Urges NSCN (IM) and ZUF to exercise restraint
DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 19 (MExN): Disturbed over the occurrence of factional violence between the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) and the NSCN (IM), the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) on Tuesday appealed the two groups to exercise restraint and not to leave the current situation at an impasse.
In a press statement, the FNR said that after a long pause from armed confrontation, the gun battle between armed cadres of the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) and the NSCN (IM) on December 17 resulting in the loss of three lives “brings back dark and bitter memories” and “undermines the commitment and significant progress made through the Naga Reconciliation – The Journey of Common Hope.”
It said the occurrence of violence reminds all Nagas of the imperative need for complete cessation of all forms of violence among all Naga Political Groups.
“What's more, the end of factional violence must be permanent, not temporary. The Naga Political Groups, in particular ZUF and NSCN, are urged not to leave the current situation at an impasse. The FNR appeals for immediate restraint to ensure that the situation does not spiral into further violence,” the press statement read.
“Nagas must end resorting to violence and brute force to address differences. This only builds social and political boundaries of fear, distrust, and exclusion within our weakening and fragmented society,” it added.
In this advent season, the FNR called for a new imagination where the Naga Political Groups muster the moral and political courage to renew the process of dialogue, healing, and reconciliation.
“This process requires respect for one another so that a tangible and sincere relationship of cooperation based on the historical and political rights of the Nagas can be reached. Only then will space open for the Naga people to take this journey forward towards meaningful reconciliation, harmonious coexistence and integration within the Naga peoplehood,” it stated.
FNR implored that for “the sake of our children and their children, let us learn from experience and ensure that the past is not repeated.”
