The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has vehemently condemned the recent move by the Indian government to abolish the Free Movement Regime (FMR), proposing the fencing of the India-Myanmar border.
In a press release issued by Medovi Rhi, President, NSF and Chumben Khuvung, General Secretary, NSF, it stated that the decision, fraught with historical implications and disregard to the rights of the Naga people, is a regressive step that will exacerbate conflicts in the North-East Frontier Region.
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The release mentioned that the proposed fencing of the boundary-line, as suggested by the authorities in Delhi, raised serious concerns about the historical context and the impact it will have on the Naga people. The lands and hills between the Chindwin River and the Saramati mountain range, presently on the Burma-side, are stated to be an integral part of the Naga heritage. It is crucial for India to acknowledge the historical truth that such territories belong to the Nagas, it said.
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The duplicity separation line, which has persisted for over 80 years, has stated to be a root cause of conflicts and insurgencies in the North-East Frontier Region adding such cycle of conflict will persist until a just and equitable resolution is achieved.
The Naga people, on both sides of the Saramati mountain range have suffered the consequences of arbitrary divisions imposed by external forces. The Nagas on the Burma-side were forced into conflicts with the Government of Burma, while those on the Indian side were embroiled in struggles with the Government of India.
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The attempt to arbitrarily divide and fence the Nagas is termed as an affront to the rights and autonomy of the Nagas. Such attempts to disrupt their unity will only sow the seeds of discord and unrest. India, as a responsible nation, must recognize that it has no right to unilaterally decide the fate of the Naga people through fencing, it mentioned.
The recent decision by the Central government to abolish the FMR is deeply troubling, it said adding that the FMR has played a crucial role in facilitating interactions between people residing close to the India-Myanmar border. Abolishing the regime will not only restrict the cultural and social exchange between communities but will also add a layer of tension to an already delicate situation.
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Pointing out the porous Indo-Myanmar border of 1,643 km traversing through Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh is a complex landscape with diverse communities and histories, the NSF urged the Indian government to reconsider its decision and engage in a meaningful dialogue with the Naga community to find a solution that respects the historical rights and aspirations of the Nagas.
In conclusion, the Naga Students’ Federation stated it stands united against the unilateral actions proposed by the Indian government. The student body call for a just and inclusive resolution that respects the historical realities and aspirations of the Naga people. The NSF remains committed to fostering peace, unity, and understanding in the region, it said.
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