Mokokchung, 19 August (MTNews): The Naga Hoho has vehemently condemned the actions of the eight Naga Members of the Manipur Legislative Assembly (MLA) who declared their support for protecting the integrity of the Manipur state, labeling it as ‘treacherous.’
“It is a betrayal and has disregarded the aspirations of the Naga people and have also callously jeopardized the very identity and future of the Nagas,” stated the Naga Hoho.
The Naga Hoho pointed out that the eight Naga MLAs joined forces with thirty-two Meitei MLAs to submit a representation to the Prime Minister of India without meaningfully consulting the Naga civil society organizations (CSOs), which truly represent the Naga people.
“This appalling move clearly demonstrates their total disregard for the political aspirations of the Nagas, their lack of vision, and an abhorrent ignorance of the historical struggle that our people have endured,” added the Hoho.
The Naga Hoho accused them of prioritizing their personal interests and political survival over the well-being and aspirations of the Naga people who entrusted them with their votes, labeling it “a pitiful display of spineless leadership.”
“Instead of championing the cause of the Nagas and safeguarding our rightful place in history, these Naga MLAs have chosen to pander to certain sections of society and political leaders to secure their own seats of power,” stated the Naga Hoho.
Furthermore, the Naga Hoho reminded the “misguided Naga MLAs” that their failure to understand their history and heritage is akin to wandering animals without direction. The Naga Hoho stood firm in its conviction that these Naga MLAs lack the moral authority to claim representation of the Nagas at this juncture.
Moreover, the Naga Hoho asserted that not even an inch of Naga territory shall be used as a battleground for ethnic conflict or any other purposes by outsiders with vested interests without explicit authorization from the Nagas. The Naga Hoho remained resolute in its commitment to preserving and defending the historical and traditional land of the Nagas.
“We firmly oppose any attempt by outsiders within the ancestral Naga territory to assert proprietary rights over the land through the manipulation of historical narratives,” the Hoho added.