Rival Naga extremist groups refresh reconciliation pact

This is seen as a significant development as the Centre pushes for the final settlement of the Naga political issue

Rival Naga extremist groups have refreshed a 13-year-old reconciliation treaty to “move forward” together for an honourable solution to the ‘Naga political issue’.

The issue pertains to the peace deal signed between the Centre and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim or the NSCN (Isak-Muivah) and the Naga National Political Groups (NNPGs) comprising seven other organisations, including the factions of the Myanmar-based Khaplang group.

On September 14, the NSCN (I-M) represented by retired “General” V.S. Atem and the NNPGs represented by its coordinator Alezo Venuh signed a document reaffirming the Covenant of Reconciliation of June 13, 2009, in the first meeting facilitated by the Forum for Naga Reconciliation after eight years.

The meeting was held at Chümoukedima near Dimapur, Nagaland’s commercial hub.

The signatories of the 2009 covenant included Isak Chishi Swu, the late chairman of NSCN (I-M) and S.S. Khaplang, the late chief of NSCN (K). The NSCN, formed in 1980, had violently split into the I-M and K factions in 1988.

“We renew to work together in the spirit of love and desist from all forms of armed violence and refrain from indulging in violence of words through print and social media among Naga political groups and the general public. From this time forth, in order to chart a path forward, we remain committed to peace and respect and to resolve outstanding issues among us,” the September 14 declaration read.

The signatories said they were aware of the differences among the groups and the Naga society and vowed to “guard ourselves against rifts that further divide us” and “find ways to transcend our differences through cooperation”.