Ukhrul, August 8: The Naga Students’ Organization (NSO), Lahe Town, Myanmar has reiterated its urgent appeal to the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and its allied group, the Eastern Naga Defense Army (ENDA) to immediately cease all acts of abduction and intimidation targeting Naga youths in Myanmar to be conscripted.
In a statement issued on Friday, the NSO extended its appreciation to the KIA for the safe and unharmed release of the 13 Naga Army personnel who were previously apprehended at the Naga Chance Gate, located northwest of the Tanai River, on July 18. They were released on July 28 at Tekti.
The NSO also urged the KIA to also ensure the unconditional return of the arms and equipment that were confiscated during the incident.
Also Read | NSO Demands Immediate, Unconditional Release of Detained Naga Army Personnel
“This act of release is recognized as a constructive gesture towards mutual understanding and de-escalation. In light of this positive development, the NSO respectfully urges the KIA to also ensure the unconditional return of the arms and equipment that were confiscated during the incident. Such an act would further contribute to rebuilding trust and good faith between our people,” the students’ organization stated.
The NSO stated that despite the encouraging step, it was concerned and disappointed over the recent actions carried out by the KIA.
It mentioned that the KIA, in coordination with ENDA, has forcibly abducted more than 30 Naga youths in Shin Bway Yang Township since July 27.
“Since the 27th of July 2025, credible reports from the ground have confirmed that the KIA, in coordination with its allied group, the Eastern Naga Defense Army (ENDA), has forcibly abducted several Naga youths in Shin Bway Yang Township. The number of abductees is feared to exceed 30, with many of the individuals reportedly taken while on their way to farms, workplaces, and paddy fields.
This has fostered a climate of fear and anxiety among the civilian population of Shin Bway Yang. Many residents are now unable to engage in their routine agricultural activities, fearing further abductions. These acts of intimidation and forced conscription run counter to the principles of revolutionary ethics. Rather than reflecting the discipline and ideals of a legitimate revolutionary movement, such behaviour resembles that of rogue elements and authoritarian oppressors,” the NSO stated.
“A true revolutionary struggle is never defined by coercion, fear, or forced loyalty. It is rooted in the will of the people, guided by patriotism, honesty, and moral integrity. Respect and legitimacy cannot be imposed—they must be earned through sincere service to the people,” the NSO maintained.
Also Read | UNC Calls Emergency Presidential Council Meet as Govt Ultimatum Nears Expiry
Further, the NSO condemned the press release issued by the ENNO/ENDA on August 1, which attempted to justify the aforementioned abductions and said such claims were not only baseless but sect merely to obscure the accountability of their patron, the KIA.
“First-hand testimonies from local communities clearly establish the involvement of both the KIA and the ENDA in these actions,” the NSO claimed. It also advised the ENDA to return to their homeland if their cause truly lies with the rights and aspirations of the Naga people.
“Live among your people. Earn their trust, respect, and support through humility, service, and accountability. The path of coercion, deceit, and violation of human dignity will never secure the honor of the Naga nation. It will only bring condemnation and isolation,” the NSO stated.
The students’ body further called upon all concerned leadership to exercise wisdom and foresight and urged We urge the KIA and all relevant stakeholders to pursue genuine, open, and principled dialogue as the most constructive avenue for resolving any grievances or disagreements between Nagaland and Kachinland.
Also Read | Naga Homeland Under Threat Again as Myanmar Targets Youth for Draft, Says NSCN-YA
Moreover, the NSO also called upon all NSCN-GPRN entities to maintain composure, restraint, and patience despite provocation.
“Any retaliatory military engagement from either side would only increase the suffering of both the Naga and Kachin people… At this critical juncture, we believe that the Naga people remain committed to extending the hand of peace and cooperation,” it stated.
It further reaffirmed its dedication to fostering unity, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence among all ethnic nationalities striving for self-determination and justice.
Also Read | SSC Exam Chaos: How India’s Recruitment System Is Failing Its Youth