Dimapur, July 20 (MExN): The Concerned Naga Forum of Nagaland (CNFN) on Monday strongly condemned the IED blast in Chümoukedima, describing it as a cowardly act of violence that threatens the state's fragile peace, security and public well-being.
In a statement, the forum expressed concern over attempts by "miscreants or vested interests" to destabilise Nagaland or allow the ongoing conflict in neighbouring Manipur to spill over into the state.
Appealing to citizens to remain calm, vigilant and united, the CNFN urged people not to be misled by rumours, misinformation or provocative actions aimed at disrupting communal harmony and public order.
The forum said Nagaland was at a defining moment in its history as it moved closer to an honourable and peaceful political future, and stressed that all stakeholders must remain committed to preserving peace and stability.
It said the gains achieved through years of dialogue, understanding and sacrifice should not be jeopardised by the actions of a handful of vested interests seeking to derail the collective aspirations of the Naga people.
The CNFN appealed to all concerned to stop senseless violence and urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the Chümoukedima blast, bring those responsible to justice and take all necessary measures to ensure public safety.
The forum also cautioned the state government against entering into any agreement that could prejudice Nagaland's political, constitutional and economic rights.
Referring to the tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by the governments of India, Assam and Nagaland on June 11, 2026, for the resumption of oil and gas exploration along the disputed inter-state border, the CNFN expressed deep concern, saying the arrangement could directly or indirectly compromise the political, constitutional and historical rights of the Naga people.
It said that at this crucial stage of the Naga political process, every decision should strengthen the special constitutional provisions and safeguards protecting Nagaland. According to the forum, any political settlement must be backed by a robust statutory framework to safeguard the Naga people's identity, rights, institutions, land and natural resources for future generations.
The CNFN alleged that proceeding with oil and natural resource exploration without first resolving the territorial dispute amounted to "a complete sellout" that would deprive future generations for the benefit of a few vested interests.
The forum also urged the Nagaland government to resolve the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) issue without further delay, warning that prolonged inaction would deepen public frustration, erode trust and increase regional polarisation.
It said the state government must honour the commitments and understandings reached in good faith and demonstrate the political will to bring the issue to a just and acceptable conclusion. A non-committal approach at this stage, it added, would not be in the best interests of the people.
The CNFN further called upon citizens, civil society organisations, tribal bodies, churches, youth organisations and the state authorities to work together for genuine peace, lasting stability, inclusive development and a better future for the younger generation.
