At the outset, we, the Naga Students’ Union, Delhi (NSUD), on behalf of the Nagas in New Delhi, welcome the decision for extending the Second Indo-Naga Ceasefire Agreement for another six months at Bangkok in Thailand. The decision to extend the Ceasefire Agreement was reached after four days of intensive discussions between the Nagas led by the Collective Leadership, Isak Chishi Swu and Mr.Thuingaleng Muivah and the Indian Government represented by Oscar Fernandes and K. Padmanabhaiah. The Ceasefire since 1st of August 1997 was supposed to expire on 31st January 2006.
The impression has been that the Ceasefire is being extended to bring an honourable and lasting solution which would assure the rights of the Nagas and the security of India. The “Joint Statement” of 31st January 2006 at Bangkok between the Government of India and the NSCN is being quoted below for the public interest.
“Discussions were held between Government of India’s Representatives and the NSCN delegation on January 28-31, 2006. As both sides recognize that there has been insufficient progress in the talks it was decided to carry the political negotiations expeditiously forward taking new initiatives.
It was also agreed to re-activate and make effective mechanisms to address all cease-fire issues including modification of Ground Rules.
In view of the need to maintain a congenial atmosphere for the political negotiations to fructify it has been mutually decided to extend the cease-fire by six months w.e.f. February 1, 2006”.
We demand that the above “Joint Statement” is carried out in sincere and transparent manner so that the inherent rights of the Nagas to live in one political entity i.e., Nagalim as a recognised and distinct nation is respected and implemented by the Indian Government within this six month times without any further delay. The Nagas in New Delhi are behind both the parties for such political move within the time frame. We want both the parties to respect the aspirations of the Nagas who have been struggling for their rights as an indigenous people.
KUKNALIM
Sebastian Kamei, President
Chitho Nyusou Gen. Secretary
NSUD
