Kezoltsai dispute: Forum for Naga Reconciliation calls for rational, reflective decision-making

DIMAPUR — The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) has issued a statement expressing concern over the ongoing dispute between the Southern Angami Public Organisation (SAPO) and Mao Council.

As neighbours, the FNR acknowledged the challenges faced by both communities and extended critical solidarity in addressing the conflict.

The forum emphasised the importance of rational and reflective decision-making in resolving the dispute and encouraged both the communities to reflect on the past, assess the present situation, and aspire for a better future.

It urged the SAPO and Mao Council to seize the “present disruption to muster practical creativity and the age old communal energy to meet the challenges to ‘tie the bond’ of love and respect for each other”.

Recognising the role of community elders, leaders, intellectuals, and the Church, the FNR emphasised the responsibility to act swiftly and decisively.

Stating that the responsibility should not be taken lightly, the FNR acknowledged that addressing the conflict may involve discomfort but “we should not shy away from this responsibility, which is, our inescapable obligation to make sure tomorrow’s Nagas, our children, will inherit a legacy that will ensure their progress in unity”.

The FNR also underscored the Christian community’s role in promoting peace and acceptance of others as fellow human beings.

“Knowing that ‘others’ also have mothers, fathers, daughters, and sons and children with innocent eyes and dreams, our voice and actions for peace matters. The task before us is to recognize that life together is possible through the gateway of the ‘justification of the neighbour’,” it added.

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