UKHRUL: In response to the recent incident at Hongbei village, where four Naga Army personnel were killed, the Tangkhul Naga Longnao Delhi (TNLD) has appealed to the Tangkhul community, urging peace, justice, unity, and dialogue.
This appeal followed a consultation meeting among the Tangkhuls residing in Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The TNLD expressed deep sadness over the incident, stating that the tragic event has shaken the collective conscience of the community and left a lasting impression of anguish, uncertainty, and grief.
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“We express our profound sorrow at the loss of our brothers, whose lives were dedicated to the service and advancement of our nation. We stand in solemn solidarity with their families and loved ones during this time of mourning. In this moment, we implore for justice that is impartial, transparent, and firmly grounded in truth,” the letter noted.
Additionally, the TNLD condemned the act of heckling directed at the President of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), the apex institution representing the voice and aspirations of the Tangkhul people. “Such behavior diminishes the dignity and sanctity of our institutions and signals a concerning departure from the values of mutual respect, constructive dialogue, and communal unity that have guided our society,” the letter stated. The organization urged all esteemed members and stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to upholding the decorum and principles befitting their shared institutions for the collective benefit of the Tangkhul community.
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The TNLD acknowledged and respected the decisions made by various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) under the leadership of the TNL regarding their position of non-cooperation with the Wung Tangkhul Region of NSCN-IM. However, while such actions represent a thoughtful response to prevailing circumstances, they also highlight the broader implications that internal divisions pose for the cohesion and collective community well-being.
“History has taught us that dialogue, no matter how challenging, remains the most powerful tool for reconciliation and progress,” it emphasized. The TNLD calls upon CSOs, students, women, religious leaders, educated individuals, scholars, activists, elected representatives, village chiefs, elders, youth, and everyone from all walks of life within the Tangkhul community to sincerely reflect and take responsible action.
“The path we choose today will shape the destiny of future generations. We must rise above anger and hasty reactions and commit ourselves to building a society rooted in justice, unity, and peace. As scripture reminds us: ‘Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand’ (Matthew 12:25). This serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of unity, dialogue, and collective purpose in times of discord.
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Moreover, TNLD calls upon the community to remember that they are the custodians, heirs to the sacrifices and wisdom of forefathers, and trustees for the future of the younger generation. “What we preserve, nurture, and pass on will define our legacy and their inheritance,” it added.
“May we find the courage to listen, the humility to understand, and the strength to unite. Let these tragic events be a turning point for the Tangkhul people towards healing, reconciliation, and a renewed commitment to the values that bind us together, the letter concluded..