TIA Special Correspondent /
Centre today signed a landmark peace accord with National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah). The accord was signed at the residence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.
Governmen
t’s Interlocutor for Naga Peace Talks, R.N. Ravi, signed the Agreement on behalf of the Government of India. Isak Chishi Swu, Chairman and Th. Muivah, General Secretary were the signatories on behalf of the NSCN.
The NSCN was represented by its entire collective leadership and senior leaders of various Naga tribes.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Modi described the accord as historic and appreciated Naga leaders for showing wisdom.
He also said he has the deepest admiration for the great Naga people for their extraordinary support to the peace efforts. The Prime Minister termed the long delay in resolving the Naga problem as unfortunate and said it was a colonial legacy.
Mr. Modi said peace, security and economic transformation of North East has been amongst his highest priorities. Lauding the courage and commitment of Naga people, Mr. Modi said they represent the highest levels of humanism.
On the occasion, NSCN (I-M) leader T Muivah said the accord has ushered in a new relationship between the Centre and the NSCN (I-M). He applauded the leadership of Narendra Modi saying the NSCN (I-M) and centre have come close to understanding each other under the visionary leadership of Mr. Modi.
Government’s Interlocutor for Naga Peace Talks, R.N. Ravi, signed the Agreement on behalf of the Government of India. Isak Chishi Swu, Chairman and Th. Muivah, General Secretary were the signatories on behalf of the NSCN. The entire top leadership of the NSCN (IM), including all members of the “collective leadership”, has fully endorsed the agreement and was present during the ceremony.
This agreement will end the oldest insurgency in the country. It will restore peace and pave the way for prosperity in the North East. It will advance a life of dignity, opportunity and equity for the Naga people, based on their genius and consistent with the uniqueness of the Naga people and their culture and traditions.
Attempts were made from time to time to resolve the issue through discussion with representatives of the Naga people. A fresh attempt for a comprehensive resolution was initiated with the NSCN in 1997.
The new Government on assuming power in May 2014 accorded highest priority to this lingering problem. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has on a number of occasions, including during visits to the Northeast region, articulated his vision for transforming the Northeast and has attached the highest priority to peace, security, connectivity and economic development in the region. This has also been at the heart of the Government’s foreign policy, especially ‘Act East’ Policy.
The sustained dialogue between the two sides, conducted in a spirit of equality, respect and trust, deepened their mutual understanding and confidence, and enabled the two sides to reach an equitable agreement. The Government of India recognized the unique history, culture and position of the Nagas and their sentiments and aspirations. The NSCN understood and appreciated the Indian political system and governance.
The Government interlocutor also held frequent consultations with broad spectrum of Naga leaders, including those from the traditional tribal bodies, civil society, youth and students’ bodies, women’s groups, elected representatives and other stakeholders. These consultations helped in distilling the popular aspirations of the Naga people and in enhancing a healthy atmosphere of trust and understanding.
In his statement at the signing ceremony, the Prime Minister lauded the courage and wisdom of the Naga leaders and civil society and thanked them for their co-operation in reaching the agreement. He also praised the Naga people for their support and the NSCN for maintaining the ceasefire for nearly two decades that enabled the dialogue to succeed. Prime Minister spoke of his vision for the transformation of the Northeast region. He also expressed confidence that the agreement will open a glorious new chapter for the Naga people to build a bright future for Nagaland and also contribute to the nation with a sense of pride and confidence.
Th. Muivah, General Secretary, NSCN, narrated the history of Nagas’ struggle and thanked the Hon’ble Prime Minister for his vision and resolve, which made it possible for the Government of India and the NSCN to reach an honourable settlement.
Within this framework agreement, details and execution plan will be released shortly. Hon’ble Home Minister, Rajnath Singh, National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval and other high dignitaries of the Government of India were present.
The NSCN was represented by its entire collective leadership and senior leaders of various Naga tribes.