Naga bodies, FNR greet on Christmas
Source: Chronicle News Service / NNN

Imphal/Dimapur, December 22 2023: Manipur Naga Youth Organisation (MNYO) and Imphal Naga Forum (INF) have extended warm Christmas greetings to all communities of Manipur.

In a release, MNYO president Athot Keitang conveyed, "As we celebrate this festive occasion, we extend our heartfelt wishes for peace to our brothers and sisters of Meetei and Kuki-Zo communities" .

"It is a time for unity and understanding, transcending any differences that may exist among us.

Let us come together to build bridges of friendship and cooperation, fostering an atmosphere of harmony that enriches our shared heritage" .

"In the tapestry of Manipur's diverse cultures, let the threads of love, respect, and understanding weave a narrative of togetherness.

MNYO stands committed to promoting peace and goodwill, not only during this festive season but throughout the year," it said.

In another release, INF secretary AS Hongpro Shim-ray said, "We pray that the sound of the gunshots and bomb blasts will be silenced during this time of devotions, introspections, prayers and worship.

May this season be a time of soul searching for all the people of the state as the state has witnessed the worst form of ethnic mayhem for the last eight months" .

"We hope and pray that the arrival of Christmas will take Manipur to the path of recovery, reconciliation and regeneration," it added.

INF further conveyed that it is deeply pained, grieved and troubled by the turn of events in this beautiful multi-ethnic state of Manipur, which has descended into chaos, confusion and deep ethnic division.

"We also appeal from the bottom of our heart that good sense prevail and people return to their right mind and take the state to the height of development and prosperity," it appealed.

The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), in a statement, conveyed message on the significance of peace and unity during the Christmas season.

The FNR underscored that true peace among the Nagas should encompass blessings, healing, well-being, togetherness, and righteousness, emphasising the need for a broader understanding beyond the absence of war and threats.

Reconciliation, according to the FNR, is not solely the responsibility of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation but a collective effort of every individual to contribute.

The statement appealed for objectivity, sincere criticism, and critical love, urging conscientious people and Naga political groups to avoid dogmatism and political rigidity that can lead to isolation and division.

The FNR concluded its statement by calling on the Naga people to think positively, emphasising that as long as unity and determination prevail, nothing is lost.

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