The NNC/FGN (Naga National Council/Federal Government of Nagaland) has strongly condemned the recent incidents of violence in areas it referred to as “Southern Nagaland,” warning that continued attacks on Nagas would have serious consequences and would not remain unanswered.
In a statement issued through its Ministry of Rali Wali Affairs under the leadership of Ino Zhopra Vero, the organisation said the ongoing violence in parts of Ukhrul and Kangpokpi districts has caused deep anguish among the Naga people.
The statement referred to reported killings in Litan-Sareikhong, Mullam and Shongphal, as well as the killing of three Thadou Baptist leaders — Rev. Vunthang Sitlou, Rev. Kaigoullun and Pastor Paogoulen — in Kangpokpi district on May 13.
The organisation also cited the alleged abduction and killing of six Naga hostages identified as Pr. Kenpibou, Rev. Manu, Phenrongwibou, Phenrilungbou, Dilip and Kaliwangbou.
Describing the incidents as “morally indefensible and politically reckless,” the NNC/FGN stated that no political dispute or territorial issue could justify bloodshed, abduction or destruction of villages.
While appealing to all armed groups to immediately cease hostilities, the organisation urged both Naga and Kuki communities to avoid retaliatory violence, warning that further reprisals would severely damage prospects for peace and reconciliation in the region.
At the same time, the NNC/FGN maintained that it would continue to defend what it described as the historical and ancestral rights of the Nagas. The statement further asserted that any politically motivated attack on a Naga would be viewed as an attack on the entire Naga nation.