Dimapur, June 27 (MExN): With the issue of ‘Federal-arrangement’ receiving much prominence ever since commencement of the June Amsterdam talks with the Government of India, the NSCN-IM has reaffirmed that it has not given up the “rights to sovereignty” and to this effect, appealed to all to refrain from “the speculations.”
“The question of this or that arrangement, this federal or that autonomy arrangement does not arise. We have not given up the rights to sovereignty” Brigadier Phungting Shimrang, Convener of the Ceasefire Monitoring Cell, NSCN-IM asserted at a press conference held at the CFMC office at Diphupar 4th Mile, Dimapur. The Convener was convinced that the “speculations” on the Federal-arrangement issue are the handiwork of divisive forces. “These are clearly the works of certain forces who are creating confusion among the people. We should be analytical to these issues. There is confusion because there is ignorance about the processes of the issues involved” Brigadier Shimrang asserted adding in the course of any struggle there are always ups-and-downs. He maintained that the “speculations” are in fact meant to divert the people from the other more pressing issues of the movement. However, he admitted that while ‘Federal arrangement’ was discussed, there was no way Sovereignty is being given up.
To the query if the NSCN (IM) is actually adhering to the agreed ceasefire ground rules, implicative of the factional clashes in various parts of Nagaland state, the Brigadier categorically stated that the rules are exclusive to the NSCN (IM) and the GOI and not with “others”. “Everyone says ceasefire ground rules should be followed in Toto and spirit, should be adhered. We are adhering to it of course. See, the ceasefire is only between the Government of India and the NSCN not others” the Convener said adding that “it” (factional clashes) is not a law and order problem. “We are being defensive not offensive” he added in reference to the recent clashes.
The Convener also blamed the GOI for failing to implement the ceasefire rules. “The government of India has failed to implement what it should have been implementing. They say the rules should be implemented but when it comes to the NSCN, cadres are being arrested, killed and arms seized” he maintained.
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