DIMAPUR, FEB 28 (MExN): Reaffirming the earlier proclamation made by its Chairman Isak Chishi Swu and also stating that it was the right time to reconcile, the NSCN (IM) Peace and Reconciliation Committee has stated that it was a message “to rebuild the relationship damaged by hatred, jealousy, tribalism, misinformation and venom of the enemies”. “We must love one another because that is the commandment. We must unite into one because that is law. We must rediscover peace because that is the will of God as well as that of mankind”, a press communiqué issued by the Committee stated while also affirming that Nagas must bury the past, heal the wounds, rebuild the damage and renew our trust and faith. “The causes of the conflagration must be removed. We must live together for a higher mission, a mission we are born for. And now is the right time”, the Committee stated.
Pointing out that it has been the practice from time immemorial that any dispute that arises between two villages, clans, families or individuals is settled through the mediation of a third party and “by sharing smoke pipe or food and drinks in the presence of the elders as a sign of reconciliation between the contending parties”. “And when it is settled in this way, both parties strictly abide by that, violator of which earns the wrath of the whole community or village”.
Stating that Nagas have been struggling for peace for more than six decades, the NSCN (IM) Peace Committee pointed out that “peace and progress of Nagalim hangs on the pendulum of a solution based on mutual respect and recognition of rights on the one hand and reconciliation and reunification of the long departed Naga brothers and sisters on the other”. The Peace Committee however stated that there is no logic in peace or unity move if it is not meant for “our higher cause”. “Peace and unity should be built upon the rock of freedom, truth and justice”, it stated adding that “free Nagalim for Christ is our rallying point and uniting point, fighting point and negotiating point” and that it was the political message to the people and the world as well. “It is where we stand and invest our labor and time. This is the unshakable stand of NSCN”, the Peace Committee stated.
