The Global Naga Forum strongly condemns the killing of four Naga Army personnel in Kamjong district, calling for unity, restraint, and an impartial inquiry.
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DIMAPUR — The Global Naga Forum (GNF) condemned the killing of four Naga Army personnel at Hongbei, Kasom block of Kamjong district, on March 28.
In a press statement, the GNF mourned the tragic loss of Major Sochipem Phungshok, Sergeant Major Zairay Vasah, Sergeant Bahnle Ahlapya, and Sergeant Thansomi Washi.
It extended condolences to the bereaved families and prayed that they find strength and solace, adding that the loss of these lives is a collective loss for the entire Naga nation.
The forum noted that its considered view of the inexcusable killings and the grave situation they have created in Ukhrul suggests two things. Firstly, that it was probably the culmination of a combination of long-standing unresolved internal issues within the community in particular and the organisation in general. Secondly, that prolonged mistrust among some Naga groups leading to animosity to the extent of fratricidal killings, like this one in Hongbei, happens within a political space wilfully engineered by adversaries of the Naga people’s movement for self-determination and their demand for a peaceful resolution of the Indo-Naga political issue.
The statement claimed that the lack of political will on the part of the Government of India to bring about a political solution, even after 29 years of negotiations, has created a climate for deepening mistrust and fostering divisions among the Nagas.
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On the broader side of the situation, the GNF stated that Nagas have to be aware that the Indo-Naga political imbroglio and history are not confined to the Naga homeland and India alone; they have reached international forums and drawn global attention. It called it unfortunate to expose to the world the internal weaknesses, divisions, and Nagas killing each other, adding that such violence weakens the Naga cause and destroys the dignity and moral standing of the Naga people.
The forum also expressed deep concern over the grave situation in Ukhrul following the killings, including incidents involving damage to personal property. It stated that such actions are reprehensible, aggravating tensions, weakening the collective cause, and eroding the foundation of unity.
The GNF called upon leaders and followers alike from Hebron and Eastern Flank, civil society organisations, and individuals to exercise utmost restraint. It urged that the tendency to issue unpalatable statements against leaders on social media must be avoided. The forum urged all sections to act with reason and responsibility and in the larger interest of the Naga people, adding that no individual or group should take the law into their own hands.
Noting that an enquiry commission has been constituted by the concerned authority to investigate the incident, the GNF firmly called for a free, fair, and impartial inquiry and for appropriate action to be taken against the perpetrators.
It urged all concerned to refrain from speculation and allow the inquiry process to proceed without interference, guided by facts, truth, integrity, and justice. It also called upon leaders to listen to the voice of the people, who seek justice, accountability, and a path towards lasting peace.
The GNF urged all Nagas to tone down anger, rise above divisions, and choose unity over discord and peace over provocation, stating that the future of the Naga people depends on collective wisdom and the ability to stand together in times of adversity.