The delay in the Naga political dialogue figured prominently as the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly, headed by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and Cabinet Ministers, held a consultation with top functionaries of the NSCN (IM) at Rhododendron Hall, Police Complex, Chümoukedima, on Wednesday.
Speaking to a section of the media after the consultation, NSCN (IM) Member of Collective Leadership (MCL) RH Raising clarified that the gathering was not a formal meeting but a consultation.
Asked about recent remarks by veteran Naga leader, Dr SC Jamir, Raising declined to comment directly but questioned Jamir’s authority to speak on the Naga political issue. “He is not the advocate of the Naga people. We know that from the very beginning,” Raising said and described him as “out and out Indian”.
On the prospects of an early political solution, Raising said it depended on India rather than the Naga side, urging the media to direct the question to the policymakers.
NSCN (IM) Deputy Ato Kilonser, VS Atem also refrained from commenting at length on Jamir’s remarks, stating that those making such statements were neither authorised nor mandated representatives on the Naga political issue.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio said the consultation primarily focused on the reasons behind the delay in the political dialogue.
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Rio said the constitution of an “apex committee” for discussions was currently under negotiation and that the political talks would resume thereafter.
Asked about his reaction to Jamir’s recent statement, Rio declined to comment, saying the ruling party had already issued its response.
The consultation comes amid renewed discussions on the way forward for the Naga peace process, with the PAC also expected to engage with other Naga political groups.
The latest consultation also comes against the backdrop of continuing public debate over the prolonged peace process and the role of the various Naga political groups. Questions have been raised by different sections over the timeline for a final settlement and the mechanism through which the Centre proposes to take the process forward.
Meanwhile, the PAC is expected to continue its consultations with other Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) on Thursday as part of efforts to facilitate an early and inclusive political settlement.
