ZUF asks UNC to excercise restraint
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, February 09 2024: The Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) has asserted that the recent statement issued by the United Naga Council (UNC) on Manipur violence signals a threat to the survival and security of Naga and Zeliangrong people living in Imphal and periphery of the State's capital.

On February 2, the UNC appealed "to the Meiteis and the Kuki-Zo group" to desist from targeting, provoking and attacking the Nagas, their homes and properties in Imphal valley and also in the peripheral hill areas.

"Should this appeal go disrespected in Imphal valley, we will have no option but to call upon the Nagas in Imphal valley to vacate for taking up further appropriate measures thereafter", the UNC had cautioned.

In a rejoinder, ZUF said that the message of UNC, instead of promoting peace and harmony in strife torn Manipur, may bring forth a grave repercussion.

Further stating that the message of UNC was obviously detrimental to the interest of the people and the desire to promote peace and harmony in the State, ZUF asked the apex Naga body (UNC) to withdraw its statement issued on February 2 .

"We understand that the press communique intends to carry a positive message," ZUF admitted while asking UNC to exercise maximum restraint and make sure no further trouble is created in Manipur.

The ZUF then appealed to 'right thinking citizens and the general public' to remain alert and stay away from communal based politics and propaganda.

Saying that the Zeliangrong people have been living peacefully with Meiteis, Kukis and other communities for centuries and will continue to promote social and communal harmony in Manipur and the world at large, ZUF cautioned that any adverse element opposing their ethics of peaceful co-existence will be defied and met with strong measures.

"Therefore, with all seriousness and perception clear on what is good for all communities and to restore normalcy in Manipur," the ZUF asked the UNC to withdraw its statement and prevent escalation of the conflict to 'irreparable limit' .

Asking UNC to take full responsibility if their 'words of caution' are not heeded and untoward incidents happen to Zeliangrong people, ZUF said that they will remain vigilant and take stock of the situation.

The ZUF went on to state that they will continue to promote harmonious coexistence among various communities, particularly in Imphal, periphery of the foothills and Zeliangrong inhabited territories.

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