FGN urges Myanmar tokeep Nagas out of conflict

The Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) has appealed to authorities and stakeholders in Myanmar to refrain from involving Nagas in the ongoing conflict in the country.
In a letter issued by its foreign (Alee) ministry to senior general Min Aung Hlaing, Tatmadaw (military junta) & state administration council and president of National Unity Government (NUG) Myanmar, FGN said it had been closely monitoring political developments in Myanmar and expressed hope that peace would prevail at the earliest. While stating that the situation was an internal matter of Myanmar, it said the ongoing unrest was impacting neighbouring Naga areas.
FGN asserted its position on Naga identity and history, maintaining that Nagas should not be drawn into conflicts not concerning them. It urged the leaders, as well as other ethnic groups, to avoid influencing or forcibly engaging Nagas in the conflict.
The statement alleged that Nagas were being affected by the ongoing hostilities, including reports of casualties and instances of forced recruitment by both sides. It also expressed concern over difficulties faced by Naga civilians, including shortages of essential commodities and healthcare.
FGN maintained that Nagas in eastern regions were not part of the conflict and called on all parties to maintain peace in Naga-inhabited areas and refrain from using such regions as conflict zones.
It further warned that any Naga groups or individuals participating in the conflict were doing so at their own risk and did not represent the mandate of the Naga people. The organisation said such involvement was driven by personal interests and urged them to desist from such activities.
FGN also stated that it would not remain passive if Naga civilians were adversely affected and reiterated that Naga territories should not be used as battlegrounds.
Appealing for restraint, FGN said the matter had also been apprised to the Government of India and expressed hope that all parties would act responsibly to prevent further escalation.