FNR gives sanity call to Naga armed groups
Source: The Sangai Express
Dimapur, January 22, 2012:
In the wake of the recent factional feuds between the NSCN groups, the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) on Saturday said the recent events, like past divisions and lethal hostilities between erstwhile comrades in arms, have brought the Naga cause into grave disrepute and created great public disillusionment and fear.
Stating that violence committed by any group is detrimental to the reconciliation process, the FNR raised questions on Naga solidarity, nationhood and the Naga commitment to Christian values.
The FNR urged those involved in the recent confrontation to address the pressing issues and circumstances that precipitated the violence and the underlying factors that led to the state of affairs.
"We sincerely hope that those involved in this most recent spate of violence will reflect on this and view their actions and its consequences within the broader Naga worldview and how it is affecting the people and the Naga desire for reconciliation, unity and peace," it said.
It further called upon the signatories of the ‘Covenant of Reconciliation' to take immediate steps to address the present situation and bring the Naga reconciliation process back on track.
"The Naga people seek your political wisdom and acumen to rise above narrow politics and embrace a statesman-like approach for the common good of all Nagas," it said.
Appealing to all Nagas to be vigilant against internal and external forces that seek to weaken and destroy the Naga reconciliation process, the FNR called upon Naga political groups to honestly uphold and pursue the commitments made during the ‘Naga Reconciliation: A Journey of Common Hope' and to fulfill the aspirations of the people which was pledged before God and the Naga people.
FNR said the last few years of Naga reconciliation process has shown that Naga political groups have the ability to address issues through dialogue and non-violence.
"There is no reason to turn to violence as a means of resolving differences.
Not only will it widen the gulf between Naga political groups, but the factional infighting will alienate the common Naga man and woman further away from the Naga cause," it added.
The FNR said the Naga society cannot afford to allow itself to be further weakened by internal political strife at a time when they are faced with modern challenges, adding, it is necessary to find a common political ground.