[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Raising Day message of Isak Chisi Swu is loaded with an element that paints the NSCN-IM as one group that is trying to build a better rapport with neighbouring communities in the North East India region of late.
More than half a century of Naga self determination struggle has given serious impacts in the whole region. It has also resulted in creating differences with other neighbouring communities who have been accusing the Nagas of being ‘too-much-only-for-the-Nagas’ approach. But the Raising Day message of NSCN-IM chairman on Saturday paints the Naga outfit otherwise.NSCN-IM chairman Isak Chisi Swu said they are negotiating not only for the advantage of the Nagas alone but for all who are struggling elsewhere. “Hold on and be resolute in your struggle against exploitation and domination,” Swu called upon.
Definitely, this message of the NSCN-IM chairman will soften other ‘revolutionary’ organizations in the region who have been stiffly opposing the Naga movement.
We can say without any hesitation that NSCN-K has more ‘friends’ in the region today than any other Naga outfit. This is because the Khaplang led outfit often talks of ‘joint fight’ of the various ‘revolutionary’ organizations against India. This approach of the NSCN-K was employed by the Isak-Muivah group too in pre-ceasefire days. However, the Naga integration issue advocated by the NSCN-IM has acted as a repulsive force especially in Manipur where a huge social divide was created. The Meitei community sternly opposes the Naga integration. Similar situations are also witnessed in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh but the degree in these two states is not as high as in Manipur.
Meanwhile, the latest comment of the NSCN-IM chairman is likely to soothe the hard-feeling of ‘others’ to some extent. The NSCN-IM chairman’s message also contains a ‘sweet load’ for the government of India. Isak Chisi said that a mutually acceptable political agreement based on respect for peace and honour is indispensable to usher in a lasting solution in the region and elsewhere which will open the floodgates of blessings for both the parties (India and the Nagas).
