The North East Students’ Organisation (NESO) has strongly condemned the continuing violence in Manipur, including repeated ambushes, killings, abductions and intimidation of civilians, warning that the prolonged conflict has pushed the state into deep fear, insecurity and instability.
A high-level meeting of NESO was held in Guwahati on May 20 under the aegis of the All Assam Students’ Union to deliberate on the ongoing conflict involving Kuki and Naga groups in Manipur.
After detailed discussions, NESO adopted a series of resolutions condemning attacks on innocent civilians, including church leaders, stating that violence against unarmed civilians engaged in peace missions can never be justified.
The student body demanded the unconditional release of all reported hostages and urged those responsible to ensure their safety and prevent any harm to them.
Raising serious questions over the handling of the crisis, NESO accused the Government of India of failing to effectively address the worsening situation in Manipur. The organisation stated that several persons have remained missing and untraceable since the outbreak of violence and demanded immediate measures to trace them.
NESO also appealed to all communities and stakeholders to reject retaliation and violence and work collectively towards restoring peace, justice and normalcy in Manipur.