The North East Students’ Organization (NESO), comprising eight prominent student bodies from Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Tripura, has issued a stern letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressing deep concern over the ongoing violence in Manipur.
This conflict has persisted for 16 months, resulting in tragic loss of countless innocent lives, widespread destruction of property, and created an atmosphere of fear and instability throughout the state, NESO said in the letter signed by Samuel Jyrwa and Mutsikhoyo Yhobu, chairman and secretary general of NESO respectively.
NESO, which includes the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), Khasi Students’ Union (KSU), Garo Students’ Union (GSU), All Manipur Students’ Union (AMSU), Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), Naga Students’ Federation (NSF), All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union (AAPSU), and Twipra Students’ Federation (TSF), condemned the violence in the strongest terms, describing it as “deplorable and run counter to the principles of humanity, peace, and coexistence.
NESO highlighted recent reports of drone and missile strikes as exacerbating the already fragile situation and deepening community divides.
The organization said it has consistently advocated for a peaceful resolution to the crisis through constructive dialogue, emphasizing that respect for the rights, aspirations, and dignity of every individual is upheld. The people of Manipur deserve peace, and this can only be achieved through mutual understanding and a commitment to non-violence, it said.
NESO also said it has repeatedly urged the Government of India and the Prime Minister to intervene decisively and criticized the Prime Minister’s prolonged silence and lack of visit to Manipur, arguing that the absence of strong leadership has allowed the conflict to aggravate.
NESO said the situation in Manipur is dire, and it demands immediate attention from the highest levels of government. It said that the failure to address the conflict not only undermines the stability of Manipur but also poses a threat to the broader peace and security of the entire North East region. NESO called upon the Government of India to act without further delay and take concrete steps to restore peace in the state.
NESO urged the Prime Minister to break his silence and visit Manipur to assess the ground situation personally and ensure the safety of civilians, particularly women and children who are most vulnerable. Additionally, NESO recommended the formation of a high-level peace committee with representatives from all communities to facilitate a lasting and peaceful resolution.
NESO reaffirmed its commitment to peace and justice in Manipur and the broader North East region. “We believe that violence can never be the solution to any conflict, and we call upon all communities and stakeholders to embrace dialogue and work together towards restoring peace,” it said.
NESO also said it stands ready to assist in any constructive efforts to resolve the ongoing crisis and ensure a stable, secure future for Manipur.