DIMAPUR, OCTOBER 4 (MExN): The NSCN-K led by Maj Gen (Retd) Ang Mai has extended an olive branch to the Government of India and its security forces, expressing willingness to forge mutual understanding rather than engage in conflict in the Naga-inhabited areas.
A statement issued by its MIP on Saturday said that such an understanding would help avert “overall complications and repercussions,” while paving the way for peace and development across Naga areas.
The NSCN-K (Ang Mai) stated that just as its bilateral ceasefire with Myanmar remains pivotal to peace and development in Naga-inhabited regions across the border, a “unilateral understanding” with India is equally essential to promote developmental activities in the Indo-Naga-Myanmar border areas.
“As the sole representative of the Nagas and guardian of the Eastern Nagas in Myanmar, it is the responsibility of the NSCN-K to develop the border areas and the entire Eastern Naga-inhabited region. No internal or external forces will be allowed to hamper the promises and assurances made to the Nagas,” the statement read.
The group said the bilateral ceasefire agreement with Myanmar was concluded shortly after the formation of a democratic government there, adding that a “logistical understanding” with the Indian Government was of no lesser urgency or importance to meet the aspirations of the Naga people.
“A one-way peace would be a threat to security and stability, potentially instilling a reactive course. Fighting and frictions alone are not the only means to settle differences; diplomacy is often the final and judicious mantra,” the statement said.
The NSCN-K (Ang Mai) asserted that it has no intention to disengage from the support of Nagas and civil society groups who have endorsed peace initiatives with the Government of India. It called upon Indian security forces to reciprocate its “declaration of understanding” on the basis of quid pro quo.
“The NSCN-K’s patience and humility must not be mistaken for cowardice. Co-equal respect and mutual acceptance are essential for establishing lasting peace,” it stated, adding that the group was not seeking mercy but making a rational and decisive offer for peace.
