Ukhrul, Jan 10: In a strongly worded rejoinder to the Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU)’s press statement, the Liangmai Naga Indigenous Forum (LNIF) has urged the Kukis and COTU, in particular, to cease their provocative actions against the Naga community. The forum also informed of its full solidarity with the Konsakhul village and other Liangmai foothill communities in their democratic shutdowns.
The Liangmai Naga Indigenous Forum (LNIF)’s official statement said that it was compelled to respond to the COTU’s press statement issued on January 9, 2025. “We do so to present our position clearly and address the provocations against our community”, the document read.
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The Liangmai Naga Indigenous Forum (LNIF)’s 5-point rejoinder to Committee on Tribal Unity (COTU):
1. Unprovoked Aggression by Kuki Volunteers: The Liangmai Naga community has observed with growing concern the repeated provocations and aggression by Kuki volunteers. The Liangmai Naga community will not remain silent in the face of bullying and provocation on our ancestral land.
2. Land Dispute Between Konsakhul and Leilon: The land dispute between Konsakhul village and Leilon is a matter strictly concerning the respective chiefs and stakeholders of the two villages. COTU’s unwarranted interference in this matter raises questions about your intent. We urge COTU to refrain from meddling in disputes where it has no legitimate role or jurisdiction.
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3. Unjust Targeting of Peaceful Liangmai Villages: While you portray yourselves as victims of ethnic conflict, your actions toward peace-loving Liangmai villages suggest otherwise. The defense of our rights and land is inherent to the Liangmai Naga identity, just as it is for the Kuki. COTU must recognize that attacking innocent communities will only escalate tensions and undermine efforts for peace.
4. Hypocrisy on Christian Values: COTU’s invocation of Christian values while engaging in acts of violence and harassment is deeply hypocritical. Attacking women and violating their dignity is contrary to the very values you profess. The Liangmai Naga community has always upheld the principles of justice and peace, and we will not tolerate being subjected to such duplicity.
5. Democratic vs. Aggressive Protests: Unlike the Kuki community, which has resorted to arson and violence, the Liangmai Naga people have adhered to democratic means of protest. However, this should not be mistaken for weakness. Any attacks on Liangmai villages, homes, or individuals will be met with unwavering resolve with the same or strongest force.
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Further, the Liangmai Naga Indigenous Forum informed of its full solidarity with Konsakhul village and other Liangmai foothill communities in their democratic shutdowns. It also urges the Kukis and COTU to cease their provocative actions against the Nagas.
“We strongly urged the Kukis and organizations like COTU to cease their provocative actions against the Naga community”, the document read.
“Should COTU and its affiliates fail to respect the status quo and continue their aggression, any resulting consequences will rest entirely on their shoulders”, it said adding, “The Liangmai Naga community is committed to peace but will not compromise on its rights, dignity, and security”.
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