The All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM) has expressed strong opposition to the recent Kuki-Chin-Mizo rally held on August 31, 2024, in the hill areas of Nagaland. ANSAM criticized the rally, citing it as a source of serious political implications and a threat to the already unstable situation in the state.
In a statement released on Sunday, ANSAM condemned what it described as the Kuki-Chin-Mizo community’s “outrageous demands” and “unwarranted provocations.” The organization accused the Kuki-Chin-Mizo community of disseminating fabricated information and distorted historical accounts, which ANSAM views as an affront to Naga history and identity.
ANSAM specifically denounced the alleged manipulation of historical and geographical information by the Kuki-Chin-Mizo community, particularly regarding the inclusion of Naga tribes such as Anal, Aimol, Chiru, Chothe, Lamkang, Moyon, Monsang, and Kom in the rally’s promotional materials. The student body criticized these actions as attempts to falsely claim Naga territories and assert unjust demands.
The association also raised concerns about the behavior of Kuki-Chin-Mizo protesters on August 31, 2024, accusing them of provocative actions towards Naga leaders in the Tumnaopokpi area, despite attempts to avoid confrontation.
ANSAM urged the Kuki-Chin-Mizo community to respect traditional land ownership and seek peaceful coexistence. The organization warned that continued territorial claims based on false premises could lead to increased tensions and potential conflict.
Furthermore, ANSAM called on the Government of India to address the current crisis in Manipur with a clear understanding of historical facts and to avoid any actions that could lead to further division of Naga territories. The association emphasized that any attempts to bifurcate Naga ancestral lands while addressing other community demands could provoke additional violence and instability.
ANSAM concluded by asserting its position against any further division of Naga areas and stressed that the government must approach the crisis with sincerity and respect for historical truth.
