United Naga Council Rejects Indo-Myanmar Border Fencing, Issues Stern Warning

The United Naga Council (UNC) has issued a strong directive against the construction of a border fence along the Indo-Myanmar border, calling it an “imaginary artificial border” that threatens Naga ancestral land. The directive, released by UNC President Ng. Lorho, reinforces an earlier decision taken in the Presidential Council Meeting on November 7, 2024, and a previous directive dated October 29, 2024.

The UNC has called for strict compliance from Nagas, particularly those under the jurisdiction of the Chandel Naga People’s Organization (CNPO), to prevent any activities related to the fencing project. The Council has urged its units and sub-ordinate bodies in the affected areas to take strong and unified action against the implementation of the project.

The directive also serves as a warning to individuals and organizations cooperating with authorities on the fencing project. It states that anyone found assisting or colluding with the implementing agencies will face “dire consequences” as per the Council’s standing resolutions.

Accusing the Government of India of attempting to “alienate the Nagas from their lands,” the UNC has urged the Naga population in Manipur to remain vigilant and resist what it describes as a “colonial move.” The Council has also called for preparedness to face any potential fallout from opposing the project.

This directive comes amid growing tensions over the border fencing issue, which many Naga organizations argue could divide traditional Naga territories. The Indo-Myanmar border, which runs through several Naga-inhabited areas, has been a longstanding point of contention, with Naga groups resisting attempts to enforce strict border demarcations.

The UNC’s latest stance signals escalating opposition to the project, setting the stage for potential confrontations between Naga civil bodies and government agencies pushing forward with the fencing initiative.