Reported by Bit Irom
Imphal: The Naga Students’ Union, Delhi (NSUD) has formally and unequivocally rejected a recent statement issued by the Kuki-Zo Council (KZC) regarding the abduction and fatal shooting of six innocent Naga civilians in Manipur.
The NSUD described the KZC’s statement as an insincere attempt to rationalise what it called “wholly indefensible” actions rather than expressing genuine remorse or accepting responsibility for the killings.
The controversy intensified after the KZC issued a statement describing the killings as a “big mistake” and offering what the NSUD considered an inadequate apology.
In a strongly worded response, the Delhi-based student body argued that an apology is merely empty rhetoric unless accompanied by accountability.
The NSUD demanded the immediate identification and prosecution of those responsible, urging the KZC to cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Beyond the loss of life, the NSUD also expressed outrage over derogatory remarks directed at the Naga community by the KZC, particularly the use of the term “Katcha Nagas.”
The union condemned the remark as an unwarranted attack on Naga dignity and heritage, stating that it disregards established historical scholarship and seeks to demean the distinct ethnic identity of the Naga people.
Questioning the KZC’s intent, the students’ union sought clarification on whether the apology was issued on behalf of the individuals responsible for the killings or whether the KZC itself was directly associated with the crime.
Emphasising that the rule of law must prevail without compromise, the NSUD said justice would be achieved only when the Charter of Demands submitted by the United Naga Council is fully implemented.
Standing in solidarity with the bereaved families, the NSUD reiterated that lasting reconciliation can only be achieved through truth, strict adherence to the rule of law, and respect for cultural identity.