UNC sticks to stand against new districts
Source: Chronicle News Service
Senapati, September 27 2023:
Reiterating its rejection of creation of seven new districts in 2016 by the then government, United Naga Council (UNC) said that any subsequent decision or ruling passed by any institution or authority on the matter stands rejected and shall be vehemently opposed till the same is withdrawn.
In the wake of ethnic conflict that has engulfed the state since May 3 and the violently manifested geographical and demographic contestation between the conflicting parties, it has become critical for the Nagas to bring out into public domain the unsettled issue of creation of seven new districts on December 8, 2016 by the then Congress government, a UNC statement issued by its publicity wing said.
The Nagas have rejected the declaration of seven new districts in 2016 strongly with mass rallies and 139 days of economic blockade along the national highways.
The 10 rounds of tripartite talks held between the Government of Manipur, UNC and the Government of India on the issue were based on the recognition that 'there was non-adherence to the four Memorandum of Understanding' signed by the Government of Manipur with Naga organisations and the assurance of the Government of India on the matter, it stated.
UNC had clearly placed to the Government of India through memorandum that the Nagas will not accept any disintegration of Naga land or any act that will adversely affect the interest of the Nagas while attempting to address demands of any other community.
UNC therefore reiterated its position against the arbitrary, undemocratic, unconstitutional and divisive declaration of seven new districts and any subsequent decision or ruling passed by any institution or authority on the matter stands rejected and shall be vehemently opposed till the same is withdrawn, UNC reiterated.