NPF and Khiamniungan Tribal Council leads protest
A massive protest against the Indo-Myanmar border fencing and the scrapping of the Free Movement Regime (FMR) was held at ITC Dan, Pangsha, Noklak in Nagaland on Thursday, April 3. The rally, which followed a similar demonstration in Ukhrul, Manipur on April 2, was jointly organized by the Khiamniungan Tribal Council (KTC) and the Naga People’s Front (NPF), drawing thousands of participants.
Addressing the gathering, Achumbemo Kikon, MLA and Secretary General of the NPF, delivered a strong message to the Government of India. He urged authorities to “listen to the voices of the Naga people” and recognize their opposition to border fencing. “The purpose of this gathering is to protect our land and our people on both sides of the border,” he asserted, warning that such policies “would not be allowed to proceed.”
Kikon questioned the rationale behind the Government of India’s border policies, stating, “Why is there a need for a divisive policy that seeks to separate the Naga people?” He described the Nagas as “simple, honest, frank, and innocent,” adding that in the past, both India and Burma had “taken advantage of these noble traits to suppress us.” He, however, noted that “while past ignorance may have allowed such exploitation, the Nagas are now fully aware of their rights and capable of defending and protecting their land and people.”
Referring to historical context, Kikon remarked, “Our ancestors were headhunters, but times have changed. However, we will continue to uphold our culture, traditions, and rights without compromise.”
He also criticized the Government of India’s December 18, 2024, order that reduced the free movement zone from 16 km to 10 km and mandated a permit for border crossing with a seven-day pass. “The Nagas cannot accept such restrictions,” he declared.
Highlighting the House Resolution against the scrapping of the FMR, Kikon emphasized that “all elected members are united on this issue.” He affirmed that the NPF, as the people’s party, “will stand firmly against policies that threaten the protection and rights of the Naga people.”
Kikon also called on the people to “be prepared to face the challenges” posed by the border policies. Touching on the Government of India’s Act East Policy, he warned that its success “would be unattainable without the full involvement and consideration of the Naga people.” Stressing the strategic importance of the Naga homeland, he stated, “India’s connectivity with Southeast Asian countries depends on our land and should not be overlooked in policymaking.”
Dismissing the government’s justification that border fencing is necessary to curb illegal immigration and drug trafficking, he argued, “Such issues do not exist in the border areas.” He reiterated the opposition to FMR restrictions and border fencing, stating that “respecting people’s rights is essential to ensure peace and development.”
He also referenced the British colonial approach to the Nagas, noting that “even the British recognized our distinct identity and allowed us to live in excluded areas.” He recalled the visit of India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Burma’s Premier, U Nu, and the humiliation they faced from the Naga public. “Nehru’s failure to allow Naga leaders to speak contributed to the longstanding political issues we face today,” he said. While the present Indian government opposes Nehru’s policies, Kikon pointed out that “consciously or unconsciously, it is still following similar lines concerning the Nagas.”
Kikon appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying, “Work with the Naga people rather than against their wishes.” He acknowledged that past Indian leaders “may have caused significant problems for us” but urged the current leadership to include the Nagas in national policies.
Expressing gratitude to the KTC for organizing the rally, Kikon commended its success. Other speakers at the rally included MLA P Longon, KTC President L Ngon, NPF President Apong Pongener, and student leaders from Myanmar. The event saw participation from various leaders and members of the public across different communities.