GPRN SAYS NAGA RIGHTS CANNOT BE ‘BARTERED AWAY’ FOR BORDER FENCING COMPENSATION

Kohima, August 17: The Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN) has opposed the proposed border fencing through the Naga homeland, stating that it would restrict the free movement of Nagas and divide Naga communities.

In a notification issued on August 15 and signed by Q. Tuccu, the GPRN said the restriction of the Free Movement Regime on security grounds was “anti-Naga” and would affect the traditional and cultural ties among Naga communities living across the border.

The GPRN stated that Nagas would not allow their homeland to be fenced or divided, while urging village chiefs and landowners to protect Naga customary land, traditions and resources and not be influenced by compensation offered for fencing.

It called on the present generation to stand firm in protecting the rights of future Naga generations.