IMPHAL, Dec 18: The Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) has appealed to the NSCN (IM) to withdraw what it described as “suppressive military operations” from Zeliangrong-inhabited areas, stating that such actions are undermining peace, stability and development in the region.

In a statement issued from its headquarters at Dilung, ZUF Secretary (Information & Publicity) Louis Gangmei said the Zeliangrong people have endured years of exploitation, intimidation and military domination by NSCN (IM) in Zeliangrong areas. He said that despite ZUF exercising restraint in the larger interest of maintaining peace and harmony, the recent killing of a ZUF cadre in the Dolang area points to continued aggression.

Gangmei warned that such acts challenge the organisation to respond and said ZUF would not remain a “mute spectator” to what it termed anti-social, anti-national and criminal activities. He asserted that repeated attacks were aimed at disrupting the integrity and progress of the Zeliangrong people and jeopardising the ongoing Zeliangrong political talks with the Government of India.

Clarifying its position, the ZUF stated that it does not oppose the broader Naga national movement but seeks to assert and secure a separate Zeliangrong homeland. The organisation said this legitimate aspiration has been repeatedly misconstrued, particularly by NSCN (IM), leading to confrontation between the two groups.

Questioning NSCN (IM)’s intent, the ZUF asked why the Zeliangrong community has been singled out as a threat to Naga national interests. It said the situation raises concerns over whether NSCN (IM)’s agenda has shifted from national objectives to preventing a particular community from exercising its long-pending right to a homeland.