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03/22/2010: "‘Nagas alone will decide own fate’ morungexpress"
‘Nagas alone will decide own fate’ morungexpress
The ‘Ato Kilonser’ of the NSCN/GPRN, Th. Muivah is seen here addressing the gathering during the 30th Republic Day celebration at the Council Headquarters, Camp Hebron on Sunday. (Sorei Mahong Photo)
Dimapur | March 21 : The ‘Ato Kilonser’ of the NSCN/GPRN, Th. Muivah reaffirmed its stand for an honourable and acceptable solution arising out of the prolonged Indo-Naga peace talks. Muivah while addressing the 30th Republic Day celebration of the NSCN at the outfit’s Council Headquarters, Hebron stated that the Nagas will only agree to a ‘negotiated settlement’ with the government of India which is acceptable to both parties.
“We have to stand our ground, come what may… The Nagas alone will decide their own fate”, the ‘Ato Kilonser’ said while affirming that there can be no compromise. He said that the Nagas are only asking from the GoI what God gave to them and asserted that they will stand for it.
It was said that India will crush the Nagas in a few days yet they have not been able to do so even after more then six decades, Muivah said. “Do you realize God stood for us during our struggle all through these years?” “I believe in God, I believe in Nagalim too”, he asserted. Paying rich tributes to the late vice president of the organization, Khodao Yanthan, the ‘Ato Kilonser’ said “He stood like a rock for the Nagas”. Expressing his condolences to the late leader, Muivah said it saddened him that he could be there when the last rites were conducted in honour of the departed soul.
He further said that the present Naga generation owes a lot to the pioneers of the NNC who laid the foundation of the Naga freedom struggle. His gratitude for the founding fathers of the Naga struggle was evident when he said “We owe our salvation to them”. He said that the pioneers made the right decision of fighting for a separate homeland for the Nagas and because of their able guidance and leadership early on, “we are safe and here today’.
Not dwelling much into the present talks with the GoI, the ‘Ato Kilonser’ took a dig at the GoI saying that they are not sincere enough. He informed that the Prime Minister and the Home Minister of India have expressed their commitment to a ‘negotiated settlement’.
On a more introspective note the ‘Ato Kilonser’ called upon the national workers to look within themselves and seek for repentance. “We are becoming weak not because of the strength of India but because of our own sins”. Muivah said that the ‘national workers’ have to realize that or the ‘Naga nation’ will lose its strength for which they themselves will be responsible, even including himself and his subordinates. To prevent that from occurring he called upon the ‘workers’ to confess and seek the Almighty’s help. “Our time for victory is not far away… let us forsake our self righteousness and humble ourselves and God shall open the way.
The message from the ‘Yaruiwo’ Isaac Chishi Swu read out by the convener of the ‘Steering Committee’, (retd) Gen. VS Atem saluted all the “martyrs of Nagalim” who have sacrificed their lives for the cause of the ‘Republic’. It stated that the world is in search of peace and so are the Naga people. ‘Nagalim’ is not demanding anybody’s land nor right, Nagas want only justice “within the justice system of the world” which is peace, it read.
“Even though the Naga people are held at gun point by the aggressors”, the message said that young Nagas should be encouraged to pursue education which is the “most important instrument of nation-building”. The NSCN/GPRN is committed to the reconciliation movement for the cause of which the forum ‘For Naga Reconciliation’ is “ceaselessly working hard”.
Representatives from several Naga civil societies also aired support towards the Naga struggle. The president of the Naga Hoho expressed optimism that the peace talks with the GoI will bear results. At the same time he urged the NSCN/GPRN leaders to be “transparent” about the talks with the GoI. Expressing support towards the movement for reconciliation and unification of all Naga areas, the president urged the NSCN/GPRN not to become complacent.
Muivah asks national workers to seek repentance
He pointed out that the craze for power and position should not be allowed to creep in into the NSCN/GPRN, and he called upon them to be responsible to the welfare of the Naga people.
Attending a Naga republic day for the first time, the president of the ‘Chief Association, Tirap and Changlang’ brought greetings from the Naga “brothers and sisters” of Tirap and Changlang in Arunachal Pradesh. He said that they are as much a Naga as any other and is proud of it while reposing confidence in the ‘collective leadership’. Naga Women Hoho, Manipur hoped that the GoI will recognize the “birthright” of the Nagas and the “dream and vision will come true”.
Neingole Krome of FNR longed for the day when “a common Naga Republic Day” will be celebrated. “If the Nagas want peace, we must be prepared for any eventuality”, Krome said.
Naga Council, Dimapur represented by its president said that the council will “act as a catalyst for change”. Together with the other Naga organisations, the president said that the council will work for the unity and reconciliation of the Nagas. The Eastern Naga Peoples’ Organisation, Naga Students’ Federation, United Naga Council and the Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Rights also extended their support towards the cause of all Nagas.
Muivah happy with talks, but says no to Indian Constitution IST
Camp Hebron (Nagaland): National Socialist Council of Nagaland—NSCN(IM)—general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah on Sunday commended the government’s seriousness in finding a peaceful solution to the Naga problem, but not before asking New Delhi not to impose the Indian Constitution on them.
“This time they (Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and home minister P Chidambaram) seem to be more serious in finding a solution. But we have told them very clearly, don’t try to impose the Indian Constitution on us. The Nagas will never accept that,” Muivah said.
Also “Prime Minister” of the underground “Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim” (GPRN), Muivah was addressing its 30th “Republic Day” function at the NSCN(IM)’s truce-time headquarters at Camp Hebron, about 80 km away from Kohima. Muivah hoisted the Nagalim flag as a Prime Minister, while three contingents of the Naga Army, including two women’s contingents, displayed a march past.
On his recent meeting with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Muivah said while he talked about certain problems that cropped up between the two sides in the past, Singh asked him to forget those. “Past is past, we have to look to the future, the Prime Minister told me,” he said.
Muivah, however, complained that the Centre did not respect the rights of the Nagas. “I have already told Chidambaram that you (New Delhi) don’t respect the rights of the Nagas, and this is what is creating problems.”
“I have faith in Chidambaram’s commitment as he says he is serious, but still don’t know if they will betray us,” the NSCN(IM) leader said.
While refraining to divulge any details on what the NSCN(IM) and the Centre talked in the recent round, he said victory is not far away. “Our victory is not far away. The solution must be honourable and acceptable to both parties,” Muivah said.
Naga militant group rearming as talks flounder IST
New Delhi Central intelligence agencies have reported that the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) — one of the Northeast’s strongest insurgent outfits — is rearming.
The report, which comes in the backdrop of a deadlocked peace process between the Centre and the outfit that has been on for the past 13 years, has forced the Union Home Ministry to order an immediate investigation by the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
The agencies told the government there is a growing sense of frustration among the rank and file of the NSCN (IM). The outfit is procuring sophisticated weapons, arms and ammunition — mostly of Chinese origin — and getting clear support from a neighbouring country.
"We’ve registered an FIR against some NSCN members and started the investigation. The IB report clearly points to the outfit’s nefarious designs to destabilise the Northeast. We are also probing the extent of their links with China,” said a senior NIA official.
The NSCN (IM) has been extorting huge sums of money from individuals and organisations involved in implementing development projects.
The NIA had recently filed a chargesheet in another case handed over to it, after its investigations revealed hundreds of crores of rupees in government development funds had been siphoned off in the Northeast.
A major part of this went to an insurgent group in Assam, the Dima Halam Daogah (Black Widow faction). The group used this to buy weapons.
“We found that in one case itself, nearly Rs 100 crore of government funds were swindled by a clique of politicians, bureaucrats, insurgents and contractors in the North Cachar Hills district of Assam in the past few months and a major part of this went to insurgent groups,” the official added.
The case has now been handed over to the CBI by the state government, after the NIA formally recommended an investigation into allegations of corruption and misappropriation of development funds by politicians, officials and contractors.
Ministers in the Assam government are reportedly implicated in the case.
NSCN (I-M) committed to talks, says Swu Sushanta Talukdar
‘Prime Minister promises an honourable solution' ‘Indian government seems to be more serious this time'
Hebron (Nagaland): General Secretary of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) Thuingaleng Muivah on Sunday told its cadres and representatives of various Naga organisations at the fortified Council Headquarters (CHQ) of the underground outfit here that as the chief negotiator of the NSCN(IM) he had made it clear to New Delhi that the Nagas would not accept “imposition of Indian Constitution” on them.
‘More serious' He said Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram “seemed to be more serious this time.”
Mr. Muivah made his speech after hoisting the NSCN(IM) flag amidst loud bangs of bombs exploded by the demolition squad of the underground outfit to mark the occasion of its 30th ‘republic day' at the CHQ, about 40 km from Dimapur, Nagaland's commercial capital.
Mr. Muivah said that he had drawn the attention of Dr. Manmohan Singh to the statements made on behalf of the government of India during the peace talks insisting on solutions within the Constitution and clarified the position of the outfit that under such a situation no agreement could be possible.
‘Past is past' However, according to Mr. Muivah, Dr. Singh had said, “Past is past and solution would be honourable and acceptable to both the sides.” Mr Muivah told the gathering about the assurances given to him by the Prime Minister.
Speech read out NSCN (IM) chairman Isak Chishi Swu, whose speech was read out in absentia by self styled Lt Gen (retd.) V.S. Atem, convener, Steering Committee, said: “In spite of all the disturbances from different angles, our commitment to continue with the negotiation for a honourable settlement through peaceful means remains unchanged.”
Naga Hoho president Kevi Keyhuo urged the NSCN(IM) leaders to ensure transparency in political negotiations with the Centre. The NSCN(IM) cadres in combat fatigues stood guard en route the CHQ at Hebron hill top and were seen guiding the invitees to the venue beyond the iron gate decorated in a traditional Naga style.
NSCN-IM re-arming as talks end in a dock : Report OneIndia News
New Delhi, Mar 21: As the peace process between the Center and The Nationalist Movement Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) continues to be in a deadlock for the last 13 years, NSCN-IM is said to be re-arming itself, media reports said.
According to media report, the outfit, which is considered as one Northeast’s strongest militant groups, has purchased sophisticated weapons, arms and ammunitions.
In reaction to the disturbing news, the Center has reportedly asked the National Investigation Agency to investigate into the matter.
The NIA is said to have already registered FIR against some NSCN members and are investigating the outfit's links with China
Opportunity Comes to Nagas By: Oken Jeet Sandham Kangla
After 13 years of ceasefire and over 70 rounds of talks between the Government of India and the NSCN (IM), the Naga people’s patience have run out, anxiety has been prevailing everywhere and most importantly they have been kept in the dark of the outcome of the talks. They are now confused as to what the talks are up to. Nevertheless, they still hope that there will be a solution between the parties concerned sooner than later.
In fact, there is a semblance of peace in Nagaland as factional fights have drastically reduced over the last one year in the state. Both NSCN factions have halted clashes between them following their signing to the “Covenant of Reconciliation” in June last year. This historic “Covenant of Reconciliation” was signed by Isak Chishi Swu, Chairman, NSCN/GPRN; SS Khaplang, Chairman, GPRN/NSCN; and Brig (Retd) S Singnya, President, Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN).
The relative peace that has been prevailing in Nagaland has been largely contributed to the works of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR). FNR has been mainly working to bring reconciliation among the warring Naga underground factions. The FNR was born in February, 2008 and it comprises of all the frontal Naga organizations, including the Council of Naga Baptist Churches (CNBC), and with the support of Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) and the Nagaland Christian Forum (NCF).
So far, the FNR has had 24 different meetings both within and outside of Naga areas. In all these meetings and gatherings, the Naga political groups, the Naga frontal organizations and the public have made solemn commitments to the process of genuine reconciliation, unity and peace among the Nagas and with confidence.
The leaders of the Naga underground groups have also agreed to constitute a Joint Working Group (JWG) to further strengthen the reconciliation and resolve to work together in the spirit of love, non-violence, peace, and respect to resolve outstanding issues amongst them.
“We are hopeful of a broad based settlement and very happy at the initiative taken by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation that helped stop inter-factional killings and violence in the State,” said GK Pillai, Union Home Secretary.
Although the Naga underground groups agreed to halt factional fights and have understanding and reconciliation through the initiative of FNR, the General Secretary of the NSCN (IM), Th Muivah is still skeptical of the views of the Government of India that all Naga groups must unite and come for talks before the final settlement was reached. The NSCN-IM argued that other outfits were non-mandated group. Muivah had said recently that participation of non-mandated group in the talks for settlement of the issue would only dilute what has been achieved in the talks so far.
The Government of India has already submitted its 29-point counter proposal to the NSCN (IM). They are making all out efforts to bring together all underground and tribal groups of Nagaland and hammer out a new political and economic solution acceptable to all. The Center’s proposed package includes financial largesse, greater devolution of powers, special steps for the protection of Naga culture and heritage besides others.
Interestingly, The JWG of the Naga underground factions came out against any form of conditional package offered to the Nagas by the Government of India. With the signing of the Covenant of Reconciliation and the rejection of “any form of conditional packaged offered to the Nagas by the Government of India,” it was logical that for common interests and actions of the Nagas a united front of sorts was most desirable, they explained. “One of the fundamental truths of the Nagas today is the call for political reconciliation in pursuit of common interest based on the ‘historical and political rights of the Nagas,” they further stated.
They further stressed that any political model of government had to be focused contextually. “Each country has its uniqueness and as such, what may function politically in one country may not be suitable for another country,” they said. “Therefore, in context, a Naga political model should be envisaged and discussed upon.”
The Center-NSCN-IM talks which remained deadlocked will resume in April after nearly a year. The last round of talks between the two was held in March 2009 in Zurich, Switzerland. The Government of India has reportedly sent official invitation to the collective leadership of the outfit for resumption of talks in the first week of April.
The Government of India may likely to press upon the collective leadership during the talks that any final settlement of the vexed Naga political issue will only come about when they are able to sit across the table with the united Naga group. The NSCN-IM leadership may, however, not accept the idea. But the reality is there will be no final settlement with one group. It may be mentioned that Government of India has also been maintaining ceasefire with the NSCN (K) since 2001. The outfit is yet to start political talks with the Government of India.
Interestingly, while the NSCN (K) has been sticking to the sovereignty of the Nagas, the NSCN (IM) that was earlier fighting for an independent homeland for the Nagas, has come down to a Greater Nagaland, to be formed by carving out of the adjoining states that have Naga tribal populations. The demand has, however, been rejected by the Governments of Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. It is not that easy to find solution and it is indeed extremely complex. However, it appears that the Government of India this time may try to find solution to the long drawn out Naga political issue. This opportunity should not be missed by the Naga people.
Kitovi optimistic on Reconciliation efforts
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The ‘Ato Kilonser’ of the GPRN/NSCN, N. Kitovi Zhimomi is seen here addressing the gathering during the 30th Republic Day celebration at Khehoi Designated Camp on Sunday. (Morung Photo)
Dimapur | March 21 : In a positive signal to the ongoing “Journey of Common Hope” to bring reconciliation amongst the Naga political groups, GPRN/NSCN Ato Kilonser Kitovi Zhimomi has expressed optimism that the efforts of Forum for Naga Reconciliation would bear fruit. “FNR is tirelessly working to bring peace and reconciliation. I hope this mission will be achieved sooner or later,” the Ato Kilonser told media persons on the sidelines of the Republic Naga Day celebration.
Stating that the unification and reconciliation move was in full swing, Kitovi asked how long it would take for “our other leaders” to realize that Nagas have shed enough blood and that enough was enough. He also said that the Naga public should also come out openly and insist the Naga political leaders to unite to achieve the common aspiration – sovereignty.
To a query on the reported demand for ‘Greater Nagaland,’ and ‘integration,’ Kitovi said there is no greater or smaller Nagaland as wherever Naga people resides, that is also part of Nagaland. He said that on the other hand those people insisting on greater Nagaland and integration were responsible for disintegrating the Naga family.
Earlier too, the Ato Kilonser in his address at the Republic Day celebration said that Nagas will remain as Nagas whether they get independence or not. Calling for unity among Nagas, he said Nagas have spilled too much blood and that “we cannot live forever hating each other.” He said the main political agenda of the GPRN/NSCN was “sovereignty-no more no less.”
Echoing the speech of SS Khaplang, Kitovi also said that without unity among Nagas, any political dialogue or agreement with the Government of India would not solve the Naga problem but rather bring more bloodshed among Nagas. GPRN/NSCN chaplee kilonser and JWG convenor C Singson said that “Unification” was based on Naga people’s interest and that the GPRN/NSCN was very clear on what it was doing. On reconciliation process, Singson said “unless Nagas unite, there is no way out.”
Naga struggle is a people’s movement Khaplang appreciates Isak for signing ‘Covenant of Reconciliation’ Morung Express News
Dimapur Stating that the Naga national struggle is a people-based movement, the GPRN/NSCN today reaffirmed that any agreement entered into by any group with the Government of India to solve the 80-year old Naga political problem without the consent of Naga people would only result in more bloodshed and fratricidal killings. Greeting the Naga people on the occasion of the 30th Naga Republic Day celebration held at Khehoi designated camp, GPRN/NSCN chairman SS Khaplang in his speech, which was read out by Speaker, Tatar Hoho, Hevekhu Yepthomi, also the chief guest on the occasion said that Naga cannot afford to be victims of another Shillong Accord.
The GPRN/NSCN chairman said history has taught the Nagas that past agreements or accords sustained with forced consensus and consent have always been counter productive. “The infamous Shillong Accord of 1975 did not only become a thorn to the Naga political struggle, but with it the bloodbath at the behest of occupational forces,” Khaplang said and reminded that when a political crime is committed, it is not the signatories or leaders who suffer but the nation and its people.
He said that drawing strength from the Almighty and through sustained perseverance of a determined struggle, the Government of People’s Republic of Nagaland was formed on March 21, 1980, to “universally declare Naga nation as a republic.” “Today, our path is defined and precise. For long we have remained victims of our own emotions. We cannot afford to be victims of another Shillong Accord…We have passed the crossroads, do not allow apolitical confused elements to blur our destined vision. Naga people’s aspiration shall be fulfilled in consortium,” Khaplang said.
He said the landmark event in the history of the Nagas took place on November 22, 2007, at Hovishe village under Niuland sub-division as it was on that day that the “Naga Unification” process began.
Acknowledging the role of the Forum for Naga Reconciliation and also other civil society in carrying further the process of reconciliation and unity among the Naga political groups, Khaplang also appreciated the “responsibility” of NSCN/GPRN chairman Isak Chishi Swu for signing the ‘Covenant of Reconciliation.’ He further acknowledged the commitment of the joint working group (JWG) of the three political parties - NNC/FGN, GPRN/NSCN and NSCN/GPRN.
Declaring that Naga national struggle is a people-based movement and that the GPRN/NSCN is committed to democratically involve all sections of people in finding a solution to the Indo-Naga-Myanmar political problem, Khaplang said the Indian government must at the outset recognize Naga sovereignty, in order to create a conducive atmosphere for political talks.
Chairman, GBs & DBs Joint Forum, K Vikuto Zhimomi who was the guest of honour in his address said unification of al Naga groups is the common desire of all Nagas. He suggested that the Naga groups must form a common political platform for final settlement to the Naga issue.
Ato kilonser, GPRN/NSCN, Kitovi Zhimomi, representatives from Naga Council Dimapur, Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization and Naga chronicler Kaka D Iralu also spoke on the occasion. Highlights of the celebration included cultural displays by Ao, Sangtam, Chakhesang, Gorkha, Kachari, Zeliangrong troupes. Meanwhile, GPRN/NSCN sources said that the C-in-C of Naga Army, Gen. Khole Konyak, who was supposed to be the chief guest of the celebration, could not attend due to health problems.
‘Bandh 100% successful’ y Morungexpress
(Left) Congress party activists are seen stopping a taxi from plying Saturday morning, outside the Dimapur District Congress Committee office, opposite the East Police Station. (Right) Shop closure during a bandh called by Congress party in Kohima on Saturday. (Morung Photos)
Dimapur, March 20 (MExN): Claiming that the bandh called by the party to highlight the failure of the DAN government as 100% successful, the Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee has termed as highly irresponsible, what it called as the “flip-flop statements made by Dr. Shurhozelie, Minister for Urban development and Higher education and NPF President and Imkong L. Imchen Minister for Home on the bandh call by Congress party. Pointing out that they were not worthy of their stature, the NPCC Media Cell stated that the Ministers statements only expose their confusion and nervousness. Their kind of leaders’ “foot in the mouth” utterances only make a mockery of sensible Naga intellects that should be condemned by one and all, stated a press note from NPCC Media Cell Chairman Dr. K. Hoshi.
NPCC Media Cell ridicules Shurhozelie, Imchen
“Nevertheless, the 100% success of the bandh gave a befitting reply to the NPF President because the people are the best judges. He may be blind to the issues raised by the Congress party but the people of Nagaland are mature enough to be conscious of the issues of public interest”, it stated.
The NPCC statement also stated that Imkong L. Imchen’s illusion of extinct Congress followers was a short-lived one that might be called his dead-wish. “His hallucination might have carried him away to see all people in Nagaland as NPF followers. It is unbecoming of a leader like him to even remotely think that a national political party that has country-wide grass-root level organizational base would have no followers”. The statement pointed that the Home Minister should not even dream of it and that the countless Congress cadres that had volunteered to peacefully enforce the bandh proved that the Congress may be down but not out.
Naga Republic Day messages Kedage, SS Khaplang:
My Dear Countrymen,
I praise out Almighty Lord for His gracious in leading the Nagas thus far. On the auspicious 30th Republic Day anniversary, I convey my warmest my greetings to every citizen of Naga Homeland. To all the courageous martyrs, no earthly praise is worthy of their selfless sacrifices rendered to the cause of the Naga Nation. We draw our pride and respect from their priceless deeds. It is for their valour and noble contribution that we continue to defend, protect and build our homeland. May the Good Lord grant them Heavenly rest.
I also extend warm revolutionary salutations to all compatriots, comrades in arms, well-wishers and friends of the Nagas throughout the world on this auspicious occasion. Today is a day of exaltation, yet also a moment to introspect, retrospect and rekindle our comprehensive responsibilities. How prepared are we to meet the challenges ahead?
Fellow Nagas, the Naga National Movement encountered external elements which infiltrated deep into our only become a thorn to the Naga political struggle, but with it the bloodbath at the behest of occupational forces. Ironically all the signatories survived well into old age and some are still alive while the unguilty thousands were forced to perish defending Naga homeland. Dear comrades, when a political crime is committed, it is not the signatories or the leaders who suffers but it is the Nation and its people who become victims. Drawing strength from our Creator and through sustained perseverance of a determined struggle, it was on March 21, 1980, that Government of the People’s Republic of Nagaland (GPRN) was formed to universally declare Naga Nation as a Republic.
Today, our path is defined and precise. For long we have remained victims of our own emotions. We cannot efforts to be victims of another Shillong Accord. No one should play with emotional triats and be a slave to it. The maturity of the eighty-year old Naga political struggle must be held as pivotal force towards any political decision-making. We have passed the crossroads, do not allow a political confused elements to blur our destined vision. Naga people’s aspiration shall be fulfilled in consortium. The will of the people which is the most powerful force against both external and internal adversities can be very tempting and deceptive. We will not rush for mercy but be prepared for a solution that belongs to us.
The landmark event in the history of the Nagas took place on 22nd November 2007, at Niuland. It was on this day that the all Naga unification process began. I whole heartedly welcomed the initiative and equally appreciate the responsibility of Chairman Isak Chishi in christening the FNR with their agreement. During this crucial hour, the ‘Forum for Naga Reconciliation’ was conceived. Today, we acknowledge the effort of the FNR, Civil Societies, media fraternity and individuals who have managed to reach out to all National Workers and to the common man as well. Aggression within the Naga family has been curbed admirably resulting in relative peace in Naga Homeland.
While justifying the history of Revolutions and Peoples’ Movements around the world, we see enormous obstacles faced by the revolutionaries yet, every stumbling-block was turned into a stepping stone. The Naga people may be compelled to confront negative issues while trying to restore peace and reconciliation but come what may, we shall achieve it. It is very clear to every Naga that the eight-decade old Naga political struggle will not end with the satisfaction of a class of people or separatists. Nagas armed with inalienable political right shall be a formidable force against India and Myanmar to commit themselves to Naga soverighty.
History has taught us that past Agreements or Accords sustained with forced consensus and consent have been counter productive. Bloodshed and killings beget hated and animosity which burdens future generations. Reconciliation and peace among the Nagas could curve out a healthy Naga Nation. Until Nagas reconcile in peace, solution to the Naga political issue will remain insubstantial. I appeal to all my Naga brothers that we first shape ourselves to take back what is most precious to all or us. The Government of India is well aware that any settlement through piece-meal solution will mean political irresponsibility of India and Myanmar and Nagas will not rest if the eighty-year old political struggle is redefined in the interest of an individual or a group.
The Naga National struggle is a people-based movement and GPRN is committed to democratically involving all sections of people in finding a solution to the Indo-Naga Myanmar political problem. Indian Government must recognize Naga sovereignty thereby creating conducive atmosphere for political talks rather than counting the years.
I appreciate the commitment of the Joint Working Group (JWG) and leave none behind when I express my gratitude to them. The past is a shadow and we create the future. Let’s create Nagaland for Christ together and always.
Kuknalim!
Yaruiwo, GPRN:
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!
My dear fellow citizens,
On this 30th republic day celebration of the republic of Nagalim, I greet you all in the precious name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
I also send my greetings to all the soldiers who stand guard to defend Nagalim. And I salute all the martyrs of Nagalim who have selflessly suffered and sacrificed their priceless lives in the defense of this republic. The blood of the martyrs is the seed of liberation. They have sacrificed their lives standing on the right side of Naga history.
This republic is not just a slogan. The People’s Republic of Nagalim is a destiny land, which is for Christ. Christ is our leader, and we are in His team.
The whole world is in search of peace. The Naga people are also in search of peace, but peace with justice. If the invaders do not understand their mistake of aggression, only the victims cannot build peace. They have to understand on whose soil they are standing, whose children they are killing.
Peace is not found by suppressing the rights of the victims. Peace is not found by violating human rights. Peace cannot be found by denying the rights of self determination to the rightful people.
Nagalim does not demand anybody’s right. Nagalim does not demand anybody’s land. Nagalim demands justice within the justice system of the world. The fruit of justice is peace.
India and Burma have put us in a prison-like condition – ignorance, poverty, disease and oppression, depriving us of every opportunity to live with peace and dignity. They have invaded our land and occupied through brute force without concern for the welfare of our people. It is a land infested with aggressional force. We have never experienced peace in our lifetime, some may like to say we are peaceful, but this is not peace. It is the stillness of fear. It is the silence of grinding poverty.
Ceasefire between the Government of India and NSCN was effective from August 1, 1997. Since then peace process has been going on with several disturbances from the neighbors. The Meiteis are saying there is no ceasefire in Manipur. Ceasefire is between the Government of India and the NSCN which represents the Naga people. If they say ceasefire should not be extended to Meitei area i.e. Imphal valley which is about 2238 Sq. km in Manipur state, it is a different question. The Naga people do not demand any land from the Meiteis. The peace-loving Nagas want to settle the political conflict through peace-process by declaring ceasefire. If ceasefire is disturbing to our neighbors, what kind of violence do they like? They cannot be a hurdle to our peace process.
In spite of all the disturbances from different angles, our commitment to continue with the negotiation for honorable settlement through peaceful means remains unchanged.
The Forum for Naga Reconciliation is ceaselessly working hard for Naga reconciliation. We are committed to reconciliation. Today, unknowingly, somebody may be serving the interest of our oppressors. But at the end of the day, every one of us will come to know that we are killing our own people at the instigation of our enemies. Let us not do anything which we will regret later.
Our society has been invaded by social evils, such as organized crime, drug abuse and alcoholism. Anything or any person’s behavior detrimental to the society should not be tolerated. The whole Naga Nation will become a victim of social evil if not eradicated in time; we can not remain silent in the face of dangerous social evils. We should take all the necessary steps to banish the social evils to make our land a peaceful place to live in.
Education is our life. It is the most important instrument for nation-building. Even though the Naga people held at gun point by the aggressors, young people should be encouraged to pursue education. We should continue to uphold the Naga culture of respect for gender-equality to fulfill the purpose of the Creator-King in whose image humankind was created equal in dignity and right.
While respecting the rights of other people, let us all be responsible citizens of this world. God bless Nagalim!
Isak Chishi Swu, Yaruiwo, GPRN.
FGN Kedahge:
My beloved countrymen and women,
I extend my greetings and warm wishes to our people on the occasion of the 55th Naga Republic Day. May the almighty God bless Nagaland and always guide and protect our people. I salute the political wisdom and vision of our forefathers who pioneered in laying a strong and solid political foundation on which we proudly stand today with dignity and honor. With the national mandate immutably entrusted to them in 1951, at the same time acknowledging that the almighty God alone is the supreme sovereign over this world and the authority of the people to be exercised on the territory is a sacred trust from God, our leaders sought to establish a national institution based on democratic ideals of justice, equality, liberty and fraternity. The Naga nation became a Republic on March 22, 1956 when the first Naga Tatar Hoho session met and adopted the Naga constitution. It brought together free Nagas represented by the Hongking Government and the Naga National Council (NNC) to establish the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN). The sitting Tatar Hoho approved and unanimously adopted Nagaland as the name of our country and our national flag was adopted in the same session of Tatar Hoho.
We believe our strength lies on the historic declaration of independence of August 14, 1947 which was reaffirmed by the plebiscite of May 16, 1951 for a sovereign Nagaland country. Despite difficulties, the Nagas, still stand on the plebiscite of May 16, 1951 where 99.9% of our people clearly showed their aspiration for complete independence because it is a pledge and an irrevocable commitment and there is no power in the world which can annul this pledge and commitment. To quote the father of our nation, Lt. Dr. A.Z. Phizo, “India offered autonomy to the Nagas in 1947 when she was about to become independent and the Nagas rejected the offer because we are a sovereign nation before the Indians became independent…”. Thus to the NNC/FGN sovereignty means complete independence. It means our right to make laws for ourselves, our right to define and defend our territory and our right to regard ourselves as equal of all other free people of the world. Today we are entrusted upon to uphold our national freedom which our ancestors touched, handled and exercised. To us right is more powerful than anything and the right has always been with us. From ancient time, the Naga people greatly treasured their independence. Nagaland is probably one of the very few undefeated countries in the world and we are determined to uphold this proud affirmation of our independence in our time so that coming generations can in their turn tale over.
Today many Nagas are happy and hopeful because we have resolved to follow a new path. After years of the bitter experience of killing amongst brothers, we are now, by the grace of God showing positive response to our people’s massive call to reconcile, heal our wounds and make peace in our land a reality. The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) has done a commendable task in their efforts to reconcile and bring together the different Naga political groups who hitherto could not stand the sight of each other. The covenant of reconciliation was signed between the NNC/FGN, the NSCN/GPRN and the GPRN/NSCN and declaration has been made by the joint working group and reconciliation meetings have been held in the different parts of our country. Our people’s response in showing their desire to live as one people, one nation was overwhelming and encouraging. However, we should not forget that if we want an enduring change, we have to transform our hearts in truth and spirit. Signing of covenants, legislation, reasoning and emotional appeals alone cannot change a person but it is only God who has the power to transform vengeful haters into humanitarians, hardhearted hoarders into softhearted givers, power-mongers into selfless servants and people who exploit others into people who embrace all.
The founding fathers of our Yezahbo (constitution) had recognized and incorporated our Republic along linguistic lines and the concept of the federal form of government had up till now been upheld by the people through all types of adverse circumstances. This has been necessitated due to the nature of our national polity so that the people could look after their own affairs thereby safeguarding the rights and welfare of its own people on the age-old foundation of village principalities and regional diversity. However as a sovereign nation, we have no tribe, native or indigenous persons. Under our national Yezahbo, we only have citizens of the republic of Nagaland.
Nagaland belongs to nobody else but it is a degree of absolute legacy enshrined unto us by our forefathers. Nobody else has any right to claim over it and the responsibility lies entirely on us to defend and uphold our national legacy and hand it on to our descendents, generation after generation. It is not only important to know who we are; it is equally important to say clearly as to who are we are, for people will take us according to what we say who we are. If we say we are a nation, then ultimately men of good reason will recognize us a nation. God bless. Thank you and kuknalim.
Brig. (Retd) S. Singnya,
Kedahge, Federal
Government of Nagaland.
Vice president, NNC:
Dear Naga people,
I take this opportunity once again to address our people on the occasion of the 54th celebration of Naga Republic Day of 22nd March. On behalf of the Naga National Council, I salute all the National Workers today in particular and our people in the Home front and abroad. It is my prayer on this occasion that our Living God bless each and everyone abundantly as we remember the Day. God has done great things for the Nagas. I also have the privilege to salute all the Naga Martyrs who laid down their precious lives for the freedom of the Nagas.
Today on this occasion I also extend our warm greetings to our South East Asian friends who still stand firm in spite of many setbacks in their struggle for freedom. The non-violent stand of the NNC, plus the fact that we are not running after self-aggrandisement or supremacy, has meant that the organization has had a fairly low profile. Our stance has never changed. We wish to maintain our non-violent approach and to stand firm for peace and the betterment of the homeland. In spite of what critics may say, we are the Parent Body of the Naga struggle and stand head and shoulders above any other political organization or Party because of our integrity and our history.
We have fought long and hard for Naga rights and yes, we are yet to see full recognition of our rights by the community of Nations and in particular by India and Burma (Myanmar), who are the main occupiers of our Nation Nagaland. A day may not be far away that some country or countries will come forward to recognise the Naga people as a sovereign state like Bosnia or of Akhasia. Political and economic changes in South East Asia are proceeding with encouraging speed.
The NNC welcomes new developments in the South East Asian Region which hold out hope for people in this part of the world. But, in order to meet new political and economic challenges within South East Asia, the Nagas must unite without delay. A genuine and inclusive Reconciliation process is essential if the Nagas are not to miss a golden opportunity to capitalize on developments in South East Asia.
However, the sad truth is that the present reconciliation and unity process initiated by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) is one sided. The Forum only deals with three Groups and the others are never informed nor invited to meetings. The FNR went ahead and formed their Joint Working Group without the Parent Body NNC and other groups. They claim that they are in touch with the NNC and others but in reality this is a lie. The fact is that FNR never inform or invite any other stakeholders except these three groups. The NNC only finds out about events and rallies from reading about them in the newspapers. This is very unfortunate and demonstrates that FNR’s claim to inclusiveness is unfounded. If this situation continues then the vital process of reconciliation will be reduced to a farce. This is a situation we, the Naga people, simply cannot afford.
The NNC asserts the self-evident truth that the real mandate of the Naga people can come only from true unity. Therefore no one political group or faction can claim to have the people’s mandate. Organizations that falsely claim a mandate should raise their eyes beyond their own self-interest and see what is required for the Naga people as a whole. This is what NNC has always done. Unless there is genuine Reconciliation the situation in the homeland cannot improve and the peace and freedom we long for will be far away.
Also the National workers of each and every group should be taken as the main players in the final talk and settlement of the Naga political struggle for freedom. The talk and settlement must be based on consensus, otherwise there will still be no permanent settlement in the Naga Homeland after more than sixty long years of struggle. Therefore, the best thing to do at this critical juncture is for a completely neutral body to bring all the political groups together to work out a consensus and settle the political problem once for all for best interest of all the Naga people far and wide.
NNC must caution the various political groups in particular and the NGOs in general that if mistrust, hatred, discrimination and exclusiveness are allowed to continue in relation to the Naga political settlement then there will be no peace and freedom in our Homeland. And this will be a tragedy for us all. Also NNC must say once again that if the free Eastern Nagaland is excluded in any political agreement or settlement without the proper consultation or consent of the free Eastern people then those involved in making the agreements will be regarded as betrayers and Traitors. And the blood of the Naga martyrs will be upon any party or parties who are responsible for a piecemeal settlement.
NNC must say once again that political settlement for the Nagas means we want the independent political power that other Nations enjoy and exercise in respect of economic activity, defence, foreign affairs, identity, and culture, plus we insist upon the integration of the land and people of all Naga inhabited areas. KUKNALIM.
Signed by Kiumukam
Yimchungrii, vice president, Naga National Council.
