Kohima: The Nagaland political landscape is once again teetering on the brink of uncertainty as the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM) has issued a stark warning to resume armed struggle due to the perceived delay in the resolution of the Naga political dialogue.
In response to this escalating tension, the Nagaland Cabinet has decided to take immediate action. A high-level delegation led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and his deputies, T R Zeliang and Y Patton, will travel to Delhi on Monday to meet with Union Home Minister Amit Shah. The primary objective of this meeting is to expedite the ongoing Naga political negotiations.
The NSCN-IM, in a statement issued by General Secretary Th Muivah, has accused the Centre of deliberately disregarding key provisions of the historic Framework Agreement, particularly the recognition of the Naga national flag and constitution. The group has also threatened “violent armed conflict” if the impasse persists, potentially jeopardizing the fragile peace that has prevailed since 1997.
Nagaland Deputy Chief Minister T R Zeliang expressed deep concern over the situation, acknowledging the need for a resolution. He emphasized the importance of both the Centre and the NSCN-IM finding common ground to avoid further escalation.
The state cabinet is also scheduled to engage with the NSCN-IM leadership to seek a resolution. Additionally, the cabinet will apprise the Union Home Minister about the demands of various Naga tribal bodies and civil societies, including the appointment of a high-level interlocutor and the elevation of the dialogue to a ministerial level.
The ongoing Naga political dialogue has been fraught with challenges, with the Centre and the NSCN-IM remaining divided over crucial issues. The Centre’s reluctance to accept the NSCN-IM’s demands for a separate flag and constitution has been a major stumbling block.
As the situation remains volatile, all eyes are on the upcoming meetings between the Nagaland Cabinet, the Union Home Minister, and the NSCN-IM leadership. The outcome of these discussions will have significant implications for the future of peace and stability in the region.