Gen (Retd) MB Neokpao Konyak
President, GPRN/NSCN
Dear friends and comrades,
31st January 1980 is a powerful reminder that Nagas have it in them to raise from the ashes and reinvent themselves when hope for Naga political salvation was almost extinguished. The leadership of the time forms National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN), a political party founded on Christian principles with Socialist influence. Although there has been divisions and fragmentations, GPRN/NSCN Unification has stood the test of time, redefined itself and in partnership with other WC, NNPG associates, offered great hope to our Naga people.
Our history is clear. 2000 Naga took part in WW1 in Europe. On in 1929, Nagas choose to be left alone as in ancient times if the Britishers left Indian shores. Naga declared independence on 14th August 1947. On May 16, 1951 Naga conducted plebiscite to remain free and independent. Despite these historical facts, Government of India choose to crush and subdue the Nagas militarily. Nagas continue the struggle till today. This is our history.
The GPRN/NSCN collective leadership and all national workers can trace their bloodline to 1918 and 1929 and the following decades. All civil and military workers in the GPRN/NSCN have their ancestor’s footprints marked with tales of bravery and heroism. Naga movement got strengthened with many men and women from present Manipur state joining the political struggle in the 1960s 70s and 80s.
The pioneers of Naga movement laid the platform with great sacrifice. Nagas should be cautious against late entrants attempting to paint the pioneers with a negative brush. That would be a blot on Naga political movement.
Today, the GPRN/NSCN is partnering the WC, NNPGs and has negotiated with the GOI without compromising on the core values of our history and political right. The spirit of 1951 plebiscite guides the present political negotiations between GOI and Working Committee (WC). Honorable and acceptable political solution is possible because AGREED POSITION says, “…GOI recognizes the political and historical rights of the Nagas to self determine their future in consonant with their distinct identity…’’
I appreciate the Working Committee (WC) consisting of the leadership of NNC/FGN, NNC( Parent body), NSCN (R), NNC/GDRN, NNC/NPGN, GPRN/NSCN(K). We believe in the unity in letter and spirit. We must give each other space for dialogue. The Hohos, customary guardians, student bodies, mothers, churches, and prayer warriors and prominent Naga civil societies have assisted WC/NNPGs during and after negotiations. The job is not finished. I appreciate the FNR for organizing many fellowship among the Naga groups. Courage and practical decisions can take us forward. Let us ensure that the GOI respect the Naga people.
The WC, NNPGs political negotiations with the GOI have clearly defined what is possible and what is not possible. The confidence and the trust of the Naga people upon the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Mr. Amit Shah is fast eroding but all hope is not lost yet.
Nagas must forge a consensus despite ideological differences. There is a clear understanding and desire on the part of NNPGs to seek a political future with the GOI which is honorable and acceptable. WC in close co-operation with the Naga tribes and apex civil societies will insist on the honest dialogue, integrity, transparency at all times. This is the only accepted process available before our people.
KUKNALIM
GOD BLESS NAGA-LAND.
.JPG)
