The National People’s Party (NPP), Nagaland, on Friday condemned the killing of six Naga hostages in Manipur, stating that the incident occurred despite the goodwill and humanitarian gesture demonstrated by Naga people through the release of 14 hostages.
In a statement issued by its Media and IPR Cell, the party described the killings as “brutal and inhumane” and expressed grief and solidarity with the bereaved families.
“NPP Nagaland notes with deep concern that this unfortunate incident comes despite the goodwill and humanitarian gesture demonstrated by the Naga people through the release of fourteen hostages. Such acts of reconciliation and goodwill should have encouraged greater understanding, trust, and peaceful coexistence among all communities,” the statement said.
The party said violence, intimidation and the taking of innocent lives could never bring lasting solutions and appealed to all concerned groups, organisations and communities to exercise restraint and uphold peace, harmony and mutual respect.
Warning against retaliatory actions, the NPP said counter-violence would only deepen divisions and escalate tensions in the region.
“Counter-actions will not bring any meaningful solution but will only perpetuate the cycle of suffering and mistrust,” it stated.
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The party also urged the Centre and the concerned state authorities to ensure that justice is delivered in accordance with the law. It called for a thorough, impartial and time-bound investigation into the incident, identification and prosecution of those responsible, and appropriate action against all perpetrators.
According to the NPP, timely and decisive action is necessary not only to uphold the rule of law but also to restore public confidence in institutions.
Stating that the people of the Northeast have endured the consequences of conflict and violence for far too long, the party called on all stakeholders to work towards dialogue, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.
The NPP also conveyed its condolences to the families of the six victims and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed souls.
