DIMAPUR — The Naga Hoho and the Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) have extended support to the United Naga Council’s (UNC) call for rallies in the Naga areas of Manipur on August 9, to address the longstanding Naga political issue based on the Framework Agreement signed between the Government of India and the NSCN (IM) on August 3, 2015.
Extending its “unwavering support,” the Naga Hoho in a press release termed the UNC’s call as an important moment for the Nagas to reaffirm their historical and legitimate rights, and collectively strive to achieve the aspirations of the Naga people.
Pointing out that for decades, the Nagas have endured immense challenges in their pursuit of political justice and recognition of their identity, the hoho affirmed that the Framework Agreement represents a ray of hope and a crucial step towards resolving the longstanding conflict.
It is essential for the Government of India to fulfil its promise and refrain from further delay or denial in the Indo-Naga process, it stated.
“We firmly believe that resolving the Naga conflict is not only crucial for the Nagas but also for the entire Northeast region. A lasting peace in the Northeast will undoubtedly have positive geostrategic and economic implications, fostering stability and development for India and the Nagas, as well as the neighbouring nations in the region.”
“While Nagas do not interfere in any other issues, we will not allow any community/agency to stand in the way of our pursuit for Rightful Political Rights,” Naga Hoho asserted.
The hoho went on to state that Nagas have a historical and legitimate claim to their ancestral land and have consistently upheld their right to self-determination.
“We, as a community, have demonstrated our commitment to the peaceful resolution of the Naga political issue through dialogue and negotiations. It is our firm belief that the Nagas’ aspirations do not infringe upon the rights of other communities residing in the region. Therefore, we call upon all communities and neighbouring states not to hinder or interfere with the political process that the Nagas have rightfully claimed,” it stated.
While urging the Government of India to honour its commitment to the Framework Agreement and engage in honest and productive dialogues with the Nagas to find a comprehensive and inclusive solution, Naga Hoho was of the view that denying or prolonging the Indo-Naga Peace process will only perpetuate the suffering and uncertainty in the region.
Further, the Naga Hoho appealed to all stakeholders involved to respect the rights and dignity of the Nagas and to work together towards achieving a just and lasting peace in the region.
“As we continue to embark on this momentous journey, we reiterate our commitment to a peaceful resolution and look forward to the day when the Nagas can live in harmony, equality, and prosperity with our neighbours and the rest of India,” it added.
In a separate press statement, the NSF endorsed the peaceful public rally being called by the UNC and affirmed that no authority should make any attempt to curb the people from openly expressing their thoughts and desire.
“However, if any resolution is to be passed in the course of the movement, NSF will not be party to any resolution which goes against the founding principles of the Federation and which will prove counterproductive to the Naga people as a whole,” the federation said.
The NSF also exuded optimism that the movement will help peace and normalcy to return in the state of Manipur.
The UNC, the apex body of the Nagas in Manipur state had announced a couple of days back that it will be holding massive rallies in Naga-inhabited areas of the state on August 9, for resolving the Indo-Naga political issue based on the Framework Agreement.
“The inordinate delay in signing the final agreement is a cause of concern and has the potential to derail the peace negotiation,” the UNC stated.
