NSCN-IM apprehensive of govt’s commitment to Naga issue

Kohima, Aug 8 (IANS) The National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM) has expressed apprehension over the Centre's commitment to solve the Naga political issue.

In an August 1 letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, NSCN-IM chief Q Tuccu and general secretary (chief negotiator) Th Muivah lamented that the talks, which were to take place at the highest level, had been reduced to the Governor's level.

R.N. Ravi, the government interlocutor for the peace talks with various Naga insurgent groups including the NSCN-IM, was sworn in as Governor of Nagaland on August 1.

We had joined talks on the invitation of the Prime Minister and on August 3, 2015, a framework agreement was signed after several rounds of talks, Tuccu and Muivah said.

The NSCN-IM leaders alleged the commitment by successive Prime Ministers that the talks would be held at the highest level, at a neutral venue outside the country and without any pre-condition had been dishonoured.

"We are surprised that the talks have now been reduced to the Governor's level. Both parties have patiently been negotiating for the past 22 years and we are committed to working out an honourable solution," they said.

They said the recent changes and developments had created confusion and doubt in the mind of Nagas about an honourable political solution.

The NSCN-IM has been in talks with the government since 1997 after the signing of a ceasefire agreement.

Nagaland became India's 16th state on December 1, 1963. The most mountainous state spread over 16,579 square km is home to 16 major tribes, each with distinct customs, language and dress.

The state was accorded special provisions under Article 371 (A) of the Constitution.