Mëkheotjüv Area People's Organisation clarifies historical narratives and rejects divisive tribal agendas and camp set-ups in the border region.
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DIMAPUR — The Mëkheotjüv Area People's Organisation (MAPO), a public-mandated community-based organisation (CBO) representing the Mëkheotjüv area of the Makury Naga tribe, Myanmar, has issued a clarification regarding territorial and historical claims made by the Khiamniungan Region of the NNC/FGN and the NSCN-K (Ang Mai).
In a press statement, MAPO stated that the Makury Nagas residing in the Mëkheotjüv area share territorial boundaries with the Khiamniungan Nagas to the east, as well as with several other Naga tribes to the north, west, and south.
It stated that while every Naga community possesses its own distinct historical narratives, terminologies, etymological roots, and methodology, this does not diminish or invalidate the identity, existence, or heritage of another.
According to the statement, Naga communities inhabiting the imposed Indo-Myanmar border region have endured untold hardships, torture, neglect, underdevelopment, and oppression from both India and Myanmar, resulting in limited access to modern infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
Despite these challenges, the people have remained steadfast in their support of the Naga political movement and have contributed equally to the common cause.
MAPO added that the impact of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA), has been particularly severe on the lives of the people living in these border regions.
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At a time when Nagas across all regions continue to strive for unity, solidarity, and collective progress irrespective of arbitrary borders, MAPO stated it is inadequate to intersect terms such as "western Nagaland" and "eastern Nagaland" by Naga national workers under the banners of the NSCN and FGN.
Furthermore, the organisation claimed that the general public of the Mëkheotjüv area had zero knowledge of the so-called "Tingniu Sub-Region", which was clarified and circulated in print media on June 1 by Khiamniungan Region Secretary Heno Lushing and Medan Peyu M Thangou of the FGN.
With reference to statements that appeared in a section of the media on June 5 by K Papei, Deputy Kilonser and Chairman of the Khiamniungan Region, NSCN-K (AM), MAPO asserted that the claim regarding the settlement of Mëkheotjüv and the assertion that the villages known as "Thon nok" and "Mekhwaley" translate as "last village" is historically unfounded, entirely baseless, and false claims of Mëkheotjüv's history.
MAPO stated that the territorial integrity and historical identity of Mëkheotjüv are well-established facts. It stated that the village of Mëkheotjüv was founded by their forefathers since time immemorial, who cleared the virgin forests, tamed the wilderness, and established a permanent settlement.
Therefore, under the mandate of MAPO, the public of Mëkheotjüv affirmed that no individual or external entity has the right to interpret, redefine, or narrate the history of Mëkheotjüv and its people without the prior consent, consultation, and acknowledgement of the rightful landowners and custodians of its heritage.
While MAPO and the public acknowledged the top leadership of the NSCN-K (AM) for withdrawing the proposed unit camp from the area in response to public concerns, they reiterated that the Mëkheotjüv area lies in close proximity to the imposed Indo-Myanmar border.
Given the sensitive nature of the region, the organisation stated it would be a highly commendable act not to mix tribal-orientated agendas with broader Naga national service. It added that incepting tribalism and regionalism in the name of resolving the Naga issue risks creating confusion among innocent citizens and undermining the spirit of unity.
Furthermore, MAPO cautioned that such actions may create unnecessary tensions between neighbouring Naga communities, particularly between the Khiamniungan and Makury people. It categorically rejected any form of coercion, imposition, or divisive agenda, both in letter and in spirit.
It stated that they welcome and support any Naga national group that genuinely upholds Naga national unity and aspirations within their jurisdiction, other than establishing a camp, as their presence may disrupt the daily lives of civilians.
It added that avoiding the establishment of camps in this sensitive border location would enhance the safety and security of both Naga civilians and armed personnel by minimising potential risks arising from unforeseen threats.