The working committee (WC) of Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) has appealed to the Mynamar-based NSCN(K) faction led by Nyemlang Konyak as its chairman to be part of its ongoing negotiation with the Centre.
“The WC, NNPGs, would be glad to welcome you as an equal partner in our effort to conclude a negotiated settlement with the government of India,” convener, WC, NNPGs, N Kitovi Zhimomi, said in a letter to Konyak on Wednesday.
Zhimomi extended revolutionary greetings to Konyak and his comrades on behalf of the working committee.
“As one people, we must look towards a future where Naga generations, our children, can progress with the rest of the world retaining our cherished history and distinct identity,” the letter said.
Expressing deep pain at the reported rift within the NSCN(K) in “Myanmar occupied Naga homeland”, the WC said the divisions at this hour do not help the Naga cause in any manner.
The working committee asserted that it is very clear that the Naga homeland extends to Myanmar and other states in India.
It prayed that the Naga brethren, civil societies and comrades in Myanmar led by Yung Aung would look at the latest upheaval as an opportunity to reassess “our common objective” with rational steps, understanding emerging geo-political stratagem of other nations in Southeast Asia.
It said at this point of the “revolutionary movement”, the voice of the Naga people for honourable and acceptable solution has resonated transcending artificial boundaries.
“Our people’s will and desire is clearly expressed,” it said.
Stating that it has embraced practical reality and situation without deviating from the core principles of the Naga nationalism, the working committee said, “We have taken our people into confidence without indulging in rhetoric or relying on emotion and sentimentalism.”
“The dream and vision of past Naga leaders must be kept alive through concrete political steps in Naga homeland both in India and Myanmar. On this basis, we are negotiating with the government of India,” the letter said.
It said the historic “Agreed Position/Preamble” was signed between the government of India and the WC, NNPGs, comprising seven Naga armed groups on November 17, 2017, in New Delhi.
The letter referred to the signed document which reads, “… the government of India recognises the political and historical rights of the Nagas to self determine their future in consonance with their distinct identity…the two entities agreed to work out the details of a relationship that is honourable, enduring and an inclusive peaceful co-existence with due regard to contemporary political realities…”
After more than 50 rounds of political negotiations, the WC said it believed that there are a clear desire and commitment on the part of the government of India to resolve the lndo-Naga political conflict.
“We have negotiated on all critical issues, including the Naga interest in Myanmar concerning our people’s welfare and movement to and from the so-called international border. All unresolved matters shall be pursued through democratic political process,” the letter said.
“The numerous consultations with Naga Tribal Hohos, gaon burhas, intellectuals, legislators past and present and also reconnecting with neighbouring communities have helped us inch closer to achieving honourable and acceptable political solution.”
“We believe Naga citizens at large are prepared for a political settlement,” the letter added.