Rapid Fire : Naga underground leaders Isak Sumi and Tikhak expound

Nirendra Dev *

Isak Sumi and Tikhak expound

A day after Ceasefire extension for NSCN-NK (led by N Kitovi Zhimomi), clamour grows for 'greater unity' and early Solution

Rapid Fire: From this end in New Delhi, identical questions were thrown for Isak Sumi, general secretary GPRN (K) and also P Tikhak Naga of NSCN (Reformation)

Question: What role some of you - senior Naga national workers can play in bringing unity among all factions? Of course the last one year was a setback to the unity efforts... may be some corrective steps ought to be taken.

Isak Sumi : It is in human nature to have differences. It is also natural that sometimes things move beyond one can control. Certain developments since April 2024 were unwarranted. Well, it happened in another group or faction; but even from outside in other factions all of us were sad (on difference between two key leaders in NSCN-Unification)

P Tikhak Naga (NSCN-R): At the moment the Naga political movement is on a very sticky wicket but nevertheless, we are optimistic that, the Naga leaders will understand and realizes the fact that, they are working for the cause of the Naga people and therefore, they will put the common Naga interest above anything else and that will be the beginning of untying of threads and answers to all the questions and also a possible road to solution.

In the context of Nagas of Arunachal Pradesh, our people have suffered a lot and perhaps more than any other Nagas. Sometimes there have been atrocities from other people. Those were painful days but we have to move ahead.

Question: What is the roadmap ahead?

Isak Sumi : I say certain things very straight. Nagas want this Solution and believe the Naga people have decided to be united to achieve it. You cannot delay our date with destiny permanently. Enough of politics. Our leaders in the NNPG are very serious about it (Solution and peace).

We are committed to basic principles of the Agreed Position and the Status Paper. We will overcome all challenges and hurdles.

P Tikhak Naga (NSCN-Reformation) : Look, now it is very clear our Naga people want an early solution but, the longer there is delay in finding a solution there are high chances of further division and possible delay. The whole of Bible teaches us about Love, Kindness and Sacrifices. Nagas are very good Christians but are not good practicing Christians.

They must start practicing the basic teachings of Christ. That is, love your (Naga) people, be kind to them and sacrifice whatever you can for them. This will not only heal the wounds but also help embrace brotherhood and I believe the solution will be at your doorstep.