KOHIMA, July 21: Strongly condemning the recent IED blast in Chümoukedima as a “cowardly act” and a threat to Nagaland’s fragile peace, the Concerned Naga Forum of Nagaland (CNFN) on Tuesday urged the Neiphiu Rio-led government to fulfil its commitments on the Naga political issue and resolve the Frontier Nagaland Territory (FNT) demand without further delay.
In a statement, CNFN secretary Theja Therieh said while the explosion deserves unequivocal condemnation, it has also highlighted deeper issues requiring urgent political attention. He maintained that the BJP-NPF government must demonstrate the political will to bring the Naga political issue and other concerns relating to eastern Nagaland to a “just and acceptable conclusion.”
“My simple point is that a non-committal approach at this critical juncture is neither politically responsible nor in the best interests of the people,” Therieh said.
The forum expressed concern over attempts by “miscreants and vested interests” to destabilise Nagaland or allow the ongoing conflict in neighbouring Manipur to spill over into the state. It urged the public to remain calm, vigilant and united, and not fall prey to rumours, misinformation or provocative actions that could disrupt communal harmony. Describing the present as a “defining moment” for Nagaland, Therieh said the gains achieved through years of dialogue and sacrifice must not be undermined by vested interests.
The forum also questioned the June 11, 2026 tripartite MoU between the Centre, Assam and Nagaland for the resumption of oil and gas exploration along the disputed border. It alleged that proceeding with resource exploration before resolving the territorial dispute could compromise the political, constitutional and historical rights of the Naga people.
“To explore oil and natural resources without resolving territorial issues is a complete sell-out and robs future generations for the temporary benefit of vested interest groups,” Therieh said.
The CNFN also urged the state government to resolve the FNT issue at the earliest, warning that further delay would only deepen public frustration, erode trust and fuel regional polarisation.
Appealing for collective efforts to preserve peace, the forum called upon tribal organisations, civil society groups and the Church to work together for lasting stability and inclusive development. It also urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation into the Chümoukedima blast and bring those responsible to justice.
