Makhan Kanglatongbi Naga Forum condemns indiscriminate firing; appeals for peace and dialogue

Kangpokpi: The Makhan Kanglatongbi Naga Forum (MKNF) said that the ongoing indiscriminate firing of sophisticated weapons in the once peaceful neighbourhood of Makhan Kanglatongbi area which began in May 2023, has had a devastating impact on the local residents, particularly innocent women and children. It added that the continuous violence has left them emotionally traumatized, especially during the evenings when it occurs.

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A statement released by the forum called a recent incident, where stray bullets damaged the roofs of homes in Makhan village and hit a peaceful school building in the lower Makhan area, affecting innocent school children, deeply concerning. Even educational institutions have not been spared from this violence, further highlighting the urgent need for peace and security in the region.

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“It’s truly disheartening to hear that Makhan Kanglatongbi area, once a peaceful neighbourhood and educational hub, has been transformed into a war zone, disrupting educational and livelihood activities. Your call for right-minded individuals and civil societies to promote peace and condemn the indiscriminate use of sophisticated weapons is a crucial step in restoring tranquility to the area,” MKNF said.

The forum mentioned that it is essential for all communities to come together and work towards resolving this five-month-old conflict for the well-being of everyone involved, adding that peace and dialogue can pave the way for a brighter future for the region.

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The Makhan Kanglatongbi Naga Forum, representing over 7 tribes of the Naga community in the area, strongly condemned the recent indiscriminate firing on September 29, 2023, in the neighbourhood. The potential harm caused by stray bullets highlights the danger of such actions in an already volatile situation.

It further added that it is crucial for any individual or organization responsible for such firing to carefully consider the consequences of their actions, as they have the potential to escalate tensions and harm innocent lives. Peace and dialogue should be the way forward to resolve the situation.

Makhan Kanglatongbi Naga Forum (MKNF) was formed on June 16, 2023.

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