Imphal, April 1: Naga organisations of Manipur today appealed to the Manipur and Nagaland governments to provide relief materials to villagers taking shelter at Tousem in Tamenglong district of Manipur after being displaced from the North Cachar Hills district of Assam.

According to a joint statement, the Naga organisations said more than 500 Naga villagers, particularly Zeliangrongs, fled their homes at nine villages in the North Cachar Hills and reached Tousem after being terrorised by Dimasa militants.

The joint statement was issued by the United Naga Council, All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur, Naga Women Union, Manipur and Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (South Sector).

Stating that such “aggression and atrocities” called for strong condemnation, the Naga bodies demanded justice and restoration of social harmony among the communities in the region.

“When Nagas living in North Cachar Hills are in deplorable situations caused by the belligerent attitudes of the dominant society motivated to grasp their land and properties through sophisticated and intellectual methods, the Nagas will not hesitate to act according to the gravity and plight of our brethren,” the statement said.

Stating that the Naga bodies would not tolerate “inhuman killings” in North Cachar Hills, the statement called for immediate measures by Dimasa civil organisations, churches and student organisations, local administrative authorities of North Cachar Hills and the government of Assam to prevent escalation of violence.

The Naga bodies also demanded adequate security and payment of compensation to the villagers who have been displaced.