DIMAPUR, APRIL 25 (MExN): A combined team from the Naga Public Organization (NPO) and Naga Students' Organization (NSO) Myanmar conducted a border peace mission in the Indo-Myanmar border area.
The peace mission was undertaken in order to highlight the difficulties faced by people living in the Indo-Myanmar border; to press the different entities in the area to recognize these grievances; and to appeal for peace.
The team met with leaders of the NSCN (K) at Taka, Myanmar and urged upon them to “consider the grievances of the people.” A press release from the NSO informed that the team started its journey on April 5, and upon meeting the NSCN (K) leaders, deliberated on the difficulties faced by people in the border areas.
“The present situation in the border area is more or less a repetition and reminder of the 1980s where eastern Nagaland was chosen to be the battle field. Therefore, the team on behalf of innocent eastern Naga public humbly urged upon all armed force (India, Myanmar and Naga) to respect and heed the tears and sweat of the people before the co- operation of the public shy away,” the NSO said in its press statement.
Pointing out that for decades, Naga inhabitants residing at the borders depend on Indian market for their livelihood, the NSO informed that since the last couple of years, people of the area are undergoing a hard time due to “unnecessary” checks and “detainment.”
Meanwhile, the NSO informed that the team also reached Hazik-Laju, Khanmoi-Longwa, Punyu-Pangsha and Shera-Awakhong; and met Indian Army commander along with chairmen and village chiefs and elders of both sides.
NPO Deputy Secretary, Y Khomong Khiam and NSO President, T Mankhat Konyak stressed on the need to allow market exchange at the border area to bring about economic growth of people on both sides.
“To check is a bound duty. However, unless a person is found with illegal activities that are above the frequency of the law, allow people to meet their relatives,” they further stated.
The two organizations said that “in order to implement the India-Myanmar friendship projects on time, we request not to disturb four wheelers carrying construction materials and alike and allow two wheelers till Noklak, Mon and Phungkhuri.”
While acknowledging the “warm welcome” from the Indian side, the NPO and NSO hoped that “peace will reign as we join our hands in search of peace and keep the words.”
"The inhabitants are much older than any force/ government in any manner. Therefore, respect the rights, history and the injured sentiment of the people on humanitarian ground,” it appealed.
