Altogether 18 legislators, both from ruling and opposition parties including chief minister Neiphiu Rio and opposition leader T.R. Zeliang, took part in a lengthy discussion before adopting the resolution on the Naga political issue during the 2nd session of 13th Nagaland legislative assembly on September 20.
Opposition member Imkong L. Imchen pointed out that the resolution adopted should be replaced with an assembly resolution and not “government resolution.” He said integration was a legitimate right of the Nagas to live under one administrative umbrella. He lamented that the Nagas lack unity and there are nine Naga factions at present. The longer the talks stretch out, the more divisions will be seen, he opined.
MLA, Kuzholuzo Neinu also agreed with Imchen for an assembly and not government resolution. On the Naga issue, he said the dream of the forefathers was yet to be fulfilled. He questioned how people could know if the talks were going in the right direction without knowing the content of the Naga talks.
Advisor, Pohwang said that Article 371 (A) was a complete failure and Naga issue should not continue unresolved. He said that without bringing all the factions together to the negotiating table the problem would continue.
Opposition member C.L. John said that the Indian government had divided the Nagas forcefully, and now they should be asked to bring the Nagas back together forcefully. Opposition member Yitachu lamented that despite Ram Madhav’s statement “election for solution”, the solution was still to be seen after many months. Opposition member Vikheho also echoed the sentiment that the longer the solution takes to arrive, the more divisions and misunderstandings would take place.
Along the same lines, advisor, K. Tukugha Sukhalu expressed his opinion that the Naga political issue needed to be resolved at the earliest.
Opposition member Chotisuh Sazo said the Naga political movement was a people based movement, asserting the rights and identity of the Nagas to live as a people.
Minister Tongpang Ozukum said that after many years of the Naga struggle for their rights, dignity and identity, the historic framework agreement was signed between GoI and NSCN (I-M) on August 3, 2015, and this agreement was signed in recognition of Naga history and their unique identity by the government of India. Minister Kaito Aye said it was high time for the Nagas to come together for an amicable solution and not play the blame game.
Advisor, Imnatiba said the Naga talk should be conducted with transparency, and expressed support for the need for an honourable and acceptable solution.
Minister, V. Kashiho Sangtam said the role of the Joint Legislative Forum should be to bring Naga civil societies and organizations together.
Advisor, Toshi Wungtung; MLA, Yitachu, minister, Temjen Imna Along; advisor, Mmhunlumo Kikon; and MLA, Muthingnyuba Sangtam, also gave inputs to the discussion.