NSO raises concern over border fencing across Naga ancestral lands

Guwahati: The Naga Students’ Organisation (NSO) has expressed concern over the ongoing construction of border fencing across Naga ancestral lands, stating that it poses a threat to the unity, cultural continuity and indigenous rights of the Naga people.

In a statement, the organisation said the fencing work in areas including the Pangsaung Pass–Nanyung Township region and adjoining areas has led to divisions among Naga communities living along the Indo–Myanmar border.

The NSO also welcomed the decision of the United Tangshang Naga Council (UTNC) to abstain from the recently concluded Pangsau Pass International Festival, held from January 20 to 22 in Nampong, Arunachal Pradesh. The organisation described the move as a principled decision intended to convey opposition to the construction of border fencing across ancestral Naga lands.

According to the NSO, the decision not to participate in the festival was a peaceful expression of dissent and aimed at drawing attention to concerns over the impact of fencing on indigenous land rights and cross-border community ties.

The organisation said the fencing has disrupted long-standing social, cultural and economic relationships by dividing families and villages. It added that such developments raise concerns under provisions of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, particularly those relating to cross-border relations, land rights and the need for free, prior and informed consent.

The NSO called for meaningful consultation and dialogue, stressing that development and security measures should not undermine indigenous rights and dignity. It urged Naga communities on both sides of the border to maintain unity through peaceful and lawful means.

The organisation reiterated its commitment to peace, justice and the preservation of Naga unity.