FNR appeals for restraint among warring Naga groups

DIMAPUR — Against the backdrop of the December 17 clash between armed cadres of the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) and the NSCN (IM), the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) has appealed for immediate restraint to ensure that the situation does not spiral into further violence.

The FNR, in a press release, said that the occurrence of factional violence reminds all Nagas of the imperative need for complete cessation of all forms of violence among all Naga political groups.

“What's more, the end of factional violence must be permanent, not temporary. The Naga political groups, in particular ZUF and NSCN (IM), are urged not to leave the current situation at an impasse,” the forum appealed.

It said the clash between the ZUF and NSCN (IM), which resulted in the loss of three lives, brings back dark and bitter memories and also undermines the commitment and significant progress made through the ‘Naga Reconciliation – The Journey of Common Hope.’

“Nagas must end resorting to violence and brute force to address differences. This only builds social and political boundaries of fear, distrust, and exclusion within our weakening and fragmented society,” the forum said.

The FNR called for a new imagination where the Naga political groups can muster the moral and political courage to renew the process of dialogue, healing and reconciliation.

“This process requires respect for one another so that a tangible and sincere relationship of cooperation based on the historical and political rights of the Nagas can be reached. Only then will space open for the Naga people to take this journey forward towards meaningful reconciliation, harmonious coexistence and integration within the Naga peoplehood,” the release stated.

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