In a powerful display of faith and solidarity, churches across Nagaland have called for prayers for the success of tomorrow’s crucial talks between the UNC and the Central government.
BY PC Bureau
August 25, 2025: Amid prayers for divine intervention for the success of the talks, the United Naga Council (UNC) is set to meet with the Central government in New Delhi tomorrow, August 26, to discuss two high-stakes issues: fencing along the India–Myanmar border and the scrapping of the Free Movement Regime (FMR). The UNC was invited by the Ministry of Home Affairs following sustained representations by Naga civil society.
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This dialogue is considered crucial for peace in the Northeast, as the outcomes will directly affect border communities. The FMR has historically been vital for communities living on both sides of the border, allowing them to maintain deep family, cultural, and economic connections. A balanced solution could help prevent alienation and reduce everyday tensions.
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Constructive engagement between the Centre and apex Naga bodies is essential for building trust. This approach reinforces the importance of dialogue over confrontation and can strengthen the broader peace processes in the region. Furthermore, establishing clear and predictable rules for movement and trade is essential for stabilizing livelihoods in remote border areas, which in turn lowers the risk of flashpoints and conflict. A fair and sensitive outcome on the FMR and border fencing will be seen throughout the Northeast as a sign of respect for ethnic concerns, supporting ongoing reconciliation efforts.
Nagaland Churches Mobilize in Prayer
In a powerful demonstration of faith and solidarity, churches across Nagaland have been called upon to pray for the success of the UNC–Centre talks. This spiritual initiative highlights the deep Christian roots of Naga society and reflects a collective hope for a just resolution to issues that affect their cultural identity, historical access to land, and social cohesion.
Recognizing the gravity of the moment, the UNC, along with tribal hohos and political groups, has urged congregations to dedicate prayer sessions to the upcoming meeting. This follows a previous unified day of prayer on May 18, 2025, which was supported by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and various tribal organizations. Churches have held special services focused on themes of wisdom, unity, and peace, drawing on biblical narratives.
Church institutions, such as the Council of Nagalim Churches (CNC) and the Nagaland Joint Christian Forum (NJCF), play a central role in Naga public life and have long advocated for peace and unity. Ahead of tomorrow’s meeting, congregations are holding special services, fasting, and intercessory prayers, with pastors emphasizing reconciliation and justice.
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The FMR has traditionally allowed residents along the India–Myanmar border to travel up to 16 km into each other’s territory without a visa. The Centre’s decision to scrap the FMR and proceed with border fencing—part of a larger plan to secure the 1,643-km boundary—has raised significant concerns among Naga organizations. They argue that these measures could disrupt long-standing ties and daily life in border villages. The UNC and its allies have been calling for the FMR’s restoration and a reconsideration of the fencing plans, particularly in Naga-majority areas.
As the UNC prepares for the talks, the stakes are high. The outcome will need to balance security imperatives with the lived realities of border communities. For now, Nagaland’s churches stand united in prayer, expressing their hope for a future of peace, dignity, and cultural continuity.
