The government has all the constitutional authority, yet nothing has happened.
Ukhrul | EKHON: Sword Vashum, President of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL), has strongly appealed for restraint and humanitarian action amid the ongoing hostage crisis, saying the Nagas should not respond to violence with further violence, regardless of provocation.
Speaking on the issue of hostages, where six Naga civilians were captured at Leilon Vaiphei, Senapati district, and allegedly held by Kuki armed groups operating under SoO, Vashum said the response of Naga society must remain guided by Christian values and humanitarian principles rather than retaliation.
“Our conduct and decision-making should not be controlled by external forces. We are first of all a Christian society,” Vashum said, adding that even if “heinous crimes” were committed, Nagas should not mirror such actions in return.
He stressed that innocent civilians should not be made to suffer in conflict situations and called for the immediate release of hostages after “the message has been conveyed.”
“They are innocent people. They should not pay that kind of penalty,” he said, emphasizing that humanity and faith demand compassion and restraint even during conflict.
Referring to clashes in forest areas, Vashum described them as part of a situation “beyond control,” but maintained that taking innocent civilians hostage crossed a moral line.
He also sharply criticised the state government and security agencies as a failure to act decisively in securing the release of the captives.
“The state government has taken too much time. They have all the constitutional authority, yet nothing has happened,” he said.
Calling the situation “a shame,” Vashum questioned the effectiveness of the administration and said leaders must take responsibility for the safety of citizens.
“If I were the chief minister, I would have stepped down if I could not protect my citizens,” he remarked.
Vashum further urged security forces to act impartially and demonstrate neutrality in handling the crisis.
