The Naga People’s Front has expressed concern over a reported gunfight between Naga armed groups in Myanmar and appealed for restraint, dialogue and unity.
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DIMAPUR — The Naga People’s Front (NPF) expressed serious concern over reports of a gunfight between two Naga armed groups in Naga-inhabited areas of Myanmar, which reportedly resulted in deaths and injuries.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the party said the incident, reported to have taken place early on January 9, was “absolutely discouraging” and undermined collective efforts towards peace and unity among the Naga people.
The NPF said the reported fratricidal violence comes at a time when Nagas have entered the New Year 2026 with hope and expectations, and warned that such incidents send a wrong message. It also expressed concern that continued fighting could vitiate the atmosphere ahead of the Naga Yoya New Year celebration scheduled to be held on January 15 at Layshi Town in the Naga Self-Administered Zone of Myanmar.
The Naga Yoya New Year festival is an annual event and is being hosted this year by Layshi Town. The party said it feared that instability and violence could disrupt the celebrations.
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Appealing to all Naga political groups, the NPF urged restraint and called for dialogue, stating that internal fighting would only cause further damage and yield no positive outcome. It emphasised the need for peace, unity and reconciliation, and said such violence must be stopped.
Reaffirming its stand, the party said it remains committed to a permanent, honourable and inclusive solution to the Naga political issue. The NPF also extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wished a speedy recovery to those injured in the reported incident.
The party further appealed to all Naga groups to foster mutual respect and work collectively in the interest of the Naga people.