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1997 Indo-Naga ceasefire for political negotiation was signed with high hope and excitement on the part of the Government of India (GoI) and National Socialist Council of Nagalim (NSCN). Ironically, when it comes to jurisdiction of ceasefire, GoI continues to speak in ambivalent terms even after more than twenty three (23) years of political talks. Naturally, this has become the boiling point of conflict that GoI is simply making an escapade. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issuing directive to the Assam Rifles (AR) to intensify operations against NSCN has come as rude shock.
Naga political issue cannot be undermined in such a manner that contradicts the well- established historical and political rights of the Naga people spread across Nagaland, Manipur, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar. The political right of the Naga people is no longer an issue that necessitated any review. The signing of the historic Framework Agreement on the 3rd August, 2015 is a living document to take the GoI and NSCN through for the final solution.
To push the Indo-Naga political solution for the final deal what really matters is the political will to be exercised by GoI. The Nagas have come this far in search of peaceful solution. But GoI still continue to waver. This is a sign of weakness and insincerity.
The Framework Agreement is a symbol of our olive branch to India, our desire to co-exist peacefully as good neighbors. However, this has not been reciprocated with the correct political steps. The Naga people’s sincere approach and search for permanent peace has been touted time and again to suit India’s colonial divide and rule policy. This is evidently seen in the ongoing Indo-Naga political talks.
Naga people believe in solution based on mutual respect of each other’s position. But we do not believe in force union bereft of any political wisdom. Nor do we believe in carrot and stick policy that will only complicate what has been achieved all these years of negotiation.
The Government of India must handle the situation with great sensitivity and not prod the Indian security forces and other security agencies to run amok against the NSCN. In such a situation NSCN members cannot allow themselves to be sitting ducks. Our patience should not be translated as weak and helpless. The consequences, therefore, will be disastrous for both the parties. This is never in the interest of ceasefire across Naga areas.
MIP, NSCN/GPRN