Forum for Naga Reconciliation calls 2025 a turning point, backing the Naga Machang framework and urging unity among Naga political groups.
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DIMAPUR — Nearly two decades after the Naga reconciliation movement began, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) has termed 2025 a “turning point” in the collective journey of the Naga people, urging unity under a common framework (Naga Machang) while cautioning that the gains of peace remain fragile.
In a report issued to the Naga public on March 18, the FNR reflected on its formation in 2008 during a period marked by factional violence, fear, and deep social disruption across Naga areas.
“Those were years of fear and silence, streets emptied by sundown, shop shutters locked before dark, and many homes filled with trauma. Children’s voices were hushed, women confined indoors, and families lived under the shadow of both Naga ‘factions’ and the Indian military,” it recalled.
Backed by 39 apex organisations—including church bodies and civil society groups—the forum was established to facilitate reconciliation among Naga political groups (NPGs).
A major breakthrough came on June 13, 2009, with the signing of the Covenant of Reconciliation (CoR) by leaders of different Naga political groups, widely regarded as a landmark step towards ending inter-factional violence.
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The years that followed saw a significant decline in violence and a gradual return to normalcy
2025: A phase of consolidation
While the 2009 covenant helped curb bloodshed, the FNR identified 2025 as a critical phase for political consolidation.
Between January and September 2025, the FNR, along with NPGs and tribal hohos, facilitated 16 meetings aimed at strengthening unity and advancing a shared political vision.
These engagements resulted in a “Treatise” reaffirming commitment to the CoR and laying the groundwork for the proposed Council of Naga Cooperation and Relationship (CNCR).
The CNCR is envisioned as a mechanism to bring various groups under a coordinated framework towards a single representative entity—hence its reference as the Naga Machang.
“Though discreet in its proceedings, FNR assures the public that transformation is underway. With cautious optimism, we report that what was resolved in 2025 is now in progress,” the report read.
Reconciliation, it reminded, is not an event but a process requiring vigilance, patience, and perseverance.
Call for unity, restraint
At the same time, the FNR expressed concern over emerging divisions and urged individuals, organisations, and social media users to refrain from actions or rhetoric that could undermine unity.
“The little we have garnered must be protected,” it asserted and called on all stakeholders to support the CNCR process, stressing that collective representation is essential for advancing Naga political aspirations.
Differences, it stated, should be resolved through dialogue and direct engagement rather than through public confrontation.
The forum also acknowledged shortcomings and sought understanding, underlining the need for humility and mutual respect in the reconciliation process.
Reaffirming its role as a facilitator, the FNR maintained that its objective remains to nurture trust, encourage dialogue, and sustain the spirit of reconciliation.
“The journey of common hope is far from over,” the report reminded, urging the Naga people to protect the gains achieved over the years and move forward in unity.
“The future of the Naga people depends not on factions but on unity,” it added.