The Global Naga Forum (GNF) has expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the grieving families who have lost their loved ones in the recent devastating events in Manipur.
"We are truly saddened and at a loss for words to adequately express our sympathy for the immeasurable sorrow and loss you are experiencing. Our hearts go out to you, and we pray for divine solace during this difficult time. We also stand in solidarity with those who have been injured and their families, wishing them a swift recovery and strength in their journey towards healing," the GNF stated in a release.
Strongly condemning the acts of brutality, particularly targeted at a particular community, along with looting, wanton destruction of property, and burning of places of worship, the GNF termed such acts as clear violations of the principles of human decency and civilized behavior.
"While it is difficult to accept that such sustained and widespread violence could be a spontaneous reaction to a peaceful rally organized by the Scheduled Tribe communities of Manipur against the Meiteis' demand for inclusion as a Scheduled Tribe, the underlying reasons are not entirely apparent," it stated.
Stressing that it is important to reflect on the historical context, the GNF stated, "Examining the incidents and the lack of control exerted by security forces, one cannot help but recall Professor Paul Brass's research on Institutionalized Riot Systems (IRS) in India. In Brass's study, the explanation phase follows the preparation and action stages, where the political media shapes the narrative of a riot, portraying it as spontaneous, religious, and mass-based, making it seem unpredictable and impossible to prevent. This strategy disperses blame so widely that the architects of the violence remain invisible, allowing them to manipulate tensions and instigate further unrest to achieve their political goals".
The GNF also appealed to the mainland Indian media "not to sensationalize and exploit the ST demand by the Meitei community as a religious conflict between Hindus and Christians".
"It is essential to recognize that the ongoing situation in Manipur is driven by complex social, historical, and political factors, and reducing it to a religious binary would be misleading and detrimental to fostering peace and unity," it stated.
Urging against unbiased narratives, the GNF called for a constructive dialogue that promotes understanding and harmony among all communities involved. It appealed for an end to violence on all fronts.
The GNF also called upon Nagas worldwide "to remain vigilant, understanding that the challenges of the present and the pursuit of a better future are more crucial than dwelling on the darker aspects of the past and the current situation.
"Let us strive for peace, unity, and understanding as we work towards a harmonious society where every individual is respected and valued. Together, we can overcome these divisive forces and build a future that is marked by compassion, justice, and inclusivity. May the voices of reason and reconciliation prevail, and may Manipur and its diverse communities find healing and prosperity in the days ahead," the GNF added.
It may be mentioned that the recent incidents of violence and arson that broke out in Manipur has reportedly claimed over 50 lives and left several injured. It also caused damage to several properties, including residential houses business and educational establishments and places of worship.
Internet services/data remained suspended across the state and curfew imposed in several districts of the state, including state capital Imphal.
