ZUF Holds NSCN-IM, UNC Responsible for Manipur Crisis

THE Zeliangrong United Front (ZUF) has reiterated its position on the ongoing crisis in Manipur, alleging that the conflict was largely driven by the influence and policies of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM). 

In a press statement issued on June 15, 2026, the organization claimed that the state's current turmoil stemmed from a "contention-motivated" agenda pursued under the undue influence of NSCN-IM.

According to ZUF, the resulting situation created a war-like atmosphere involving Kuki and Naga militants operating behind village volunteers or village guards, leading to ambushes, clashes, and the loss of innocent lives. The group stated that these developments had generated confusion, disturbances, insecurity, and instability across the state.

ZUF said it had consistently advocated for social stability, harmony, and peaceful coexistence based on universal human values. However, it accused the United Naga Council (UNC), allegedly influenced by NSCN-IM, of pursuing preconceived political objectives without adequately considering public safety or the concerns of the Naga people.

The organization further claimed that UNC's decisions neither addressed the violence nor provided a meaningful solution to the growing tensions. It alleged that UNC later attempted to justify its position by citing pressure from the Baptist World Alliance, appeals from neighbouring state chief ministers, and commitments from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

According to the statement, public anger among Nagas has exceeded UNC's capacity to manage the situation. ZUF argued that the release of 14 Kuki hostages, which was widely regarded as a positive humanitarian step, failed to address the pain and demands for justice among families who lost loved ones during the conflict.

The organization also referred to the deaths of six Zeliangrong individuals, alleging that they were returned to their families bearing signs of severe torture and brutal killing. ZUF contended that timely intervention by UNC could have prevented the escalation of violence and the subsequent retaliatory actions.

Stating that the situation has now become "critically difficult and out of control," ZUF held UNC accountable for failing to restore peace and normalcy. The group demanded that UNC accept responsibility for its actions and issue an apology to the Naga people, particularly the Zeliangrong community, for what it described as policy failures that resulted in the deaths of innocent civilians.

The statement further noted that the current unrest has revived painful memories of the Naga-Kuki clashes of 1917–1919 and the 1990s, periods during which many lives were lost on both sides. ZUF emphasized that the sacrifices and bloodshed suffered by its people should not be forgotten or left without recognition.

Appealing for restraint and unity, the organization urged the Naga public not to be swayed by what it called the "dictate and sectional authority" of NSCN-IM and UNC. It accused both bodies of creating confusion and division among the Naga people.

ZUF also paid tribute to those who lost their lives in what it described as acts of terrorism. The organization specifically mourned the deaths of Zeliangrong residents from Konsakhul Village and Pongringlong Village and extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved families. It expressed hope that the victims' families would find strength and comfort through faith and that their loved ones would be remembered in the history of the Zeliangrong people.

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