DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 25 (MExN): The Naga Hoho has called for an immediate conclusion to the ongoing Naga peace talks, while underscoring that the current opportunity for resolving the decades-long political issue should not be missed. The organization underscored that both Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have repeatedly assured that the Government of India is ready to resolve the Naga issue as soon as possible, urging the people of Nagaland to seize the moment and work toward a final solution.
In a statement, the Naga Hoho president, Sulanthung Lotha reminded the public of the missed opportunity in 1965, when a potential resolution to the Naga issue was not achieved. The organization warned that over 50 years have passed since that critical juncture, and now is a pivotal moment to secure a lasting political settlement. The Naga Hoho expressed concern that if Nagas do not act decisively now, they may miss yet another chance to resolve the conflict.
The Naga Hoho also called on the Naga Political Groups (NPGs) to make bold and decisive choices to bring the peace talks to a conclusion. It urged the NPGs to clarify whether they are truly committed to resolving the issue and working together for a peaceful solution. The Naga Hoho pointed to the 213th report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs, which has recommended the swift conclusion of the Naga peace talks, and emphasized the need for unity and action among the Naga people.
Further, the Naga Hoho stressed the importance of rapid infrastructural and economic development in Naga-inhabited areas. It highlighted the urgent need for special attention from the central government to address the economic challenges facing the region. The organization noted that the younger, educated generation is frustrated due to the lack of employment opportunities, and this segment of society, if left unaddressed, could become a source of unrest. Therefore, the Naga Hoho emphasized that any solution to the Naga issue should prioritize economic development, human resource development, and recognition of the historical and political rights of the Naga people to self-determine their future.
In addition, the Naga Hoho proposed the creation of a Pan-Naga Cultural and Traditional League or Association, provided other Nagas living in other states voluntarily agree to join the league. Should other Nagas agree to join, then the constitution and rules may be framed collectively by Naga representatives.The Naga Hoho pointed out that such an initiative would help fulfill the spiritual and cultural longing of the Naga people to remain united, while respecting the territorial integrity of the Northeastern states.
While emphasizing the need for unity, the Naga Hoho also recognized the sacrifices of the NPGs in the struggle for an independent Naga nation. The organization urged the NPGs to communicate honestly with the Naga people, explaining that while they have fought for many years, the current political realities may necessitate a pragmatic approach. The Naga Hoho called for an acceptance of contemporary political realities and urged the Naga people to be proud of whatever can be achieved under the present circumstances.
The Naga Hoho also addressed the ongoing negotiations, acknowledging that both the Framework Agreement, signed between the NSCN (IM) and the Government of India in August 2015, and the Agreed Position, signed with the NNPGs in November 2017 are the results of political wisdom from all parties involved.
The Naga Hoho, meanwhile, questioned the GoI for the ‘delay’ in finalizing the Naga peace talks and underscored that the common people are anxiously awaiting the final announcement of a solution. It also noted that the GoI has already made it “amply clear” that the Flag and a separate Constitution cannot be accepted.
In this, the Naga Hoho called on the GoI to be decisive in resolving the issue and to announce the final political settlement without further hesitation. It emphasized that the Naga people, as well as people in the Northeast, are eagerly awaiting a solution, and the government should show political courage by making the final announcement. It further reiterated that the Naga people must acknowledge the limitations of the current political situation and move forward with a practical and realistic approach.
At the same time, the Naga Hoho urged all Nagas to recognize the changing times and the need for a fresh perspective on the future. The organization called for a collective effort to create a solution that will bring peace, prosperity, and progress to the Naga people. It accentuated that the greatest desire of every Naga is a better future, and the only way to achieve this is through unity and commitment to the common goal of resolving the Naga political issue.
“This is the finest time for a solution instead of pointing fingers at each other with political vendetta for personal vested interest,” the Naga Hoho stated adding that the political talks between the GoI and the NPGs are positively progressing, and the Naga people expect a solution sooner than later. It hoped that GoI will bring out the common draft as the negotiation is long enough, and it must have a logical conclusion within few months.
