Govt of India inks agreement with NSCN (IM), details not available yet
Source: The Sangai Express / Press Information Bureau

New Delhi, August 03 2015: The Government of India and the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (NSCN-IM) successfully concluded the dialogue on Naga political issue, which has existed for six decades, and signed an agreement today in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Government's Interlocutor RN Ravi, signed the agreement on behalf of the Government of India.

Isak Chishi Swu, Chairman and Th Muivah, General Secretary were the signatories on behalf of the NSCN.

The details of the agreement are however not available at the moment.

When The Sangai Express contacted Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, who also holds the Home portfolio, he said, "Since I have not seen the content of the accord, I do not have much to say" .

He however added, "We welcome any peace accord but it should not be against the interest of Manipur.

I believe the Government of India will not try to solve one problem and create multiple problems" .

Govt of India inks agreement with NSCN (IM)

It has also been learnt that Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh too did not give a detailed reply when contacted, explaining, "since it was finalised in the Prime Minister's Office, I do not know the details" .

The entire top leadership of the NSCN (IM), including all members of the "collective leadership", has fully endorsed the agreement and was present during the ceremony.

Significantly, Isak Swu was not present at the time the annoucement was delivered as he is recuperating at Fortis Hospital, New Delhi undergoing dialysis.

Attempts were made from time to time to resolve the issue through discussion with representatives of the Naga people.

A fresh attempt for a comprehensive resolution was initiated with the NSCN in 1997 .

The new Government on assuming power in May 2014 accorded highest priority to this lingering problem.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has on a number of occasions, including during visits to the North East region, articulated his vision for transforming the North East and has attached the highest priority to peace, security, connectivity and economic development in the region.

This has also been at the heart of the Government's foreign policy, especially 'Act East' Policy.

The sustained dialogue between the two sides, conducted in a spirit of equality, respect and trust, deepened their mutual understanding and confidence, and enabled the two sides to reach an equitable agreement.

The Government of India recognized the unique history, culture and position of the Nagas and their sentiments and aspirations.

The NSCN understood and appreciated the Indian political system and governance.

The Government interlocutor also held frequent consultations with a broad spectrum of Naga leaders, including those from the traditional tribal bodies, civil society, youth and students' bodies, women's groups, elected representatives and other stakeholders.

These consultations helped in distilling the popular aspirations of the Naga people and in enhancing a healthy atmosphere of trust and understanding.

In his statement at the signing ceremony, the Prime Minister lauded the courage and wisdom of the Naga leaders and civil society and thanked them for their co-operation in reaching the agreement.

He also praised the Naga people for their support and the NSCN for maintaining the ceasefire for nearly two decades that enabled the dialogue to succeed.

The Prime Minister also spoke of his vision for the transformation of the North East region.

He also expressed confidence that the agreement will open a glorious new chapter for the Naga people to build a bright future for Nagaland and also contribute to the Nation with a sense of pride and confidence.

Th Muivah, General Secretary, NSCN, narrated the history of Nagas' struggle and thanked the Prime Minister for his vision and resolve, which made it possible for the Government of India and the NSCN to reach an honourable settlement.

Within this framework agreement, details and execution plan will be released shortly.

Home Minister, Rajnath Singh, National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval and other high dignitaries of the Government of India were present.

The NSCN was represented by its entire collective leadership and senior leaders of various Naga tribes.