Naga Hoho demands halt to militarisation and proposed cordon-and-search operations in Naga areas
Naga Hoho condemned the killing of six Naga men, including two pastors, and passed resolutions in Manipur calling for an end to militarisation and any proposed/
The apex Naga body, Naga Hoho, has condemned the killing of six Naga men, including two pastors, in Leilon Vaiphei village. It described the incident as a brutal massacre and alleged that the victims were mutilated and dismembered. The Hoho said the worsening security and political situation is affecting Naga-inhabited areas, especially in Manipur.
Naga Hoho warns against cordon-and-search operations
Resolutions were adopted during the third Federal Assembly of the Naga Hoho, held on July 31 at the Senapati district headquarters in Manipur. Delegates discussed concerns over reports of proposed Cordon and Search Operations (CASO) in Naga villages. The Hoho said such operations have not yet started, but warned that indiscriminate cordon-and-search actions could create fear and intimidation in villages.
According to the Hoho, these concerns include house-to-house searches and interrogation of civilians, along with harassment of women, children, and the elderly. The Assembly also stated that Naga-inhabited regions must not be turned into a conflict zone and urged an end to what it called the militarisation of Naga areas.
Allegations of a proxy war and impact on peace talks
The Hoho alleged collusion between Indian security forces and Kuki militant groups. It claimed that the groups are being used in a “proxy war” against the Nagas in their ancestral homeland. The Assembly further said the alleged objective is to destabilise Naga villages, erode Naga territorial integrity, and weaken historical and political rights. It also alleged that these actions are intended to sabotage the ongoing Indo-Naga peace talks.
Along with calling for an immediate halt to militarisation and any proposed CASO in Naga areas, the Assembly demanded accountability for its collusion allegation and asked for the immediate fulfilment of a charter of demands submitted after the killing of the six Naga men. The Hoho said the delay amounts to a denial of justice and resolved to initiate democratic measures to secure justice for the victims and their families. It also called on the Government of India to safeguard Naga lives, land, and identity.
