The NSCN (I-M) has claimed that the Framework Agreement (FA) would cover all the points of Article 371A and also realise the Naga people’s sovereign right.
The group pointed out in a statement that 371A could not accommodate the components of FA – Nagas’ sovereign right and national identity. Hence, it insisted that until such time the Article 371A should be kept in status-quo till the inking of the final Naga deal.
The NSCN (I-M) stressed that this should not be considered as a problem for the Nagas if they look for an honourable solution with their political identity intact.
According to the group, there were enough rooms to appreciate each other’s difficulties and work together, provided Article 371A was considered a stop-gap arrangement and a stepping stone towards the principle of greater height.
However, if this was taken as the bedrock of Naga society, “the alpha and omega of Naga political journey”, then naturally it came under treason. Thus, the matter was sensitive and required dealing with expediency.
Unfortunately, the group said it had witnessed organisations based out of Nagaland demanding solution for Nagas of the state and submitted memorandum to the Prime Minister supporting the NNPGs’ Agreed Position, thereby making Article 371A a roadblock to solution.