NLA: Legislators call for a unified Naga national movement

August 30, 2024 10 Views No Comment

Morung Express News
Kohima | August 30

The discussion on the protracted Naga political issue took centre stage of the last day of the fifth session of the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly on August 29.

Initiating the discussion on the Naga Political issue under matters of public importance Kuzholuzo Nienu, called upon all National workers to unite under a single umbrella and form an “undivided NNC” to achieve the long-standing goal of ‘Sovereignty and nothing besides Sovereignty.’

He observed that the ongoing talks and negotiations have been unsuccessful due to the lack of participation from both overground and underground groups. To ensure the success of future talks, Nienu proposed that both parties actively participate, and legislators should not only act as facilitators, but also be part of the negotiating group.

Referendum to decide our fate
Nuklutoshi attributed the failure of numerous agreements to a lack of understanding and public consultation. He also questioned the transparency of the NSCN (IM)’s Framework Agreement, which has not been publicly disclosed, and emphasised that the public should discuss these agreements rather than participating in elections. He viewed that the GoI and the state government cannot be blamed for non resolution of the issue, arguing that the former has clearly stated what can be given and what cannot be given.

He proposed another referendum, similar to the 1951 referendum, to determine whether the public desires a ‘solution or Sovereignty’ and suggested that the government initiate this process for the Nagas to determine their fate once and for all.

Maintain ceasefire ground rules
G Kaito Aye emphasised that all Naga political groups operating under the ceasefire agreement should strictly adhere to its ground rules, and be closely monitored for any violations. He criticised the Ceasefire Monitoring Group for allowing the proliferation of factions and undesirable activities, wherein the public are suffering. Aye urged the Government of India to honor its commitment and swiftly resolve the Naga political issue through the Framework Agreement and the Agreed position.

Legislators have limited roles
Achumbemo Kikon pointed out that as elected representatives under the Indian Union, it’s role, particularly ‘practical involvement’ in this matter is very limited. “We can play active role as facilitators and not as participant to the ongoing dialogue” stated Kikon adding that the elected legislators can also reiterate the earlier resolution adopted on this issue, and press for integration of Naga areas within the permissible Indian constitution.

He also reminded that cannot go beyond the role it plays, neither can they just rush and conclude things.

Irony of Naga Political issue
“The irony of the Naga political issue today is that with 26 factional groups, can we truly guarantee that these organizations have the support of the masses?” asked Limaonen.

He also wondered if the Naga National political groups are divided into fragments by external influences or by ‘our’ own internal strife. Nonetheless, he opined that if ‘we’ truly are for the future of the Nagas, then, it’s time to set aside the differences and unite for a common cause.

Calls for unified approach
Stating that the fragmentation within the Naga civil society has been a major obstacle to progress in resolving the Naga Political Issue, Jwenga Seb suggested prioritising unity as a foundational step, and formation of a single Naga Apex Body by consolidating the major civil society organisations.

“With a united Naga civil society, our role as facilitators will be greatly enhanced” said Seb.

The single entity then can have a transparent discourse, and decide whether to accept a partial solution, “80% solution,” or to hold out for a complete “100% solution.”

The path forward for resolving the Naga Political Issue, Seb maintained lies in ‘our’ ability to unite internally, establish a single Naga apex body, and pave the way for a sustainable and lasting resolution to the Naga Political Issue.

Dr Sukhato Sema, Imkong L. Imchen, Dr. Neisato Mero, Z Nyusietho Nyuthe, Naiba Konyak and A Nyamnyei Konyak also participated in the discussion.