Peace Group Demands Reconciliation After Fatal Manipur Shootout

Imphal: The Naga People’s Initiative for Peace demanded an immediate ceasefire and reconciliation between rival armed factions on Thursday. This appeal follows the October 27 death of Ringteini Nriame during a shootout involving the ZUF (J) and the NSCN (IM) at Sibilong village in the Tamenglong and Nungba area of Manipur. The group reached out to tribal bodies, church leaders, civil society organizations, and local citizens to stop the cycle of violence.

Reports indicate the clash may stem from an earlier retaliatory killing. The NPIP cautioned the public against spreading rumors while facts remain unverified. The group specifically questioned why these factions maintain ceasefires with the Indian government but fail to show the same restraint toward each other. The NPIP stated, "Vengeance cannot substitute for justice and that lasting peace requires internal reconciliation alongside official government negotiations."

Generations of young lives have been lost to this conflict. The organization insisted that ideological differences do not justify fratricidal violence. They urged both groups to focus on their primary political goals rather than internal bloodshed.