Imphal: National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) general secretary Th Muivah on Wednesday reaffirmed that the organisation has been “patiently and successfully” engaging in political dialogue with the Centre for nearly three decades, underscoring its enduring commitment to finding a peaceful resolution to the Naga issue.
Addressing a gathering in Senapati town, the 91-year-old Naga leader said the NSCN(IM) has continued its negotiations with the Government of India since the signing of the ceasefire agreement in 1997, which came after decades of insurgency and over 80 rounds of peace talks.
In a message read out by senior NSCN(IM) leader VS Atem, Muivah expressed gratitude to the Naga people for their support.
“I thank the Naga people gathered here who have positively acknowledged the political steps taken by the NSCN/GPRN during the ongoing political negotiations with the Government of India,” he said.
Referring to the organisation’s endurance, Muivah said the NSCN(IM) “has shown great perseverance and commitment” in sustaining the peace process for the past 28 years.
The GPRN or the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim, serves as the group’s self-declared government-in-exile.
Muivah also recalled his long-time associate, Isak Chishi Swu, who co-signed the Framework Agreement with the Indian government on August 3, 2015, calling it a “historic document that must neither be violated nor tarnished.”
The agreement was seen as a milestone towards achieving lasting peace in Nagaland.
However, talks have since stalled over the NSCN(IM)’s continued demand for a separate Naga flag and constitution, which the Centre has declined to accept.
ALSO READ: Meghalaya: Charges framed against five in Raja Raghuvanshi murder case
In 2017, the government opened a parallel negotiation with the Working Committee of the Naga National Political Groups (WC-NNPGs), culminating in the signing of the ‘Agreed Position’ on November 17 that year.
Muivah’s arrival in Senapati was marked by a warm welcome, with thousands turning out to greet him and cultural troupes performing traditional songs and dances.
He flew in by helicopter from his native village Somdal in Ukhrul district.
Meanwhile, the United Naga Council (UNC), the apex body of Nagas in Manipur, reiterated its support for an “honourable and acceptable solution” to the long-standing Naga political issue, in line with the Framework Agreement.
