Ukhrul, August 26: The Naga Students’ Organization from Myanmar has declared its solidarity with the United Naga Council (UNC), endorsing its stand against what they term “divisive border policies” imposed by India and Myanmar.
In a strongly worded statement issued Wednesday, NSO commended the UNC for its “unwavering commitment to the political future, territorial integrity, and unity of the Naga people. Its leadership, courage, and determination inspire Nagas across all borders—particularly those of us in Eastern Nagaland (Myanmar), who continue to face the brunt of state neglect, militarization, and the effects of unjust border policies.”
Reiterating its rejection of the Free Movement Regime (FMR), NSO asserted that movement across ancestral lands is “a birthright, not a matter of state permission,” rooted in history, culture, and kinship that predate the drawing of international borders.
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The NSO criticized the shift in GoI’s policy and said, “The recent withdrawal of the FMR came not as a routine policy change, but as a shock—revealing the deeper intent of both governments to divide and control the Naga people. The imposition of movement restrictions and the construction of border fencing through Naga villages and sacred lands are clear attempts to sever our people, erase our unity, and undermine our political aspirations.”
NSO, Myanmar announced three key positions:
- Strongly condemns the actions of the Government of India, and denounces the silence and complicity of the Government of Myanmar;
- Rejects the legitimacy of the FMR regime, past or present, as it falsely assumes control over indigenous lands and identities;
- Demands an immediate halt to border fencing, and the reversal of all policies that restrict the free and rightful movement of Naga people across our own land.
The Myanmar Naga student body also urged all Naga organizations, tribal councils, student groups, and youth movements to unite in resistance, while appealing to the international community and human rights defenders to take note of what it described as a violation of indigenous rights.
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“Let it be known: we were never divided by consent, and no policy, border, or government can ever rewrite our identity or destiny. Nagalim lives in the heart of every Naga, across every boundary—and no fence can contain that spirit,” NSO added.
In a show of brotherhood solidarity, the Naga Students’ Organization from Myanmar affirmed, “We were one yesterday, we are one today, and we shall remain one tomorrow. Kuknalim! Victory to our People and our Land!”
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