Imphal: The Naga Women’s Union (NWU) has expressed profound anguish over the recent brutal murders of women and children amidst the ongoing conflict in Manipur.
In a statement, the organization condemned the targeted killings of innocent civilians, highlighting the severity of such actions and the emotional scars they have left on affected communities.
The NWU emphasized that while wars generally involve combat between armed groups, deliberately targeting vulnerable groups—such as women, children, and the elderly—is an unparalleled crime. The killings, according to the union, have instilled widespread fear, deepening the emotional trauma for many families and communities.
Strongly denouncing these acts of violence, the NWU described the murders as unacceptable and warned that they not only fuel the ongoing conflict but also make reconciliation increasingly difficult. The union condemned such atrocities as acts of cowardice, violating international human rights and laws of peace. The organization also stressed that the killings of defenseless individuals, whether as hostages or retaliatory targets, are crimes that must be condemned by all communities.
The NWU urged armed groups and young men from both the Meitei and Kuki communities to immediately halt violence, including murder, rape, and assault against women. They called for an end to aggressive tendencies and domination instincts, believing this is key to restoring peace in the region.
Acknowledging the devastating impact of the conflict on the fabric of society, the NWU underlined the need to protect women and children, as their safety is crucial to rebuilding any social, political, or economic structure in times of crisis. The union warned that no one can emerge victorious from a conflict that tears apart communities and their institutions.
In a plea for peace, the NWU called upon women from all communities, including Meitei and Kuki, to take a stand as mediators for peace. They urged women to remain calm and not react impulsively, as doing so could further escalate tensions. “Let us, as women, become agents of peace and emotional healing,” the NWU concluded, calling for a collective effort toward reconciliation and a peaceful resolution to the ongoing crisis in Manipur.
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