Special Correspondent
Ukhrul, Jan 17:
The United Naga Council (UNC) has strongly opposed the ongoing construction of the Indo-Myanmar border wall in Naga areas, calling it a violation of their traditional boundaries and an affront to their rights. Despite repeated appeals to the Government of India (GOI) and the Union Home Ministry, the construction continues, exacerbating tensions in the region.
Led by its president, Ng. Lorho, the UNC conducted an on-ground inspection on January 15, 2025, in collaboration with the Chandel Naga People’s Organisation (CNPO), All Naga Students’ Association Manipur (ANSAM), and other regional bodies. The inspection revealed active construction near Border Pillar 81, impacting parts of Naga territories in Satang village.
In its statement, the UNC condemned the bilateral agreement between India and Myanmar, which delineated and demarcated Naga areas without consulting local villagers. The council criticized the border as an “artificial imaginary line” that disregards the Nagas’ traditional boundaries with Myanmar.
“The proposed fencing through Naga areas is unacceptable. It fragments our people further and isolates them from the rest of India,” the UNC stated, reiterating its demand to maintain the status quo. The council warned that any attempt to alter their territorial integrity would provoke serious consequences.
The UNC emphasized that the GOI and the Government of Manipur (GOM) would bear sole responsibility for any fallout from this issue. It cautioned that the fencing project could escalate into a broader conflict, jeopardizing peace and stability in the region.
Despite an earlier representation to the Union Home Minister on January 19, 2024, urging the cessation of the project, the continued construction reflects a disregard for the appeals of the Naga people and their leadership.
Calling for immediate intervention, the UNC asserted its unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and unity of the Naga people. “We cannot afford further fragmentation of our land and people,” the statement declared, urging the GOI to reconsider its approach.
The UNC’s opposition underscores broader concerns over the lack of consultation and the potential cultural and social disruption the fencing could cause. This development adds to the long-standing tensions in Indo-Naga relations, with the UNC making it clear that they will not waver in their efforts to preserve the traditional and historical rights of their people.
