Bangalore, June 19 (MExN): A seminar on the theme ‘Northeast, the Rainbow Region in Limbo: Nagaland a Case In Point’ was jointly conducted by North East Welfare Association, Karnataka (NEWAK) and Indian Social Institute (ISI), Bangalore on June 17 at ISI Bangalore Campus.
Dr. John Mohan Razu, Coordinator, ISI in his paper presentation highlighted that Northeast is like a rainbow that connotes mixture of a wide spectrum of tribal and ethnic identities. At the same time, it is located in the most sensitive geopolitical location bordering China, Myanmar, Nepal, and Bangladesh. So, for the Government of India, NE is considered to be one of the most important regions not only for geopolitical reasons but to protect the region from the attack that comes from within and outside, he said, according to a press release from Vezokho Resu, president, NEWAK.
Noting the violence that occurred in Nagaland recently over 33% reservation for women in urban local body elections, the seminar discussion highlighted that similar incidents if allowed to occur regularly or if they become regular feature, in due course of time it could become systemic and perennial problem with Northeast, which will eventually retard the true development potential.
It was also pointed out that it is the wish of the Northeast communities that their culture and traditional way of life be preserved and promoted. There have been different ideologies, approaches, notions, and perspectives amongst the groups that view and analyze their societies and accordingly have devised their strategies, mission, and vision, it was stated. This may be particularly true concerning the states of Manipur and Nagaland. “However, some have resorted to violence as means to achieve their ends.”
The later part of the session discussed the “secret understanding” agreed upon by the Central Government and the NSCN (IM) leadership. Pointing out that similar deals had happened earlier, but nothing seemed to have worked out, the participants said under these circumstances the dialogue between the parties should continue and become more transparent and open so that a plausible accord could be realized for the people in general. As per the press release, the discussion stressed that some of the movements that have been struggling for several decades could realize their identity and sovereignty and it is this hope and aspiration that keeps these movements going. Even the Government of India should sustain its efforts by evolving a number of options and formulas so that realistic and lasting peace be achieved or realized in the near future, it was stated.
The seminar was attended by professors, Ph.D scholars, corporate workers, and members from Indian Social Institute.
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