The Nokhu Range Public Organization (NRPO) and Nokhu Range Students’ Union (NRSU) has condemned the statement made by Imkong L Imchen, Advisor, Information & Public Relations, Soil & Water Conservation, on April 30 in electronic media, advocating for the ‘fencing of Indo-Myanmar Border to solve Naga Political issue’.
“The Nagas have long cherished our unique system and culture, which define our identity as a people. Our homeland has historically remained untouched by external influences, with the Naga people enjoying a pure form of democracy and freedom until the advent of British colonization. Unfortunately, the imposition of arbitrary boundary line in the heart of our homeland without our consent and further, borders were made within our ancestral land without the knowledge of the owners, which has been a grave injustice meted out against the innocent Nagas, which cannot be justified,” stated a press release issued by the two organisations of Nokhu range.
It considered the recent statement made by Imkong L Imchen as ignorant and immature, the “fencing” being a move which could potentially lead to the separation of close relatives and families and exacerbate communal tensions in the region.
Download Nagaland Tribune app on Google Play
“In light of Imkong L Imchen’s statements, who authorize to count the Nagas living beyond India’s Border is not only reckless but also a significant obstacle to our efforts to reconnect with our kin. It’s crucial to recognize that communities like the Konyak, Khiamniungan, Yimkhiung and Tihkir, among others, have brethren residing across the border. For instance, the Khiamniungan Nagas inhabit more than 160 villages on the other side, facing immense challenges due to the arbitrary division created by the border, hampering our shared endeavour towards unity and solidarity,” asserted the organisations.
The statement expressed disappointment to witness a prominent leader against the common aspirations, and being swayed by external influences that seek to prevent Nagas from uniting under a common umbrella of solidarity.
“Instead of representing the true voice of the Nagas, such individuals have become mere mouthpieces for his benefactors, causing harm to our society and compromising our inherent freedom. This misguided allegiance not only damages our sense of unity but also fosters ignorance among our own brothers and sisters. Despite being united as Nagas, we find ourselves increasingly estranged from one another due to these divisions sown by ignorance of our shared origins,” stated the organisations.
“All right thinking Naga citizens expect genuine concern for shared future rather than stumbling blocks and creating isms among us,” it added.
