As we observe the ongoing Naga peace process, we face a
situation that continues to worsen. The Rising People's Party (RPP) has
proposed shifting the responsibility of leading the peace talks to the 14th
Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA). While this may seem appealing to some, we
must critically assess the broader implications.
The Naga political issue has been a long-standing and
complex matter, involving the Government of India (GoI), the Naga Political
Groups (NPGs), and the people of Nagaland. While the stalemate is frustrating,
the ever increasing multiple factions present reflect a deep division, and it’s
clear that the current process is failing to bring about a meaningful
resolution.
The state government’s role in this failure cannot be
overlooked. Every election season, political leaders promise peace and
resolution, yet these promises remain empty slogans meant only to win votes.
Once in power, these leaders have done little to advance a lasting solution,
prioritising short-term political gains over long-term peace.
The Tribal Hohos and the youths have also remained silent or
indifferent, content to observe the situation instead of actively pushing for a
resolution. It’s time for the youth and the tribal bodies to demand
accountability from the leaders.
The RPP’s proposal to have the NLA take charge of the peace
talks is fraught with complications. The NLA, as a political body, is composed
of elected representatives who have already taken an oath to uphold India’s
sovereignty. Entrusting them with the responsibility of negotiating the Naga
issue would not only exceed their mandate but could also undermine the progress
made by the Naga negotiating groups. Any attempt to bypass the current
framework could set back the fragile peace process.
Furthermore, the facilitation process led by the NDPP
government has not yielded concrete results. The question remains: what has
been achieved under this facilitation? Instead of advancing the peace talks,
the process seems to be prolonging negotiations without providing real
solutions. This failure is not just a government issue but a collective one,
shared by all stakeholders who have allowed the situation to drag on.
As concerned citizens, we must ask: are we willing to let
the Naga political issue become a tool for political manipulation? We deserve
better. We need leaders who are willing to make tough decisions, engage
seriously in the process, and advocate for a solution that is just, lasting,
and not merely politically expedient. The people of Nagaland have waited long
enough. The time for empty promises and political grandstanding is over. Either
the peace talks move forward with sincerity and commitment, or we must
acknowledge their failure and seek a new approach that puts the Naga people’s
interests first.
It’s time to reflect, take action, and hold those
responsible accountable. The Naga political issue is too important to be left
in the hands of those who have no intention of resolving it. We cannot afford
to continue down this path of stagnation, where the hopes of the Naga people
are continuously deferred.
The future of Nagaland depends on the decisions we make
today. Let us choose wisely.
