Dimapur, Dec. 27: Considering the assurance of the Government of Manipur and the request of the Government of India, the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has temporarily suspended its total blockade on all Manipur-bound vehicles for the time being.
NSF president Subenthung Kithan and assistant general secretary Kesosul Christopher Ltu, in a release, on Monday said the decision to suspend the blockade was taken in view of the communiqué received from the Chief Secretary of Manipur through the office of the Chief Secretary, Government of Nagaland with assurance to provide for the safety and security of the Nagas in Manipur and considering the repeated requests and appeal from the Government of India through RN Ravi, the interlocutor for Indo-Naga peace talks to lift the total blockade.
The NSF also asserted to always protect and safeguard the interest of the Nagas residing anywhere and warned that it will not hesitate to initiate any course of action deemed fit as per the situation.
Overseas Nagas appeal
The Overseas Naga Association has appealed to both Nagas and Meiteis to do everything they can to let good sense prevail at this critical time and for the future while hoping that both sides and all the parties involved will do everything they can to mend and improve relations in the coming new year.
“As a global community of Nagas and our friends, the Overseas Naga Association is deeply troubled by the violence and disruption of life going on in Manipur. While tensions between Meiteis and Nagas are not new, we firmly believe they are better resolved through negotiations with mutual respect and not through force and intimidation, ONA president Visier Sanyü and secretary general Paul Pimomo said in a release.
The Overseas Naga Association also expressed its solidarity with the Nagas and non-Nagas who are suffering on account of the events in Manipur and said they bring deep sadness to what should be a joyful Christmas and holiday season.
“The divide-and-rule forces among and outside the Meiteis and the Nagas who stand to gain from disunity in the region will use every opportunity and resource to their advantage. It is therefore imperative for both sides to take on the difficult but necessary journey of learning to live together as friendly and respectful neighbors,” the ONA added.
