- The Tangkhul Shanao Long (TSL), the apex body of Tangkhul women of Manipur, emphasized its traditional role as “pukreilas” (peacekeepers).
- Amidst tensions in the Indo-Naga peace process, with the NSCN (I-M) threatening to resume armed resistance due to alleged breaches of the 2015 Framework Agreement by the Centre.
- Demands of Pukreilas:
- A swift settlement of the Naga political issue
- Repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA). Peace has prevailed in the Naga areas for nearly three decades, and sustaining this peace is vital for lasting stability in the Northeast.
- Appeal for Free Movement Regime (FMR): Naga organizations urged New Delhi to reintroduce the FMR, enabling border residents to travel within 16 km across borders without documents.
- As 60% of their population lives in India and 40% in Myanmar.
- Dependency on Indian facilities for healthcare and essentials.
Dig Deeper: Read about the Naga Mothers’ Association.