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KOHIMA — Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio stressed the urgency of a resolution to the Naga political issue, linking it directly to the state's economic future and the well-being of its people.
Speaking at the Nagaland Legislative Assembly on Thursday, he said an inclusive and honourable solution would pave the way for economic growth, attracting investment and creating jobs. He highlighted the state's lack of industry and manufacturing, blaming the unresolved political situation for deterring investors and fuelling internal conflicts.
Rio called for public pressure on negotiators, emphasising the Naga people's desire for peace and progress. He urged all Naga political groups (NPGs) to prioritise the people's aspirations and work sincerely towards a timely solution.
The chief minister expressed satisfaction with the unity among legislators on the Naga issue despite their limited role as facilitators under the Indian Constitution while highlighting past initiatives and acknowledging the efforts of various stakeholders in the peace process.
Referencing the 2015 Framework Agreement with the NSCN (IM) and the 2017 Agreed Position with the WC-NNPG as significant milestones, Rio however, expressed concern over the lack of a finalised solution despite the conclusion of talks announced in 2019.
He reiterated the importance of unity, urging all Naga groups to come together at the negotiating table. Unless the people unite, a solution that is inclusive, honourable, and acceptable to the Naga people cannot be achieved, he asserted.
Rio stressed the need for serious discussions on the Naga political issue, clarifying that legislators are not directly involved in negotiations. He emphasised that the government would only engage with NPGs based on the existing Framework Agreement and the Agreed Position.
Furthermore, he noted that during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the Congress party had pledged to resolve the Naga issue based on agreements signed in 2013-2014, and said that he was advised the agreements referenced by the Congress as well as the recent agreements. He added that the WC-NNPG has expressed their readiness to sign the agreed competencies.
The government will study these and consult with the NPGs before meeting with civil societies and tribal leaders, he said, adding that the government represents the people and must convince the Naga groups of the need for settlement.
Rio reiterated Prime Minister Modi’s statement that 80% of the issues are agreed upon and should be settled now, while the remaining 20% can be discussed further. He urged the NPGs not to delay the settlement, as the people cannot survive under the current system of multiple groups collecting taxes for their sustenance.
Stating that the NPGs should not backtrack, Rio maintained that the government did not sign the agreements and therefore, “they (NPGs) should come forward and try to find a solution.”