The extension of the ceasefire agreement between GPRN/NSCN (N Kitovi) and the Government of India has brought to the fore issues over nomenclature, with Ceasefire Supervisory Board (CFSB) supervisor G. Naga clarifying that the agreement was signed strictly under the banner of GPRN/NSCN (N Kitovi).
Addressing media persons upon arrival at Dimapur airport following the April 10 signing in New Delhi, G. Naga asserted that the Government of India recognises only GPRN/NSCN (NK) and not any entity under the “NSCN Unification” nomenclature.
His clarification came after GPRN/NSCN (Unification), led by ato kilonser Alezo Venuh and president Neokpao Konyak, issued a statement claiming extension of the ceasefire agreement.
G. Naga said that prior to the signing, there was an understanding with a representative of the NSCN-U group to avoid media exchanges in order to prevent confusion. However, he expressed disappointment that a statement was issued claiming the extension under a “unification” banner, terming it a breach of trust.
“We were invited as GPRN/NSCN (NK), just as last year. The Government of India recognises this leadership. There is no separate ‘unification’ entity in their records,” he said, adding that documentary evidence exists to support the claim.
He also disclosed that the group had urged the Centre not to create parallel nomenclatures, warning that such distinctions could lead to complications by implying multiple leadership structures.
On the talks held in Delhi, G. Naga said discussions went beyond routine ceasefire extension, involving in-depth deliberations with officials of the Ministry of Home Affairs and intelligence agencies. He said the focus had now shifted towards achieving a final political settlement.
“The ceasefire is already settled. The time is ripe for a solution,” he said, adding that there was broad support from tribal bodies, churches and the younger generation for an early Indo-Naga political settlement.
He dismissed the demand for complete unity among Naga political groups as a precondition, stating that despite differences, there was consensus on the political issue. “Unity should not be used as a delay mechanism anymore,” he asserted.
Calling upon the state’s political leadership to play a proactive role, he urged them to move beyond rhetoric and facilitate the final settlement in the interest of future generations.
“This is not about a five-year political cycle. It is about future generations. The time has come to walk the talk”, he said, urging leaders to demonstrate moral courage in pushing the process forward.
Meanwhile, member of collective leadership, C. Singson, said the delegation’s visit to Delhi was primarily for ceasefire extension, though broader discussions were also held.
He reiterated that the nomenclature remained ‘NK’ and cautioned against misleading narratives.
GPRN/NSCN (NK) chief secretary, Kideon V. Zhimomi, also said the delegation had constructive deliberations with Government of India representatives, while expressing concern over attempts to create confusion regarding GPRN/NSCN (NK).
“I can always say that if it’s about the ‘department of lying’, we cannot compete with them. But when it comes to the ‘department of facts’, we stand firm. We are dealing with the Naga issue, not individual ones”, he stated.
The delegation that signed the ceasefire extension included C. Singson, G. Naga, Hotoi Awomi, Kideon V. Zhimomi, Chuba Tungoe, Pongba Konyak and Akato Yeptho.
CF extension signed under GPRN/NSCN (NK), says G. Naga; clarifies ‘unification’ claims
Staff Reporter
