NSCN (I-M) has categorically asserted that when the “Indo-Naga political negotiation” was about to arrive at honourable solution it was “never wise” to talk about the “Nagas of Nagaland, the sons of the soil or Nagas of outside Nagaland”.
In the joint statement, vice chairman ‘gen.’ (Retd) Kholi; collective leadership members- A.K. Lungalang, Tongmeth Wangnao and Q. Tuccu- reiterated that the framework agreement (signed on August 3, 2015) between the government of India and Nagas was a result of prolonged, dedicated and prayerful outcome between the two parties.
The four signatories asserted: “Nagaland state is never the best thing to have happened for the Naga people” adding Nagas knew how it came about in a “defining moment and treacherous situation” facing them.
Further, they enunciated on the recognition of Naga situation by the leaders of India and also reiteration of successive prime ministers about Naga issue being a unique and ruling it was not a law and order problem.
They said the realisation that seeking military solution proved futile and thus, it had to be solved politically between Naga people and the government of India. The signatories therefore asked sections of “our own people, groups and individuals” not to “confuse our command majorities” over the current political situation.
The four described Nagaland state as “already and abrogated agreement” since the 16th state of India, which was a “brain child of an arrangement” had been severely condemned by the NNC.
They quoted NNC leader late A.Z. Phizo who asked who were the Naga People’s Convention (NPC) and who mandated them to enter into an agreement with the government of India?
Further, while saying the creation of Nagaland had “benevolent provisions in the form of 371(A), there are vital clauses which have already been knocked out.”
The signatories further stressed on the hard work and painstaking efforts between the government of India and Naga leaders in collaboration with internationally renowned legal experts, constitutional experts, experts in conflict resolutions and people committed to peace around the globe, had worked this far to obtain a permanent settlement between the government of India and Naga people wherever they are.
They said Nagas living in other parts of India and Myanmar had to live “under politically tormenting situations” and were not as happy and comfortable as those who benefitted out of the “quick-fix 16th state of India”.