Collaboration of NSCN-IM and NNPGs for Naga political solution

KOHIMA: NSCN-IM and Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) on Saturday announced their unconditional commitment to cooperate with the Government of India to resolve the Naga political issue.

The announcement comes four months after the National Socialist Council of Nagalim Isak Muivah (NSCN-IM) and NNPGs comprising at least seven Naga groups signed a joint pact in September, in separate talks with the Centre for the Resolution of the Naga Political Issue (NPI).
Since the signing of the “September Joint Accord” on September 14, the NNPGs and NSCN-IM have agreed to form a “Council of Naga Relations and Cooperation” under the leadership of the NNPGs Convener and NSCN Chairman, so that at the earliest, Realistic ways for Nagas to move forward based on historical and political rights of Nagas.
“In affirmation of this position, the NNPGs and the NSCN this day declare our unconditional commitment to cooperate with the Government of India for the settlement of Naga historical and political rights, based on our respective agreements, with immediate effect. ” He said in a joint statement.

Joined by NSCN-IM chairman Q Tuccu and NNPG convener N Kitovi Zhimomi, they also appealed to the Naga people to stand with them to prevent further division of the common property.
“This statement is a political speech of the undeniable Naga spirit,” he said.

The joint statement was issued after a meeting by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR), an organization working for peace, reconciliation and the coming together of Naga groups, at an undisclosed location.
The Government of India has been in talks with the NSCN-IM and the Working Committee of Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) since 1997 and 2017 respectively.

It signed a framework agreement with the NSCN-IM in August 2015 and an agreed position with the NNPGs in November 2017.
While the NNPGs have agreed to accept a solution and continue talks, the NSCN-IM has remained firm on its demand for a separate flag and constitution for the Nagas, delaying the final settlement of decades-old talks.