KAVAC condemns recurring violence, urges NSCN-IM, ZUF-J to cease hostilities
Source: The Sangai Express

Noney, August 05 2026: The Khoupum Area Village Authority Council (KAVAC) has strongly condemned the recurring armed confrontations between the NSCN-IM and ZUF-J, while honouring the Zeliangrong Naga women of the area for their courage and intervention in preventing further bloodshed.

In a press note, KAVAC expressed deep anguish over the armed confrontation between the two groups at Samlengtiang, Khoupum, on August 1.The exchange of fire, which reportedly lasted for more than half an hour, triggered widespread panic, fear and trauma among residents of the Khoupum area, it said.

KAVAC stated that the incident was not isolated, alleging that the two groups, both comprising members of the Zeliangrong Naga community, had been engaged in repeated armed hostilities for more than a decade.

It said political differences, ideological positions or historical grievances could not justify continued violence among members of the same community, adding that every confrontation weakens the social and moral fabric of society, destroys trust, disrupts livelihoods and traumatises children and elderly people.

The council also lauded the Zeliangrong Naga Women Organisation, Khoupum area, for its courage, sacrifice and moral leadership.

It said the women intervened at the height of the confrontation, risking their own safety to prevent further bloodshed and restore peace.

KAVAC said the women of Khoupum had repeatedly stepped into dangerous situations, both during the day and at night, in villages and jungles, to save lives, prevent violence and preserve brotherhood.

In the interest of peace, unity and the future of the Zeliangrong Naga community, KAVAC appealed to the NSCN-IM and ZUF-J to immediately cease all armed hostilities and refrain from actions that endanger civilian lives, public safety and communal harmony.

It further urged all parties to resolve differences through sincere and meaningful dialogue facilitated by respected elders, church leaders, civil society organisations and the Zeliangrong Naga Women Organisation, and to commit themselves to genuine and lasting reconciliation.

"Peace is the only way forward.

Let us choose dialogue over violence and unity over division," KAVAC said.

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