Karaiba Chawang
December 23
KOHIMA (MexN): The Naga Hoho, the apex tribal organization of the Nagas, today underlined that more time should be given to the ongoing Naga peace process while disclosing that a new twist has taken place in the ongoing talks in the recent Bangkok meet with the intervention of a “third source”.
The Naga Hoho statement comes at a time when tension is brewing as a result of apprehensions of a breakdown in the ongoing ceasefire and the ongoing peace process.
Talking to this Correspondent over telephone today, Naga Hoho Vice President, Keviletuo Kiewhuo maintained that the present ceasefire itself is a part of the ongoing talks and insisted that as long as dialogue is on, ceasefire should continue.
“Whether we like it or not, ceasefire has to continue, without which the resumption of talks is not possible. If conflict continues it will not serve the interest of the Nagas and India. Ceasefire must continue”, Keviletuo asserted.
The Naga Hoho leader also pointed out that with new developments coming up at every round of talks “we should watch and see”.
Echoing similar views, the NBCC Peace Affairs Director, Rev. Kari Longchar also insisted that the present ceasefire should continue till an honourable solution to the protracted Indo-Naga political conflict is brought about. Stating that the Church is for peace, Rev. Kari construed that if ceasefire is abrogated and the negotiation stops a dark phase will return again like the old days, which would be quite unfortunate for both the Nagas and Indians.
Kari also asserted that military action can never solve the problem. “Instead, the government of India should involve their best politicians and leaders in the talks so as to bring permanent solution to the long-drawn Indo-Naga conflict.
“What they are doing is right, but we have taken so much time without bringing any solution”, Kari lamented. Asserting that reconciliation is a continuing process, the Church leader stated that “everyday is reconciliation”.
“The Church is praying for all the freedom fighters to desist from continuous factional feuds”, he said, adding while the Church stands for reconciliation, nothing could be done so far as some people are still not willing to accept the reconciliation process. However, the church may plan something new in the coming years to make reconciliation work, he added.
