FNR expresses concern over clashes in Nagaland

Kohima, Oct 26 (UNI) The Forum for Naga Reconciliation(FNR), worried at the unabated inter-factional clashes among the Naga underground factions, expressed deep concern over the shooting incident at Phabijang near Dimapur yesterday, which resulted in a loss of life.

In a press release here today, the FNR said despite repeated appeals by the Naga people to the leader of the Naga political groups (underground factions), such incidents were taking place.

The forum lamented that incidents of violence still persisted, although the political groups in Nagaland had expressed their sincere commitment and willingness for the ''Naga Reconciliation Process''.

It stated that the continuous confrontation contravened the spirit of ''A Covenant of Common Hope'' and such violence would only result in further divisions among the Nagas, thereby weakening the already fragile situation.

The FNR also extended its gratitude to those who had exercised utmost restrain under very difficult and compelling circumstances.

It maintained that restrain was a sign of strength, not weakness.

Moreover, the forum sought the understanding of the Naga political groups to exercise restraint and address all differences through non-violence means.

''The Naga Reconciliation Process is in the interest of the Naga people and their historical and political rights. As declared in 'A Covenant of Common Hope', we acknowledge that reconciliation is the means through which Nagas can go forward towards achieving our goal,'' the release added.

It may be recalled that one NSCN (K) cadre was shot dead by rival NSCN-IM cadres at Phabijang village yesterday, when about 40 to 50 NSCN-IM activists attacked a camp of the rival faction.

UNI AS SB BDP BST1151