DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 18 (MExN): The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) expressed concern and condemnation over the recent gunfight in Noney district involving cadres from Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) and NSCN (IM). The incident, which resulted in the loss of three lives, marks the second clash within a fortnight between these groups in the same district.
A press release from the NSF said that such acts “jeopardize the fabric of Naga brotherhood and threaten the hard-earned peace and stability in the Naga homeland.”
“The gunfight which occurred in the forest area near Lamdangmei village under Khoupum police station of Noney district around 6:30 am on Sunday, has once again escalated fears and created a sense of insecurity among the innocent public. As the festive season approaches, the NSF is deeply troubled by the persistence of such incidents, urging all stakeholders to consider the broader impact on the community,” it stated.
It emphasized that the “Naga homeland's prosperity should not be held hostage by individuals with vested interests and extremist ideologies.” The NSF appealed for peace and unity across the Naga homeland, emphasizing the need for stakeholders to be cognizant of the unfolding situation. It called for better sense to prevail, advocating for respect for each other's history and basic human rights. In this critical period, the NSF urged a collective effort to thrive in harmony and peaceful co-existence.
“As the younger generation set to inherit the outcomes of ongoing political negotiations, the NSF reiterates that the path forward involves not only political discussions but also building bridges of trust and understanding among all stakeholders. The Federation emphasizes the importance of fostering an environment where the Naga homeland and the entire region can coexist in harmony,” it stated.
The federation called upon all Naga Political Groups to respect the existence of each entity, prioritize dialogue, understanding, and the well-being of the community during these crucial times.
