NSCN/GPRN (Khango-Hokato Vusshe) has strongly opposed the Government of India’s decision to revoke the Free Movement Regime (FMR) and the ongoing border fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border, citing concerns over its impact on the Naga community.
In a resolution passed at the National Tatar Hoho held on January 15-16, 2025, at Thamsao Council Headquarters, NSCN/GPRN urged the Indian government to reaffirm its commitment to the FMR established in 2018 as part of the ‘Act East Policy.’ The group emphasized that this policy should acknowledge the cultural and historical ties of Naga tribes living on both sides of the border, ensuring regional peace and stability.
The group also highlighted that historical border demarcation agreements—such as the Treaty of Yandabo (1826) and subsequent territorial delineations until 1972—were conducted without the consent of the ancestral landowners. Given this context, the group rejected the Indian government’s decision to revoke the FMR or to collaborate with Myanmar government on border-related matters that impact the Naga people.
It asserted that Nagas, as an indigenous community with unique customs, traditions, and historical rights, must have their identity and heritage respected.
It said that the Government of India must take full responsibility for any adverse consequences resulting from the construction of fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border, especially if undertaken without a comprehensive understanding of the socio-cultural and political dynamics of the region.
Any development initiative that disregards the aspirations and concerns of the Naga people will be seen as a direct threat to their cultural identity and heritage, the group asserted.
“Accordingly, these actions will be met with serious resistance from our Government,” NSCN/GPRN cautioned. The group also reminded the legislators of the critical resolution passed in the State Assembly in 2024 and also called upon civil society organizations, intellectuals, and the Naga populace to stand united and vehemently condemn the Government of India’s policy which undermines the rights of the Naga people.
Further, the Naga National Political Alliance (NNPA), led by NSCN/GPRN, urged the Indian government to avoid actions that could obstruct the ongoing Naga political talks. The group stressed that a final and just resolution must be reached, ensuring that the social and political rights of the Naga people are upheld at this crucial juncture.