DIMAPUR, SEPTEMBER 6 (MExN): The United Naga Tribes Association of Border Areas (UNTABA) has asserted that “if integration of the Naga inhabited areas and return of all the traditional Naga territories are not included in the present anticipated Peace Accord between the NSCN (IM) and the Government of India(GoI), the accord will have no meaning for the Naga people.”
A press note from the UNTABA acknowledged the GoI for “not only recognizing the unique history but also understanding the deeper stand of the Naga people on its ‘legitimate right’ for integration.” “Such realization on the genuine and inherent stand of the Naga people from the GoI and the persistent pursuance from the Collective Leadership of NSCN (IM), if sincerely adopted on the much awaited Peace Accord between the two entities, the people living in the border areas with other states in particular shall be greatly relieved,” it stated.
It urged the GoI to “not shift its responsibilities” and “seriously reflect on its past failures,” while upholding its “professed policies and present understanding made so far in bringing about acceptable and honorable Peace Accord with the Naga people by fulfilling its promises made in the ‘9 Points Agreement’.” The UNTABA appealed that all stakeholders firmly stand on bringing about a final Naga political settlement on the basis of historical facts.
