Xplorich
NEW DELHI: The United Naga Council (UNC), the apex body representing 21 Naga tribes in Manipur, on Saturday appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to intervene in what it described as a worsening security situation in Naga-inhabited areas of the state. The council submitted a memorandum seeking a time-bound, independent and court-monitored investigation into the alleged abduction and killing of six Naga civilians, along with enhanced security measures and action against those responsible.Addressing a press conference at the Press Club of India in New Delhi, UNC leaders said the memorandum urged the Prime Minister to take immediate steps to restore security in Naga areas and ensure justice for the victims. The delegation also said it had been meeting political leaders, civil society groups and other stakeholders in the national capital to press its demands.The council called for the arrest and prosecution of those allegedly involved in the abduction and killings. It also sought stronger security arrangements in Naga-inhabited regions, alleging that civilians had been subjected to intimidation, hostage-taking and armed movement in vulnerable areas.The UNC further urged the Centre to uphold the 2015 Framework Agreement on the Indo-Naga peace process, alleging that recent incidents in parts of Manipur involved cross-border armed movement that threatened India’s eastern frontier.“Our appeal to the Prime Minister is direct: Honour the Framework Agreement, secure the Naga areas and stop treating armed aggression against Naga civilians as a local disturbance,” UNC leader KS Paul Leo said.Another leader, L Adani, said the Naga people had exercised restraint and were expecting justice for the six civilians who were killed.Among its other demands, the council asked the Centre to declare the Kuki National Front-President (KNF-P) a terrorist organisation and either revoke the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement with Kuki militant groups or strictly enforce its provisions.The UNC also sought restoration of security along National Highways, a judicial inquiry into attacks reported since March this year, and an assurance that no administrative arrangement would affect what it described as Naga ancestral lands.Explaining the background to its demands, the council alleged that Kuki militant groups abducted 20 Naga civilians on May 13 after three Thadou church leaders were killed earlier that day. According to the UNC, 14 of the abducted civilians were released on May 15, while the remaining six were later found dead.The council further claimed that Naga village guards released 14 Kuki detainees on June 9 as a humanitarian gesture, but alleged that the bodies of the six missing Naga civilians were recovered the following day.Maintaining its commitment to peace and coexistence, the UNC urged the Union government to ensure justice for civilians and restore security in Manipur. The delegation included senior Naga leaders Ng Lorho, Vareiyo Shatsang, Samson Remei, AC Thotso, KS Paul Leo and L Adani.
