People of Nagaland must wake up, says leaders of 3 NPGs

Leaders of three Naga ‘National Political Groups’ (NPGs) after deliberating on the “current socio-political situation prevailing in Naga homeland” said that the “people of Nagaland must wake up”.

In a press note, NPGs media cell stated that the meeting was held on July 6 where GPRN/NSCN collective leadership, NNC/GDRN (Kiumukam/Hangping) and NNC/NPGN (Temjenyanger/Hojeto) were present, though other members were unable to attend the meeting owing to unavoidable circumstances.

With regard to August 3 Accord signed between Government of India and NSCN (I-M), the three NPGs resolved to “make it known to the signatories that any settlement that undermines the integrity and interest of the people of Nagaland state shall be opposed strongly by the people of Nagaland”. 

“This is in view of the clear stand accepted by both GoI and NSCN (I-M) leadership on the questions of Naga sovereignty and integration of Naga areas, which have been rejected in the course of negotiation between the two,” they stated.

The NPG leaders also resolved to strongly call upon all traditional and tribal civil societies of Nagaland state, who it said were the hierarchical custodians of Naga society and culture, “to undertake the primary role of defending the traditional rights of the people of Nagaland in the face of many ambiguous political terms and terminologies which the negotiating parties appear to be coining frequently to confuse the people of Nagaland”.

They however, said that “any settlement between GoI and NSCN (IM), which fulfils the aspiration of Nagas people in other states shall not be opposed”. 

The NPGs further sought active participation of all tribes in Nagaland to pursue the final acceptable and honorable political solution with GoI at the earliest.

Meanwhile, the leaders expressed sadness over the demise of NSCN (I-M) chairman Isak Chishi Swu. NPGs said they acknowledged late Swu’s lifelong contribution to the Naga cause and appreciated his strong desire to bring “reconciliation and unity among the Nagas”.