The Naga Hoho has strongly condemned the killing of six Naga men, including two pastors, at Leilon Vaiphei village, describing the incident as a brutal massacre in which the victims were allegedly mutilated and dismembered. The apex Naga body also alleged collusion between Indian security forces and Kuki militant groups, claiming the latter were being used to wage a proxy war against the Nagas. The Naga Hoho expressed these sentiments during the third Federal Assembly, held on July 31 at the Senapati district headquarters in Manipur.
During the meeting, delegates deliberated on the deteriorating security and political situation in Naga-inhabited areas, particularly in Manipur. The Assembly expressed serious concern over reports of proposed Cordon and Search Operations (CASO) in Naga villages. The Hoho warned that indiscriminate cordon-and-search operations, house-to-house searches, interrogation of civilians and harassment of women, children and the elderly would create an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.
Expressing concern over the militarisation of Naga areas, the Assembly said Naga-inhabited regions must not be turned into a conflict zone. The Assembly alleged that the continued militarisation, the use of Naga villages as operational corridors, and the targeting of civilians constitute grave violations of fundamental human rights and pose a direct threat to peaceful coexistence. The Hoho also alleged that such actions were intended to sabotage the ongoing Indo-Naga peace talks.
The Assembly criticised both the state and central governments for failing to address the charter of demands submitted following the killing of the six Naga men, describing the delay as a denial of justice. The Assembly resolved to initiate democratic measures to secure justice for the victims and their families. ‘The prolonged delay is an affront to the dignity of the Naga people and cannot be tolerated,’ the Hoho said. The Assembly demanded an immediate halt to militarisation and any proposed CASO in Naga areas.
It also sought full accountability over its allegations of collusion between the Government of India and Kuki militant groups operating against the Nagas. The Hoho further demanded the immediate fulfilment of the charter of demands relating to the killing of the six Naga men and called on the Government of India to safeguard Naga lives, land and identity. The Assembly also demanded that the safety and security of commuters along highways be ensured and urged that all grievances be resolved through political dialogue and democratic processes rather than militarisation and coercive measures.
Reaffirming its commitment to protecting Naga history, territory and identity, the Naga Hoho called upon Nagas to remain united, vigilant and steadfast. ‘Any attempt to suppress Naga rights or exploit Naga land for proxy conflict shall be collectively and democratically resisted,’ it said.
