The Global Naga Forum (GNF) has strongly condemned the killing of four Naga Army personnel at Hongbei in Kasom Block of Kamjong district on March 29, 2026, stating that the incident reflects deeper internal and political challenges confronting the Naga people.
In a press statement issued on April 2, the GNF mourned the deaths of Major Sochipem Phungshok, Sergeant Major Zairay Vasah, Sergeant Bahnle Ahlapya, and Sergeant Thansomi Washi, and extended condolences to their families. “The loss of these precious lives is not only a personal tragedy for the families but a collective loss for the entire Naga nation,” the GNF said.
Offering its assessment, the forum stated that the killings appear to be “the culmination of a combination of long-standing unresolved internal issues within the community in particular and the organization in general.” It further said that prolonged mistrust among sections of Naga groups has led to animosity, resulting in “fratricidal killings” such as the Hongbei incident.
The GNF also linked the situation to the broader political context, asserting that such divisions have unfolded within a space “willfully engineered by adversaries of the Naga people’s movement for self-determination” and the continuing delay in resolving the Indo-Naga political issue. It claimed that the lack of political will, even after 29 years of negotiations, has contributed to deepening mistrust and divisions among Nagas.
“The lack of political will on the part of the Government of India to bring about a political solution, even after 29 years of negotiations, has created a climate for deepening mistrust and fostering divisions among the Nagas, which, the facts show, is the cherished desire of the Indian government and its negotiators,” it said.
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Highlighting the wider implications, the forum noted that the Indo-Naga issue has reached international platforms and attracted global attention. It said that incidents of internal violence expose “our internal weaknesses, divisions, and, most tragically, Nagas killing each other,” thereby weakening the Naga cause and eroding its moral standing.
The GNF also expressed concern over the situation in Ukhrul following the killings, including reports of damage to personal property. It termed such actions “reprehensible” and warned that they aggravate tensions and undermine unity.
At what it described as a critical juncture, the GNF called on leaders and members of both Hebron and Eastern Flank, civil society organizations, and the public to exercise restraint. It cautioned against “unpalatable statements” on social media directed at Naga leaders, stating that such actions diminish the community.
The GNF urged all sections to act with “reason, responsibility, and in the larger interest of the Naga people,” and stressed that no individual or group should take the law into their own hands.
Welcoming the constitution of an enquiry commission by the “concerned authority,” the GNF called for a “free, fair, and impartial inquiry” and demanded appropriate action against those responsible. It also urged the public to refrain from speculation and allow the inquiry process to proceed without interference, guided by facts and truth, and integrity and justice.
The GNF further appealed to leaders to heed the voice of the people seeking justice, accountability, and lasting peace. Emphasizing unity, it urged Nagas to “tone down our anger and rise above our divisions,” adding that the future of the Naga people depends on collective wisdom and the ability to stand together in times of adversity.
“Let us reflect more than react, and choose unity over discord, peace over provocation,” the statement said, while calling on all to contribute towards ensuring peace across the Naga homeland.
