All Indian Congress Committee (AICC) secretary in charge of Nagaland, Christopher Tilak, has called for greater transparency in the state’s ongoing political negotiations.
During a press conference held at Congress Bhavan, Tilak applauded the Nagaland government’s decision to form the Political Affairs Committee (PAC), which includes 60 MLAs, MPs, and representatives from other political parties.
He urged that PAC members be provided with the full details of the agreements signed by the NSCN (I-M) and the seven NNPGs, emphasizing that this information would enable broader input from civil society and allow for more informed discussions within the PAC.
Tilak noted that giving PAC members access to the agreement would allow them to consult with public stakeholders, helping to create a clearer understanding of the nature of the negotiations. This, he added, would facilitate more meaningful discussions and foster greater transparency in the peace process.
Tilak, who also oversees Congress operations in Tripura, Manipur, and Sikkim, reflected on the 2024 Lok Sabha election results in Nagaland, viewing them as a significant victory for the Congress party despite having no representatives in the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA).
He said the victory demonstrated that the people of Nagaland are seeking change and have confidence in Congress’s ideology and approach to handling state issues. Tilak expressed optimism that, in the lead-up to the 2028 state elections, the Congress party would develop a comprehensive strategy and road map to engage with voters at the district and grassroots levels.
Discussing the broader economic situation in India, Tilak acknowledged that while the country has seen economic growth, various issues in different states have hindered their ability to prosper.
He pointed out that economic instability leads to a lack of investment, which in turn affects development, employment, and migration.
Tilak also highlighted the impact of societal disturbances on women, particularly in the Northeast, where women’s participation in societal activities is high. He stressed that peace is crucial for the development of both women and youth in the region.
Tilak also announced that Congress would begin a state-wide tour after mid-October, starting from the Eastern Nagaland areas, accompanied by the PCC president and district office bearers to strengthen the party’s outreach efforts ahead of future elections.
On a separate note, MP Lok Sabha Supongmeren clarified that the document shared by NSCN (IM) and the seven NNPGs was an agreement but not the competency document, noting that the details have not yet been made public. Supongmeren suggested that the Naga political issue should be settled politically and proposed appointing a Union cabinet minister to help push the process forward.
Tilak also responded to questions about Congress’s past involvement in the Naga political issue, stating that the party had put forward a framework agreement in 2013-14. He added that while the central government has since changed, the framework remains relevant, and Congress remains committed to seeking a final solution if it returns to power.
One nation, one poll and ENPO demand
The AICC secretary criticized the “One Nation, One Election” proposal, calling it undemocratic. He argued that such measures undermine India’s global standing as a democratic leader, comparing it to past actions like demonetization, which he claimed failed to deliver on promises like recovering black money.
On the demand for Frontier Nagaland Territory by the Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization (ENPO), the Lok Sabha MP expressed optimism that ongoing talks with the Government of India would yield a positive outcome.
The MP also raised concerns about Sainik School Punglwa, noting that around 40 out of 120 reserved seats remain vacant, which could lead to changes in reservation policy if not addressed. He encouraged citizens to seize the upcoming recruitment opportunities for Class 6 and Class 9. He also urged the state government to prioritize district officers, as they are vital for reaching remote areas, stressing the importance of logistical support to ensure effective governance in rural regions.