Paite Tuailai Pawl declares neutrality amid Kuki–Naga tensions

The Paite Tuailai Pawl, a representative body of the Paite community, has declared its neutrality in the ongoing ethnic tensions between Kuki-Zo and Naga communities, particularly in the wake of recent incidents involving the destruction of illegal poppy cultivation sites allegedly by the Zeliangrong United Front in parts of Kangpokpi district.
In a statement issued by its Information and Publicity wing, the organisation said the Paite people have no animosity towards the Naga community and have no direct involvement or conflict of interest in the present Naga–Kuki situation. It asserted that the Paite community is distinct and should not be drawn into the prevailing tensions.
The Paite Tuailai Pawl appealed to Naga individuals, organisations and armed groups operating in or controlling Naga-inhabited areas to exercise restraint and caution. It urged that Paite individuals and communities should not be harmed, targeted or viewed with suspicion, and requested that safe passage be ensured for Paite people travelling through or residing in Naga-controlled or Naga-majority areas.
Recalling historical precedent, the statement noted that during the Naga–Kuki conflict of 1993, the Paite community, under the then Paite National Council, had publicly declared neutrality.
It stated that Paite individuals were subsequently issued identification cards and granted safe passage through conflict zones, including major routes such as the Imphal–Dimapur and Imphal–Jiribam roads.
The organisation appealed to the Naga community to honour the spirit of past understandings in the present context, stating that extending similar courtesy and protection would reflect shared values of brotherhood, mutual respect and humanity.
Reiterating its commitment to peace and coexistence, the Paite Tuailai Pawl called upon community leaders, civil society organisations and authorities to prioritise dialogue, de-escalation and the protection of innocent civilians over further escalation of tensions.