BAN, ASUD condemn abduction, intimidation of business community

DIMAPUR — The Business Association of Nagas (BAN) has condemned the recent acts of abduction and intimidation by the Niki-led NSCN (K).

In a press statement issued on Sunday, the association maintained that such actions have never provided any solutions for the Naga people.

“What does any organisation hope to achieve by extorting and kidnapping our own people? These entrepreneurs are your brothers, sisters, uncles, aunties, sons, and daughters,” the statement read.

It went on to state that these acts are not “the elements of patriotism”.

Related: Diphupar abduction due to unresolved tax issue—Niki

“We are willing to learn from anyone—whether underground or overground—who embodies hard work, honesty, and a dignified life. However, there is no place for those who live as parasites, corrupt, or beggars. While many may come solely to profit, Naga entrepreneurs have a larger duty—not only to themselves but also to the state’s development,” it stated.

The BAN demanded immediate apprehension of those responsible for the kidnapping. “Ceasefire agreements have clear terms and conditions, and all parties involved must respect and uphold these agreements.

“Any organisation that steps outside the boundaries of such agreements is fully responsible for the outcomes. Any harm that comes to the victim or to the leaders advocating for this cause will have serious repercussions for the entire Naga business community and will have far-reaching consequences,” it stated.

The Ao Students’ Union Dimapur (ASUD), condemning the abduction and subsequent “extortion demands,” emphasised that such actions are entirely unacceptable in a modern, civilised society where diplomacy should prevail over coercion and violence.

In a condemnation note, the ASUD noted that it is deeply troubling that individuals are subjected to harassment and intimidation, which undermines the very foundation of Naga nationalism—the welfare and dignity of the Naga people.

“The ASUD wishes to make it unequivocally clear that we do not oppose any Naga national political groups or the concept of Naga nationalism. Rather, we stand firmly against the illegal abduction, kidnapping, and both physical and psychological torment inflicted upon any Ao Naga business owners, individuals, or citizens residing in Dimapur and its neighbouring areas of Chümoukedima and Niuland, which fall under our jurisdiction,” it read.

It maintained that should any similar incidents occur in the future, it will not remain passive observers. The ASUD further called upon the state government to take immediate action to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure justice is served to the victims and the broader Naga society.

“It is both unsafe and distressing to live in an environment where law-abiding innocent citizens must fear for their safety, worrying whether they will return home or find themselves in an unknown location surrounded by armed individuals,” it said.