NONEY, Nov 28: The ongoing standoff between the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM) and the Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) at Sangji Village, Noney district, which began on November 26, 2024, has drawn strong condemnation from local Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).
In a joint press release, several leaders and organizations including the RNPO, RNCM, VCLA, RNLPM, RNYOM, Lamdangmei V/A, Sangji V/A, Dolang V/A, Longsai V/A denounced the violence and called for an immediate halt to the hostilities, which have jeopardized the safety of innocent civilians, especially during the festive season.
The release particularly condemned the indiscriminate firing reportedly initiated by NSCN-IM cadres near the village, describing it as a provocative act against the sentiments of the Naga community. The statement emphasized that such acts undermine public harmony and called for the cadres of both parties to immediately vacate their positions in Sangji Village.
In the joint press release, the CSOs expressed their resolve to stage mass protests unless the involved parties present an official commitment to respecting public interests. They also warned all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could lead to loss of life or intimidation of the local population.
“Any group initiating such conditions will be held responsible for the loss caused and will answer according to the law of the land,” the statement declared. The CSOs further resolved to declare non-cooperation against any group responsible for escalating the situation.
