DIPR File Photo
Kohima, June 10 (MExN): Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday condemned in the strongest terms the killing of six Naga individuals in Manipur, calling the act “barbaric and reprehensible” and demanding that the Government of India and the Manipur government take urgent steps to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The horrific incident occurred after the Naga people had peacefully facilitated the safe release of all 14 hostages who were in their custody, Dr Rio said in a statement.
“This barbaric and reprehensible act represents a complete disregard for the sanctity of human life and the most fundamental principles of humanity. It is an atrocity that deserves the strongest possible condemnation,” the CM said.
According to Dr Rio, the release of the 14 hostages was undertaken in the “true Christian spirit” and in keeping with the age-old traditions of the Naga people, following appeals from Church organisations led by the Baptist World Alliance.
“I personally held deliberations and consultations with representatives of Naga civil society organisations and appealed for the hostages to be released in accordance with our faith, our values and our collective commitment to humanity,” he said.
Despite tremendous pressure, Dr Rio said, the Naga people under the leadership of the United Naga Council and other apex organisations chose the path of restraint, compassion and peace. “Our sincere appeal was for the reciprocal and safe release of the six Naga hostages who were being held by the Kuki community. Tragically and heartbreakingly, they have instead been brutally murdered,” he added.
The CM appealed to the Government of India and the Manipur government to take all urgent measures to ensure justice. “Those responsible for this heinous crime must be identified, apprehended and prosecuted under the fullest extent of the law. Accountability is essential. Only through a fair, transparent and credible process can a measure of confidence be restored among the people,” he said.
He urged that the authorities must also take concrete and impartial steps to ensure the safety and security of all communities. “At a time such as this, it is imperative that people continue to have faith in the government, the rule of law and the institutions entrusted with maintaining peace and order. The erosion of public trust will only aggravate an already fragile and dangerous situation.”
Dr Rio also called upon all citizens, especially Naga brothers and sisters across Manipur, Nagaland, the wider Northeast and Myanmar, to remain calm and steadfast. “Let us not allow grief, anger and pain to lead us down the path of violence and hatred. Let us instead draw strength from our faith and seek God’s wisdom and guidance through prayer,” he said.
"These are difficult and painful times, but we must not allow evil to triumph over our values. Let us remain united, vigilant and resolute. Let us uphold the principles of peace, justice and human dignity, and resist all attempts to divide our people through fear and violence," he added.
Conveying his deepest condolences to the bereaved families, Dr Rio said, “Even in the midst of tragedy, let us not lose hope. Let us place our faith and trust in the Almighty God and seek strength from our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”
