IT News
Chandel/Tengnoupal, Feb 12:
A large-scale protest rally and a 12-hour shutdown have gripped the 41-Chandel and 42-Tengnoupal constituencies, starting at 6 AM on Monday. The agitation is in strong opposition to the Indo-Myanmar border fencing and the abolition of the Free Movement Regime (FMR).
The protest, spearheaded by the Chandel Naga People’s Organisation (CNPO) along with its affiliated units, the Naga Students’ Union Chandel (NSUC) and the Naga Chiefs’ Association Chandel (NCAC), has received further momentum with the backing of the All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM).
Demonstrators have gathered at three key locations—Lamringkhuw, Chakpkarong, and Chandel headquarters—voicing their demand for immediate government intervention. Protesters argue that the border fencing project threatens indigenous autonomy and cultural distinctiveness, urging the authorities to restore cross-border movement rights.
Citing Article 3 of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the CNPO and its affiliates stress the protection of ancestral Naga territories, asserting their right to self-determination. They also highlight Article 1 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, emphasizing that the abolition of FMR directly impacts the fundamental rights of indigenous communities living along the border.
The protesters further urge the government to fast-track peace negotiations, advocating for a dialogue-driven resolution in accordance with Article 33 of the United Nations Charter, which calls for the peaceful settlement of disputes.
As the agitation continues, residents and civil society organizations await a response from the authorities regarding their demands.
