We are only defending our history, rights: Tongmeth

Dimapur, January 2 (MExN): Senior NSCN (IM) functionary Tongmeth Wangnao on December 30 addressed the public at Wakching Village, Mon and gave a briefing on the Indo-Naga peace process, especially on the recognition of uniqueness of the Naga history by the Government of India in 2002 and the recent Framework Agreement.  

Taking questions from the public, the Member of the Collective Leadership, NSCN (IM) was asked their charter of demands. He answered, “We don’t have to demand anything from anyone. We only defend our history and our rights.”  

He insisted that ceasefire is not the end but a means towards finding the end.  

When queried on the sincerity of the Government of India, Tongmeth expressed hope that solution would be brought about soon. “Government of India officially invited the NSCN on behalf of all Nagas and very sincerely talking till date. We hope and expect that solution is at hand,” he said.  

On the touchy issue of Naga integration, he argued, “There will be no lasting solution so long as Nagas are kept divided.”  

He also argued that ENPO’s demand for a separate state needed “Right time, right approach, right platform, right strategy and feasibility.”