Indo-Naga talks: Still no way past Naga constitution, flag hurdle

Horam says NSCN (IM) will not be bound by Modi’s three-month deadline to Ravi

Eastern Mirror Desk
Dimapur, Oct. 11: Negotiators representing the NSCN (IM) and the government of India continue to dispute over the demand for a separate Naga constitution and flag, as talks for what is projected as the final round of Indo-Naga parleys resumed in New Delhi on October 10.

According to senior NSCN (IM) leader and an executive member of the group’s steering committee, V Horam, the meeting was inconclusive and further discussions will continue.

“We have strongly stated our right to the flag and constitution, without which any solution will not be honourable,” said Horam and asserted that the NSCN IM will not compromise on the rights and future of the Nagas.

He said that during the discussion on October 10, the government of India also expressed difficulties, which led to heated exchange of words between the two parties.

When asked about the three-month deadline Prime Minister Narendra Modi had given RN Ravi to solve the Naga issue, Horam expressed displeasure and said that it was equivalent to serving an ultimatum to the Naga representatives.

“We (NSCN-IM) have expressed discontent over the time-frame; as long as issues are not being solved, then talks will continue but if we come to an understanding of the issues, I am sure solution will come at the earliest,” said Horam.

He asserted that the NSCN (IM) would not be bound by the three-month deadline.