NSO appeals for peace; flays abductions by KIA and ENDA

Naga Students’ Organization (NSO) has extended its appreciation to the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) for the safe and unharmed release of 13 Naga Army personnel on July 28, 2025 at Tekti.
According to NSO media cell, the individuals were earlier apprehended at Naga Chanra Gate, northwest of the Tanai River, on July 18, 2025. NSO described the release as a constructive gesture towards mutual understanding and de-escalation.
NSO urged the KIA to also ensure the unconditional return of arms and equipment confiscated during the incident. It stated that such a move would further contribute to rebuilding trust and goodwill between the two communities.
However, the organization expressed deep concern over recent developments in Shin Bway Yang Township, where reports have emerged of forced abductions of Naga youths allegedly carried out by the KIA in coordination with its allied group, the Eastern Naga Defense Army (ENDA). According to ground sources, over 30 individuals have been abducted since July 27, 2025 many while en route to farms, workplaces, and paddy fields.
NSO stated that these acts have instilled fear and anxiety among the civilian population, disrupting agricultural activities and daily life. It condemned the actions as violations of revolutionary ethics, asserting that coercion and forced conscription undermine the legitimacy of any movement claiming to represent the people.
The organization also rejected the August 1 press release issued by ENNO/ENDA, which attempted to justify the abductions. NSO termed the claims baseless and accused the ENDA of attempting to shield the KIA from accountability. It cited first-hand testimonies from local communities confirming the involvement of both groups.
To the ENDA, NSO appealed, “If your cause truly lies with the rights and aspirations of the Naga people, return to your homeland. Earn trust through humility and service—not coercion and deceit.”
The NSO reiterated its urgent call to both KIA and ENDA to immediately cease all acts of abduction and intimidation targeting Naga youths. It urged leadership on all sides to exercise wisdom and foresight, warning that escalating hostilities would only deepen divisions and create more enemies.
Further, NSO appealed to all NSCN-GPRN entities to maintain restraint and composure despite provocations, emphasizing that retaliatory military engagement would only increase suffering for both Naga and Kachin communities.
At this critical juncture, NSO reaffirmed its commitment to peace, unity, and mutual respect. It called for principled dialogue and diplomacy as the most constructive path forward, and urged all ethnic nationalities striving for justice to rise above divisions and work together for a future grounded in truth and dignity.