Published by Aloto Naga | February 21, 2026
The Ang Mai-led faction of NSCN-K on February 21 issued a statement rejecting what it described as “false and fabricated” allegations against its leadership. In the NSCN-K press statement, the group also sharply criticized the Yung Aung–Joseph Lamkang (YA-JL) group over internal disputes and policy differences. Notably, this NSCN-K press statement attracted considerable attention throughout the region.
The statement was released by the Ministry of Information and Publicity (MIP) under the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagaland (GPRN). Additionally, the NSCN-K press statement highlights the importance of their official channels for releasing information.
Internal Efforts at Reconciliation
According to the statement, the Ang Mai-led leadership had made several attempts in recent years to resolve internal differences through dialogue. It claimed that trusted emissaries and civil society representatives were sent to engage with Yung Aung. However, it alleged that those efforts did not result in meaningful reconciliation.
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The faction stated that it decided to publicly respond after continued disagreements and what it termed the spread of misinformation. Also Read NSCN-K Claims Responsibility for Tizit Killing
Dispute Over Leadership After Khaplang’s Death
The statement revisited events following the death of NSCN-K Chairman S.S. Khaplang, also known as Baba Khaplang. It alleged that Yung Aung assumed leadership under contested circumstances. It also claimed that several senior leaders, including Maj. Gen. (Retd.) Ang Mai, were later expelled. Also Read Retaliatory Strike Reported on NSCN-YA Camp in Myanmar
The Ang Mai faction further alleged that the YA-JL group has centralized authority within the organization, departing from what it described as its tradition of collective leadership. It also claimed that Gen. Kumchok, the Commander-in-Chief, has been sidelined.
There was no immediate response from the YA-JL group regarding the allegations. As a result, clarity on the issues raised by the NSCN-K press statement remains pending.
Claims Regarding Identity and Background
The statement also referred to circulating media reports questioning Yung Aung’s identity and background. While mentioning these claims, the faction urged individuals to independently verify the facts. Also Read NSCN-K Cadres Killed in Myanmar Mortar Attack
It additionally disputed reports concerning educational qualifications. It also disputed aspects of familial lineage related to the late Chairman Khaplang.
Policy Differences and External Relations
The Ang Mai-led faction asserted that under Khaplang’s leadership, NSCN-K maintained influence across Myanmar and neighboring regions. It alleged that recent decisions by the YA-JL group have weakened the organization’s structure.
Among the key points of disagreement cited were opposition to the proposed revival of the Stilwell Road project, which passes through Naga-inhabited areas. There were also reservations regarding a bilateral ceasefire arrangement with the Myanmar Union. Also Read Why Nagaland Citizens Fear Reporting Crime
The statement also argued that reluctance to participate in education and development initiatives in Myanmar could have long-term consequences for Nagas residing there. Therefore, the impact of issues addressed in the NSCN-K press statement may become more evident in the years ahead.
Official Release
The statement concluded by warning that current internal divisions could negatively affect the broader interests of the Naga people in Myanmar.
It was officially issued by the Ministry of Information and Publicity (MIP), GPRN.
