Morung Express News
Dimapur | June 4
In yet another rearrangement of chairs within the fractious Naga nationalist landscape, a merger ceremony between the Naga National Political Alliance (NNPA) and the Working Committee of Naga National Political Groups (WC NNPGs), led by N Kitovi Zhimomi, was held on Wednesday at Hoito village under Niuland district. The event took place at the residence of NSCN/GPRN president Akato Chophy.
The NNPA comprises four constituent groups—NSCN-K (Khango-Hokato Vusshe), NSCN/GPRN (Akato), NPGN/NNC (MK), and UGN/NNC (P/B). These entities have now formally aligned with the WC NNPGs, which currently includes the Kitovi-led GPRN/NSCN, NPGN/NNC (Shitoho Chophy), NNC/GDRN (Kiumukam), NNC/UNPG Parent Body (Toshi Walling), and NNC Parent Body Apex (Akuiba).
According to reports, during the merger programme, leaders of the participating groups signed a ‘Deed of Commitment’ affirming their decision to collectively work under the WC NNPGs banner. They pledged to move forward with a united voice in the ongoing dialogue with the Government of India, particularly under the framework of the Agreed Position signed between the GoI and WC NNPGs on November 17, 2017.
As per visuals shared on social media of the merger programme, leaders of the NNPA acknowledged the historical significance of the Agreed Position and expressed confidence in the WC NNPGs-led political negotiations. They reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful dialogue and a negotiated settlement to the protracted Indo-Naga issue.
Further, the WC NNPGs and NNPA leadership jointly resolved to appeal to the Government of India for the inclusion of additional competencies put forth by the NNPA in the ongoing status paper discussions. This move, they said, is intended to further strengthen and expand the scope of the Agreed Position, thereby addressing the political aspirations of all constituent Naga groups under a common framework.
While the signing of a “deed of commitment” was portrayed as a step toward unity, many observers viewed the move with skepticism amid a long-running saga of splintered factions, realignments, and ego-driven politics that have, for decades, overshadowed the larger cause.
