The Naga Students' Federation (NSF) has expressed strong condemnation over the recent spate of killings and abductions targeting Naga civilians in several districts of Manipur. In a statement issued on Friday, the federation declared that no act of hostility can intimidate the Naga community.
Attack on Church Leaders
The NSF described the ambush on church leaders of the Thadou Baptist Association between Kotzin and Kotler in Kangpokpi district on May 13 as outrageous and inhuman. Three church leaders were killed and five others sustained grievous injuries while returning from Churachandpur. The federation condemned this deadly attack in the strongest possible terms.
Attack on Chiru Naga Civilians
On the same day, an attack on innocent Chiru Naga civilians in the Joujangtek area of Noney district resulted in the death of Wilson Thanga, who was killed on the spot, and his wife who was critically injured. The NSF strongly denounced this act of violence.
Abduction of Church Members
The federation also condemned the alleged abduction of two church members, Peter Kileisie Poji of the Pochury Naga community and Aching Paul of the Rongmei Naga community. They were taken at Saparmeina in Senapati district on the night of May 13 while traveling from Don Bosco Imphal to Maram.
Hostage Situation
Deep concern was expressed over reports that nearly 18 innocent Nagas from Konsakhul village were held hostage by individuals from Leilon Vaiphei village. While the two church brothers and 12 women hostages were reportedly released, the NSF noted that the atrocities perpetrated against the Nagas remain unresolved. The federation demanded the unconditional and immediate release of all remaining Naga hostages unharmed.
Call for Government Action
Reiterating that peace remains a core concern for the Nagas, the NSF stated that the indiscriminate killings and abductions of innocent civilians have liquidated all sense of humanity. It questioned the continued inaction of both the Manipur and Central governments, despite recurring attacks that continue to claim innocent lives.
The NSF declared, "While the Naga people do not condone violence, neither shall we kneel as silent spectators while injustice burns before our eyes." It added that any provocation or attack against one Naga would be regarded as an attack against all Nagas. The federation urged the authorities to take immediate action to prevent further loss of life and ensure the safety of the Naga community.
