Imphal, July 30, 2025 – The Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF), an armed organization, has issued a strong condemnation of the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM), accusing it of years of targeted violence, discrimination, and persecution against the Zeliangrong people and their cadres within the NSCN-IM ranks. The ZUF reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and identity of the Zeliangrong kindred tribes.
In a public statement, the ZUF asserted its unwavering dedication to the Zeliangrong people's cause, despite persistent opposition and challenges. Describing itself as a people's movement driven by a deep sense of identity and love for its communities, the Front claimed that NSCN-IM has disregarded peace efforts, exploiting ZUF's goodwill.
The ZUF detailed numerous alleged incidents where NSCN-IM members or factions purportedly tortured, falsely implicated, or executed Zeliangrong youth, cadres, and civilians without due process. Specific cases cited include:
The killings of 'Captain' Alan of Phalong village, 'Captain' Akhuam of Ritiang, and Angaipou Gangmei of Dailong.
The death of 'private' Muanjang Pamei of Bamgaijang in 2012.
The custodial death of 'private' Chingjuan Balang alias Rejoice in 2005.
The 2004 rape and killing of Lunglailu Gangmei near the Bangladesh-Mizoram border.
Deaths of trainees at NP Battalion (Bunning) under the command of Col Standhope.
The 2021 murder of prominent Zeliangrong social activist and former Zeliangrong Baudi (AMN) president Athuan Abonmai.
The killing of an elderly blind civilian, Pouluathui Maringmei, on suspicion of affiliation with NNC, which the ZUF described as an act of "total inhumanity."
Expressing grave concern over the recent disappearance of NSCN-IM cadre 'Captain' Jiandai Kamei alias Thomas of Ruangdai village, the ZUF demanded an immediate investigation into his whereabouts and called for accountability for those responsible. The Front criticized the perceived "continued silence and inaction" from within the Zeliangrong community regarding such incidents, warning that indifference would only foster deeper distrust.
The ZUF further alleged that Zeliangrong cadres within NSCN-IM face increasing insecurity, mental and physical torture, false accusations, and unjust punishments without proper investigation or transparency. This, they claimed, creates an atmosphere of alienation and suspicion within the group.
The Front also criticized NSCN-IM's "Naga socialism" philosophy, describing it as resembling authoritarian rule enforced by force and majority dominance. They warned that these tactics are creating profound divisions within Naga society, with Zeliangrong people bearing an "unbearable" burden of discrimination and suffering.
The statement concluded by emphasizing that the ZUF emerged from a desire to assert the Zeliangrong people's historical and political rights and to determine their own future, both within the framework of Naga nationalism and the Indian Union. The ZUF warned NSCN-IM that continued "offensive confrontation" could lead to "defensive war of confrontation within and among the Nagas."
Finally, the ZUF urged the public to disregard provocative social media narratives and reiterated its commitment to maintaining an equidistant understanding with all organizations, whether civil or military, while striving for peace and harmony in the region.
Source: E-pao