GNNC/DSRN questions if FNR serves Naga cause or Indian interests

DIMAPUR — The Government of the Naga National Council, Democratic Socialist Republic of Nagaland (GNNC/DSRN), has expressed deep concern and disappointment over the declaration made by the Naga tribe hohos (NTHs) and the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) on October 19 stating that the formation of new Naga political factions will not be accepted.

In a press release, the GNNC/DSRN acknowledged the intent of reconciliation and unity but raised questions regarding the timing, motive, and consistency of the declaration with the historical and political realities of the Naga movement.

The release stated that the FNR and the NTHs had remained silent for years when the Naga cause was being diluted and when the spirit of nationalism eroded under internal corruption, as leadership within existing Naga political groups (NPGs) drifted away from the founding vision of national self-determination. It questioned why these bodies had not raised their voices earlier when disunity, favouritism, and leadership crises crippled the movement, and when multiple groups were formed.

“If the stated objective of the NTHs and FNR is the unity and welfare of the Nagas, we note with concern their silence during the period when multiple faction groups numbering 10 to 15 existed. Raising objections only now, without prior intervention, is neither timely nor justifiable. Equally, these bodies have failed to curb corruption and ensure accountability at both the national and state political levels,” the statement read.

The release further questioned whether the FNR is standing for the Naga cause or serving the interest of the Indian government and forces seeking to domesticate Naga political aspiration. It stated that the GNNC/DSRN remained committed to Naga sovereignty under the principle that the destiny of the Nagas must be determined by the Nagas themselves and not under the Constitution of India.

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It urged the NTHs and FNR to clarify whether they truly support Naga sovereignty or prefer that the Naga people remain under external constitutional frameworks.

The statement asserted that the right to form political or revolutionary organisations cannot be dictated by any hoho or forum, adding that “history itself testifies that the Naga struggle was born from the courage of independent thinkers and patriots who dared to differ and reorganise when justice demanded it.” It emphasised that declaring new initiatives “unacceptable” suppresses the natural evolution of political conscience among the people, adding that “reconciliation without truth is only conformity”.

The GNNC/DSRN said that the claim “no other forum or body may supersede the authority of Tribe Hoho” contradicts the inclusive spirit of Naga polity, as tribe hohos are cultural and social custodians, not political sovereigns. Their authority, it said, cannot override the collective will of the people or restrain genuine political initiatives arising from grassroots dissatisfaction and moral necessity.

It cautioned that imposing a prohibition on political reorganisation risks stagnation and dependency, asserting that non-governmental organisations and tribal apex bodies should prioritise the welfare of the people. The release added that revolutionary and nationalist movements, working independently, are better positioned to address systemic political and administrative challenges.

Reaffirming that every Naga has the right to participate in shaping the nation’s destiny, the GNNC/DSRN said it stands for accountability, transparency, and renewal within the Naga political movement. It noted that the formation of new political fronts should not be seen as fragmentation but as a sign of awakening and revival of the founding principles of truth, integrity, and self-determination.

“If the genuine concern of the NTHs and FNR is for the people of Nagaland, the foremost task should be to tackle corruption. Only then can unity and genuine progress be achieved,” it stated. The release added that efforts to establish working groups under the Indian Constitution should make way for those sincerely committed to the Naga cause, emphasising that public confusion must be avoided and clarity of purpose is paramount.

The GNNC/DSRN called upon the FNR and NTHs to “introspect sincerely, to engage with emerging voices rather than suppress them, and to remember that unity without justice is bondage.” It stated that “the future of the Naga Nation demands courage, not conformity; conviction, not compromise,” and maintained that sovereignty-driven initiatives must be allowed to operate freely without obstruction.

The statement also appreciated Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio’s initiative to visit New Delhi to deliberate upon the long-pending Naga political issue. It stated that during discussions, the government of India reportedly responded that unless the Nagas are united, a solution cannot be granted, warning that disunity might lead to unrest and bloodshed.

“This raises a fundamental and urgent question: What kind of solution is the Government of India truly prepared to offer to the Nagas? Is it a solution that upholds the Naga people's right to sovereignty, or is it a solution that is to be confined within the framework of the Indian Constitution?” the release queried.

It maintained that only when this question is answered clearly can the Nagas collectively decide their course of action and work together under one banner. The GNNC/DSRN asserted that it is imperative for the government of India to define the nature and framework of the proposed solution so the Nagas may move forward with a shared vision and understanding.