In a significant development, a consultative meeting on the Naga Political Issue in Kohima on Thursday, appealed to the Government of India to elevate the ongoing peace talks by appointing a high-level interlocutor, preferably at the ministerial or political level, who would have the confidence and mandate of the government.
This was among four-point resolution adopted during the consultative meeting, jointly signed by chief minister Neiphiu Rio, deputy chief ministers Y Patton and TR Zeliang, MP Rajya Sabha S Phangnon Konyak and MP Lok Sabha Supongmeren Jamir.
According to spokesperson of the PDA coalition-led oppositionless government and minister of Power and Parliamentary Affairs KG Kenye, the meeting expressed the belief that the appointment of a high-level interlocutor would help expedite the negotiations and hasten resolution to the Naga political issue.
He said that the meeting noted that the status of the current interlocutor was insufficient, and the participants expressed the need for a more empowered figure to handle the complexity of the Naga issue.
He also informed that the resolutions were unanimously adopted by the participants, starting with an acknowledgment of the efforts made by both the Government of India and the Naga Political Groups in upholding the ceasefire agreements despite numerous challenges over the past two decades.
The meeting recognized the importance of maintaining peace and called for continued cooperation between all parties to ensure no breakdown in the talks.
He said the meeting urged upon all Naga political groups to refrain from factionalism, formation of breakaway groups, or the creation of new organizations. He said participants highlighted the detrimental effects of internal divisions and stressed the importance of working collectively towards a common goal. The meeting emphasized that all stakeholders in the peace process must foster a spirit of understanding and oneness to achieve a lasting resolution.
Kenye said the meeting also maintained the importance of involving the public in the peace process. He acknowledged that the government, through the Political Affairs Committee (PAC), had been in direct talks with various Naga groups for years but felt it was now crucial to gather broader input from the general populace.
He said the meeting served as a platform for dialogue on the ongoing peace process, allowing participants to exchange perspectives and contribute ideas toward resolving the long-standing conflict.
According to Kenye, the meeting also called for stricter implementation of the Ceasefire Ground Rules (CFGR). He said the creation and recognition of numerous Naga groups was not conducive to long-term peace and stability. The meeting therefore urged upon the Government of India to scale back the number of recognized Naga factions to ensure a more unified approach to the peace talks.
Kenye advised Naga political groups to focus on achievable and practical goals in their negotiations with the Centre, suggesting that unrealistic demands could hinder progress. He emphasized that while it is important to address key issues, some aspirations might need to be left for future generations to pursue.
The minister also expressed concerns about the parallel negotiations being held by the Government of India with both the NSCN (I-M) and the NNPGs, stating that while both groups had the people’s interests in mind, their differing positions have not resulted in tangible benefits for the public. He called for a more unified approach from the Naga groups and urged them to create a single, cohesive document that would leave no room for “unwanted maneuvering.”
He noted that chief minister Neiphiu Rio echoed this sentiment during the meeting, stressing the importance of adopting a practical approach in their negotiations with the Centre.
Kenye remarked that years of pleading with the groups have not yielded the desired outcome. If this continues, he warned, a solution to the ongoing talks will remain out of reach. Since all efforts at persuasion have failed, Kenye emphasized that it is now time for the people to voice their opinions on the matter and take an active role in pushing for a resolution.
The minister concluded by emphasizing that the consultative meeting marked the beginning of a broader, more inclusive dialogue. He expressed hope for further consultative sessions and announced that the PAC would analyze the suggestions received during the meeting to develop a more comprehensive strategy for future talks. The government, he reiterated, remains committed to finding a peaceful and lasting resolution to the Naga political issue. The meeting was attended by legislators, apex tribal hohos, civil society organizations, church bodies, NGOs, student unions, and representatives of political parties.