GNF condemns killing off our Naga Army personnel

The Global Naga Forum (GNF) has strongly condemned the killing of four Naga Army personnel at Hongbei, Kasom Block of Kamjong district.
In a press statement, GNF mourned the deaths of ‘maj.’ Sochipem Phungshok, ‘sgt. maj.’ Zairay Vasah, ‘sgt.’ Bahnle Ahlapya, and ‘sgt.’ Thansomi Washi, and extended condolences to the bereaved families, stating that the loss was a collective tragedy for the Naga people.
GNF said the incident appeared to be the culmination of long-standing unresolved internal issues and prolonged mistrust among some Naga groups, leading to fratricidal killings.
It also alleged that such developments occurred within a political space engineered by adversaries of the Naga movement, and criticised the lack of political will on the part of the Government of India to resolve the Indo-Naga political issue.
The forum expressed concern that such incidents exposed internal divisions to the international community, weakening the Naga cause and its moral standing.
It also expressed concern over the situation in Ukhrul following the killings, including incidents involving damage to personal property, stating that such actions were reprehensible and aggravated tensions.
At this juncture, GNF called upon leaders and followers from Hebron and Eastern Flank, civil society organisations and individuals to exercise restraint. It urged people to avoid issuing statements against leaders on social media and not to take the law into their own hands.
Stating that an enquiry commission had been constituted, GNF called for a free, fair and impartial inquiry and appropriate action against the perpetrators.
It urged all concerned to refrain from speculation and allow the process to proceed without interference.
GNF also called upon leaders to listen to the voice of the people seeking justice, accountability and peace, and urged Nagas to rise above divisions, exercise restraint, and work towards unity and peace.