After a long pause from armed confrontation, factional violence among Naga Political Groups is shattering the fragile peace. The reported gun battle between armed cadres of the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN) on December 17, 2023, which resulted in the loss of three lives, brings back dark and bitter memories. This undermines the commitment and significant progress made through the Naga Reconciliation – The Journey of Common Hope.
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The occurrence of factional 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 Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) appeals for immediate restraint to ensure that the situation does not spiral into further violence.
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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.
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In this advent season, the FNR calls 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.
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For the sake of our children and their children, let us learn from experience and ensure that the past is not repeated.
Press release of Forum for Naga Reconciliation published on December 19, 2023