Naga Tribes from Nagaland and Manipur Urge Unity Amid Rising Factionalism

Naga tribal organizations from Nagaland and Manipur have voiced concerns over the increasing factionalism among various Naga political groups. In a recent meeting with the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), representatives from 13 Naga tribes emphasized the urgent need for unity and cooperation to safeguard the spirit of Naga oneness.

The meeting, held on February 20, saw key Naga leaders urging all Naga political groups to listen to the people’s voice and work collectively towards Naga unity. This development comes amid growing concerns that internal divisions could weaken the overall Naga cause.

Naga Tribal Organizations Push for Unity

During the meeting, Naga tribal leaders reaffirmed their commitment to uniting all Naga groups under a common platform. The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) released a statement emphasizing that the tribal representatives had gathered in solidarity, voicing a shared demand for all Naga political groups to set aside their differences and work together.

The gathering saw the participation of representatives from several Naga tribes in Nagaland and Manipur, including:

• Chakhesang Public Organisation
• Rengma Hoho
• Sumi Hoho
• Pochury Hoho
• Phom Peoples’ Council
• Tikhir Tribal Council
• Chang Khulei Setshang
• Mao Council
• Angami Public Organisation
• Tangkhul Naga Long
• Ao Senden
• Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR)

These organizations collectively urged Naga political groups and the Naga community to actively engage with the Council of Naga Cooperation and Relationship (CNCR)—a mechanism established to strengthen Naga unity.

Council of Naga Cooperation and Relationship: A Step Towards Reconciliation

The push for unity follows a resolution made on January 14, when Naga groups agreed to implement the Council of Naga Cooperation and Relationship (CNCR). This working mechanism is designed to:

• Facilitate open dialogue between different Naga political factions.
• Strengthen relationships among Naga tribes across territorial borders.
• Advance the larger Naga cause through mutual cooperation.

The FNR and Naga tribal bodies believe that full participation in the Council of Naga Cooperation and Relationship is crucial for overcoming internal conflicts and ensuring the long-term stability of the Naga movement.

Concerns Over Growing Factionalism

Despite efforts to promote Naga reconciliation, deep divisions remain among various Naga political groups. The lack of unity has weakened the movement, leading to:

• Distrust among different factions
• Slower progress on Naga political aspirations
• A decline in collective strength in negotiations with the Indian government

The Naga tribal organizations warned that continued factionalism could undermine decades of struggle and called on all groups to prioritize Naga unity over personal or political differences.

Fostering Naga Solidarity Without Borders

One of the major resolutions passed during the meeting was a commitment to fostering Naga solidarity beyond borders. Leaders emphasized that:

• Naga identity transcends state boundaries and should not be divided by artificial lines.
• A spirit of kinship should be promoted among Naga people in Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and beyond.
• The focus must be on collective development rather than internal divisions.

The growing factionalism among Naga political groups poses a major challenge to the long-standing aspirations of the Naga people for unity, peace, and self-determination. The recent meeting between Naga tribal organizations and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) underscores the urgent need for collective efforts to bridge internal divisions and foster cooperation.

By advocating for the implementation of the Council of Naga Cooperation and Relationship, the tribal bodies have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Naga solidarity. Their call for political groups to heed the people’s voices reflects a broader desire to prioritize common interests over individual or group agendas.

Moving forward, sustained dialogue, trust-building initiatives, and a shared commitment to the spirit of kinship will be crucial in overcoming differences. As the Naga community strives for reconciliation, it is imperative that all stakeholders actively engage in efforts that promote long-term stability, mutual respect, and a unified future for the Naga people.