DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 17 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) has taken exception to the 'killing' of one Honpam Chithung allegedly by Kuki National Army Burma (KNA-B) on February 10 in Myanmar. It did not rule out the involvement of Assam Rifles based at Phaikok to collaborate with KNA (B) in killing Honpam Chithung.
It also expressed regret that when the Tangkhul CSOs went to Phaikoh village to retrieve the mortal remains of the deceased, no cooperation was forthcoming from the Phaikoh headman and his villagers.
“Notwithstanding many provocative incidents, Nagas have maintained cool to stay steadfastly remain neutral in the state sponsored ethnic conflict between the Meiteis and the Kuki-Zo in Manipur ever since the bloody pogrom started in May 3, 2023,” a MIP press release from the NSCN (IM) said.
The NSCN (IM) said it extended the “hands of humanity in the true spirit of Christianity towards the displaced Kuki-Zo people who have fled from the war-torn Myanmar and taken shelter in Naga areas in Kamjong and other places in Ukhrul district who have fled from Imphal valley.”
Despite all this, the NSCN (IM) questioned the “senseless warmongering” of the KNA-B in killing Honpam Chithung while stating that this has “affronted the dignity and manhood of the Nagas.”
“Repeated message given to the Kuki-Zo people should not be treated in casual manner. That the Nagas wish to coexist peacefully with the Kuki-Zo but without compromising the Naga’s geopolitical right should be acted upon with open heart respecting the Naga’s traditional right over the land,” the NSCN (IM) stated.
