reportedly abducted by NSCN/GPRN for ransom was killed and one Naga civilian was injured at the firing.
Condemning the incident, the Federation questioned the purpose behind such factional violence when the Indo-Naga peace talk is in full swing in New Delhi.
Condemning the firing incident which occurred in public inhabited places, the Federation has demanded that the deceased/injured victims should be given compensation by both Naga political groups involved in the firing.
The Naga Mothers' Association while expressing deep grief over the May 31 violence and killing in Arunachal Pradesh has appealed for the spirit of brotherhood and forgiveness, respect for human life amongst brothers among the different Naga political groups.
”We appeal to the top leaders of these organizations to take cognizance of the appeal made by Naga mothers to shed no more blood. We have shed tears for so many loved ones we lost to last us a lifetime , as mothers, sisters, wives and daughters, in this long walk towards our rightful place and the Naga nation,” a press note from NMA stated.
