NSUC opposes abrogation of FMR, border fencing
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, November 17 2024: Naga Students' Union Chandel (NSUC) has taken a firm stance against the abrogation of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and ongoing border fencing along the Indo-Myanmar boundary.

The resolution was adopted during the NSUC's 2nd Legislative Assembly for the 2024-27 term, held on Friday at Tarao Laimanai village in Chandel district.

NSUC emphasised that FMR is vital for maintaining the socio-cultural and ancestral connections of the Naga people across the artificial Indo-Myanmar border.

Describing the move to end the FMR as disregard of historical rights, the union demanded its immediate reinstatement.

The assembly underscored that any further restrictions on cross-border movement would face staunch resistance from the Naga community, reflecting the union's unwavering commitment to preserving their heritage.

The union also voiced strong opposition to the "arbitrary border fencing" on Naga ancestral land, condemning it as an attempt to erode their territorial unity and historical identity.

According to the NSUC, the construction of the fence without the approval of the Naga people is a violation of inherent rights and undermines their ancestral claims.

The project, it argued, symbolises a legacy of imposed divisions that have long impacted their community.

In addition, NSUC challenged claims made by the Kuki community over ancestral lands in Chandel and Tengnoupal districts, denouncing these assertions as false and disruptive.

The union asserted that these territories are historically and culturally tied to the Nagas, as confirmed by both documented evidence and oral traditions.

It noted that such claims have the potential to stoke tensions and jeopardise the region's fragile peace.

The assembly concluded with several demands: immediate reinstatement of the FMR to restore Nagas' right to unhindered movement, halting of border fencing projects to protect their territorial integrity, and official recognition of the Naga's ancestral land rights.

These measures are essential for fostering mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, NSUC maintained.

NSUC's legislative assembly also passed a resolution for the introduction of a cultural dress code for school students representing different tribes.

This initiative is set to be implemented from the next academic session across all schools within the union's jurisdiction, reinforcing cultural identity and unity among the youth.

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