The NNPGs and NSCN (IM) have called upon NSCN factions operating in Eastern Nagaland to immediately desist from fratricidal clashes and recommit themselves to the larger cause of Naga unity and “Naganess as a whole.”
The appeal, issued jointly by N Kitovi Zhimomi, Convenor, WC, NNPGs; Rev Puni Mao and Karaibo Chawang, MCLs of NSCN (IM); Col (Rtd) Isak Sumi, Working Convenor, NNPGs; Alezo Venuh, Co-Convenor, NNPGs; and P Tikhak Naga, Working Convenor, NNPGs, reflects deep concern over the renewed armed confrontations between NSCN groups in the region.
Stating that the Nagas have fully experienced the futility of violence, the leaders said it was time for the Nagas to rely and “soulfully strive to amend our dark chapter of fratricidal bloodshed that has contaminated our sacred national struggle.” They stressed that the greatest challenge confronting the Nagas today is not merely external forces, but the deep internal chasm.
“Unless we Nagas learn to forbear, our future will be doomed and our history, culture and identity imperiled,” the statement said.
They acknowledged and denounced the long-standing tendency among Naga groups to assert supremacy over one another, stating that such actions have already proved too costly in terms of blood, lives and precious resources and warned that the same cycle would continue even in future “if we don’t act with humility and prudence”.
Stating that no fruits would be harvested if they go by the same trend of infightings amongst the Nagas, the leaders called upon the Nagas to rise above narcissism but inculcate empathy.
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The further stated that the ongoing armed clashes between NSCN’s groups in Eastern Nagaland only refresh the sad and unfortunate chapter in Nagas’ national struggle.
They emphasized that forgiveness and acceptance among the Nagas is the only way ahead to assert and assure just place for the Nagas among the community of nations , “lest we destroy ourselves”.
The statement further underlined that regardless of the size or strength of opponents, the salvation of the Nagas lies solely in their ability to see, hear and work together. Even amid differing opinions, the leaders stressed the need to strive in one voice, asserting that unity as “the Naga” is the only path of redemption.
Rejecting narrow political definitions, the appeal stated that the Nagas must not be defined by politics but by blood, affirming that “by blood the Nagas are one” and that destiny must be determined through blood ties.
The leaders made an earnest appeal to NSCN-Yung Aung and NSCN-Angmai factions to desist from further fratricide and to seriously contemplate the need for Naganess as a whole.
