T he Global Naga Forum (GNF) has welcomed the release of 14 Kuki detainees by the United Naga Council (UNC) and Naga civil society organizations in Manipur, describing the move as a significant gesture of humanity and reconciliation.
In a press communiqué, the GNF expressed appreciation to the UNC and all Naga civil society organizations involved in the release of the detainees on June 9.
The forum stated that a GNF delegation had met leaders of Naga civil society organizations in Senapati on May 23 and appealed for the safe release of the detainees. According to the GNF, the delegation urged Naga leaders to ensure that innocent people did not suffer for crimes they had not committed and called for the detainees to be released in a dignified and organized manner.
The GNF said the decision to release the detainees demonstrated that the Naga people were guided by “wisdom, justice and humanity” rather than revenge during a difficult and emotional period.
The forum also acknowledged the efforts of various authorities and organizations, including the World Baptist Alliance, whose appeals and interventions it said contributed to the decision taken by the UNC and other Naga civil society organizations.
While welcoming the release, the GNF called on the Government of India and the Government of Manipur to reciprocate the gesture of goodwill by addressing what it described as the genuine demands and aspirations of the Naga people.
The forum said justice, fairness and sincere political engagement were necessary for lasting peace and reconciliation in the region.
Describing the release as a significant act of goodwill, the GNF urged the Government of India to address Naga political aspirations at the earliest, stating that such a response would contribute to peace, justice and stability in the region.
The GNF reiterated its gratitude to the UNC, Naga civil society organizations and other stakeholders for choosing what it termed the path of humanity, restraint and peace.