Ukhrul hails framework pact
Source: The Sangai Express / Mungchan Zimik

Ukhrul, August 10 2015: In acknowledgement of the framework agreement signed between the Government of India and the NSCN (IM) on August 3, thousands of people including school students took part in a peace march, which began from Dungrei junction and Mission Ground, Awontang simultaneously and converged at the TNL ground, Wino Bazar today.

A thanks giving programme was held at the TNL ground, just before the programme under the banner of the slogan (Haokharai in Tangkhul Tradition) "Long Live GoI/NSCN IM leaders", "We support the peace accord" .

Speaking at the gathering, TNL president Weapon Zimik said that the faith and sacrifices of the National workers have today reached the highest point, which is the aspiration for self determination.

Touching on the framework agreement, Weapon Zimik expressed confidence that aspirations for separate National flag and separate UN representative will be met.

He however, said that other points are yet to be finalised.

People of Ukhrul at the Long Ground

The TSL and TKS presidents also expressed gratitude to the "National leaders for their enduring effort and struggle," and called them protectors of Nagas' rights.

The signing of the peace accord is a landmark achievement and will push the Indo- Naga dialogue to a final agreement, they claimed.

The care taker CAO, WTR NSCN (IM) Ng Jagoi talked about the selfless sacrifices of the National workers for Nagas' aspiration for self determination.

Their sacrifices are recorded in the history of Nagas' struggle for sovereignty.

He added that the 1975 Shillong Accord was a total surrender of political rights apart from giving up arms.

Isak Chishi and Th Muivah strongly opposed the accord and formed the NSCN to fulfil the Nagas' aspiration.

With the agreement signed on August 3 this year, India and the Nagas have mutually agreed to resolve the Indo-Naga issue without delay, added Ng Jagoi.

Later TNL president Weapon Zimik released a balloon to symbolise the people's support to the collective leaders of the Nagas.

Talking to this correspondent, many of the people who turned out for the thanks giving ceremony said that it has been mandated by the people and added that the Nagas have suffered for more than 70 years.

Some expressed apprehension over the sincerity of the Government of India as the peace talk has been in progress after the cease fire pact was signed in 1997.However, they added that the August 3 agreement is a positive step towards a peaceful solution.

Offices, schools wore deserted looks while shops and other establishments were closed during the programme.

Newly elected ADC members led by chairman Dr Yaronsho Ngalung attended the celebration as did leaders of social organisations, headmen, chairmen, Pastors.

The programme ended with a mass prayer for an early solution led by TBCA president Jonah M Solo.