Prepared to bear arms if GoI fails to honour commitment–Ramkathing

MOKOKCHUNG — Major General (Retired) Ramkathing, Steering Executive Member NSCN/GRPN (IM) on Wednesday announced that NSCN (IM) is prepared to bear arms/ resume armed struggle if the Government of India fails to honour the commitment (Framework Agreement).

He made this statement during the 78th declaration of Naga Independence Day, which was attended by former national workers from Longkhum, Mangmetong, Alichen and Satsu held at Senten Reju in Mangmetong village under Mokokchung district.

“If India does not act according to the commitment given by them, we have filed a case with the United Nations (UN). If they fail to implement it and the situation and circumstance compel us, we won’t hesitate to bear arms again. That is our stand and decision of NSCN. We will never surrender,” Ramkathing declared.

He emphasised that India had committed to “One people, one agreement, one solution,” through which the Framework Agreement (FA) was signed between India and the NSCN.

He also stated that the NSCN remains firmly committed not to accept the Indian Constitution.

“For 26 years, they have tried but failed. NSCN firmly stand steadfast on these principles,” he asserted.

Ramkathing pointed out that while numerous factions exist today, it is crucial for the people to understand which faction is genuinely leading the political movement toward its rightful destination. He stressed that the NSCN’s focus is on Naga aspirations and national issues, guiding the Naga people towards their ultimate destination.

He further highlighted that the nation’s mandate lies with the people and they represent the nation.

He, however, expressed concern that many national workers are currently not working in the national interest but rather working for self-interest, leading to a decline in public support.

In this regard, Ramkathing urged the national workers to reflect on their reasons for sacrificing their comfortable lives for the nation’s cause.

“If you don’t act for the nation and people’s interest, then you are anti-people,” he said.

Ramkathing also stressed on shared responsibility in bringing the Naga national movement back on the right track.

“To bring the Naga national movement to its right path, it is not the sole responsibility of ‘Ramkathing’ alone but the responsibility of each and every one of us,” he said.