Following publication of reports over “final Naga settlement” on Thursday, union home ministry clarified that these are all “rumours”.
According to media reports, the decades-long Naga peace process was “over” with the Centre and NSCN(IM) agreeing to critical issues.
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In a statement, the ministry of home affairs (MHA) said: “It has come to notice of the Government that lots of rumours and misinformation is being spread in media including social media that final Naga settlement has been arrived at and will be announced soon.”
This is creating anxiety and concern in some parts of the country, the MHA stated.
The MHA clarified that “before any settlement is arrived at with Naga groups, all stakeholders including States of Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh will be duly consulted and their concerns will be taken into consideration”.
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Terming the reports regarding the Naga settlement as “rumours”, the MHA said: “No credence needs to be given to such rumours and incorrect information.”
Also read: Naga peace talks with NSCN(IM) over
It may be mentioned that as the reports of the “final Naga settlement” went viral in the social and and digital media, Nagaland chief minister Neiphiu Rio tweeted: “We extend our deepest appreciation to the negotiating parties of the peace talks for making the historic breakthrough. Thank you Honourable PM Shri Narendra Modi and @Amit Shah for the political will and concern for the #Naga people.”
He also congratulated peace interlocutor and Nagaland governor RN Ravi, NSCN (IM) & NNPGs for their “efforts & sacrifices”.
“Also, appreciation to the civil societies, mass-based organisations, NGOs, churches & the Naga people for the support & prayers. We praise God Almighty & look forward to a new era for the Naga people,” Rio tweeted.
Terming the development as “historic”, Rio further tweeted: “It is a historic moment and an occasion of great joy for all Nagas and the nation as a whole. Peace will now pave the way for genuine progress and true nation-building.”
October 31 was set as the deadline for coming to an agreement to end the Naga issue as mentioned by Naga peace interlocutor and Nagaland governor RN Ravi.
It may be mentioned that one of the NSCN (IM) demands included integration of all Naga inhabited areas in states like Manipur, Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
The MHA through its clarification that “all stakeholders including States of Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh will be duly consulted” before any settlement, it seems the BJP-led government does not want to come into conflict with the neighbouring states.