Imphal: NSCN/GPRN Deputy Ato Kilonser Lt. Gen. (Retd.) VS Atem on Monday called on the Naga community to remain vigilant and maintain unity amid the ongoing conflict in Manipur, saying the community is passing through a critical phase.
Addressing the inaugural programme of the Mao Students’ Union Martyrs’ Trophy 2026 at the AFA Turf Ground in Asufii, Punanamei, Atem accused the Government of India (GoI) of pursuing what he described as “apartheid policies” aimed at keeping the Naga community divided.
Atem also alleged that the Centre was waging a proxy war against the Nagas by arming, supporting and protecting Kuki militant groups operating under the Suspension of Operations (SoO) agreement, which he claimed were being used against Naga village guards.
He also opposed the ongoing border fencing along Naga ancestral lands. While the government has cited the need to prevent cross-border infiltration, Atem claimed that infiltration across the border was a Kuki-related issue and alleged that illegal immigrants were residing in the Chandel and Khurmi areas. He said the Naga community would not accept what he described as a “Berlin Wall-like structure” across its ancestral territory.
Atem further accused Indian security forces of transporting Kuki militants in armoured vehicles during confrontations with Naga village guards. Referring to the killing of six Naga civilians at Leilon Vaiphei, he questioned what he described as an uneven approach to law enforcement.
According to Atem, security forces had failed to intervene during attacks on Naga villages but had instead disarmed and detained Naga village guards who were defending their communities with licensed weapons.
Calling for greater unity, Atem urged the Naga community to overcome internal differences and remain alert to what he described as external threats. He also expressed hope that youth-oriented events such as the Martyrs’ Trophy would help strengthen awareness of Naga identity and foster greater collective resilience.