UNC Appeals to Prime Minister Modi for Security in Naga Regions
NEW DELHI: The United Naga Council (UNC), which represents 21 Naga tribes in Manipur, has formally requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to act urgently regarding the deteriorating security situation in areas inhabited by Naga communities.
The council submitted a memorandum demanding an independent and time-bound investigation into the reported abduction and killing of six Naga civilians. It also called for improved security measures and accountability for those involved in these incidents.
During a press conference at the Press Club of India in New Delhi, UNC leaders emphasized the need for immediate action from the Prime Minister to restore safety in Naga areas and to secure justice for the victims. The delegation shared that it had been engaging with political leaders, civil society, and various stakeholders in the national capital to advocate for its demands.
Concerns Over Security and Accountability
The council insisted on the arrest and prosecution of individuals believed to be responsible for the abduction and killings. They highlighted the need for reinforced security in Naga regions, where residents have allegedly faced intimidation, hostage situations, and armed movements.
The UNC implored the Central Government to uphold the 2015 Framework Agreement regarding the Indo-Naga peace process, asserting that recent events in various regions of Manipur have involved armed movements across borders, potentially jeopardizing India’s eastern frontier.
“Our appeal to the Prime Minister is direct: Honour the Framework Agreement, secure the Naga areas and stop treating armed aggression against Naga civilians as a local disturbance,” stated UNC leader KS Paul Leo.
Another UNC leader, L Adani, expressed that the Naga people have shown restraint and patience, and they expect justice for the six civilians who lost their lives.
Additional Demands and Context
Among its broader requests, the council called for the Kuki National Front-President (KNF-P) to be designated as a terrorist organization and either revoke or strictly implement the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups. They also demanded enhanced security measures along National Highways, a judicial inquiry into attacks that have occurred since March, and assurances that administrative actions will not infringe upon what they describe as Naga ancestral lands.
In shedding light on its demands, the council alleged that Kuki militant groups were responsible for the abduction of 20 Naga civilians on May 13, following the killings of three Thadou church leaders earlier that same day. According to the UNC, 14 of those abducted were released on May 15, but six were later found dead.
Furthermore, the council claimed that Naga village guards had released 14 Kuki detainees on June 9 as a humanitarian act but contended that the bodies of the six missing Naga civilians were discovered the following day.
Reiterating its commitment to peace and coexistence, the UNC urged the Union Government to ensure justice for the victims and to reestablish security in Manipur. The delegation included key Naga leaders such as Ng Lorho, Vareiyo Shatsang, Samson Remei, AC Thotso, KS Paul Leo, and L Adani.
