IT News
Imphal, Nov 29:
The Zeliangrong Civil Organizations (ZCOs), comprising the Zeliangrong Baudi, Zeliangrong Youth Front, and the Zeliangrong Students’ Union, have strongly condemned the armed clash that took place on November 28, 2024, between cadres of the NSCN (IM) and the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) at Shangji village under the Nungba Sub-Division. The organizations expressed concern that such violent confrontations have once again disrupted the peaceful atmosphere, particularly with the festive season approaching.
The ZCOs pointed out that frequent armed clashes between the NSCN (IM) and ZUF in recent years have spoiled the festive spirit in Zeliangrong areas, often resulting in the loss of many lives. The organizations lamented that these confrontations were often motivated by power struggles and territorial domination rather than any reasonable cause, causing undue suffering to the people.
The Zeliangrong people, along with other Nagas, had harbored hopes for a peaceful future following the signing of ceasefire agreements with Naga political groups, which were expected to facilitate political talks for a long-term solution. However, the organizations stated that these hopes had been dashed as the frequent armed confrontations continued despite the ceasefire agreements, undermining their efficacy.
The ZCOs also criticized the Government of India for remaining a “silent spectator” to the frequent armed clashes in the Zeliangrong region. They questioned whether the government was purposefully fostering distrust among the Naga groups under the guise of the ceasefire agreements, and held the government accountable for the loss of precious lives during the ongoing political talks. According to the ZCOs, these clashes were the result of “insincerity and negligence” on the part of the Government of India.
In their statement, the Zeliangrong Civil Organizations appealed to all political groups to honor their commitment to peace and to respect the sentiment of the people. They warned that the people’s faith in a political solution could fade if the clashes between armed groups continued, undermining the support and cooperation extended to these groups in anticipation of a logical resolution.
Finally, the ZCOs urged the Government of India to closely monitor the situation to prevent further armed confrontations and loss of life, and to pave the way for genuine peace in the region.
