Dimapur: NSCN-IM has expressed deep concerns regarding the ongoing Meitei-Kuki-Zo ethnic conflict in Manipur, which began on May 03 last year.
In a statement, the NSCN-IM highlighted the “disturbing trend towards the Christians with harassment and physical assault by Arambai Tenggol” in Manipur.
“Ever since the Meitei-Kuki-Zo ethnic conflict started, NSCN has been on its toes. Though we have maintained neutrality, we have been cautiously following the day-to-day developments,” the NSCN-IM stated.
It said: “Ironically, things are not going well as we have seen the disturbing trend towards Christians with harassment and physical assault by the local militant group Arambai Tenggol.”
The NSCN-IM highlighted the affiliations of Arambai Tenggol, accusing them of promoting extreme principles and violent extremism aimed at radical socio-political reforms.
“Such persons behind Arambai Tenggol who hold or follow strong convictions or extreme principles to bring about fundamental socio-political reforms are already out in the manner that is most radical than anything else,” the NSCN-IM stated.
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The outfit added: “Violent extremism as followed by Arambai Tenggol is a threat to peace and tolerance.”
The NSCN-IM stated that there is a need to protect the interests and safety of the Christian community in Manipur.
“It is therefore, natural that NSCN should take the stand to guard the interest and safety of the Christians in Manipur given the fact that Arambai Tenggol bears strong animosity towards the Christians, both in spirit and actions,” said the NSCN-IM.
The NSCN-IM called for a change of heart from Arambai Tenggol, urging them to cease treating Christians with hostility.
“NSCN would like to see a change of heart on the part of Arambai Tenggol and not to treat the Christians as if to get rid of the dirt. NSCN stands for peaceful co-existence of all religious groups in Manipur,” the statement stated.