UKHRUL: The United Naga Council (UNC) on Thursday strongly condemned the recent search and combing operations carried out by Central security forces in Naga hill areas, alleging that innocent civilians were being targeted while those responsible for the ongoing violence remained untouched.
The UNC accused the government of conducting what it described as “unwarranted, vindictive and heavily militarised” operations in Naga villages. It alleged that instead of acting against armed groups, security forces had carried out raids in villages inhabited by civilians, resulting in arrests and creating fear among local residents.
The UNC in a statement issued from its headquarters at Tahamzam, specifically referred to the July 29 operations in villages under Noney Sub-Division, alleging that personnel of the CRPF-CoBRA unit opened fire during the search operations, injuring Naga Village Guards and civilians. The council further alleged that Lanbilung Riamel, a Village Guard who was on duty protecting his village, was killed in the incident. It held the security forces and the government responsible for the alleged killing.
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The UNC also condemned the arrest of RNCM president K.C. Savio, Gailanchung Kamei and RNCM general secretary Dr. Aku Newme in Imphal on July 30, describing the action as an “illegal” and “politically motivated” crackdown on Naga leadership. It claimed the three leaders were later released.
Referring to the killing of six Naga men in the Leilon Vaiphei incident, the UNC alleged that instead of ensuring justice for the victims, the state had intensified operations against Naga communities. It further claimed that Kuki militant groups under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, particularly KNF-P, had carried out repeated attacks, killings and abductions of Naga civilians since February this year.
The UNC then alleged that Assam Rifles and CRPF-CoBRA personnel had continued to militarise Naga areas while failing to provide protection to affected villages. It claimed such actions had emboldened SoO militant groups and deepened insecurity among Naga communities.
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Calling for a change in the Centre’s approach to the Indo-Naga political issue, the UNC urged the Government of India to end what it described as policies of suppression and adopt a “realistic and honest” approach to the peace process.
Appealing to the public to remain calm and united, the council said it would continue to oppose any action that, in its view, threatens the lives, land and future of the Naga people. It also warned that any further provocation would be the responsibility of the Governments of India and Manipur.
