WNYF clarifies stand, vows inclusive platform

The Western Naga Youth Front (WNYF), in a joint press statement issued by its executive council (nomination committee), has clarified its formation and objectives, asserting its constitutional right to exist as a platform for collective representation of Naga youth bodies in the erstwhile undivided Dimapur region.
In a joint statement, the Council comprising of presidents of Zeliang Youth Organisation Dimapur, Dimapur Rengma Youth Organisation, Western Chakhesang Youth Organisation, Diphupar Naga Youth Organisation, Diphupar Ao Youth Forum, Dimapur Ao Youth Organisation and Lotha Youth Organisation Dimapur said that WNYF was officially formed on October 14, 2024, through a consensus to represent their respective communities with the WNYF framework.
The signatories said that each organisation has been officially endorsed by their respective tribal apex bodies within the erstwhile undivided Dimapur (with one unit’s endorsement pending), and the formation of WNYF was based on full consensus among member bodies.
The Council said that in any democratic and civil society, every citizen holds the constitutional right to freely associate, organise, and form bodies that work for the welfare and well-being of their people.
It stated that the concept of unity was not contrary to such principles but rather opposed the trend of “mushrooming organisations” by consolidating several groups under one banner.
Recognising what it termed as the “pressing need” to unite and collaborate for the safety, security, rights and welfare of the people, and to uphold the true spirit of Naga brotherhood, the statement said tribal youth organisations and supporting groups came together to form WNYF.
WNYF clarified that while it does not claim any administrative jurisdiction, its focus spans the regions inhabited by the member communities within the erstwhile undivided Dimapur, which cannot be exclusively represented by any one particular tribe, but represent the diverse Naga society as a whole.
It also informed that the Executive Council was currently functioning as the Nomination Committee to constitute WNYF’s full leadership structure. The council, it added, was open and welcome any other Naga tribal youth organisations who wish to join, ensuring inclusivity and unity for all.
The Council maintained that unity requires not only words but action, commitment, and courage. “While we remain steadfast in our vision and our collective resolve, we also extend our open hand to fellow brothers and sisters to come forward and be part of this common platform for the betterment, safety, and dignity of our people,” the statement added.