Veteran Nagaland politician Imkong L. Imchen, and the present Advisor for Information & Public Relations and Soil & Water Conservation, on Monday, addressed significant issues confronting the Naga social and political sphere.
Speaking on the peace talks between the NSCN-IM and the Government of India (GoI), Imchen stated that flexibility and a diplomatic approach will yield the most favorable outcomes. “A return to arms would only hinder our future,” said Imchen appealing for a “win-win” approach while also cautioning against rigidity that could threaten progress. In this regard, he called on the young generation to pursue constructive leadership, stressing that today’s leaders have a responsibility to lay a solid foundation for future generations.
Imchen also drew attention to the Naga political issue where he urged both the Naga people and political leaders to reflect on their roles and contributions over the years. The need for a balanced perspective was emphasised where Imchen stated that both the Congress and BJP have been involved in addressing the Naga issue at different times, with the BJP government notably signing the Framework Agreement with the NSCN-IM in 2015 and the Agreed Position with other Naga groups in 2017. He reminded Nagas of the importance of unity, shared understanding, and a diplomatic approach in negotiations with the GoI.
On the challenges of integrating Naga-inhabited areas from neighboring states like Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh, Imchen cited the Article 3 of the Indian Constitution, highlighting the complex process required, which would need agreement from all involved state legislatures. “For integration to proceed, both states must reach a mutual understanding and consent,” said Imchen.
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“BJP has taken constructive steps in the Naga peace process and introduced various flagship programs benefiting the state, though implementation remains an area for improvement,” said the Advisor stressing on the importance of positive relations with the central government, and the BJP’s role in addressing Naga political concerns and supporting Nagaland’s development.
On the oppositionless government, Imchen highlighted the significance of a vibrant opposition in ensuring accountability. “The essence of democracy lies in diverse opinions,” stated the Advisor noting that opposition members traditionally help refine policies. While cabinet members might be better positioned to discuss its functioning in depth, Imchen remarked that a unified government, while stable, lacks some of the dynamic balance seen in more adversarial systems.
Further addressing the “defector” label often implied to Imchen and other former NPF MLAs who joined the NDPP and, in his case, later shifting to BJP, the Advisor stated that their move to the NDPP was sanctioned under the 10th Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which allows party mergers if supported by at least two-thirds of the members. “This was not defection, but a legitimate decision made by an overwhelming majority,” said Imchen. When the NDPP leadership did not offer him a ticket in the most recent elections, Imchen claimed that he resigned from the party and sought a BJP ticket, winning a seat in the 14th Nagaland Legislative Assembly under the BJP banner.
