Morung Express News
Punjab | May 11, 2025
As tensions escalated in Punjab and reports of unrest spread across several districts, the Naga Students’ Union Punjab (NSUP) has begun coordinating the voluntary evacuation of Naga students and working individuals from Punjab and Chandigarh. Over 80 Nagas have already been assisted, according to NSUP President Sensen Ilang.
“In light of morbid news about attacks in Amritsar, Jalandhar, Chandigarh, Kapurthala and bordering districts in Punjab, and the escalating Indo-Pakistan war-like situation, we convened an emergency meeting on the night of May 8,” Ilang said.
The newly elected NSUP executive council for 2025–2026 formulated a three-pronged strategy to address the unfolding crisis:
Voluntary evacuation: From May 9 onward, the Union began assisting students who opted to return home, arranging logistics despite financial limitations.
Safety for those staying: Students who chose to remain were advised to strictly follow government-issued guidelines and adopt all safety precautions.
Independent travel support: Students not using Union assistance were encouraged to check ticket availability and manage travel plans independently.
“We were careful in drafting our advisory so that we did not incite fear or panic among our members. The evacuation was not made mandatory because many students still had ongoing exams and classes,” Ilang noted.
To facilitate evacuations, the Union partnered with Nagaland House in New Delhi. “We coordinated with Madam Sharon Longchari, the RC of Nagaland House, for accommodations at RK Puram and connected with private transport agencies in Punjab for group travel,” Ilang stated.
Due to financial constraints, the Union could not cover full travel costs. Smaller groups paid their own fares, while NSUP executives personally contributed to support larger groups commuting to Delhi as ticket prices surged due to the situation.
“Besides the devastating COVID-19 pandemic, this current tension between India and Pakistan ranks as one of the most stressful situations the Union has faced,” Ilang said. “We are deeply grateful for the help and support received from Ma’am Sharon Longchari, Naga Students’ Union Delhi, Mr. Austin, Delhi Ao Kaketshir Telongjem, Mr. Imsanger Jamir, NSF and everyone who reached out.”
Despite limited resources, NSUP extended assistance to all Nagas in Punjab and Chandigarh, regardless of Union registration status. “On humanitarian grounds and considering the need to help all Nagas during such a war-like crisis, we decided—alongside NSU Chandigarh—to create and distribute online forms for both students and working individuals,” Ilang said.
As of May 9, more than 80 Nagas have evacuated from Punjab and Chandigarh through various modes—road, train, and air—while others are taking shelter at Nagaland House RK Puram or with friends and relatives.
“The list of evacuees continues to grow,” Ilang said, “and we are doing everything we can to ensure their safety and well-being.”
