CNFN condemns Chümoukedima IED blast, raise

Kohima

BY | Monday, 20 July, 2026

The Concerned Naga Forum of Nagaland (CNFN) has strongly condemned the recent IED blast at Chümoukedima, describing it as a cowardly act of violence that threatens the fragile peace, security and well-being of the people of Nagaland.

In a statement, the forum said such acts have no place in a democratic and peace-loving society and expressed concern over attempts by “miscreants or vested interests” to create instability in the state or allow the ongoing conflict in Manipur to spill over into Nagaland.

The Forum appealed to citizens to remain calm, vigilant and united, and not be misled by rumours, misinformation or provocative actions intended to disrupt communal harmony and public order.

Stating that Nagaland stands at a crucial juncture in its political history, CNFN said it was imperative for all stakeholders to preserve the prevailing atmosphere of peace and stability. It maintained that the gains achieved through years of dialogue and sacrifice should not be undermined by the actions of a few vested interests seeking to derail the aspirations of the Naga people.

The forum urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the Chümoukedima blast, identify those responsible and ensure that they are brought to justice while taking all necessary measures to safeguard public safety.

Raises concern over oil exploration MoU

CNFN also cautioned the state government against entering into any agreement that could prejudice Nagaland’s political, constitutional or economic rights.

Referring to the tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on June 11, 2026, by the Governments of India, Assam and Nagaland to resume oil and gas exploration along the disputed inter-state border, the forum expressed deep concern that the arrangement could directly or indirectly compromise the political, constitutional and historical rights of the Naga people.

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The Forum asserted that, at this critical stage of the Naga political process, every decision should strengthen the constitutional safeguards protecting Nagaland and its people’s rights over land and natural resources.

It further alleged that allowing exploration of oil and natural resources without first resolving the territorial dispute amounted to “a complete sellout” that would deprive future generations for the benefit of a few vested interests.

Calls for early resolution of FNT issue

The Forum also urged the Government of Nagaland to resolve the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) issue without further delay, stating that prolonging the matter would deepen public frustration, weaken trust and risk greater regional polarisation.

According to CNFN, the state government must honour commitments made in good faith and demonstrate the political will to bring the issue to a just and acceptable conclusion. It added that a non-committal approach at this stage would not be in the best interests of the people.

Appealing for unity, the forum called upon citizens, civil society organisations, tribal bodies, churches, youth organisations and the state authorities to work together in promoting genuine peace and creating a stable environment for inclusive development and a better future for younger generations.