Leader of the Naga People’s Front (NPF) Legislature Party Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu, has warned that the continued “deception by the government of India” for inordinately delaying to secure permanent solution to the Naga political issue, could compel the Naga political groups to withdraw from negotiations and in retaliation, possibly take up arms again.
In an exclusive interview to Nagaland Post at his residence here on Monday, Azo slammed the Centre’s insincerity to decide on solution and that in the event peaceful solution was not possible, then the 22 NPGs could come together and call off the talks with New Delhi. Expressing his deep resentment at the government of India’s disinclination to bring solution despite negotiations having been held and concluded with signing of Framework Agreement(August 3,2015) and Agreed Position(November 17,2017), Azo said NPGs have to suspend talks and even lead to eventual abrogation of the cease fires.
He said if the NPGs did not do so then they would only brand themselves as “national destroyers” and accused of pursuing personal gain through illicit means such as extortion, kidnapping, and ransom. He expressed deep scepticism about the likelihood of a solution, deeming it to be a distant dream.
Reflecting on the historical context, Azo reminded that the Nagas experienced horrific violence, rape, massacre, and destruction of villages during the 1950s but despite all these, the NPGs were steadfast with their commitment to their ideology .
Opposes abolishment of FMR, advocates Myanmar Naga’s land inclusion in India
In response to the Centre’s move to abolish the Free Movement Regime (FMR) from the Indo-Myanmar border, Azo said it(FMR)was a mutual agreement between India and Myanmar that fostered mutual understanding among border communities in both countries. He highlighted the significance of FMR for Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram, emphasising their shared ethnicity.
He said Nagaland shared approximately 215 km, Arunachal Pradesh 520 km, Mizoram 510 km, and Manipur 390 km with Myanmar. Expressing concern over potential misunderstanding and economic implications, Azo stated that abolishing FMR could hamper trade and relations between the two countries.
“We are living in peace. So I feel FMR should not be abolished,” he said. Azo expressed deep reservation that removing FMR would not only divide people, but also create misunderstandings among tribes residing on both sides of the border. He also emphasised cultural and familial connections between the two regions, citing an example of the Angh’s house at Longwa, Mon, built by chief minister Neiphiu Rio. The said the Angh’s house, was located on the imaginary boundary line between India and Myanmar, with one side in India and the other in Myanmar.
Suggestingan alternative approach, he proposed that instead of abolishing FMR, the Central government should demand inclusion of Naga lands into the territory of India during negotiations with Myanmar. He expressed confidence that the Myanmar government would agree to these terms, emphasising the importance of truthful dialogue over divisive measures. Echoing Mizoram chief minister Lalduhawma on the issue, Azo asserted that he was against the removal of FMR and expressed confidence that people of Nagaland and Mizoram would together oppose its abolishment. Azo however clarified that it was his personal view and not representative of the party or the state government.
Voices concerns over NLTP Act, advocates pragmatic approach
Expressing his reservations on the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP) Act, Azo said he stood for a nuanced perspective balancing Christian values with the practical challenges on the ground. He acknowledged that from a Christian standpoint, one might support the continuation of the NLTP Act. However, he argued that considering practical aspects and ground reality, the Act has proved more harmful than beneficial in recent decades.
Referring to the economic impact, he pointed out that Nagaland is losing a significant amount as revenue, ranging from Rs 400 to 500 crore annually due to the NLTP Act.
He also highlighted the issue of adulterated alcohol consumption among Nagas, which are causing more harm to the body and also economic loss, paying more than the actual amount.
Further, he remarked that the Act’s removal would not necessarily lead to widespread alcohol consumption, as those who did not drink would continue to abstain.
Azo also expressed concern over the rampant rise in the consumption of cheap drugs, particularly Sun Flower (Shan Flower), posing severe threat to Naga youth as a result of the prohibition. He stated that he would be requesting the chief minister to hold a robust and healthy debate in the Assembly over the matter, but added that the decision to lift or retain the Act would be left to the wisdom of the government.
He emphasised that government’s sincerity in enforcing the Act too was crucial.
Participation in upcoming elections
Meanwhile, on the issue of NPF’s participation in the upcoming Lok Sabha and urban local body (ULB) elections, Azo said his party was yet to discuss on the matter.
Azo expressed doubt that his party would set up a candidate for the Lok Sabha. On ULB elections, he mentioned that the NPF had not made any decision, but disclosed that the party would be meeting soon to discuss the matter.