ZUF condemns UNC remark; calls for peace, harmony
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, February 09 2024:
The armed Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) has strongly condemned the press statement issued by United Naga Council (UNC) on February 2, and expressed deep concern over what they perceive as double connotations in the UNC's stance on the ethnic conflict between the Meetei and the Kuki-Zo communities in the state.
In a statement, ZUF asserted that while the UNC's press statement aimed to convey a positive message, it inadvertently posed a serious threat to the security and survival of the entire Naga community, including the Zeliangrong people residing within the Imphal Valley and surrounding foothill areas.
Moreover, ZUF criticised UNC's call for Nagas to vacate the Imphal Valley, cautioning that such actions will only escalate ethnic tensions and undermine efforts being made for restoration of peace and harmony.
ZUF urged UNC, as a leading tribal organisation, to uphold Naga ethical principles of peace making and exercise restraint from exacerbating the conflict.
Highlighting the long-standing peaceful coexistence between the Zeliangrong people and other communities in the state, the ZUF statement reiterated its commitment to promoting social and communal harmony.
It vowed to resist any attempts to disrupt this harmony and assured the public of its vigilance in maintaining tranquillity in the state.
In a stern warning, ZUF further said that it will hold UNC accountable for any adverse incident affecting the Zeliangrong community due to failure of withdrawing the contentious press statement.
ZUF called upon all citizens to remain vigilant against communal-based politics and propaganda exploiting the ongoing conflict.