Ukhrul, May 16: The Myanmar junta’s forced conscription drive in the Naga Self-Administered Zone has triggered strong condemnation from the NSCN/GPRN, which has reaffirmed its non-interference stance and warned against destabilizing Naga land.
In a press statement, the NSCN/GPRN stated that ever since the political conflict in Myanmar began, it has maintained a clear position of non-interference, urging both conflicting parties not to bring instability into Naga territory. It expressed concern that the Eastern Nagas, who still carry the scars of past atrocities committed by the Myanmar military, should not be made to suffer again due to internal unrest in Myanmar.
The NSCN/GPRN pointed to recent flyers circulated by the military junta promoting the enforcement of the conscription law as a blatant disregard for the collective will of the Nagas. The group said this move has caused widespread shock and disappointment, as the Nagas are fully aware of the consequences such actions may trigger.
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Following the announcement of the law, junta soldiers and authorities have begun compiling lists and forcibly apprehending young people in all townships, including Khamti and Homlin. This has caused panic and insecurity among the Naga public.
The statement reiterated that the Nagas have never accepted the suzerainty of either India or Myanmar over Naga lands. Citing their unique historical and political identity, the NSCN/GPRN declared that it stands firmly against any law that threatens the Naga way of life.
The group termed the enforcement of the conscription law as unjustifiable—morally and legally—under international law, and interpreted it as a direct threat to the Naga national movement. It accused the Myanmar military of attempting to coerce Nagas into becoming human shields, calling the act a grave violation of human rights.
The NSCN/GPRN further condemned certain “corrupt Naga groups” for allegedly working with the junta for personal gain, calling it a betrayal of their own people.
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“If Nagas feel unsafe or threatened in their own land, they will be compelled to stand up and defend themselves,” the statement warned, calling for unity to protect Naga youths from being used as instruments of war.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguard Naga interests, the NSCN/GPRN urged all forcibly enlisted Nagas to contact the nearest authority and called for continued resistance against the junta’s conscription campaign. It demanded the immediate halt of what it called the junta’s destructive policy in Naga areas.