Shun violence, resolve differences: AZSU to NSCN(IM), ZUF

The All Zeliangrong Students’ Union–Assam, Manipur and Nagaland (AZSU-AMN) has appealed to the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) to eschew violence and resolve differences through dialogue, following a recent gunfight in Tamenglong district.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the students’ body expressed concern over a fresh exchange of fire between the two groups at New Kaiphundai village in Tousem subdivision, along National Highway-37, on Friday morning around 8:30 a.m.
Describing the situation as deeply distressing, the AZSU-AMN said repeated incidents of violence between the factions have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty among civilians in the region.
“The violence has affected innocent civilians, leaving families in a state of anxiety and insecurity,” the statement said, urging both sides to heed the concerns of the public.
Appealing for restraint, the organisation called on the groups to prioritise dialogue over armed confrontation. “Let us resolve our differences through dialogue, not guns. Let us prioritise the safety and well-being of our people and future generations,” it said, while urging both factions to act with responsibility towards the community.
Reiterating its call to “give peace a chance,” the students’ body said it was painful to witness continued violence overshadowing the aspirations of the Naga community for peace and stability.
The ZUF, formed in 2011, operates primarily in Manipur and represents the interests of the Zeliangrong Naga tribes — Zeme, Liangmai and Rongmei, while advocating for a separate administrative unit. The group signed a Cessation of Operations agreement with the Centre and the Manipur government on December 27, 2022.
The NSCN (IM), on the other hand, remains one of the most prominent Naga insurgent organisations in the region, engaged in longstanding negotiations with the Government of India.
The latest appeal comes amid concerns over recurring clashes in sensitive border areas, with civil society groups urging all stakeholders to pursue peaceful means to restore normalcy.