Dimapur, June 13 (MExN): The Global Naga Forum (GNF) has commended the United Naga Council (UNC) and various Naga civil society organisations (CSOs) in Manipur for their decision to release 14 Kuki detainees on June 9, describing the move as a humane and commendable gesture.
In a statement issued on June 13, the GNF said the safe release of the detainees had been one of its heartfelt concerns. It noted that a GNF delegation met leaders of Naga CSOs at Senapati on May 23 and appealed for the detainees to be released safely.
The forum said that although it was convinced that the six Naga men who had gone missing were no longer alive, it believed innocent people should not suffer for crimes they did not commit.
Instead of seeking revenge, the GNF said it had appealed to Naga leaders to release the detainees in a dignified and well-organised manner. According to the forum, the decision conveyed a message that the Naga people are guided by wisdom, justice and humanity rather than vengeance.
The GNF also acknowledged the efforts of various authorities and organisations, including the World Baptist Alliance, stating that their appeals and interventions contributed to the UNC and other Naga CSOs taking what it described as a compassionate and humane decision.
It further urged these authorities, organisations and all well-wishers of peace and justice to engage with the Government of India and the Government of Manipur to reciprocate the gesture by addressing the genuine demands and aspirations of the Naga people.
The forum said justice, fairness and sincere political engagement are essential for achieving lasting peace and reconciliation in the region.
Describing the release of the detainees as a significant gesture of goodwill and reconciliation, the GNF called upon the Government of India to earnestly address and fulfil what it termed the legitimate aspirations and demands of the Naga people at the earliest opportunity, saying such a response would contribute to peace, justice and stability in the region.
