NSCN (I-M) deputy ato kilonser Lt Gen (Retd.) VS Atem has called for greater Naga unity amid the ongoing conflict in Manipur, urging Nagas not to remain silent in the face of the suffering of fellow community members and cautioning against internal divisions.
Addressing a programme organised by the Mao Students’ Union at Asufii, Punanamei, Mao in Senapati district on September 21, Atem alleged that the Government of India was pursuing policies aimed at keeping Nagas divided. He claimed that security forces were being deployed to fence Naga ancestral lands under the pretext of preventing infiltration.
Rejecting claims of cross-border infiltration into Nagalim, Atem alleged that such concerns were being linked to Kuki groups whom he described as illegal immigrant refugees in parts of Manipur. He asserted that Nagas would not accept any barrier resembling a “Berlin Wall” on their ancestral land.
Atem further accused the Centre of using Kuki armed groups in what he described as a proxy war against the Nagas. He alleged that these groups were receiving support and protection from authorities and claimed that armed groups operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) arrangement were being deployed against Naga village guards.
Referring to the killing of six Naga civilians who were allegedly abducted from Leilon Vaiphei in Kangpokpi district in May and whose remains were later recovered, Atem questioned the response of security forces during the conflict. He alleged that Naga villages and village guards were subjected to differential treatment.
According to Atem, security personnel did not enter areas where Naga villages were allegedly set on fire, while Naga village guards protecting their communities were rounded up and their licensed firearms confiscated in the name of maintaining law and order.
Stressing the need for caution and solidarity, Atem said, “Nagas are treading on thin lines. We must be very cautious of our own actions.”
He urged Nagas across regions to stand united and avoid becoming “mute spectators” to the suffering of fellow Nagas.
