Senapati CSOs commemorate signing of FA
Source: Chronicle News Service
Senapati, August 03 2021:
Senapati civil organisations on Tuesday observed the sixth anniversary of the signing of Framework Agreement (FA) wherein the government of India recognises the unique history, culture and position of the Nagas and their sentiments and aspirations.
The event held at the Secretariat Hall of Maram Union was organised by frontal organisations of Senapati including Naga People's Organization (NPO), Senapati District Students' Association (SDSA) and the Senapati District Women's Association (SDWA).
In his keynote address, Jonah Mao, general secretary NPO, stated that signing of the Framework Agreement brought a ray of hope to the Nagas that their long-cherished dream would be realised but differences in opinions have thus far delayed the realization of that dream.
Joyson Mazafno, convenor NPMHR (South), in his speech, disclosed a number of 'misconducts' post signing of the Framework Agreement.
The human rights leader also termed the activities of the government of India as unfair in many aspects for the Nagas and accused it of being insincere to the Framework Agreement, which could have opened up a lot of opportunities.
Thiirtung Wanglar, president All Naga Students Association Manipur (ANSAM), stated that the statement given by the Prime Minister of India was very questionable post signing of the FA.
The people are hoping and praying for an honourable solution to the Indo-Naga political issue, but over the last few years, the government of India and the NSCN-IM have not reached any final agreement to implement the FA through negotiations.
PM Narendra Modi had earlier stated that the signing of the FA was a shining example of what both entities could achieve when dealt with each other in a spirit of equality and respect, trust and confidence.
It's been six years since he made that statement and it is time that action should speak louder than words, the student leader said.
Asha Wungnam, president Naga Women's Union (NWU), stated that more than 60 rounds of talks were held at the highest level during the past years.
People have been waiting for these long years hoping the Framework Agreement will bring any tangible solution to the protracted Indo-Naga political issue.
The Nagas were happy to hear the signing of the ceasefire agreement way back in 1997 as everyone knew the consequences of armed conflict.
The woman leader also recalled that a delegate had apprised the PM of the people's desire for prevention of further bloodshed post signing of the FA.
However, such activities of torture, harassment and arrests still continue in the land to date, she lamented.
While urging all to stand boldly as one unified Naga, she also urged to seek the living God and pray to give leaders the strength to live up to their principles.
Kho John, president United Naga Council (UNC), said that the signing of the FA at the residence of the Prime Minister of India in broad daylight was historic.
Two important points in the FA just cannot go unattended by the Govt of India are "To co-exist as two entities and shared sovereign power." The UNC leader also expressed disappointment over the backtracking by RN Ravi, former interlocutor, on the FA.
The NSCN-IM had earlier rejected the presence of RN Ravi for the same.
The promises of the Prime Minister of India to solve the Indo-Naga political issue within 18 months is just 'castles in the air' even after six years.
While reminding everyone of their responsibility, the UNC president sought the contribution from each individual till the final settlement is achieved.
Due to lack of public cooperation in the past, movement was weakened on different occasions, the UNC leader said while regretting that no elected representatives are taking part in the movement to pave way for an early solution.
The event was attended by representatives of district CSOs, national workers and other dignitaries and it was held with strict adherence to SOPs and guidelines issued by the state Govt for containing Covid-19 pandemic.
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